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Blog

Tragic Hit-and-Run Incident Claims Life in Antioch

3/18/2024

 
Tragic Hit and Run Takes Life in Antioch CA
In a distressing incident early Sunday morning, March 17, a hit-and-run collision resulted in the death of a pedestrian in Antioch, local police reported.

The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. when a 911 call alerted police to an accident involving a pedestrian near 1800 Wilbur Avenue. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered a man fatally injured by a Kia sedan. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by first responders, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Early findings from the police investigation indicate that after striking the individual, the driver of the Kia sedan fled the area. Efforts to locate the driver are ongoing as the investigation continues.

If you or a loved one has suffered due to someone else's negligence, you are not alone. Contact the Law Office of Steve & Jill Henderson for a complimentary consultation with a seasoned personal injury lawyer. Call us at (925) 427-1771. We are here to assist you in defending your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

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About Jill Stern-Henderson
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For over 30 years, Jill Stern-Henderson has practiced civil litigation and workers' compensation cases with her husband, Steven Henderson. Please contact Jill at (925) 427-1771 or email her at [email protected] if you feel that she can help you with your case.

3 East Bay Residents Killed in Bay Bridge Tragedy: Understanding the Risks and Safety Measures for Bridge Accidents

2/24/2024

 
3 East Bay Residents Killed in Bay Bridge Tragedy: Understanding the Risks and Safety Measures for Bridge Accidents
In the early hours of February 15, 2024, a heartbreaking incident unfolded on the Bay Bridge, claiming the lives of three East Bay residents. This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards when driving on bridges, particularly in emergency situations. Our hearts go out to the families of Sean Luttjohann, 59, Lorissa Weller, 38, and Bim Thorpe, 29, who lost their lives in this unfortunate event.

According to the San Francisco coroner, these victims were in a Mini Cooper that collided with a Toyota Tacoma. The impact occurred in the eastbound lanes west of Treasure Island, with the Mini Cooper stalled on the bridge at the time of the accident. This incident underlines the critical importance of knowing what to do if your car breaks down on a bridge.
What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down on a Bridge
  1. Stay Calm: Panicking won't help the situation. Take a deep breath and focus on resolving the issue.
  2. Turn on Hazard Lights: Alert other drivers to your situation by turning on your hazard lights.
  3. Stay in the Vehicle if Possible: If you're unable to move your car off the bridge, it's safer to stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt fastened, especially if the breakdown has occurred in a lane of traffic.
  4. Call for Help: Use your cellphone to call for roadside assistance or emergency services. Inform them of your location, including the name or number of the bridge you're on.
  5. Move to a Safe Location if Possible: If you can safely move your car to the side of the road or onto a shoulder, do so. Otherwise, if there's a breakdown lane on the bridge, try to get your vehicle there.
  6. Use Reflective Triangles or Flares: If you have reflective triangles or flares in your vehicle's emergency kit, set them up behind your car to alert other drivers of the hazard.
  7. Stay Away from Traffic: If you must exit your vehicle, do so carefully and move to a safe location away from traffic, such as behind a barrier or guardrail.
  8. Wait for Assistance: Remain patient until help arrives. Avoid attempting to repair the vehicle yourself unless you're confident in your abilities and it's safe to do so.
  9. Follow Instructions from Authorities: If emergency responders or law enforcement arrive on the scene, follow their instructions carefully.
  10. Consider Professional Towing: Depending on the severity of the breakdown and your location, it may be necessary to have your vehicle towed to a repair shop for further inspection and repairs.
Your safety is paramount in these situations. In the unfortunate event that you're involved in an accident, know that our office is here to support you through the recovery process.
About the Law Office of Steven H Henderson & Jill Stern-Henderson
Steven H Henderson and Jill Stern-Henderson
With over three decades of experience in civil litigation and workers' compensation cases, Jill Stern-Henderson, alongside her husband Steven Henderson, has been dedicated to serving the community of Contra Costa County. In times of need, especially following accidents like the recent Bay Bridge tragedy, having expert legal guidance is crucial. For assistance, you can reach Jill at (925) 427-1771 or via email at [email protected].
Remember, on the road, safety and preparedness can make all the difference. Drive safely and know that in times of legal need, the Law Office of Steven H. Henderson & Jill Stern-Henderson is here to help.

Death on Kirker Pass Road in Concord

1/7/2024

 
A fatal crash during wet weather in the East Bay shut down Kirker Pass Road in Concord Monday afternoon, authorities said.

The California Highway Patrol reports that one person is dead in a Friday night crash on I-680 near Concord Avenue.

