Category Archives: California

Commercial Vehicle Driving Data Laws

Monday, March 20, 2023

Electronic Logging Device laws are a set of mandates issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and enforced by the Department of Transportation, requiring commercial motor vehicle drivers to record driving data electronically using an approved electronic logging device (ELD).

As commercial trucking accidents become an increasing trend across the United States, federal and state legislators have adopted reporting systems that hold commercial drivers and trucking companies accountable for safe driving practices. Regulation changes were announced by the FMCSA in 2015, with all trucks required to fully adopt the use of ELDs by 2019 in an effort to create safer roads for all drivers.

What is an ELD?

An ELD is an electronic logging device that is connected to a vehicle to record driving hours for the purpose of preparing “hours of service” reports. The recorded driving data which includes vehicle location, engine hours, vehicle movement, and miles driven, can be accessed remotely by dispatchers or compliance managers and viewed by the driver as well as a Department of Transportation officer at any time.

Drivers and fleet managers are not able to edit recorded data, ensuring its validity should records be required for legal action.

What is the ELD Mandate?

Federal laws require commercial drivers to install and register certified electronic logging devices that monitor the hours a truck and its driver are in service. Limitations are placed on commercial drivers and data collected by the devices to ensure devices will capture the required information.

Drivers, supervisors, and trucking companies must abide by the regulations outlined by the FMCSA. Failure to comply with these rules may result in significant citations, fines, and possible loss of licensure.

Why is Tracking Driving Hours Important?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) estimates that about 450,000 truck accidents occur nationwide each year, resulting in over 4,000 deaths annually. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Patrol’s 2019 statistics, 7.7% of California truck drivers were involved in fatal crashes during that year. Most of these accidents are preventable and happen at the fault of the truck driver.

Driver fatigue is one of the most common causes of commercial truck accidents and is a result of exhaustion from long hours of driving. Many drivers will drive past the point of exhaustion to make more money. The FMCSA has set specific laws for commercial drivers including mandatory breaks. Commercial drivers may drive for up to eleven hours following a mandatory 10-hour rest. In California, all commercial drivers must rest for a minimum of 10 minutes after every 4 hours of driving and take a thirty-minute break after every 5 hours.

How We Can Help

Truck accident cases are complex and involve a lot of moving parts that require specific experience and a detailed approach. If you or a family member has been injured or killed in a truck accident, it is important to reach out to a skilled truck accident attorney immediately to assess and begin to build your case. Our Bakersfield truck accident attorneys are skilled at identifying and acquiring crucial pieces of evidence, including driver logs and trucking company records, and handling aggressive insurance companies that represent commercial drivers.

Rodriguez & Associates has decades of experience handling truck accident cases covering not only the engineering and legal issues but also the day-to-day details of commercial truck driving that can lead to accidents. Contact our office today to discuss your case by filling out our online form or calling (661) 323-1400.

Posted by Lorrie Ross at 2:04 pm

Can You Sue For Emotional Distress After a Car Accident?

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Car accidents are common occurrences that can happen to anyone at any time. While most people focus on the physical injuries that can result from a car accident, it’s important to remember that emotional distress can also arise from such incidents. Emotional distress can severely impact an individual’s mental health and overall well-being, leading to long-lasting psychological issues. 

If you have been in a car accident and are experiencing emotional distress, you may be wondering if you can sue for compensation. Under California law, you have the right to pursue an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit against the driver responsible for your collision. 

What Is Emotional Distress?

Emotional distress is a psychological condition that can arise from a traumatic event, such as a car accident. This level of distress can manifest itself in different ways, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disturbances, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even physical symptoms such as headaches and stomach pain. 

The impact of emotional distress can vary from person to person, and it can be challenging to deal with. For instance, some individuals may feel a deep sense of fear and apprehension every time they get into a car, while others may experience flashbacks or nightmares related to the accident. 

How to Prove Emotional Distress in a Car Accident Claim

California is a fault car accident state. Under state law, victims have the right to pursue insurance claims or lawsuits against negligent drivers who cause motor vehicle collisions. In addition to economic losses like medical expenses and property damage, victims also have the right to claim damages for non-economic pain and suffering, which includes emotional distress.

