Hansen & Miller Law Firm

Types of dog bite damages: Dog bites can cause extensive damages for injured victims. A variety of different types of damages may be able to help compensate victims for their physical, financial and emotional damages suffered in a dog attack. Dog attacks can be vicious and leave injured victims with serious injuries. A personal injury claim for damages may be able to help them with the harm suffered in a dog attack. Medical expenses Medical expenses can include compensation f...or medical bills for medical treatment and care associated with the injury. It can also include compensation for future medical care costs in some situations if needed. Lost wages Lost wages damages can include compensation for lost earnings if the victim's injuries leave them unable to work but can also include compensation for lost-earning capacity if the earning capacity of the victim is diminished by the injuries they suffered. Damages for disability may also be available. Pain and suffering Pain and suffering damages are intended to help with the mental anguish oftentimes associated with the violence of a dog attack. Pain and suffering damages may also be able to help with scarring and disfigurement as well. Other types of damages, such as damages for loss of enjoyment of life, may also be available depending on the circumstances. What types of damages are available depends on what the victim has suffered. A dog bite can cause injuries, scarring, trauma and suffering which is why victims should be familiar with the legal protections available to dog bite victims. https://bit.ly/3AcLICk

Types of dog bite damages https://bit.ly/3AcLICk

What are ignition interlock devices?: Ignition interlock devices may be required in some cases for drivers accused of DUI, including for felony DUI charges. For that reason, accused drivers should be familiar with what ignition interlock devices are and the requirements associated with them. How ignition interlock devices work An accused driver may be required to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle which will require them to blow into the ignition interlock ...device prior to the car's ignition starting. The ignition interlock device will measure the blood alcohol content level of the driver's breath and the vehicle will only start if the driver's blood alcohol level is below the allowable limit. Ignition interlock devices are essentially breathalyzer tests installed on the driver's vehicle. When an ignition interlock device may be required Ignition interlock devices may be required for a felony DUI charges and in other circumstances including: Multiple drunk driving convictions; A DUI offense that caused injury; Driving under the influence with a minor in the car at the time of the incident; and If the driver has an elevated blood alcohol content level. Ignition interlock devices can be costly to install and maintain and can be a penalty assigned to the accused driver in addition to other potential penalties including license suspension, fines and jail time. Drivers accused of driving under the influence may need to defend themselves against both administrative consequences and criminal penalties. Accused drivers need to be familiar with how to defend themselves against drunk driving charges to help mitigate the potential penalties and consequences they are facing associated with drunk driving charges. https://bit.ly/2U6I1xN

Drunk driving charges can sometimes require drivers to install in-car breath tests.

What are ignition interlock devices? https://bit.ly/2U6I1xN

Motorcycle accident kills one in Napa https://bit.ly/3wyuays

Motorcycle accident kills one in Napa: Everyone in the valley knows we are lucky to live in one of the most beautiful areas in the world. Indeed, the Napa Valley region is known across the world for its beauty and scenic drives. This is why motorcycles are so common here. After all, one of the many reasons people ride motorcycles is to be closer to nature and enjoy scenic views unobstructed. Unfortunately, without that 3,000 plus pounds of steel surround the rider, driving a ...motorcycle can be dangerous, and even minor accidents can have severe consequences, like what happened recently in the valley. Local motorcycle accident According to the Napa Police Department and Napa Fire Department, the Fairfield motorcycles was traveling through the intersection of Stadium Avenue and Pueblo Avenue afternoon when he collided with an SUV. Unfortunately, even after life-saving efforts done on the scene and at a nearby hospital, the man died in the hospital. The driver of the SUV, a 35-year-old Napa native, appears to have not been severely injured as none of the reports state that she was taken to the hospital or even treated on-site. And, she is cooperating with the NPD's Accident Reconstruction Team The NPD's Accident Reconstruction Team has not released its findings, nor explained how the motorcycle accident occurred or who was at fault. Though, they have said that no drugs or alcohol are suspected to be a factor in the crash. And, NPD is still looking for any witnesses or people with video footage. What to do after motorcycle accidents For Sonoma and Napa Counties, California, residents involved in a motorcycle accident, whether one is the motorcyclist or the vehicle driver, contact an attorney immediately. Often, accidents that involve motorcycles are hard to decipher because debris can be scattered everywhere. And, even if the police do put together a report and find fault, an attorney may be able to either prove the validity of that report or disprove it, depending on the facts. https://bit.ly/3wyuays