On January 5, at 9:52pm, CHP Contra Costa was advised of a crash on southbound I-680 near Concord Avenue. Our preliminary investigation indicates a black Honda Pilot was traveling southbound on I-680 when it collided with the concrete center divide and became disabled in the lanes of traffic.

A white Chevrolet 2500 was traveling southbound and was unable to avoid the disabled Honda and collided with the vehicle. A third vehicle, a Tesla, was also involved in the crash.

The driver of the Honda sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The passenger was not injured. The drivers of the Chevrolet and the Tesla were not injured. This crash is still under investigation.

If anyone witnessed this or the events leading up to it, please contact CHP Contra Costa in Martinez, (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to [email protected] to be contacted by the investigating officer.


Accidents happen frequently on Kirker Pass. I've been commuting on that road for 30 years, witnessing it all. Stay vigilant, control your speed, and never underestimate the pass. Keep your eyes on the road at all times.

If you're involved in an accident, reach out to Henderson Law Office. We're here to assist you in navigating the recovery process.

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About Jill Stern-Henderson
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For over 30 years, Jill Stern-Henderson has practiced civil litigation and workers' compensation cases with her husband, Steven Henderson in Contra Costa County. Please contact Jill at (925) 427-1771 or email her at [email protected] if you feel that she can help you with your case.

The Benefits of Hiring a Local Attorney

10/5/2023

 
Local Personal Injury Attorney - Law Office of Steven H. Henderson
Introduction
When it comes to legal matters, hiring an attorney who is familiar with the local legal system and community can provide numerous advantages. In this blog, we will explore the reasons why individuals should consider hiring a local attorney for their legal needs.

1. Knowledge of Local Laws and Regulations:
Local attorneys have a deep understanding of the specific laws and regulations that govern their jurisdiction. This knowledge enables them to navigate the intricacies of the local legal system efficiently and effectively.

2. Experience in Local Courts:
Local attorneys are well-versed in the practices and procedures of the local courts. They have likely appeared before the same judges and are familiar with their tendencies and preferences. This familiarity can significantly benefit clients when it comes to building a strong case strategy.

3. Personalized Attention:
Local attorneys are often more accessible and able to provide personalized attention to their clients. With fewer cases on their plate, they can dedicate more time to understanding your unique situation and crafting a tailored legal approach.

4. Local Connections and Resources:
A local attorney has likely developed professional relationships with other legal professionals in the area, such as prosecutors, judges, and court staff. These connections can prove invaluable when seeking favorable outcomes for your case.

5. Knowledge of Local Community:
Being part of the local community, local attorneys possess an understanding of the area's demographics, culture, and socioeconomic factors. This understanding can offer valuable insights and perspectives that can strengthen your legal representation.

6. Cost-Effective Solutions:
Hiring a local attorney often proves to be more cost-effective than engaging a lawyer from out of town. Local attorneys typically have lower overhead costs and can pass these savings onto their clients.

7. Availability and Accessibility:
When working with a local attorney, you can expect better availability and accessibility. If urgency arises, they can promptly address your concerns or meet with you in person, saving time and ensuring effective communication throughout your case.

Conclusion:
Choosing a local attorney for your legal needs can provide several benefits. From their familiarity with local laws and courts to their personalized attention and community connections, a local attorney offers a unique advantage. When time, cost, and the desired outcome of your legal matters are important, hiring a local attorney is a wise decision.
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About Jill Stern-Henderson
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For over 30 years, Jill Stern-Henderson has practiced civil litigation and workers' compensation cases with her husband, Steven Henderson in Contra Costa County. Please contact Jill at (925) 427-1771 or email her at [email protected] if you feel that she can help you with your case.

What Should I Do if I'm in an Accident?

