Atlanta, Georgia Personal Injury Lawyer
Atlanta personal injury lawyer blog
Monday, February 8, 2010
Study Linking Autism to Vaccines Retracted
Friday, February 5, 2010
Honda Recall on Heels of Toyota Recall Has Japanese Automakers Worried
Distracted Walking: Just as Dangerous as Distracted Driving
Top 10 Causes of Falls
Thursday, February 4, 2010
One Year after Georgia Peanut Corporation Salmonella Outbreak…
Kennesaw State University Student Dies after Blacking Out from Drinking
"What's the Difference Between First and Third Degree Burns?" And Other Facts About Burn Severity and Treatment
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Elderly Mobility Scooter Driver Dies after Accident
Lawsuit Filed over Exploding House in Cleveland
Children’s Disney Jewelry Recalled
The Lancet, a major British medical journal, has retracted a study which it ran in 1998 linking autism and bowel disease to the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine.
This retraction followed just one day after BMJ, a competing journal, called for The Lancet to do so in an embargoed piece of commentary. It comes a week after Britain's General Medical Counsel, which oversees all doctors, found lead author Dr. Andrew Wakefield's methods unethical.
Unfortunately, it comes over ten years after the beginning of the much publicized and highly controversial crusade against vaccines which this study inspired. Yes, this is the medical research which set off the anti-vaccine movement which has swept not only through the UK, but across the Atlantic to the US too, where the anti-vaccine crowd has received a voice in many high traffic media outlets - including being featured on Oprah in the form of former MTV personality and current activist, Jenny McCarthy.
According to BMJ's commentary, after The Lancet published Andrew Wakefield's study linking the common measles, mumps, rubella vaccine to autism, "the arguments were considered by many to be proven and the ghastly social drama of the demon vaccine took on a life of its own."
After this study was published, British vaccination rates fell sharply. In direct result of this, measles outbreaks - formerly rarely heard of - have made a resurgence among unvaccinated British children. Even as subsequent research has time and again failed to replicate the original paper's findings and more and members of the medical establishment have spoken out against it, measles vaccination among British children has not fully recovered.
This is not the first time that The Lancet has admitted that it should never have run the original paper. Over the years, ten of Wakefield's original twelve co-authors have reached similar conclusions, and in the face of that fact, the medical journal has attempted to respond accordingly.
"It has become clear that several elements of the 1998 paper by Wakefield et al. are incorrect, contrary to the findings of an earlier investigation. In particular, the claims in the original paper that children were 'consecutively referred' and that investigations were 'approved' by the local ethics committee have been proven to be false. Therefore we fully retract this paper from the published record," the Lancet's editors said in their statement.
Wakefield and his two co-authors who have stood by this study are being stripped of their privilege to practice medicine in Britain as a result of what General Medical Council ruled as "callous disregard" for the children involved in his study, and for patient selection which they found both biased and dishonest when they ruled his work unethical. They have called his conduct "dishonest and irresponsible."
Alison Singer, mother of an autistic child and president of the Autism Science Foundation, has said "That study did a lot of harm. People became afraid of vaccinations. This is the Wakefield legacy: this unscientifically grounded fear of vaccinations that result in children dying from vaccine-preventable diseases."
This retraction followed just one day after BMJ, a competing journal, called for The Lancet to do so in an embargoed piece of commentary. It comes a week after Britain's General Medical Counsel, which oversees all doctors, found lead author Dr. Andrew Wakefield's methods unethical.
Unfortunately, it comes over ten years after the beginning of the much publicized and highly controversial crusade against vaccines which this study inspired. Yes, this is the medical research which set off the anti-vaccine movement which has swept not only through the UK, but across the Atlantic to the US too, where the anti-vaccine crowd has received a voice in many high traffic media outlets - including being featured on Oprah in the form of former MTV personality and current activist, Jenny McCarthy.According to BMJ's commentary, after The Lancet published Andrew Wakefield's study linking the common measles, mumps, rubella vaccine to autism, "the arguments were considered by many to be proven and the ghastly social drama of the demon vaccine took on a life of its own."
After this study was published, British vaccination rates fell sharply. In direct result of this, measles outbreaks - formerly rarely heard of - have made a resurgence among unvaccinated British children. Even as subsequent research has time and again failed to replicate the original paper's findings and more and members of the medical establishment have spoken out against it, measles vaccination among British children has not fully recovered.
This is not the first time that The Lancet has admitted that it should never have run the original paper. Over the years, ten of Wakefield's original twelve co-authors have reached similar conclusions, and in the face of that fact, the medical journal has attempted to respond accordingly.
"It has become clear that several elements of the 1998 paper by Wakefield et al. are incorrect, contrary to the findings of an earlier investigation. In particular, the claims in the original paper that children were 'consecutively referred' and that investigations were 'approved' by the local ethics committee have been proven to be false. Therefore we fully retract this paper from the published record," the Lancet's editors said in their statement.
Wakefield and his two co-authors who have stood by this study are being stripped of their privilege to practice medicine in Britain as a result of what General Medical Council ruled as "callous disregard" for the children involved in his study, and for patient selection which they found both biased and dishonest when they ruled his work unethical. They have called his conduct "dishonest and irresponsible."
Alison Singer, mother of an autistic child and president of the Autism Science Foundation, has said "That study did a lot of harm. People became afraid of vaccinations. This is the Wakefield legacy: this unscientifically grounded fear of vaccinations that result in children dying from vaccine-preventable diseases."
Labels: autism, autism study, brain injury, child safety, children and autism, children and brain damage, Lancet, vaccines
Honda has announced a recall of 646,000 Honda Fit and Honda Jazz cars, including 140,000 Honda Fit cars in the United States. The recall is because of a faulty window switch that poses a fire hazard. Last year a child died after the faulty window switch caused a fire in the car.
The Honda recall comes on the heels of two major Toyota recalls due to an accelerator problem, and the recalls have Japanese automakers and investors worried.