What penalties could result from drug possession charges? https://bit.ly/3wVFSmK

What penalties could result from drug possession charges?: There are many different reasons that people in California use various drugs. Many times when they use these drugs it is perfectly legal as well. Doctors prescribe people various drugs in order to manage their pain or treat various illnesses. As long as people have a valid prescription for the drug it is not only legal, but usually beneficial as well. However, many people also use drugs without valid prescriptions or ...take drugs that would never be prescribed and have no medical benefits. There are many reasons that people end up using drugs in that manner, but many may have become addicted to the drugs. Regardless of why people use them though, it is illegal to do so without a valid prescription. People caught with the drugs could be charged with drug possession. The potential penalties were lessened recently for some first-time offenders, but people could still face serious consequences, especially if they are also selling the drugs instead of simply possessing them. Potential penalties for drug possession For a first-time offense people could be charged with a misdemeanor for most types of drugs as long as they are charged with simple possession. People could spend up to one year in county jail as a result. They could also be fined and placed on probation and need to complete community service in lieu of a fine. The penalties increase though if they are repeat offenders or have been previously convicted of certain felonies. If people are charged with possession with the intent to sell though, people could spend anywhere between two and four years in jail. Many people are charged with drug possession in California. This does not mean that people are automatically guilty of the crime though. Everyone is innocent until proven guilty and there may be defenses available to the person. These defenses start with whether the police legally stopped and searched the person. If the stop or search was illegal, the evidence of the drugs could be suppressed and a conviction becomes very unlikely. Experienced attorneys understand these defenses and may be able to guide one through the process. https://bit.ly/3wVFSmK

Three things to know about dog bite laws in California https://bit.ly/3fHtteT

Three things to know about dog bite laws in California: Dogs are great companions and live in many households throughout California. When a dog is trained as a loving and obedient pet, they can provide their owners with years of companionship and affection. Unfortunately, not all pet owners take their duties seriously and some dogs are not prepared to have interactions with other humans. Injuries caused by dogs are serious matters that can result in significant personal harm ...and even death. When a pet attacks, a victim should know their rights under the law. This post will introduce readers to three important facts about dog bite laws in California. The information contained herein should not be used as legal advice or guidance. Fact #1: There is no one-bite rule in California Some jurisdictions recognize a one-bite rule for dogs. This means that if an owner did not know their dog had dangerous tendencies, then they could not be held liable for a victim's losses if it was the first time their dog inflicted a bite injury. In California, dog owners are strictly liable for the bite injuries of their pets, even if those injuries are caused by first bites. Fact #2: Negligence is the standard for non-bite injuries Dogs can cause injuries with their bodies and not just their mouths. A dog who scratches or trips a victim may inflict serious harm upon them. However, these types of injuries are not subject to strict liability in California. Rather, victims must prove negligence to show that they should be able to recover their non-bite injury losses. Fact #3: Victims have two years to file their dog injury claims In California, personal injury actions are subject to a 2-year statute of limitations. That means victims have a limited amount of time to begin litigation for the recovery of their losses before they lose their rights to sue. Dog bite and injury victims can speak with personal injury attorneys to ensure that their claims are timely and not subject to statute of limitations challenges. Dog bite and injury accidents are painful and serious. They should be managed by serious personal injury lawyers. Victims deserve representation they can count on to help them achieve the best possible legal results for their cases. https://bit.ly/3fHtteT

Three things to know about dog bite laws in California https://bit.ly/2Te6Lnn

There are special precautions bikers should take when riding in the winter months.

Safe motorcycle riding during the winter months: While Northern California's winters might not be as dramatic as other parts of the country, motorcycle riders are still cautioned to stay safe during the winter months. From poor visibility and earlier sunsets to seasonal rains and slippery roads, motorcycles can be a dangerous form of transportation. People rely on motorcycles for numerous reasons that range from necessity to excitement. Unfortunately, while a motorcycle offer...s greater speed and maneuverability it cannot match the safety and stability of a car. Riders are only protected by a helmet and heavy clothing. For this reason, it is wise to follow these tips to remain safe while riding during the winter months: Wear appropriate clothing: Riders should take care to choose warm clothing. The hands and feet can quickly fall prey to the cold weather, becoming numb and unresponsive at the worst times. Also, bright or reflective clothing can keep you more visible to drivers sharing the road with you. Increase reaction distance: Rain-slicked roads can lead to a loss of traction. This can impact both steering and stopping. Reduce your speed or choose lanes that give you more distance to react to debris in the road or stopped traffic around you. Assume you're invisible: While this might be good advice throughout the year, riders are cautioned to be aware of the cars and trucks around them. Assume those drivers do not see you as they are merging, changing lanes or turning. Avoid distractions: Again, this might be good advice to follow all year, but in the winter months when visibility is already a challenge, riders should avoid any distraction from phone conversations to taking a drink from a water bottle while on the road. Motorcycle riders can suffer significant injuries in even a low-speed vehicle collision. Riders can experience broken bones, road rash, head injuries, back injuries or burn injuries. Severe collisions can lead to death. Do not hesitate to seek legal guidance after a motorcycle accident. https://bit.ly/3rLFuFB