8/8/2023

 
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Taking photographs of the accident scene, vehicles involved, and the surrounding area can be crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes. Visual documentation provides an accurate representation of the conditions at the time of the accident and can help support your version of events.  Here are some additional steps:
  • Safety First: Ensure that it's safe to take pictures. If you or others are injured or in immediate danger, prioritize getting medical help and moving to a safe location. 
  • Include Different Angles: Take pictures from various angles to capture a comprehensive view of the accident scene. Include both close-up shots of vehicle damage and wider shots showing the overall scene. 
  • Vehicle Damage: Focus on capturing the damage to each vehicle involved in the accident. Make sure to photograph the license plates for easy identification. 
  • Road Conditions: Take pictures of the road conditions, such as skid marks, potholes, debris, or any other factors that might have contributed to the accident. 
  • Traffic Signs and Signals: If relevant to the accident, photograph traffic signs, traffic lights, and road markings that might have played a role. 
  • Weather and Lighting: If weather conditions or poor lighting were factors in the accident, take photos to document these conditions. 
  • Witnesses and Contact Information: If there are witnesses at the scene, try to obtain their contact information (name and phone number) and ask if they would be willing to provide a statement. 
  • Surrounding Area: Capture images of the surrounding area that might have influenced the accident, such as obstructed views, road obstructions, or poorly maintained infrastructure. (Bushes, trucks blocking view, etc).  
  • Time and Date Stamp: If your camera or phone allows it, ensure that the photographs have a time and date stamp. This helps establish when the pictures were taken. 
Remember that photographs can be powerful evidence in case of disputes or investigations. If you are unable to take pictures yourself due to injuries or other reasons, ask someone who is not injured and present at the scene to do it on your behalf. If the police are present, they might also take photographs as part of their accident investigation.

I highly advise installing a Dash Camera that can record both inside and outside of your car. Let me share an incident that illustrates its importance. In a particular case, the vehicle damage appeared minimal at first glance. However, when my clients presented the footage from their Dash Camera, it revealed a different story. The video captured them joyfully singing inside the car, and suddenly, a significant impact occurred, followed by screams and cries. The audio and visual evidence completely transformed the perspective of the case. Having a Dash Camera can be a game-changer, providing valuable evidence and protection in various situations on the road. 
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About Jill Stern-Henderson
​
For over 30 years, Jill Stern-Henderson has practiced civil litigation and workers' compensation cases with her husband, Steven Henderson. Please contact Jill at (925) 427-1771 or email her at [email protected] if you feel that she can help you with your case.

High Speed Chase Ends In Fiery Crash in Danville

6/4/2023

 
 As reported on NBC Bay Area "Five people were hospitalized following a fiery crash and police chase in Danville early Saturday morning. "

Several people were hospitalized after a fiery crash in Danville overnight when a car involved in a police chase slammed into a Starbucks. Around 1:00 in the morning sirens blared outside Starbucks on Camino Tassajara. The Contra Costa County Sheriff's office said it started when a Danville police officer tried to pull over a car for running a red light. Deputies say the driver did not stop and led the officer on a chase for about five miles. They say the driver ran another red light and collided with another car. It flipped over and caught fire. The Sheriff’s office said the five people inside that car were rescued by police and taken to the hospital. The driver had serious injuries. As for the other people in the other car deputies say they are uninjured.

If you, or a loved one, are injured due to a police chase, several remedies may be available. There is usually a six-month statute of limitations to file a claim form against the public entity.   You may also claim your own insurance if you carry Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UIM), which I highly recommend. This coverage protects you and your family if injuries occur due to someone else's negligence and when they do not have insurance or if they do not have enough insurance to cover your damages.

Cyclist Critically Injured in Concord Hit-And-Run; Driver Sought

6/2/2023

 
The CHP and Concord Police are looking for the driver of a black sedan for a hit-and-run at about 9:45pm on Wednesday, May 31, at the intersection of Willow Pass Rd, and Diamond Blvd in Concord. The black sedan hit a bicyclist and stopped briefly for a moment before driving off on 680.  The paramedics took that man to the hospital. He was last reported in critical condition.
Although this is a terribly sad situation for the cyclist and his family, they do have recourse if this gentleman has uninsured motorist coverage; and/or if he lived with someone who does,  it is possible, that he would be covered in that circumstance as well. 

If you or someone you love has been hurt or killed through the negligence of someone else, please call the Law Office of Steve & Jill Henderson for a free initial consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney, please call (925) 427-1771. We look forward to helping you protect your rights and obtain just compensation for your injuries.

Young Woman Killed by An Alleged Drunk Driver in Walnut Creek

8/18/2022

 
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WALNUT CREEK - As reported on KTVU… 27-year-old Maricarmen Leon of Discovery Bay was struck by a pick-up truck while standing on the sidewalk on Saturday, July 30. The collision happened early Saturday morning North Main Street and Pine Street. Maricarman had just left a bar after a night out with friends.

Maricarmen’s sister Janet received the call that her sister was gone. "Just yesterday she was with me, she was at my house taking care of my baby. And it was horrible to hear that because if I would have known that was her last day and last time to see her I would have told her how much I love her," said Janet.

Video from the scene shows a large pickup truck that slammed into a cement pillar. Maricarmen was pronounced dead at the scene. One of her friends was also hit, and suffered major injuries. 

