Personal Injury Overview

Rucka, O'Boyle, Lombardo & McKenna represents plaintiffs throughout Monterey, Salinas, Watsonville, and Santa Cruz, California in a full range of personal injury and wrongful death matters.  We have particular experience handling the following types of cases:

Motor Vehicle and Bicycle Accidents

Although accidents involving cars, trucks, and motorcycles are among the most common causes of personal injury incidents, these cases are often complex, involving serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries.  Compensation for victims usually comes from the liable insurance company.  However, since the goal of any insurance company is to pay out as little as possible, when pursuing compensation for your injuries, it is critical to have an advocate on your side who is both a skilled negotiator and an experienced trial attorney.

Slip and Fall/Premises Liability

Property owners, including individuals and businesses, have a duty to keep their premises in reasonably safe condition.  This includes inspecting the property, repairing known damages, and providing adequate warnings where appropriate.  Spills left too long, poorly maintained stairways or walkways, electrical hazards, and unsafe obstructions can all cause serious injuries, giving rise to premises liability accidents.  

Products Liability

Manufacturers must design products that are safe for any reasonably foreseeable use and contain adequate warnings and safety instructions.  In the workplace, defective products injuries frequently arise when a piece of equipment fails to function properly.  In the event a product or piece of machinery is defective in its manufacture, design, or warnings, causing harm, the injured party can recover for the damages he or she has suffered.  Sources of recovery can include the item's manufacturer, distributor, or retailer.

Products liability claims can be based on a number of different legal theories, requiring outside consultation with experts in the field.  Our broad experience handling these types of cases allows us to explore all potential legal theories to help us obtain the best possible result on your behalf.

Chemical Exposure

Injuries and illnesses caused by contamination of landfills, groundwater, wastewater, and soil, or mold contamination, can be devastating.  These cases are often complex, involving multiple families or businesses that have been similarly affected, and require an attorney with extensive experience in this specific area of law.

Wrongful Death

Wrongful death cases arise when a fatal accident occurs because of the negligence or wrongful act of another party.  In a wrongful death case, the deceased's surviving family members can sue to recover for their losses; recoverable damages include loss of financial support, funeral and burial expenses, loss of companionship, and loss of household services.

Seek Experienced Legal Representation

If you or someone you love has suffered an injury, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to achieve optimal results in your case.  To schedule a free initial consultation, contact Rucka, O'Boyle, Lombardo & McKenna today.