Japanese automobiles have gained a reputation for their reliability and safety, but this reputation is now being scrutinized. On the positive side for U.S. business, more consumers are returning to American made automobiles.
“The race to cost cuts and the competition between all brands is so fierce that even the mighty Japanese are doing things that are not as reliable as they were," said IHS Global Insight analyst Carlos Da Silva.
Honda was poised to benefit from the Toyota recall, but now Honda may see declining sales as well as it is grouped with Toyota. Toyota, by the way, is the world’s leading auto manufacturer. But the leading manufacturer has suspended sales and production in the U.S. Officials in Japan are worried that the recalls may cause all businesses in Japan to suffer.
Transportation secretary Ray LaHood recently said that all Toyota owners should stop driving their vehicles – then he quickly recanted his statement.
“What I meant to say or what I thought I said was, if you own one of these cars or if you're in doubt, take it to the dealer and they're going to fix it,” said LaHood.
There has been a great deal of consumer confusion over the two Toyota recalls. The most recent Toyota recall involves 2.3 million U.S. vehicles including the 2009-10 RAV4 crossovers, 2009-10 Corollas, 2009-10 Matrix hatchbacks, 2005-10 Avalons, 2007-10 Camrys, 2010 Highlander crossovers, 2007-10 Tundra pickups and 2008-10 Sequoia SUVs. The Toyota recall also extends to Europe and China. The total number of recalled Toyotas is at about 4.5 million. It could grow to include 8 million vehicles.
U.S. Congress has taken surprising steps in scrutinizing Toyota over the recall. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry Waxman said, “Like many consumers, I am concerned by the seriousness and scope of Toyota’s recent recall announcements.”
Meanwhile, investors and citizens in Japan are worried that these recalls may negatively affect their nation’s economy.
"Toyota has a very close tie with its hand-picked suppliers. It's like a parent in a big family, and the children actually depend on Toyota for a living," said Kevin Chen of Gasgoo.com. "If Toyota gets the flu, its suppliers will also be sneezing."
If you or a loved one have been injured by a recalled or defective product, contact a Georgia personal injury lawyer immediately. You may be entitled to compensation. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
The Honda recall comes on the heels of two major Toyota recalls due to an accelerator problem, and the recalls have Japanese automakers and investors worried.
Japanese automobiles have gained a reputation for their reliability and safety, but this reputation is now being scrutinized. On the positive side for U.S. business, more consumers are returning to American made automobiles.
“The race to cost cuts and the competition between all brands is so fierce that even the mighty Japanese are doing things that are not as reliable as they were," said IHS Global Insight analyst Carlos Da Silva.
Honda was poised to benefit from the Toyota recall, but now Honda may see declining sales as well as it is grouped with Toyota. Toyota, by the way, is the world’s leading auto manufacturer. But the leading manufacturer has suspended sales and production in the U.S. Officials in Japan are worried that the recalls may cause all businesses in Japan to suffer.
Transportation secretary Ray LaHood recently said that all Toyota owners should stop driving their vehicles – then he quickly recanted his statement.
“What I meant to say or what I thought I said was, if you own one of these cars or if you're in doubt, take it to the dealer and they're going to fix it,” said LaHood.
There has been a great deal of consumer confusion over the two Toyota recalls. The most recent Toyota recall involves 2.3 million U.S. vehicles including the 2009-10 RAV4 crossovers, 2009-10 Corollas, 2009-10 Matrix hatchbacks, 2005-10 Avalons, 2007-10 Camrys, 2010 Highlander crossovers, 2007-10 Tundra pickups and 2008-10 Sequoia SUVs. The Toyota recall also extends to Europe and China. The total number of recalled Toyotas is at about 4.5 million. It could grow to include 8 million vehicles.
U.S. Congress has taken surprising steps in scrutinizing Toyota over the recall. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry Waxman said, “Like many consumers, I am concerned by the seriousness and scope of Toyota’s recent recall announcements.”
Meanwhile, investors and citizens in Japan are worried that these recalls may negatively affect their nation’s economy.
"Toyota has a very close tie with its hand-picked suppliers. It's like a parent in a big family, and the children actually depend on Toyota for a living," said Kevin Chen of Gasgoo.com. "If Toyota gets the flu, its suppliers will also be sneezing."
If you or a loved one have been injured by a recalled or defective product, contact a Georgia personal injury lawyer immediately. You may be entitled to compensation. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
Labels: Georgia personal injury lawyer, product recall, Toyota recall
I have written a great deal about distracted driving but not so much about distracted walking, which can be just as dangerous. Cell phones, iPods, and other electronic devices can lead to serious injury and death for pedestrians, especially in cities like Atlanta that are not necessarily pedestrian-friendly.
The New York Times recently published on article about distracted walking: “The era of the mobile gadget is making mobility that much more perilous, particularly on crowded streets and in downtown areas where multiple multitaskers veer and swerve and walk to the beat of their own devices.”
According to the NYT, distracted walking accounted for at least 1,000 emergency room visits in 2008. Distracted walking can cause trips and falls as well as more serious accidents such as collisions with vehicles. Distracted walking accidents are on the rise. They doubled from 2007 to 2008.
The NYT points out several cases of distracted walking. A 16-year-old suffered a concussion after walking into a telephone pole while texting. A 28-year-old man fractured his finger after he tripped and fell while talking on his cell phone. A 68-year-old man sprained his thumb and his ankle after he fell off his porch while talking on his cell phone.
According to the results of a recent study, young people are more likely to suffer injuries due to distracted walking. This makes sense, as young people use distracting technologies more frequently, in general. However, older people are not immune to distracted walking injuries. The study found that half of distracted walking ER visits were by individuals under 30; a quarter were by people 16 to 20; and a quarter were by people 41 to 60.
Another study found that distracted pedestrians using their phone will often not notice hazards right in front of them. The study found that only 25 percent of pedestrians using their cell phones noticed a clown on a unicycle that passed directly in front of them! Now, image if that clown had been a vehicle. The scientific name for this phenomenon is “inattention blindness.” People can only pay attention to so many things at once. Scientists suggest that cell phone use taxes our auditory resources as well as our visual resources. When we’re talking on the phone, we’re often visualizes elements of the conversation. This takes away from our ability to visually interact with our environment. If you’re walking down the sidewalk, it’s best to save the phone conversation for later. Wait until you’re sitting in a safe place!