Police arrested the driver of the truck, 28-year-old Briana Day of Concord on suspicion of DUI.

 SOURCE:
https://www.ktvu.com/news/woman-killed-friend-seriously-injured-by-suspected-dui-driver-in-walnut-creek.amp
 
BEEN HURT BY A DRUNK DRIVER?
If you or someone you love has been hurt or killed through the negligence of someone else, please call the Law Office of Steve & Jill Henderson for a free initial consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney, please call (925) 427-1771. We look forward to helping you protect your rights and obtain just compensation for your injuries.

Bullet Injures Alameda County Employee at Oakland A's Game

7/18/2022

 
Alameda County Employee Injured By Bullet at Oakland A's Game
OAKLAND — According to the Bay City News, an Alameda County employee was injured by a bullet fired from a mile away following the Oakland A’s game on July 4.

Oakland police responded to the Coliseum at about 9:30 p.m. to investigate injuries there, police said. Officers located three people who said they were injured by bullets. A fourth person turned up at a hospital on the Fourth of July and a fifth person told police on July 5. Police on July 7 said a sixth person told them of injuries suffered after the game.

The county employee, 26, required surgery after a whole bullet lodged in her hand.

A rifle was fired that night, Police said initially thought fans were struck by only bullet fragments. But earlier this week, police said officers using metal detectors on July 5 located fragments, deformed rounds and intact rounds.

Police said that some of the victims were struck by whole bullets. Patrons for the most part were unaware of the gunfire.

​Police are offering an award of up to $20,000 for information leading to an arrest or arrests in the case. Anyone with information can call the department’s felony assault unit at (510) 238-3426.

SOURCE:
https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/alameda-county-worker-among-those-injured-by-gunfire-at-july-4-as-game/
Need A Workmen's Comp Attorney?
If you have trouble getting the help you need for a work injury. Please call the Law Office of Steven H. Henderson and Jill Stern-Henderson for a free consultation at (925) 427-1771.

Crossover Cases - Worker’s Compensation & Personal Injury

7/17/2022

 
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When the Exclusive Remedy Rule does not apply.
 
Normally, when you are injured at work (California) the law protects both you and your employer under the no-fault ‘Exclusive Remedy’ doctrine.  Simply put, under the Exclusive Remedy doctrine, the employer must follow the California Labor Code and provide certain benefits without regard to who was at fault for the injuries sustained by the employee.  Most importantly, there  are no pain and suffering damages in a Worker’s Compensation case.  
 
However, in a Personal Injury case, you can recover Pain and Suffering damages.  It is important to determine if you have what I call a ‘Crossover’ case.  This means if you were injured at work and the injury was caused by someone who was not employed by the same employer.  In that case, you would want an attorney who specializes in both Worker’s Compensation Law and Personal Injury. 
Examples:   
You are a driver for Company X.   While driving for work, Jane Doe runs a red-light and crashes into you causing personal injuries.   You would have both a Personal Injury case and a Worker’s Compensation case.  The cases entitled you to different damages.  ​
While at work on a construction site, you step in a hole left uncovered by another contractor.  You could have a cause of action against the contractor whose employee was responsible for covering the hole.   
While at work on a construction site, you are standing on scaffolding that collapses.  If you were the painter for example, you could have a cause of action against the contractor that built the scaffold.
Exception to Exclusive Remedy Rule: 
Assault and battery claims have long been a recognized exception to the Exclusive Remedy rule.    
 
Examples: 
A hotel security guard was threatened by his supervisor at gun point and told that he was going to blow the security guard’s head off (Herrick v. Quality Hotels, Inns & Resorts, Inc., (1993) 19 Cal.App.4th 1608, 1612-1614)
A waitress employee was violently struck and thrown down by the restaurant co-owner/employer (Magliulo v. Superior Court (1975) 47 Cal.App.3d 760, 762)
A co-employee attacked, beat, struck, assaulted, and raped plaintiff employee and employer engaged in positive misconduct by declining to suspend or discharge him (Meyer v. Graphic Arts International Union (1979) 88 Cal.App.3d 176, 177-179)
An employer attacked the employee without provocation, tearing his clothes and striking him in the face and body (Conway v. Globin (1951) 105 Cal.App.2d 495, 496-498).
Jill Stern-Henderson - Law Office of Steven H. Henderson and Jill Stern-Henderson
About Jill Stern-Henderson
​
For the past 30 years, Jill Stern-Henderson has practiced civil litigation and workers' compensation cases with her husband, Steven Henderson. Please contact Jill at (925) 427-1771 or email her at [email protected] if you feel that she can help you with your case.
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