To prove emotional distress, you must provide evidence that the car accident caused your emotional distress. This can be challenging, as emotional distress is not a visible injury, like a broken bone or a cut. Working with a car accident lawyer can help you prove emotional distress. 

You can leverage several pieces of evidence to prove emotional distress, such as the following:

  • Medical Records: If you sought medical attention for your emotional distress, your medical records could help prove the severity of your symptoms. These documents can also establish a link between your trauma and the collision. 
  • Witness Statements: Eyewitnesses to the accident may be able to provide statements to help establish critical facts about the accident. People in your life, such as your friends and family members, may also be able to testify about your emotional state.
  • Expert Testimony: A mental health expert may be able to testify on your behalf and show how the accident affected you. Your lawyer can connect you with an expert who can support your case.
  • Journal Entries: After the accident, you may want to keep a journal where you detail how the collision has impacted you and affected your mental health. You can use these entries as evidence in your claim against the negligent driver.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer for Your Emotional Distress Claim

Emotional distress is a valid condition that can arise from a car accident. If you’re experiencing emotional trauma after a car accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention and speak to a personal injury lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process. 

With the right evidence and legal representation, you may be able to receive compensation for your emotional distress and the impact it has had on your life. Schedule a free consultation as soon as possible to discuss your case and plan your next steps.

Posted by highrank at 4:37 pm

Can My License Be Suspended for a Car Accident?

Friday, December 30, 2022

After a car accident, several thoughts may run through your mind. Are you hurt? Do you need medical care? How will you pay for damage to your vehicle? Will the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) suspend your license?

A license suspension can significantly impact your day-to-day life, affecting your ability to get to work, run errands, and perform other daily activities. However, the DMV will only suspend your license under certain circumstances; generally, if you were not at fault for the collision and were driving legally, your license will not be suspended after a car accident.

Does an Accident Automatically Result in a License Suspension?

Getting into a car accident does not mean that the DMV will automatically suspend your license, regardless of whether it was a minor rear-end collision or a major multi-vehicle crash. However, certain situations may happen before, during, or after a crash that will lead to a license suspension.

The DMV may suspend a license if it determines that you were not driving safely or that you should not be allowed to operate a car for a certain amount of time. In serious cases, the DMV may revoke your license—meaning that you will lose all driving privileges until you prove your competence at a later time.

When Will the DMV Suspend a Driver’s License?

After an accident, a driver’s license may be suspended if any of the following circumstances apply:

  • You were driving without car insurance as required by California law. The suspension will remain in effect for four years or until you submit proof of insurance to the DMV.
  • You were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the collision. Depending on the number of previous offenses, your license may be suspended for two to four years.
  • You failed to report the accident as required by California law. You must report any collision to the DMV if someone is injured or killed, or if property damage exceeds $1,000.
  • You refused to take a drug or alcohol test when requested by a law enforcement officer. According to California’s implied consent laws, you must submit to a drug or alcohol test or your license will be suspended, even if you were not under the influence or did not cause the accident.
  • You were driving recklessly at the time of the accident. The DMV will suspend your license if your recklessness was found to have caused the crash, especially if you broke traffic laws or injured another person.

If your license was suspended by the DMV, it is important to contact a lawyer right away. An attorney can help you fight the suspension and prove that you were not responsible for the collision.

What Else Should You Know About Car Accidents in California?

California is a fault-based accident state. If you were involved in a crash and believed that someone else was responsible, you have the right to pursue a lawsuit or insurance claim against the at-fault driver. Through your claim, you can recover financial compensation to pay for medical care, lost wages, property damage, and other losses.

If you were involved in a car accident in California, contacting a personal injury attorney is important. An attorney can help you prove your right to compensation and hold the at-fault party accountable.

Posted by highrank at 5:11 pm

Can I Sue for Wildfire Damage?

Thursday, November 10, 2022

Wildfires are a serious risk in California, with thousands of acres suffering from fire damage every single year. These fires destroy property, displace people from homes, and cause devastating injuries and deaths. No one deserves to recover from a wildfire alone, and depending on your situation, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your losses.