As I mentioned earlier, Atlanta is not a safe place for pedestrians, and you should certainly pay attention when walking around the city. A pedestrian was killed while crossing a street in Cobb County on Tuesday. On the same day, another pedestrian was killed while crossing an intersection in Mableton, Georgia. Police reported that the man was using the crosswalk when the crosswalk light was red. A 14-year-old young woman was recently killed when she was hit by a car as she was walking home after school in Stone Mountain. Atlanta is very dangerous city for distracted driving and distracted walking.
Have you been injured by a distracted driver or a distracted pedestrian? If so, contact an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 for a free consultation.
The New York Times recently published on article about distracted walking: “The era of the mobile gadget is making mobility that much more perilous, particularly on crowded streets and in downtown areas where multiple multitaskers veer and swerve and walk to the beat of their own devices.”
According to the NYT, distracted walking accounted for at least 1,000 emergency room visits in 2008. Distracted walking can cause trips and falls as well as more serious accidents such as collisions with vehicles. Distracted walking accidents are on the rise. They doubled from 2007 to 2008.
The NYT points out several cases of distracted walking. A 16-year-old suffered a concussion after walking into a telephone pole while texting. A 28-year-old man fractured his finger after he tripped and fell while talking on his cell phone. A 68-year-old man sprained his thumb and his ankle after he fell off his porch while talking on his cell phone.
According to the results of a recent study, young people are more likely to suffer injuries due to distracted walking. This makes sense, as young people use distracting technologies more frequently, in general. However, older people are not immune to distracted walking injuries. The study found that half of distracted walking ER visits were by individuals under 30; a quarter were by people 16 to 20; and a quarter were by people 41 to 60.
Another study found that distracted pedestrians using their phone will often not notice hazards right in front of them. The study found that only 25 percent of pedestrians using their cell phones noticed a clown on a unicycle that passed directly in front of them! Now, image if that clown had been a vehicle. The scientific name for this phenomenon is “inattention blindness.” People can only pay attention to so many things at once. Scientists suggest that cell phone use taxes our auditory resources as well as our visual resources. When we’re talking on the phone, we’re often visualizes elements of the conversation. This takes away from our ability to visually interact with our environment. If you’re walking down the sidewalk, it’s best to save the phone conversation for later. Wait until you’re sitting in a safe place!
As I mentioned earlier, Atlanta is not a safe place for pedestrians, and you should certainly pay attention when walking around the city. A pedestrian was killed while crossing a street in Cobb County on Tuesday. On the same day, another pedestrian was killed while crossing an intersection in Mableton, Georgia. Police reported that the man was using the crosswalk when the crosswalk light was red. A 14-year-old young woman was recently killed when she was hit by a car as she was walking home after school in Stone Mountain. Atlanta is very dangerous city for distracted driving and distracted walking.
Have you been injured by a distracted driver or a distracted pedestrian? If so, contact an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 for a free consultation.
Labels: distracted drivers, pedestrian
It is not all that uncommon to trip and take a fall. Many of us stumble from time to time and shrug it off, thinking it just a random occurrence on any bad day. We might blame our own clumsiness, or a loose heel, or something else out of anyone's control.
However, falls are not always out of our control - or out of control of the individuals who own and maintain the places where these spills might commonly happen. They are also not always so very harmless. A fall might easily lead to injury, medical bills and potentially permanent consequences. Falls can lead to head trauma, nerve damage, and injuries to the neck and spine, all of which can be life changing or even potentially deadly.
Ten of the top common reasons for falls which may by the responsibility of the property owner include:
1. Improperly Maintained/Broken Stairways
2. Defective Sidewalks
3. Improperly Maintained Walkways
4. Uneven Walkways
5. Unsecured Wet and/or Waxed Floors
6. Broken Railings
7. Poorly or Improperly Maintained Lighting
8. Improperly Maintained Parking Lots/Structures
9. Unsecured Construction Sites/Scaffolding
10. Defective Construction Equipment
Home and property owners have a responsibility to see that their property is either secure from the public, or maintained for safety. Many of the items on this list can be hazards waiting for someone if left unattended.
Stairs, for instance, can be very dangerous since a small trip can lead to a dangerous tumble down to the floor or landing. Because of this, stairs should always feature some sort of nonskid surface. If they are carpeted, the carpeting should be secure. If the carpet becomes loose or worn, it should be repaired immediately to avoid an increased risk of falls. Uncarpeted stairs might have some nonskid surface on them, such as a contrasting nonskid tape, spaced at one inch intervals, or rubber pads. Stairs should have railings on both sides, and the railings also need to be in good repair.
A poorly lit stairway or a stairway which accumulates any kind of obstacles is likely to lead to accidents eventually.
Maintaining proper lighting is another important step that property owners should take to ensure that preventable falls are kept to a minimum. Especially in conjunction with other, higher risk areas such as stairs, or places where the floor or walkways are liable to be wet and slippery.
Areas under construction, or those being cleaned or waxed should always be marked clearly so that individuals who happen to use them are aware of the risk and know to be careful or when appropriate to find another route - otherwise, they should be secured entirely to prevent accidents and injuries.
If you or someone you love has been wrongfully injured because of fall due to negligence on the part of a property owner, then contact an experienced Atlanta, Georgia personal injury attorney as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
However, falls are not always out of our control - or out of control of the individuals who own and maintain the places where these spills might commonly happen. They are also not always so very harmless. A fall might easily lead to injury, medical bills and potentially permanent consequences. Falls can lead to head trauma, nerve damage, and injuries to the neck and spine, all of which can be life changing or even potentially deadly.Ten of the top common reasons for falls which may by the responsibility of the property owner include:
1. Improperly Maintained/Broken Stairways
2. Defective Sidewalks
3. Improperly Maintained Walkways
4. Uneven Walkways
5. Unsecured Wet and/or Waxed Floors
6. Broken Railings
7. Poorly or Improperly Maintained Lighting
8. Improperly Maintained Parking Lots/Structures
9. Unsecured Construction Sites/Scaffolding
10. Defective Construction Equipment
Home and property owners have a responsibility to see that their property is either secure from the public, or maintained for safety. Many of the items on this list can be hazards waiting for someone if left unattended.
