How Has Accident Litigation Changed Over the Years in CA
Changes in California Personal Injury Law
Personal injury law in California is undergoing constant revision and reform. These reforms aim to help protect the rights of plaintiffs and defendants alike, and make the process for receiving compensation more appropriate and fair for all parties involved. This article explains some of the changes California personal injury law has undergone over the years.
Barring Admission of Defendant’s Sympathy: In 2002 the state of California reformed personal injury law to make expression of sympathy inadmissible as proof of fault. This means that any expression of sympathy or benevolence can’t be provided to the court as proof that the defendant accepts responsibility for causing pain or injury.
Product Liability Reform: Although this product liability reform was enacted in 1986, it still has an impact on the type of personal injury cases that are filed and litigated to this day. This reform states that products such as cigarettes or alcohol are known to be unsafe by the general public, and therefore a plaintiff does not have the right to sue for damages cause as a result of their use.
Medical Liability Reform, Noneconomic Damages Reform: This 1975 reform placed a cap on the amount of compensation a plaintiff can receive for noneconomic damages in a medical liability reform. This limits plaintiffs to seeking a maximum amount of $250,000 for noneconomic damages.
Because of the constant changes and reforms personal injury laws undergo, it is important that you have an attorney representing you that is up to date with changes and how the laws will affect your claim. If you have questions about personal injury laws in California and Orange County, contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
This article has been provided by the Orange County personal injury law firm of Frank Nicholas, 949-477-2277, www.FrankNicholas.com.
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