If the wildfire was caused by the negligence of another person or an entity, you could file a lawsuit against the responsible party. In this situation, it is important to enlist the help of a wildfire injury attorney who can represent your case and hold the at-fault party liable for his or her dangerous actions.

How Do Wildfires Happen?

Wildfires form when three conditions are present: oxygen, a heat source, and some sort of fuel, like trees, grass, dry brush, and buildings. When a fire starts, it begins to gain momentum and spread as it burns more fuel sources and is spread by oxygen. Combined with dry, drought-stricken conditions, wildfires can cause devastating damage to thousands of acres.

These fires can be caused by several factors, some of which are caused by humans and some of which are caused by environmental conditions. Below are some of the most common contributors to wildfires:

  • Burning debris
  • Unattended campfires
  • Fireworks
  • Electrical lines
  • Lightning
  • Discarded cigarettes
  • Motor vehicle crashes
  • Intentional arson
  • Equipment malfunctions

When Can You File a Lawsuit After a Wildfire?

If someone else’s actions caused a wildfire, you have the right to file a lawsuit against an at-fault party in California civil court. In your claim, you can recover financial compensation to pay for any property damage, medical care, lost wages, or pain and suffering related to the fire. Multiple parties could be liable for a wildfire, including electrical companies, campers, motor vehicle drivers, and other individuals or entities.

However, you will need to show that negligence caused the wildfire. There are three elements of negligence:

  • The person or entity that caused the fire had a duty of care to the plaintiff.
  • The person or entity breached that duty of care, starting the fire.
  • As a result of the breach of duty, the person or entity caused the fire and the plaintiff suffered damages as a result.

For example, say that the fire was caused by an unattended campfire. Anyone who is camping has a duty to practice fire safety and not start a fire at the campground. If a camper doesn’t properly snuff out his or her fire after camping, a single spark can cause a significant wildfire. In this situation, you could file a lawsuit against that camper.

In cases that do not involve negligence, you may protect your assets by investing in insurance coverage for wildfires. However, you will need to purchase this insurance before the wildfire occurs, or you won’t receive protection. 

Speak to a California Personal Injury Attorney Today

If you suffered property loss or burn injuries in a wildfire, you may qualify for financial compensation. In these situations, you need a lawyer who can advocate for your rights and gather enough evidence to prove the at-fault party’s liability. Contact a Bakersfield personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case and plan your next steps.

Posted by highrank at 6:19 pm

Daniel Rodriguez Representing Arvin High School Special Needs Bullying Victim

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

Daniel Rodriguez, founding partner and president of Rodriguez & Associates, announced in a press conference on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, that his firm is representing a special needs student who was the victim of a bullying incident at Arvin High School.

The victim is a 16-year-old student who has significant learning disabilities. Mr. Rodriguez explained that it is difficult for special needs children to fit in and find acceptance and friends, making them a target for manipulation.

Recorded by student onlookers and posted across social media platforms including Twitter and TikTok, the video showed the student’s evident despair and frustration as a crowd of bystanders, which included at least one security guard, taunted and laughed at him as multiple students shaved his head.

The incident seemingly ended when another student came to the aid of the victim, helping him to a female security guard who carted him away from the situation. Danay Gonzales, an attorney with the firm, says the school never contacted the student’s mother, who learned of the incident from her sister who had seen it online. The school then attempted to blame the bullying on the student.

Arvin High School, which happens to be Mr. Rodriguez’s alma mater, is part of the Kern County School District. Rodriguez stated in the press conference that schools have a legal obligation and duty to protect all students, a standard that was not met considering the outcome of this incident.

“What is going on in the high school district? They all talk about having measures in place. [Bullying is] not just isolated to Arvin High School,” Rodriguez said. “We have a number of other cases.”

An outpouring of support for the victim and public outcry against the school administration was voiced in a protest last week as residents, students, alumni, and family members surrounded the school. School officials issued a statement, assuring the public that they were investigating the incident and that two staff members were placed on administrative leave.

Rodriguez said his office is also conducting a full investigation of the incident and intends to hold responsible both those directly involved and others who failed to protect the student. Since this particular case is against a government-funded public school, the firm must file a government tort claim prior to filing a lawsuit.