Stairs, for instance, can be very dangerous since a small trip can lead to a dangerous tumble down to the floor or landing. Because of this, stairs should always feature some sort of nonskid surface. If they are carpeted, the carpeting should be secure. If the carpet becomes loose or worn, it should be repaired immediately to avoid an increased risk of falls. Uncarpeted stairs might have some nonskid surface on them, such as a contrasting nonskid tape, spaced at one inch intervals, or rubber pads. Stairs should have railings on both sides, and the railings also need to be in good repair.
A poorly lit stairway or a stairway which accumulates any kind of obstacles is likely to lead to accidents eventually.
Maintaining proper lighting is another important step that property owners should take to ensure that preventable falls are kept to a minimum. Especially in conjunction with other, higher risk areas such as stairs, or places where the floor or walkways are liable to be wet and slippery.
Areas under construction, or those being cleaned or waxed should always be marked clearly so that individuals who happen to use them are aware of the risk and know to be careful or when appropriate to find another route - otherwise, they should be secured entirely to prevent accidents and injuries.
If you or someone you love has been wrongfully injured because of fall due to negligence on the part of a property owner, then contact an experienced Atlanta, Georgia personal injury attorney as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
Labels: Atlanta accident attorney, Atlanta accident lawyer, fall, Georgia accident attorney, Georgia accident lawyer, slip and fall, trip and fall
It’s been a year since we first heard about the contaminated peanut products from the Georgia-based Peanut Corporation of America. A recent article in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reminds us that the salmonella outbreak killed 9 people and sickened hundreds of people. But apparently the Peanut Corporation never accepted accountability for the outbreak.
After the outbreak, the Georgia state government and the federal government promised to “get tough” on food safety. But not much has happened since then. The Georgia Legislature passed a new law that mandated food testing regulations, but these new regulations have not been worked out. Lawmakers in Washington D.C. seem to have forgotten about the food safety legislation that’s currently sitting in Congress.
Criminal investigations into the Peanut Corporation have fizzled out. No charges were ever filed against executives even though evidence suggested that they knowingly sent out contaminated products.
The salmonella outbreak linked to peanuts from the Georgia plant started in late 2008 and went on to kill at least 9 people. The Blakely plant in Georgia was shut down.
The Peanut Corporation is now bankrupt, and part of the $12 million insurance settlement connected to the bankruptcy will go to about 100 victims of the outbreak. However, the victims have not received anything so far. Other lawsuits against other companies that used the peanuts are pending.
Jeff Almer’s mother died after eating contaminated peanut butter from the Peanut Corporation. He is stunned at the lack of action; “Nothing’s happened. It’s very frustrating.”
Many experts are worried that as time passes, the chance of food safety reform gets smaller.
However, Michael Doyle of the food safety center at the University of Georgia suggests that state officials are still working on the legislation.
“I’ve learned to be patient,” said Doyle. “To get it right.”
In the meantime, recalls continue to roll in because of contaminated food products. Recently pine nuts and hazel nuts were recalled because of salmonella, and peanut butter has been recalled because of the bacteria listeria.
Attorney Bill Marler, who is handling lawsuits for about 45 victims of the salmonella outbreak, finds it hard to believe that criminal charges have not been filed against Peanut Corporation executives: “In 17 years of litigating every major food-borne illness outbreak in the U.S., I have not seen a clearer situation that demanded criminal prosecution.”
If you’d like to see something done about food safety in Georgia, contact your legislators and let them know how you feel.
If you’ve been injured by a toxic, contaminated or defective product, contact an experienced Georgia personal injury lawyer immediately. You may be entitled to compensation. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
After the outbreak, the Georgia state government and the federal government promised to “get tough” on food safety. But not much has happened since then. The Georgia Legislature passed a new law that mandated food testing regulations, but these new regulations have not been worked out. Lawmakers in Washington D.C. seem to have forgotten about the food safety legislation that’s currently sitting in Congress.
Criminal investigations into the Peanut Corporation have fizzled out. No charges were ever filed against executives even though evidence suggested that they knowingly sent out contaminated products.
The salmonella outbreak linked to peanuts from the Georgia plant started in late 2008 and went on to kill at least 9 people. The Blakely plant in Georgia was shut down.
The Peanut Corporation is now bankrupt, and part of the $12 million insurance settlement connected to the bankruptcy will go to about 100 victims of the outbreak. However, the victims have not received anything so far. Other lawsuits against other companies that used the peanuts are pending.
Jeff Almer’s mother died after eating contaminated peanut butter from the Peanut Corporation. He is stunned at the lack of action; “Nothing’s happened. It’s very frustrating.”
Many experts are worried that as time passes, the chance of food safety reform gets smaller.
However, Michael Doyle of the food safety center at the University of Georgia suggests that state officials are still working on the legislation.
“I’ve learned to be patient,” said Doyle. “To get it right.”
In the meantime, recalls continue to roll in because of contaminated food products. Recently pine nuts and hazel nuts were recalled because of salmonella, and peanut butter has been recalled because of the bacteria listeria.
Attorney Bill Marler, who is handling lawsuits for about 45 victims of the salmonella outbreak, finds it hard to believe that criminal charges have not been filed against Peanut Corporation executives: “In 17 years of litigating every major food-borne illness outbreak in the U.S., I have not seen a clearer situation that demanded criminal prosecution.”
If you’d like to see something done about food safety in Georgia, contact your legislators and let them know how you feel.