Safe motorcycle riding during the winter months https://bit.ly/3rLFuFB

Landlords may be liable for criminal acts https://bit.ly/37PbH73

Landlords may be liable for criminal acts: Landlords must take reasonable measures for providing a safe premises for tenants and guests. Landlords may be held liable in a personal injury lawsuit for violent crimes that happen to tenants and criminal activity by a tenant or their guests against others. Liability California and other states generally hold landlords for responsible for criminal activities that take place at their rental properties by their tenants and any guests... on the property. In addition to violence, these can include theft and vandalism against tenants and distribution of illegal drugs by a tenant or their guests. Preventive measures Landlords cannot always prevent crimes against tenants. But they are expected to take reasonable safety measures to keep crimes from occurring. These include making sure that doors and windows can properly close and lock and are equipped with devices such as deadbolts, providing adequate illumination around the buildings and keeping tenants informed about crime in the area. Landlords should also have an effective screening process for potential tenants. By uncovering poor renting and financial behavior and habits, screening can help eliminate tenants with questionable backgrounds from renting in the first place. Leases should contain clear terms against illegal activity and the landlord's remedies for addressing it. Landlords must address tenants committing illegal activities and take measures in accordance with their lease and California law such as eviction. They should record reports of criminal activities from neighbors or suspicious activity such as high utility bills, cash only payments and other suspicious activities such as numerous vehicles pulling up to an apartment or home and staying for short periods. A tenant or guest who suffers injuries from a crime or accident may be entitled to compensation from a negligent landlord or other property owner. An attorney can help them pursue their legal rights in a premises liability lawsuit. https://bit.ly/37PbH73

Greetings Sonoma, Napa, Mendo and Lake Counties. Continue to look after your neighbors and stay informed as we've been given the dubious gift of an early fire season. Some resources to check for current conditions:... http://www.alertwildfire.org/northbay/index.html?v=81e002f This is a camera network set up by local agencies and PG&E to monitor wildland areas vulnerable to fire. If you are a Sonoma County resident, please register your cell phone at socoemergency.org This will provide you with evacuation notices/warnings and links to emergency information. Minimize water use at home as all agencies are firing up reserve storage and wells to assist firefighting and protect drinking water supplies in the event the main supplies near the Russian River (for Sonoma and Marin) are impacted.

To all of our clients: Given COVID 19 is staying busy and keeping with local health authority guidance, we will continue to leverage tech such as Zoom, Docusign and Dropbox to complete work on your cases and reach successful outcomes. If tech isn't your thing, you are free to drop documents off at the office via the mail slot at the top of the stairs. In-office appointments won't resume until mid-August at the earliest. Please reach out to us with any questions via phone at 707-575-1040, [email protected] or via our MyCase portal.

For those of you living/working in the City of Santa Rosa, a curfew was imposed tonight from 8 p.m. Also expect the same tomorrow (Tuesday 6/2/20) given its Andy Lopez's birthday. Exercise your right to free speech, early and often but look out for each other and also understand looting takes away from the message; be part of the solution!

Our legal group will be hosting a public town hall for the next six consecutive Saturdays starting April 4th regarding the proposed PG&E settlement. The details are outlined below: https://www.facebook.com/events/257439445280137/