The team of award-winning attorneys at Rodriguez & Associates is known for handling complicated and sensitive issues involving minors affected by school bullying, violence, and other in-school incidents. They offer care and compassion for their clients while fighting intently for truth and justice.

About Rodriguez & Associates

Rodriguez & Associates is Kern County’s top personal injury law firm. The lawyers have more than 100 years of combined experience. They are an award-winning law firm known to deliver big firm results with small firm service.

Posted by Lorrie Ross at 4:06 pm

The Personal Injury Lawsuit Process

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

Personal injury covers a broad range of cases in which a person can bring a lawsuit against another person or entity for harm suffered due to negligence. Laws allow individuals who have been injured to claim damages for both physical and emotional injury, in order to obtain compensation for medical treatment and pain and suffering.

Due to the diversity in cases, the personal injury lawsuit process is complex. If you or a family member are injured due to another person’s negligence it is important to work with an experienced and trusted attorney who can help you seek maximum compensation for your injuries.

Bakersfield personal injury law firm Rodriguez & Associates has outlined the personal injury lawsuit process to help you understand the general development of a personal injury case, from the time of the incident through appeal.

  1. Seek Medical Treatment
    If you are injured in an accident, your priority is to ensure you receive any necessary medical attention immediately. Quick and proper care can help you treat injuries most effectively as well as provide you with documentation provided by doctors, nurses, therapists, and other providers that can help validate your claim.
  2. Find a Personal Injury Lawyer
    It is recommended that you discuss your personal injury claim with an experienced attorney, especially if your situation is complex. Always research potential attorneys to ensure they have demonstrated experience in the practice area of your case, resources available to conduct thorough investigations, and the ability to take your case to trial and appeal if need be.Rodriguez & Associates is an award-winning personal injury firm in Kern County that has built the reputation of prioritizing client needs while pursuing exceptional results in a variety of practice areas including trucking accidents, workplace accidents, and oil field accidents, among others.
  3. Investigation
    It is important to share all details of your case, injuries, medical records, and medical treatments with your attorney so your team has an accurate and pragmatic understanding of your case and can best provide you with clarity and expectations. Each personal injury case is unique and may present challenges related to statutes of limitations, evidence, or testimonies. Keeping accurate records of treatment payments, bills, and other financial information that demonstrate your injuries and recovery will be helpful for your attorney as they fully investigate your situation and determine potential damages.
  4. Demands and Negotiation
    It is not uncommon for a personal injury claim to reach a settlement without ever going to trial. Settlements are determined at this time when your attorney contacts the defendant to demonstrate your intent to file and requests full reparations.Prior to contacting the defendant, your attorney will typically wait until you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), meaning your injuries have healed to completion of your medical plan. Waiting for MMI will allow your attorney to better determine the complete damages of your case, and the full extent of settlement demands.If the plaintiff and the defendant are unable to reach a settlement agreement, the case will move forward toward litigation and a trial.
  5. A Lawsuit is Filed
    Litigation begins when your attorney files a lawsuit on your behalf. In California, a personal injury claim must be filed within two years of the date the accident occurred. The California statute of limitations does not require that your case be completed within that time frame, but according to the law, your case must be filed within two years from the time the injury occurred. There are exceptions to the personal injury statute of limitations as well, including medical malpractice cases, cases brought against a government entity, as well as cases in which the injury was not immediately discoverable. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney will ensure that your lawsuit is filed in accordance with the law.
  6. The Discovery Phase
    During the discovery phase, your attorney and the defendant’s attorney will review and investigate both sides of the case, measuring evidence, testimonies, and defenses against each other. Both the plaintiff’s side and the defense will communicate openly, ask questions, share documents, and take depositions from both sides to establish a complete explanation of what occurred, who was at fault, and where liability falls.
  7. Mediation and Negotiation
    After case materials have been reviewed, lawyers may enter a renegotiation of damages toward a settlement. If they are unable to find a resolution, a neutral, third-party mediator can be asked to assist in the negotiation.
  8. Trial
    If mediation is not an option or does not reach a resolution, the case may enter into trial. Trials can be time-consuming and expensive processes for both parties, requiring extensive resources and preparation. Trials will culminate in a decision reached by a judge or a jury. The team at Rodriguez & Associates are well-versed trial lawyers who do not back down from the challenge of taking a case to trial if necessary.
  9. Appeal
    If either party disagrees with the judgment made at trial, they may appeal the decision to a higher court. In this process, the court will review the details of the case and how the determination was made by the lower court. An appellate court can either uphold the original judgment or, in the event it is decided there was not enough evidence to make a decision, return the case to its initial stages. To read about one of our recent verdicts upheld on appeal, click here.