If you’ve been injured by a toxic, contaminated or defective product, contact an experienced Georgia personal injury lawyer immediately. You may be entitled to compensation. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
Labels: product liability, product recall
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that a Kennesaw State University student died Sunday morning after he passed out at a party on Sunday night. The nursing student was Dorian Richard Varcianna, 21. The party was off-campus. Varcianna passed out at the party and never woke up.
Police have not said that alcohol was the cause of death. They are waiting on a toxicology report. A memorial service was held on Tuesday night by members of the Iota Theta chapter of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. His funeral will be held in New York.
According to Varcianna’s younger brother who was also at the party, Dorian was still conscious at 2:30 a.m. when friends took him to his house in Marietta. The friends, including his brother, put Dorian on a love seat in the garage and covered him with a blanket. Dorian’s brother checked on him around 6:30 a.m. and Dorian appeared to be sleeping. However, when his brother checked again at 9:00 a.m. Dorian was not breathing and his skin was cold.
A spokesperson from Kennesaw State University stressed that the party was not a campus-sanctioned event and was not related to rush activities for the fraternity. But KSU admits that most students at the party were members of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. Cobb County Police are investigating Varcianna’s death.
Michael Sanserviro of KSU said that campus officials will increase efforts to inform students about the dangers of alcohol.
“We want to make sure that they are educated about the various risks associated with alcohol use,” Sanserviro said.
If you have a teenage child or a child in college, talk to them about the risks and dangers associated with drinking. Binge drinking is often encouraged in some college circles, but it can have devastating consequences such as death – or death of an innocent victim. College students are at an increased risk of alcohol-related injury and DUI. Make sure your children understand that just one night of binge drinking can end their bright future. This is not a pleasant conversation, but it’s one that every parent should have with their children.
Campus officials should do more to increase awareness about alcohol-related injuries and deaths. Computer-based alcohol interventions have been successful on some campuses. Such interventions typically question students about their drinking habits and educate students about risky drinking behaviors. These computer-based questionnaires can be totally anonymous and encouraged with incentives such as retail coupons. Studies have found that computer-based alcohol interventions on campus can decrease alcohol consumption for high-risk drinkers. Perhaps KSU should consider this type of alcohol intervention for all students.
In Georgia, if you or a loved one have been injured by a drunk driver, you may be in a position to sue not only the driver but also those who served the alcohol. In GA, liquor stores and restaurants may also be held accountable for serving intoxicated individuals. If an alcohol-related injury or death has affected you, contact an experienced Georgia personal injury attorney. You may be entitled to compensation. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700.
Police have not said that alcohol was the cause of death. They are waiting on a toxicology report. A memorial service was held on Tuesday night by members of the Iota Theta chapter of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. His funeral will be held in New York.
According to Varcianna’s younger brother who was also at the party, Dorian was still conscious at 2:30 a.m. when friends took him to his house in Marietta. The friends, including his brother, put Dorian on a love seat in the garage and covered him with a blanket. Dorian’s brother checked on him around 6:30 a.m. and Dorian appeared to be sleeping. However, when his brother checked again at 9:00 a.m. Dorian was not breathing and his skin was cold.
A spokesperson from Kennesaw State University stressed that the party was not a campus-sanctioned event and was not related to rush activities for the fraternity. But KSU admits that most students at the party were members of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. Cobb County Police are investigating Varcianna’s death.
Michael Sanserviro of KSU said that campus officials will increase efforts to inform students about the dangers of alcohol.
“We want to make sure that they are educated about the various risks associated with alcohol use,” Sanserviro said.
If you have a teenage child or a child in college, talk to them about the risks and dangers associated with drinking. Binge drinking is often encouraged in some college circles, but it can have devastating consequences such as death – or death of an innocent victim. College students are at an increased risk of alcohol-related injury and DUI. Make sure your children understand that just one night of binge drinking can end their bright future. This is not a pleasant conversation, but it’s one that every parent should have with their children.
Campus officials should do more to increase awareness about alcohol-related injuries and deaths. Computer-based alcohol interventions have been successful on some campuses. Such interventions typically question students about their drinking habits and educate students about risky drinking behaviors. These computer-based questionnaires can be totally anonymous and encouraged with incentives such as retail coupons. Studies have found that computer-based alcohol interventions on campus can decrease alcohol consumption for high-risk drinkers. Perhaps KSU should consider this type of alcohol intervention for all students.
In Georgia, if you or a loved one have been injured by a drunk driver, you may be in a position to sue not only the driver but also those who served the alcohol. In GA, liquor stores and restaurants may also be held accountable for serving intoxicated individuals. If an alcohol-related injury or death has affected you, contact an experienced Georgia personal injury attorney. You may be entitled to compensation. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700.
Labels: college students, drunk driving
I blogged earlier this week about how common burn injuries are and the many different ways in which people can become burn victims, but that is not all there is to say about burns. Hundreds of thousands of people suffer from burns every year in this country, and of them, only a fraction require hospitalization. What, then, is the difference?
The difference, in short, is the severity of the burn. Burn severity is determined by several different factors, including the age and overall health of the burn victim, the depth of the burn and the percentage of the body that it covers. Obviously, if a young adult in good health receives a small, shallow burn, that is an entirely different situation than if a small child is burnt moderately over much of his body, or if an elderly person receives deep burns to her hand and arm.
Many of us have heard terms like "first degree burns" or "third degree burns," but we do not know exactly what they mean, or what difference that makes when discussing treatment. Understanding the skin is the first step to understanding the different degrees of burn damage and how they are judged. The skin is made up of several different layers. The epidermis, on top, is the outer surface of the skin which we see. Underneath the epidermis is the dermis, a stronger, more durable layer. Unlike the epidermis, the dermis has its own blood supply and contains nerve endings which allow for sensation. Hair follicles and sweat glands are active in the dermis layer of skin. Below that is another fatty layer, which nerves and blood vessels pass through to get to the skin.
A first degree burn affects the first layer of skin, the epidermis, only. There may be redness, hotness, and some pain, but there is no swelling or blistering. A sunburn is an example of a very common type of first degree burn. First degree burns may be painful, but not intensely so. Many people would do no more than run this type of burn under cold water or apply a lotion or cream to it. Second degree burns are more severe and in most cases, substantially more painful.
