Parking lot gate arms—commonly found at the entrances and exits of parking garages, shopping centers, office complexes, and apartment buildings—are meant to provide automated access control. However, these automatic gates, when defective or poorly maintained, can pose serious risks to both pedestrians and motorists. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a malfunctioning or negligent parking gate system, it’s important to understand your legal rights, the potential liability of the parties involved, and the legal process to recover compensation. At LA Law Group, APLC, we are committed to helping personal injury victims across California get the justice and compensation they deserve.
How Do Parking Gate Arm Accidents Happen?
Parking gate injuries typically occur when the automatic arm descends or swings without warning or while a pedestrian or vehicle is still in the lane of movement. Common causes of these incidents include defective sensors, poor installation, outdated equipment, lack of safety protocols, or outright negligence in maintenance. A malfunction can cause the gate to strike a pedestrian, trap a cyclist, or damage a vehicle, leading to serious injuries or even death.
Injuries caused by gate arms include concussions and traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, lacerations, facial fractures, spinal injuries, and crushing injuries to limbs or the torso. Victims often face significant medical treatment, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
California premises liability law (California Civil Code § 1714) imposes a legal duty on property owners and occupiers to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. This includes ensuring that automatic gate systems are properly maintained and regularly inspected.
1. Property Owners and Managers: Under California Civil Code § 1714(a), property owners have a duty to exercise reasonable care in the maintenance of their property. If a property owner fails to inspect, maintain, or repair a malfunctioning gate arm, and someone is injured as a result, the owner can be held liable for negligence.
2. Gate Manufacturers and Installers: If the injury was caused by a defect in the design or manufacture of the gate system, a products liability claim may be appropriate. California follows strict liability principles in defective product cases, as established in Greenman v. Yuba Power Products, Inc. (1963) 59 Cal.2d 57, where the California Supreme Court held that a manufacturer is strictly liable when a product causes injury due to a defect, even without negligence.
3. Maintenance Contractors: If a third-party contractor was hired to maintain or repair the gate and failed to do so properly, they may be liable for negligence. For example, if maintenance workers ignored manufacturer warnings or failed to replace broken safety sensors, and someone is injured as a result, that party could be held partially or fully responsible.
Relevant Legal Precedent
One illustrative case is Lee v. Department of Parks & Recreation (2019) 38 Cal.App.5th 206, where a plaintiff was injured when a government-operated automatic gate malfunctioned. Although sovereign immunity limited liability in that case due to it being a public entity, it set the standard that property controllers must inspect and maintain gates under a duty of care. In private sector cases, this standard of care is more stringent, and courts routinely find in favor of injured plaintiffs when such safety mechanisms fail due to negligence or poor maintenance.
Another relevant case is Rosales v. City of Los Angeles (2000) 82 Cal.App.4th 419, which discussed the concept of “dangerous condition of public property” and emphasized the importance of warning signs, routine inspections, and foreseeable misuse. The legal principle applies equally in private settings, especially where repeated gate malfunctions go unaddressed.
Your Right to Compensation
If you’ve been injured by a parking lot gate arm, you may be entitled to recover damages for:
Medical expenses: Including hospital bills, surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing rehabilitation.
Lost income: For time missed from work due to injury, including reduced earning capacity.
Pain and suffering: For physical pain and emotional trauma.
Loss of consortium: For spouses and family members affected by the injury.
Punitive damages: In cases of egregious negligence, such as a property owner ignoring repeated gate malfunctions.
What to Do After a Parking Gate Arm Injury
Seek Immediate Medical Attention. Your health is your top priority. Document all treatment and follow-up appointments.
Take Photos or Videos of the Scene. If possible, photograph the gate, warning signs (or lack thereof), and your injuries.
Get Witness Information. Eyewitnesses can help corroborate your story and assist in establishing fault.
Report the Incident. File an incident report with the property manager or building owner.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney. Navigating insurance claims and determining liability in gate-related accidents requires experienced legal counsel.
Statute of Limitations: Don’t Delay Your Claim
In California, personal injury claims are generally subject to a two-year statute of limitations under Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. If your injury occurred on government-owned property (e.g., a municipal parking structure), you must file a government claim within six months under the California Tort Claims Act (Government Code §§ 910 – 945.6).
Missing these deadlines can bar you from recovering compensation, so it’s crucial to act quickly.
Why Choose LA Law Group
At LA Law Group, APLC, we bring decades of experience in personal injury litigation, including complex premises liability cases involving parking structures, security gate arms, and mechanical systems. We are relentless advocates for injured clients and work on a contingency basis—meaning you pay no legal fees unless we win your case.
With offices in Chatsworth, Santa Monica, Culver City, and Fremont, we proudly serve clients across Southern and Northern California. We are also available for remote consultations and weekend appointments.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If you or a loved one was injured by an automatic gate arm or parking barrier, don’t wait. Contact LA Law Group today at (866) 625-2529 or visit our website at www.bizlawpro.com/contact-us to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us evaluate your case, identify the liable parties, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading this content. For legal advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a licensed attorney.