While the majority of personal injury cases will not reach trial, it is important to work with a legal team that possesses the resources and capability to help you reach a successful trial verdict, and have that verdict upheld on appeal, if need be. The experienced team of personal injury attorneys at Rodriguez & Associates holds records for some of the largest settlements and verdicts in Kern County.

If you have been injured due to the negligence of another person, the attorneys at Rodriguez & Associates will make sure that all needs of your case are met while you focus on recovery. Contact our Bakersfield, CA office today for a free evaluation of your case.

Posted by Lorrie Ross at 8:39 pm

My Child Was Injured at School – Who Is Liable?

Friday, October 14, 2022

In California, schools must protect the children who attend their institutions. This obligation requires schools to provide adequate supervision and ensure that their facilities are safe. Unfortunately, many children are injured at school every year.

If your child was hurt at school, you may wonder who is liable. In the event that the school’s negligence caused your child’s injuries, you could hold the institution accountable for his or her damages. In these situations, it is best to consult with a Bakersfield personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.

Common Causes of Injuries at School

We often think of schools as safe places where children can learn and grow their skills. However, there are many hazardous conditions and dangerous situations that a child can encounter at school. An accident at school can lead to serious injuries and potentially lifelong complications, which can affect your child for years to come.

Below are some of the common causes of school injuries:

  • Poorly maintained buses and school vehicles
  • Dangerous property conditions like cracked pavement and loose flooring
  • Poorly maintained playgrounds and recreational equipment
  • Failure to use proper food safety techniques and sanitary procedures when preparing meals
  • Lack of adequate supervision during recess, mealtimes, and extracurricular activities
  • Failure to have an adequate plan for emergencies like natural disasters or school shootings
  • Failure to properly supervise and maintain children’s safety during sports, physical education, and other recreational activities

In some cases, school injuries are not caused by unintentional accidents, but by mistreatment, assault, and abuse. Teachers, caregivers, and other people in positions of authority can intentionally harm children in very serious and painful ways. 

Filing a Lawsuit Against a School for a Child Injury

If your child is hurt at school, you have the right to file a lawsuit against the person or entity who was responsible for the incident. Your options for compensation will depend on the circumstances surrounding your child’s injuries. 

Depending on the cause of the injury, any of the following parties could be liable if your child is hurt at school:

  • School Employees: If an employee of the school’s negligent or intentional actions caused your child to get hurt, you can file a claim against that employee. For example, if a school bus driver causes an accident, you can name him in your lawsuit. If a teacher fails to provide adequate supervision, you could file a claim against that teacher.
  • The School and the School District: If an employee of the school causes an accident, you can name the school and/or the school district in your lawsuit. You can also file a lawsuit against the school or district directly if the entity’s negligence caused your child’s injury.
  • The Government: If the school is a public institution, it is considered a governmental entity. You could file a lawsuit against the government agency responsible for the school as well.
  • A Non-Profit or Religious Organization: If your child attends a private school, you could file a lawsuit against the non-profit or religious organization that oversees the institution.

Discuss Your Legal Options with a School Injury Attorney

When your child is hurt at school, it is easy to feel scared and overwhelmed. In these situations, it is important to seek the help of a California personal injury lawyer who can support you and your family during the legal process. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your child’s options.

Posted by highrank at 9:37 pm

What Are “Catastrophic Injuries” in California?

Monday, August 1, 2022

An unexpected injury can have a significant impact on your life, affecting your financial stability, physical health, and ability to go to work. However, some injuries are more severe and lead to more complications than others.