Second degree burns involve both the epidermis and the dermis, and leave the skin blistered, moist or oozing. Second degree burns may call for medical assistance, depending on how much of the body they have damaged. Doctors recommend not removing clothing around the burnt area, and seeking medical assistance quickly in the case of many of these burns. It is not advised to put lotion, oils or creams on these burns on your own, as that may do more damage. Adhesive bandages are discouraged, also because of the risk of farther damage.
Third degree burns involve all the layers of skin, and so-called fourth degree burns involve all of the skin, as well as the muscle and bone underneath. In third or fourth degree burns, the affected area will no longer be familiar light red, but instead may be white, cherry red, black, yellow or brown. If someone has suffered a third or fourth degree burn, then 911 should be contacted immediately for quick medical treatment.
If you or someone you love has been wrongfully injured in a fire due to negligence or product malfunction, then contact an experienced Atlanta, Georgia personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
The difference, in short, is the severity of the burn. Burn severity is determined by several different factors, including the age and overall health of the burn victim, the depth of the burn and the percentage of the body that it covers. Obviously, if a young adult in good health receives a small, shallow burn, that is an entirely different situation than if a small child is burnt moderately over much of his body, or if an elderly person receives deep burns to her hand and arm. Many of us have heard terms like "first degree burns" or "third degree burns," but we do not know exactly what they mean, or what difference that makes when discussing treatment. Understanding the skin is the first step to understanding the different degrees of burn damage and how they are judged. The skin is made up of several different layers. The epidermis, on top, is the outer surface of the skin which we see. Underneath the epidermis is the dermis, a stronger, more durable layer. Unlike the epidermis, the dermis has its own blood supply and contains nerve endings which allow for sensation. Hair follicles and sweat glands are active in the dermis layer of skin. Below that is another fatty layer, which nerves and blood vessels pass through to get to the skin.
A first degree burn affects the first layer of skin, the epidermis, only. There may be redness, hotness, and some pain, but there is no swelling or blistering. A sunburn is an example of a very common type of first degree burn. First degree burns may be painful, but not intensely so. Many people would do no more than run this type of burn under cold water or apply a lotion or cream to it. Second degree burns are more severe and in most cases, substantially more painful.
Second degree burns involve both the epidermis and the dermis, and leave the skin blistered, moist or oozing. Second degree burns may call for medical assistance, depending on how much of the body they have damaged. Doctors recommend not removing clothing around the burnt area, and seeking medical assistance quickly in the case of many of these burns. It is not advised to put lotion, oils or creams on these burns on your own, as that may do more damage. Adhesive bandages are discouraged, also because of the risk of farther damage.
Third degree burns involve all the layers of skin, and so-called fourth degree burns involve all of the skin, as well as the muscle and bone underneath. In third or fourth degree burns, the affected area will no longer be familiar light red, but instead may be white, cherry red, black, yellow or brown. If someone has suffered a third or fourth degree burn, then 911 should be contacted immediately for quick medical treatment.
If you or someone you love has been wrongfully injured in a fire due to negligence or product malfunction, then contact an experienced Atlanta, Georgia personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
Labels: Atlanta accident lawyer, Atlanta burn lawyer, burn injury, burn treatment, first degree burn, Georgia accident lawyer, Georgia burn lawyer, second degree burn, third degree burns
A recent upswing in the use of scooters, motorized wheelchairs and other mobility devices has allowed those with diminished mobility - such as the elderly - to move about more freely than they have in the past. There is no doubt that the access to this technology, both through improvements in the mobility devices themselves and by way of greater availability, has improved the lives of many people who would otherwise find themselves with little or no ability to get around. These devices offer those who use them an increased degree of independence.
However, they also present challenges. As a society, it seems that we are still adjusting to this increased presence, and as such there are sometimes insufficient laws in place to protect scooter drivers, motorists and pedestrians in incidents where mobility scooters are a factor.
Franklin Flynn, a seventy-one year old Marietta man, died last week after an moving vehicle accident when his electric mobility scooter was struck by a sports utility vehicle.
Flynn was riding his electric scooter, a Hoveround, south in a northbound lane of traffic when he was struck by a Chevrolet Tahoe turning south out of a parking lot, according to police. Flynn was taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, where he died several days later. The driver of the Tahoe was not charged in the accident.
In incidents like this, the course of action that law enforcement should take is sometimes unclear, due in part to the nature of mobility scooters. The exact safety and etiquette for scooters and scooter/driver interaction is often poorly defined. Are scooters treated like pedestrians? Cyclists? Are there explicit rules to govern their use on sidewalks? On streets? These questions are frustrating as well as relevant.
In the UK, the question has been taken a step farther to wonder if people who drive mobility scooters ought to receive training for them. After a spate of accidents involving elderly drivers on scooters injuring or, as in the case of a ninety year old who was struck while in a crosswalk, even killing others on the road, the Norfolk, Virginia Police began offering a voluntary training class for scooter drivers.
"We have listened to the issues and concerns of the public and, with the help of our partners, have developed a mobility scooter awareness course that enhances the users’ ability to use their scooter in a safe and appropriate manner," said a spokesman for the Norfolk Police.
While this seems like a sound start, and perhaps we can eventually see some sort of training programs in place stateside, it also seems to sidestep the other half of this equation. Safer driving on the part of scooters can hardly be a bad idea, but what about the drivers and pedestrians that they share the pavement with? Learning and understanding how mobility scooters and those around them can most safely coexist will, without a doubt, become a priority in years to come, and hopefully one day will lead to fewer accidents like that which killed Franklin Flynn.
However, they also present challenges. As a society, it seems that we are still adjusting to this increased presence, and as such there are sometimes insufficient laws in place to protect scooter drivers, motorists and pedestrians in incidents where mobility scooters are a factor.Franklin Flynn, a seventy-one year old Marietta man, died last week after an moving vehicle accident when his electric mobility scooter was struck by a sports utility vehicle.