Accidents happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s a car accident, an accidental slip-and-fall in a grocery store, or a dangerous product, the effects can be life-changing. However, knowledge about the legal rights and options becomes essential when the injury arises from someone’s negligence or wrongful act. Having top-rated Santa Monica personal injury attorneys can help with the complex process of filing a lawsuit and getting proper compensation for your losses. There may be many facets involved in personal injury cases, and understanding what you can sue for will help clarify your grievances.
Types of Personal Injury Claims
Personal injury law encompasses various of potential accidents. Every case has specific facts and legal considerations, and being aware of which kind of case pertains to you is necessary to develop a good claim. Following are some typical personal injury cases:
Automobile Accidents
Car accidents are a common reason for personal injury claims. If you have been hurt in an auto accident brought about by the reckless or negligent behavior of another driver—such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence—you might be qualified for compensation. Auto accident victims can claim damages like medical treatment, loss of income by being unable to work, pain and suffering brought about by the accident’s trauma, or long-term medical expenses if they’re unable to work due to permanent disability because of the accident.
Premises Liability Cases
The property owners must ensure the safety of visitors. If injuries are caused by hazardous conditions, improper upkeep, dustbins, bad lighting, or disrepair, these facilities may become the liability of their owners. Common causes are slip-and-fall incidents in shops, uneven walkways, and injuries resulting from falling objects. The victims can sue for compensation for medical bills, pain, and even lost income if they are forced to miss work because of their injuries. Victims can be compensated for injuries and incidental damages if negligence on the part of the property owner is established.
Product Liability Suits
Manufacturers and sellers have to make their products safe for consumers. If an aspect in the design, manufacturing, quality control, or marketing processes renders a product unsafe, that product can be considered defective. You may file a product liability lawsuit if an injury due to a defective product. Examples include defective appliances, dangerous medications, faulty car parts, or choking hazard toys. In a product liability claim, a party injured by a defective product can recover damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any other harm resulting from the defective product.
Wrongful Death Actions
Whenever death occurs as a result of negligence or wrongful acts of another, their close relatives or family members can sue for wrongful death. The causes of wrongful death include accidents, medical negligence, or criminally negligent acts. The family members are entitled to compensation of burial and funeral costs, loss of income, loss of companionship, and distress.
Damages You Can Claim in a Personal Injury Case
After determining that you have a legitimate personal injury case, it is essential to understand the damages you can recover. Damages are the compensation money awarded to the victim for their loss.
Medical Expenses
Medical expenses are typically the most significant thing in these cases. You can recover all the medical expenses incurred due to the injury, such as hospitalization charges, surgeries, consultations with doctors, physical therapy sessions, and extended care. In case your injuries are such that they need medical treatment in the future, you can also recover future medical bills. For example, if you need lifetime treatment or therapy because of a permanent disability, you can recover future costs of such treatment as well.
Lost Wages and Future Earnings
Injuries can create both immediate and long-term financial hardship due to missed work. If you have lost your wages due to injuries from an accident, the time period you have missed may render you compensation; if injuries affect your ability to work in the future, compensation may also cover future earnings lost. If the injuries have caused some permanent inability to continue present employment or employment of a particular type, the law may limit recovery in such a context to lost future income.
Pain and Suffering
Aside from physical injuries, victims of personal injury usually suffer emotional trauma and psychological suffering. Pain and suffering are the physical pain and emotional suffering brought about by the injury. Factors like the intensity of the pain, the length of the recovery period, and the effect on your quality of life are considered while calculating compensation for pain and suffering. These damages are more difficult to measure than medical bills but are still necessary in most personal injury cases.
Property Damage
If your property, like your vehicle, was destroyed in the incident that led to your injury, you can sue for damages to restore or replace the damaged property. This may involve car repair costs or the replacement of items in full that were lost or destroyed due to the accident.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the defendant’s acts were particularly reprehensible (cases that use extreme negligence or intentional harm). These damages are not supposed to compensate the victim; they are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from similar conduct.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
It can be difficult to navigate the legal system and insurance companies when trying to heal from an injury. That’s where LA Law Group comes in. With the guidance of an experienced personal injury lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the complexities of your case. An attorney will collect evidence, negotiate with insurers, and advocate for your best possible outcome. They will evaluate the entire scope of your medical, financial, and emotional damages and ensure that all of these elements are considered in your lawsuit.
Call a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Experiencing an injury caused by someone else’s neglect can change your life forever, affecting your bodily health, psychological state, and economic stability. Knowing what to sue for in a personal injury case is the beginning of demanding justice. Whether it is medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, or punitive damages, it is most important to know that you are awarded the right compensation to recover.
Having the best legal team to help you is worth it if you have a personal injury case. LA Law Group has a lot of experience in handling various types of personal injury cases and specializes in upholding the rights of injury victims. Call LA Law Group now for experienced legal counsel and allow our experts to fight for your deserved compensation.
