Stay Safe While Enjoying the Fresh New Year

By Renee Nordstrand on January 31, 2019

coastal city skyline

There is a lot to see and do around Santa Barbara come Spring, but it’s important to stay safe. Whether you are driving or walking around, be mindful of others and make sure you never get behind the wheel after drinking. The local trolley companies are a great way to get around, but be careful as you get on and off them. If you see someone else doing something illegal or putting others in danger, contact the police to protect your neighbors and yourself.

Read more…

Tips for Driving in the Rain

By Renee Nordstrand on December 31, 2018

person driving car in rainy weather

Winter in Santa Barbara doesn’t see snowfall, but does see a fair bit of rain. While we celebrate the rain for its life-giving properties, we do have to be more careful out on the road. Since the recent fires, mudslides are a dangerous possibility, and our law firm urges you to take all possible precautions.

Read more…

Posted in: Car Accident

California Wildfires: Are Utility Companies Liable?

By Renee Nordstrand on December 20, 2018

large electrical construction powerline tower

This is the question a lot of people are asking as thousands of Californians continue to reel from the devastating wildfires this year and last.

Read more…

Posted in: Personal Injury

What You Should Know About Liability After a Fall Down Stairs

By Renee Nordstrand on November 30, 2018

person with red shoes walking up the stairs

“Stair fall premises liability” might seem like a complicated subject, but it has a simple definition. It refers specifically to who is at fault when someone falls down a flight of stairs and is injured.

Read more…

Posted in: Premises Liability

Beware the Dangers of Motorized Scooters

By Renee Nordstrand on November 15, 2018

row of parked motorized scooters

In many ways, motorized scooters present great solutions for the traffic problems in Santa Barbara and throughout much of California. With that in mind, there are also very real risks that come with hundreds of people riding scooters that can go up to 15 mph on city streets and sidewalks.

When accidents do happen, who is truly at fault becomes a big question with an important answer.

Read more…

Posted in: Bicycle Accident

How Downed Power Lines Can Harm

By Renee Nordstrand on October 31, 2018

upward view of electric powerline pole

Living in Southern California means we don’t have to worry about hurricanes or blizzards, but earthquakes, mudslides, and strong winds still cause havoc. One of the biggest risks after these events is downed power lines. You should always assume a downed power line is live, and if you can see it, do not approach it or let anyone else go near it. Report downed power lines immediately to the City of Santa Barbara’s utility services, because it is their responsibility to remove the dangerous obstruction and keep residents safe.

Read more…

Should I Handle My Own Legal Case?

By Renee Nordstrand on September 28, 2018

business lawyer with two stacks of files and paperwork

Simply put, you should never try to represent yourself in a California legal proceeding, whether you face a criminal charge against you, a lawsuit that you wish to file against someone else, or a lawsuit filed against you. The stakes are high, and you should always speak to a lawyer first about your situation. We may advise that there are steps you can take to help your own case, but generally, hiring a lawyer will ensure the best outcome.

Read more…

Posted in: Personal Injury

Maintain Your Car to Keep It on the Road

By Renee Nordstrand on September 18, 2018

car mechanic working on brakes

If we are being honest, part of the joy of living in Southern California is being able to hit the road and head to the beach, or to just enjoy the wind in your hair. But to keep the good times “rolling,” it is vital to make sure your car is properly maintained and kept in good condition.

Read more…

Posted in: Car Accident

Airbnb Liability and Legality in Santa Barbara

By Renee Nordstrand on August 28, 2018

person using Airbnb app on their phone

In recent years, services like Airbnb have grown in popularity. But renting the home of a virtual stranger carries some risks, especially when it comes to liability for any injuries you may suffer from an unsafe premises.

Read more…

The PCH: One of the Deadliest Roads in America?

By Renee Nordstrand on August 19, 2018

scenic roadway along a blue ocean coastline

The scenic vistas that can be viewed from the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) are among the most beautiful anywhere in the world. Visitors flock from all over the country and from beyond our nation’s borders to see the view from the PCH. However, in poor conditions it can be among the most dangerous roads in California, including where it passes through Santa Barbara.

Read more…

Posted in: Car Accident