Flynn was riding his electric scooter, a Hoveround, south in a northbound lane of traffic when he was struck by a Chevrolet Tahoe turning south out of a parking lot, according to police. Flynn was taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, where he died several days later. The driver of the Tahoe was not charged in the accident.
In incidents like this, the course of action that law enforcement should take is sometimes unclear, due in part to the nature of mobility scooters. The exact safety and etiquette for scooters and scooter/driver interaction is often poorly defined. Are scooters treated like pedestrians? Cyclists? Are there explicit rules to govern their use on sidewalks? On streets? These questions are frustrating as well as relevant.
In the UK, the question has been taken a step farther to wonder if people who drive mobility scooters ought to receive training for them. After a spate of accidents involving elderly drivers on scooters injuring or, as in the case of a ninety year old who was struck while in a crosswalk, even killing others on the road, the Norfolk, Virginia Police began offering a voluntary training class for scooter drivers.
"We have listened to the issues and concerns of the public and, with the help of our partners, have developed a mobility scooter awareness course that enhances the users’ ability to use their scooter in a safe and appropriate manner," said a spokesman for the Norfolk Police.
While this seems like a sound start, and perhaps we can eventually see some sort of training programs in place stateside, it also seems to sidestep the other half of this equation. Safer driving on the part of scooters can hardly be a bad idea, but what about the drivers and pedestrians that they share the pavement with? Learning and understanding how mobility scooters and those around them can most safely coexist will, without a doubt, become a priority in years to come, and hopefully one day will lead to fewer accidents like that which killed Franklin Flynn.
Labels: car accidents, car crashes, car wreck, elder safety, elderly, Georgia, Hoveround, Marietta, mobility scooter, motor vehicle accident, scooter
The Cleveland Plain Dealer in Ohio reports that a lawsuit has been filed over an exploding house!
The lawsuit alleges that the Dominion East Ohio Gas Company and an investment company are to blame for the explosion of a Cleveland house a January 25. The explosion caused damage to 57 buildings.
Investigators have not yet announced the cause of the explosion, but the lawsuit, which was filed in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court, alleges that Dominion and California-based EZ Access Funding are responsible.
According to the lawsuit filed by attorney Scott Kalish, EZ Access failed to maintain the house on West 83rd Street, which had been vacant since last summer. Further, Dominion failed to make sure that the gas was shut off, even though residents in the neighborhood had complained of an odor of gas four days before the explosion.
Gerald Walton, attorney for EZ Access, said, “They were totally unaware that there were any utilities to that house. They never authorized or requested that any utilities were turned on.”
Kalish represents three homeowners whose houses were damaged by the blast as well as a dozen other people who rent homes in the area. Kalish said that approximately 60 property owners and 80 renters were affected by the explosion. At least four people received minor injuries.
One resident represented by Kalish is Terry Calderwood, whose home was damaged so badly that it had to be demolished. Kalish told reporters, “She’s essentially homeless now.”
The Cleveland attorney hopes that the lawsuit will be certified as a class action lawsuit since it affected so many people.
What a bizarre news story! I find it hard to believe that the gas company did not respond to reports about the odor of gas. The number one natural gas safety tip from safegas.org is: “SMELL GAS? ACT FAST! If you smell gas RIGHT NOW—don't touch or turn off your computer—leave the area! After you go someplace away from the odor, call your natural gas provider. If you don't know that number, dial emergency services, 9-1-1.”
Other tips from the gas safety website include:
Don’t ever let small children play with or near natural gas appliances or pipes, even the knobs on the oven or cooktop.
Don’t use your stove or oven for anything other than cooking (for instance, to heat your home, under any circumstances).
Don’t move or install a gas appliance or change the connector in any way without professional assistance.
Don’t use a space heater UNTIL you are sure it has been vented properly. If using a vent-free heater, make sure the automatic cut-off switch is operational.
Don’t install a gas appliance yourself, unless you area a qualified contractor. Instead, you should always seek professional assistance.
Don’t ever store household chemicals or combustible materials near gas appliances.
Have all gas appliances, furnaces, vents, flues, chimneys and gas lines in your home or business inspected every year or two by qualified industry professionals.
Keep the areas around all appliances and equipment clean and unblocked to allow for proper air flow.
Follow manufacturer instructions for the care and use of gas appliances and equipment.
Make sure there is at least one multipurpose fire extinguisher in your home or place of business.
Use your nose. If you ever detect even a small amount of the odor of natural gas in the air, don’t stay—get away. Then, contact your natural gas provider. If you don’t know that number, dial emergency services, 9-1-1.
The lawsuit alleges that the Dominion East Ohio Gas Company and an investment company are to blame for the explosion of a Cleveland house a January 25. The explosion caused damage to 57 buildings.
Investigators have not yet announced the cause of the explosion, but the lawsuit, which was filed in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court, alleges that Dominion and California-based EZ Access Funding are responsible.
According to the lawsuit filed by attorney Scott Kalish, EZ Access failed to maintain the house on West 83rd Street, which had been vacant since last summer. Further, Dominion failed to make sure that the gas was shut off, even though residents in the neighborhood had complained of an odor of gas four days before the explosion.
Gerald Walton, attorney for EZ Access, said, “They were totally unaware that there were any utilities to that house. They never authorized or requested that any utilities were turned on.”
Kalish represents three homeowners whose houses were damaged by the blast as well as a dozen other people who rent homes in the area. Kalish said that approximately 60 property owners and 80 renters were affected by the explosion. At least four people received minor injuries.
One resident represented by Kalish is Terry Calderwood, whose home was damaged so badly that it had to be demolished. Kalish told reporters, “She’s essentially homeless now.”
The Cleveland attorney hopes that the lawsuit will be certified as a class action lawsuit since it affected so many people.