Driver Fatigue Accidents: How a Lawyer Can Help You Seek Justice
Need a Driver Fatigue Lawyer in Chatsworth? Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of road accidents in California. In a fast-paced world, drivers often push beyond their limits, jeopardizing the safety of everyone on the road. If you or a loved one has been injured in a driver fatigue-related accident in Chatsworth, CA, the experienced attorneys at LA Law Group are here to provide the legal support and advocacy you deserve.
The Impact of Driver Fatigue Accidents in Chatsworth
Driver fatigue impairs reaction time, decision-making, and alertness, making fatigued drivers as dangerous as drunk drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of accidents annually are linked to drowsy driving. In Chatsworth’s bustling community, the risks are amplified due to heavy traffic and long commute hours.
Why Hire a Driver Fatigue Accident Lawyer in Chatsworth, CA?
1. Understanding Your Rights
A knowledgeable attorney ensures you understand your legal options after a driver fatigue accident. From assessing liability to calculating damages, having legal counsel strengthens your case.
2. Investigating the Accident
Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations, gathering crucial evidence such as:
Eyewitness statements
Police reports
Driver logs (for commercial vehicles)
Surveillance footage
3. Proving Negligence
Fatigue-related accidents often involve proving the driver or employer’s negligence. This may include violations such as exceeding driving hours or inadequate rest breaks for commercial drivers.
4. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance adjusters can be daunting. Our team protects your interests, ensuring fair compensation for:
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Property damage
Pain and suffering
5. Pursuing Maximum Compensation
We tirelessly fight for your rights, advocating for the maximum compensation possible to help you rebuild your life.
Tips to Stay Safe from Driver Fatigue Accidents
Take Regular Breaks: Rest every two hours during long drives.
Avoid Driving Late at Night: Your body’s natural clock makes you more prone to fatigue.
Share the Drive: If possible, switch drivers on long trips.
Recognize Fatigue Warning Signs: Yawning, heavy eyelids, or drifting lanes signal it’s time to stop.
Contact the Experienced Driver Fatigue Accident Lawyers in Chatsworth
At LA Law Group, we understand the life-altering consequences of driver fatigue accidents. Our dedicated team is here to fight for your rights, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation.
Do you need a Distracted Driving Accident Attorney in Canoga Park? Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents, resulting in severe injuries and even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident in Canoga Park, CA, you need experienced legal representation to secure the compensation you deserve. At LA Law Group, our team of attorneys is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you navigate the complex legal process.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs when a driver engages in activities that divert their attention from the road. Common forms of distraction include:
Texting or talking on the phone
Adjusting the radio or GPS
Eating or drinking
Talking to passengers
Daydreaming or losing focus
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), texting while driving is particularly dangerous because it combines cognitive, manual, and visual distractions, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
Common Injuries in Distracted Driving Accident Attorney in Canoga Park
Distracted driving accidents often result in severe injuries, including:
Whiplash and neck injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Broken bones and fractures
Internal injuries and organ damage
These injuries can lead to long-term medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress, making it essential to seek legal guidance.
Proving Liability in Distracted Driving Accident Attorney in Canoga Park
To establish liability in a distracted driving accident, your attorney will collect evidence, such as:
Witness statements
Police reports
Traffic camera footage
Cell phone records
Black box data from the vehicle
Our attorneys at LA Law Group have extensive experience investigating distracted driving cases and building strong claims for compensation.
Compensation for Victims of Distracted Driving Accident Attorney in Canoga Park
As a victim of a distracted driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Emotional distress
Our legal team is committed to ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible to aid your recovery and secure your future.
Why Choose LA Law Group?
At LA Law Group, we offer:
Experienced Attorneys: Decades of experience handling distracted driving cases.
Personalized Attention: Tailored legal strategies based on your unique circumstances.
Proven Results: A strong track record of securing significant settlements for our clients.
No-Win, No-Fee Policy: You pay nothing unless we win your case.
Steps to Take After a Distracted Driving Accident Attorney in Canoga Park
If you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident, follow these steps to protect your rights:
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
Call the police to file an official accident report.
Document the accident scene with photos and notes.
Gather contact information from witnesses and other drivers.
Contact LA Law Group to schedule a free consultation.
Contact LA Law Group Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident in Canoga Park, CA, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our skilled attorneys are here to provide the support and advocacy you need.
At LA Law Group, APLC, we are thrilled to share some exciting news about one of our own. Attorney Aryan Amid has been honored with an invitation to join the Distinguished Lawyers of America—an elite network that recognizes exceptional legal professionals across the United States. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Aryan’s unwavering dedication, outstanding achievements, and exemplary contributions to the legal profession.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
The Distinguished Lawyers of America organization identifies and celebrates attorneys who have demonstrated excellence in their field. Aryan’s expertise, commitment to justice, and tireless advocacy for clients have set him apart as a leader in the legal community. This honor is a reflection of his remarkable career and the trust he has earned from both clients and colleagues alike.
A Commitment to Excellence
Aryan’s invitation to join the Distinguished Lawyers of America is not just a personal achievement; it’s a reflection of the values and principles we hold dear at LA Law Group, APLC. It reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional legal services and ensuring the highest standards of professionalism in everything we do.