Catastrophic injuries are the most serious bodily injuries a person could sustain. However, this type of harm can be difficult to define. Here is what you need to know about catastrophic injuries in California.

Common Examples of Catastrophic Injuries

According to Supplement 4, Title 42 of the United States Code, a catastrophic injury is defined as any type of injury that permanently prevents a person from performing any type of gainful work. A catastrophic injury can involve many forms of damage, such as the following:

In California, the definition of catastrophic injury is relatively vague. This type of injury is referenced in the California Labor Code, which states that a catastrophic injury includes, but is not limited to, the loss of a limb, paralysis, severe burn, or severe head injury.

The Average Settlement for a Catastrophic Injury Claim

If you are injured because of someone else’s negligence, you have the right to pursue a lawsuit or insurance claim against the person responsible for the harm that you suffered. Through your lawsuit, you can recover compensation for damages like medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, disability accommodations, and pain and suffering.

In cases involving catastrophic injuries, these financial awards are often much higher than settlements for non-catastrophic injuries. Depending on your circumstances, your settlement can be as high as hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.

Catastrophic injury settlements are likely to have a high value for several reasons, such as the following:

  • If you have a catastrophic injury, you will likely require greater amounts of medical care than other patients and may also have long-term care costs.
  • You may require disability accommodations to live with your injury, such as mobility equipment, live-in caregivers, and modifications to your home or vehicle.
  • Catastrophic injuries prevent you from returning to work, meaning that you can claim compensation for the loss of future earnings and benefits.
  • Your pain and suffering award will likely be higher for a catastrophic injury because of the injury’s impact on your life.

What to Do After Experiencing a Catastrophic Injury

If you develop a catastrophic injury because of someone else’s negligence, you deserve justice. In these situations, it is important to remain calm and seek help as soon as you can.

First, you should seek emergency medical attention for your injuries. Your health is your top priority. Go to the hospital or call emergency medical services as soon as possible and save all of your medical records.

If possible, call 911 to report the accident to the police or fill out an incident report. These documents will ensure that there is a record of the accident on file, which you can use to support your injury claim. Try to gather as much evidence as you can, such as photographs, videos, and witness information.

After you receive medical care, contact a California catastrophic injury attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can guide you through each stage of your injury claim and work to recover the compensation that you deserve.

Posted by highrank at 7:06 pm

Hiring a California Personal Injury Lawyer

Thursday, May 12, 2022

With more than 100 years of combined experience, Rodriguez & Associates has fiercely fought for victims of car accidents, trucking accidents, school bullying, oil field accidents, police brutality, and many other types of personal injury cases. Our trusted reputation and record-setting case results are just part of why people like you choose us for representation.

“I was taken care of beyond belief and I want to thank all the staff, especially Martha and Joel.” -J.A., a former client.

“Daniel and his staff leave no stone unturned in representing their clients.” – J.T., Attorney.

If you have a personal injury case and are unsure how to move forward or pick a lawyer, keep reading. Below we will outline the next steps, answer common questions, and provide insight into the Rodriguez & Associates legacy.

If you think you, or a loved one, may have a personal injury case that could use the attention of one of the best Bakersfield personal injury lawyers, please give us a call at 661-323-1400 or fill out this form ASAP. We speak both Spanish and English.

How do I know if I have a personal injury case?

If you, or a loved one, are suffering physical or emotional injuries due to the negligence of another person, business, or entity, you may have a case. To determine this, two of the main factors to establish are liability and damages. While we fight for most personal injury cases, here is a list of our specialties.

How much does a Bakersfield, California personal injury lawyer cost?

We work on a contingency fee basis, so you do not have to pay an attorney’s fee unless we secure compensation for you.

What damages are subject to compensation in a California personal injury case?

While every case is unique, some of the most common damages include pain and suffering, loss of wages, and medical expenses (current and future) resulting from the injury.

How should I choose a law firm to represent me?