Sonoma Court closure announcement. From the Superior Court of Sonoma County at 4:32 p.m. on Sunday 3/15/20 Dear members of the Bar:... After consultation with the supervising judges of the Sonoma County Superior Court and our CEO Arlene Junior we are closing our courthouse to the public except for critical functions effective immediately through April 3, 2020. Our court CEO, Arlene Junior, and I are working on a comprehensive public statement which will be disseminated broadly on our website and through social media. The only departments open this week for critical calendars will be Departments 1, 2 and 9 at the Hall of Justice (HOJ) and one juvenile courtroom at the Juvenile Justice Center. The Civil and Family Courthouse and Empire Annex will be closed to the public. We will be operating the three courtrooms at the HOJ for in-custody matters and matters where time is not waived, both felonies and misdemeanors. We will post signs throughout the courthouses indicating that we are closed to the public. The signs will indicate that out of custody time-waived misdemeanor matters will be continued for 30 days with the new date posted. We will also mail notice of the new date. If you do not have an in-custody matter, or a time-not waived matter, you are not required to come to court and we would encourage you to stay home and remain well. On the civil side we will also have critical calendar function such as family law domestic violence ex parte review, civil harassment ex parte review, foreclosure injunction review, and unlawful detainer ex parte review. All other civil and family law matters will be continued for 60 days. We at the court appreciate your understanding and patience as we survive this national emergency and worldwide pandemic. Feel free to disseminate this message to other members of the bar at your discretion so the word gets out. Be well and take care of yourself. Bradford DeMeo Presiding Judge, Sonoma County Superior Court

Greetings North Coasties! Given current events, we are postponing in-office meetings with clients and potential clients for now. It’s time to leverage that thing called the interwebs and use email, phones and video conferencing as we work towards a successful conclusion to your case. You’ve all heard all you ever wanted to know about hand washing and social distancing so I’ll skip that bit. All criminal law and personal injury clients also have access to their files via My...Case. We expect the Sonoma Superior Court to close to all but in-custody (no time waiver) criminal matters. Expect the same to come true in all of our surrounding counties but check with us or the courts to make sure. This is uncharted territory for us all but justice doesn’t sleep and doesn’t need an N95 mask. We need to look out for each other and use technology to keep our community together. Inquiries: [email protected] or 707-575-1040 #SonomaStrong

Greetings Everyone: Given the uncertainty regarding the COVID 19 (aka Corona) virus, we are suspending our Kincade Fire townhall meetings both here at the office and the Alexander Valley Community Hall. As always, we can be reached with fire questions at [email protected], via this Facebook page or calling us at 707-575-1040. Our staff can assist you with the paperwork and I can answer any questions you have about debris removal, insurance claims and rebuilding (as al...ways free of charge). Our office will remain open so if you'd like to set up an appointment regarding PG&E fire matters, personal injury or criminal law matters, please give us a call at 707-575-1040. Thanks for your understanding.

Roy is doing a double segment on KSRO at 5 pm today. Talking the PG&E case and one or two little Constitutional issues going on in Washington DC.

Tonight we finally reached a settlement with PG&E concerning the North Bay and Camp Fire cases. We would not accept anything less than all of us being treated equally including Tubbs. In the end, Tubbs will be treated the same and we now move the process of finalizing the settlement. ... You have until December 31st to get a claim on file if you were affected. Call us at 707-575-1040 and we will guide you through the process.

Due to evacuation orders in place, Hansen&Miller will be closed tomorrow October 29th. We are checking voice mails frequently at 707-575-1040, emails including [email protected] and texting 707-271-0105. Please heed evacuation orders. Our neighbors in the west county, Zone 7 and most of Zone 8 are cleared to go home!

Due to the #KincadeFire the office is closed today October 28th. We will evaluate reopening each day based on the evacuation orders in effect for Santa Rosa. You can leave a message at 707-575-1040 and your call will be returned ASAP. In the alternative you can text us at 707-217-0105. ... For email: Fire related cases: [email protected] Personal Injury: [email protected] Criminal law and general inquiries: [email protected]

If you live in or on the borders of these red zones, move out now. If you are in yellow (as we are), pack essentials, subscribe to Nixel and emergency alters and be ready to go. This is a very smart move to avoid possible evacuations in the dark. IF they can hold containment on the southern/southwestern perimeters of the fire, all will be ok. If you are outside these zones, please reach out to friends/family in these zones and offer to help out. They likely are all set but its good to know folks are looking out for each other in times of need. #SonomaStrong #kincadefire

For reasons that have yet to be explained, PG&E appears to have started the Kincade Fire. If you live north of Windsor, get on Nixle and be ready to get out. From PG&E’s statement to the Public Utilities Commission: PG&E told regulators in a report filed Thursday that a broken jumper cable on a transmission tower may have been to blame for the Kincade Fire on Wednesday, confirming that the company had not turned off power to its highest voltage equipment during shutoffs th...at began earlier that day. According to the preliminary report, the utility learned at 9:20 p.m. that there was a problem involving a 230,000-volt line and that an automated device could not re-establish service thus forcing an outage and likely sparking the fire that swelled to 10,000 acres. https://www.pressdemocrat.com//kincade-fire-starts-inside-