When selecting an attorney or law firm, base your decision on their education and experience handling cases similar to yours. For example, founder Daniel Rodriguez J.D. also has an engineering degree and training in metallurgy, mechanics, forensics, ballistics, and other facets of engineering. Unlike an attorney with a political science undergrad degree, he can use his expertise to recreate a car accident or find where it was in the manufacturing and design process that the culprit corporation chose to cut corners on safety. Furthermore, this enables him to dig deeper to obtain more relevant information when questioning defendants and witnesses.

Additionally, you should pay particular attention to the firm’s reputation and its history of success in obtaining significant case results. Most importantly, you want a firm that will place your interests above all else and obtain maximum compensation for your injury.

Why choose Rodriguez & Associates?

We pride ourselves on giving each case the complete attention it deserves and requires at every step of the legal process. Below are some of the reasons why victims chose us.

  • By hiring doctors and other experts for each case, we create a formidable team that protects our clients’ rights. This helps us fight against big insurance companies and other lawyers who will do everything possible to avoid being held accountable for the harm they have caused our clients. We never cut corners or costs.
  • Our team is dedicated to obtaining the highest possible compensation amount for our clients. We secured the largest verdict in Kern County history of $70,578,289. Please review more of our verdicts and settlements here.
  • We take more personal injury cases to trial than any other local law firm. This means we get the highest amounts for our clients because insurance companies both fear and respect our ability to get the job done.
  • We treat every client like family and are consistently finding ways to improve our community. From financially supporting our local Burn and Neuro Trauma Units to our annual school backpack giveaways and scholarship funds, we are proud to give back to our community. Learn more about our community involvement here.

Our firm is highly experienced in handling personal injury cases involving:

What are some recent personal injury verdicts and settlements obtained by Rodriguez & Associates?

  • $16,100,000: For the driver hit by a big-rig tire that flew off.
  • $9,450,000: The second highest result in Kern County for wrongful death. This was due to a farm equipment accident.
  • $3,875,000: For a faulty brake repair by the dealership
  • $1,500,000: For a motorcyclist hit by a policeman running a red light.

Let’s Talk.

When injured Bakersfield residents want the toughest, most respected legal representation, they talk to Rodriguez & Associates. Contact our personal injury lawyers today to find justice after suffering debilitating injury and loss.

Please call or text us at 661-323-1400, or fill out this online form, for a free and confidential case consultation.

Posted by Lorrie Ross at 6:37 pm

Appeal Upheld in One of the First Civil Cases Against a School District in a School Shooting

Thursday, April 7, 2022

On January 10, 2013 (almost a month after Sandy Hook), a Taft Union High School student walked into class carrying a shotgun, aimed it directly at a fellow classmate, and shot him.

Now, almost 10 years later, the then 16-year-old victim is receiving full closure.

The State of California Court of Appeals has upheld the original verdict decided in July 2019, placing 54 percent of the responsibility on the School District for failing to protect their student. The judgment holds Taft Union High School District liable for over $2.5 million in damages.

The School District and its employees tried to dodge responsibility for what happened to their student and instead claimed it was all the actions of the school shooter, his mom, and his brother. The school district and its employees also tried to dodge responsibility by saying they are entitled to immunity under the law.

And, while this is usually the case, the ongoing reports of concern made by fellow students and staff to the school district and its employees revealed who knew the most and cared the least.

The mountain of evidence against the school district and its employees created a groundbreaking case in connection with what a school district is supposed to do when confronted with threats of a school shooter and how to protect their students from a school shooting.

Rodriguez and AssociatesDaniel Rodriguez, Chantal Trujillo, and Danay Gonzalez, from Rodriguez and Associates, have represented the student who was shot throughout this legal battle, which included a six-week jury trial.

During this six-week jury trial, they were able to prove that the school district chose to ignore its own policies and procedures, never informed the police about the reported threats, and never even informed the school shooter’s mom about the reports of concern surrounding her son.

California has had the most school shootings of any state since 1970, totaling 164. With school shootings on the rise, systematic improvements need to be made within the institution of public education to ensure the safety of all students and staff within schools.

In addition to handling cases of school violence, Rodriguez and Associates have experience working with victims of school sexual abuse seeking legal action to resolve complicated problems. If you believe your child’s school has failed in its duty to provide a safe environment for its students, contact us today for a free consultation.

Posted by Lorrie Ross at 10:32 pm