What a bizarre news story! I find it hard to believe that the gas company did not respond to reports about the odor of gas. The number one natural gas safety tip from safegas.org is: “SMELL GAS? ACT FAST! If you smell gas RIGHT NOW—don't touch or turn off your computer—leave the area! After you go someplace away from the odor, call your natural gas provider. If you don't know that number, dial emergency services, 9-1-1.”
Other tips from the gas safety website include:
Don’t ever let small children play with or near natural gas appliances or pipes, even the knobs on the oven or cooktop.
Don’t use your stove or oven for anything other than cooking (for instance, to heat your home, under any circumstances).
Don’t move or install a gas appliance or change the connector in any way without professional assistance.
Don’t use a space heater UNTIL you are sure it has been vented properly. If using a vent-free heater, make sure the automatic cut-off switch is operational.
Don’t install a gas appliance yourself, unless you area a qualified contractor. Instead, you should always seek professional assistance.
Don’t ever store household chemicals or combustible materials near gas appliances.
Have all gas appliances, furnaces, vents, flues, chimneys and gas lines in your home or business inspected every year or two by qualified industry professionals.
Keep the areas around all appliances and equipment clean and unblocked to allow for proper air flow.
Follow manufacturer instructions for the care and use of gas appliances and equipment.
Make sure there is at least one multipurpose fire extinguisher in your home or place of business.
Use your nose. If you ever detect even a small amount of the odor of natural gas in the air, don’t stay—get away. Then, contact your natural gas provider. If you don’t know that number, dial emergency services, 9-1-1.
Labels: child safety, personal injury lawsuits
Parents should be aware of two recent recalls of children’s jewelry products. Wal-Mart has recalled 55,000 Disney “Princess and Frog” necklaces that were sold exclusively at Wal-Mart stores. This recall was announced on Friday.
The necklaces contain high levels of cadmium, which can to toxic to children if ingested. Cadmium is a known carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) and may cause fever, developmental problems, or even death in high amounts.
The recalled metal chain link necklaces have pendants shaped like a crown or a frog. The packaging reads “Disney” and “The Princess and the Frog.” Recalled necklace model numbers include 4616-4187 (crown pendant) and 4616-4190 (frog pendant). The recalled Disney necklaces were sold at Wal-Mart stores across the country between November 2009 and January 2010. Average retail price was five dollars. If your child has one of these necklaces, return it to Wal-Mart for a refund.
In a related recall, 426,000 pieces of Disney children’s jewelry have been recalled due to high levels of lead. The recalled pieces include the “Tiny Tink” Tinkerbell charms as well as children’s bracelets sold through Papyrus Greeting Cards. This recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on Tuesday. Both jewelry products were imported.
The Tinkerbell charms were imported by Playmates Toys. Researchers discovered that a metal piece of the charm had excess levels of lead. The Papyrus bracelets were imported by Schurman Fine Papers, and researchers found that the lead paint on the bracelets contained high levels of lead. Both of these pieces of children’s jewelry violated the federal standard for lead paint.
Over 252,000 Tiny Tink charms were recalled. The following Disney toy jewelry products were recalled: Tinker Bell’s Lil’ Tinker Bracelet, Rosetta’s Rosebud Keychain, Silvermist’s Water Lily Necklace. The Disney toys were sold at several retailers across the country from November 2008 to November 2009. Prices ranged from six dollars to eight dollars.
The Papyrus bracelets and greeting cards were sold from February 2004 to September 2009 at various retail stores for around seven dollars. If ingested, high levels of lead in paint could lead to nerve damage, brain damage, mental retardation, developmental problems, seizures, and even death. Low levels of lead exposure may also cause developmental problems for children.
If you own any of these jewelry toys, return them for a refund.
Toy jewelry is notorious for containing high levels of lead, cadmium, and other toxins. It’s best to avoid toy jewelry altogether, especially if it’s imported from China. China has a history of producing toys contaminated with lead paint and other toxins.
To be safe, teach your children to avoid chewing on toys and to wash their hands regularly, especially after playing outdoors. Soil is often contaminated with lead, especially if it’s near a roadway (thanks to a history of lead in gasoline).
If your child has been injured by an unsafe toy, contact an experienced Atlanta, Georgia personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
The necklaces contain high levels of cadmium, which can to toxic to children if ingested. Cadmium is a known carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) and may cause fever, developmental problems, or even death in high amounts.
The recalled metal chain link necklaces have pendants shaped like a crown or a frog. The packaging reads “Disney” and “The Princess and the Frog.” Recalled necklace model numbers include 4616-4187 (crown pendant) and 4616-4190 (frog pendant). The recalled Disney necklaces were sold at Wal-Mart stores across the country between November 2009 and January 2010. Average retail price was five dollars. If your child has one of these necklaces, return it to Wal-Mart for a refund.
In a related recall, 426,000 pieces of Disney children’s jewelry have been recalled due to high levels of lead. The recalled pieces include the “Tiny Tink” Tinkerbell charms as well as children’s bracelets sold through Papyrus Greeting Cards. This recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on Tuesday. Both jewelry products were imported.
The Tinkerbell charms were imported by Playmates Toys. Researchers discovered that a metal piece of the charm had excess levels of lead. The Papyrus bracelets were imported by Schurman Fine Papers, and researchers found that the lead paint on the bracelets contained high levels of lead. Both of these pieces of children’s jewelry violated the federal standard for lead paint.
Over 252,000 Tiny Tink charms were recalled. The following Disney toy jewelry products were recalled: Tinker Bell’s Lil’ Tinker Bracelet, Rosetta’s Rosebud Keychain, Silvermist’s Water Lily Necklace. The Disney toys were sold at several retailers across the country from November 2008 to November 2009. Prices ranged from six dollars to eight dollars.
The Papyrus bracelets and greeting cards were sold from February 2004 to September 2009 at various retail stores for around seven dollars. If ingested, high levels of lead in paint could lead to nerve damage, brain damage, mental retardation, developmental problems, seizures, and even death. Low levels of lead exposure may also cause developmental problems for children.
If you own any of these jewelry toys, return them for a refund.
Toy jewelry is notorious for containing high levels of lead, cadmium, and other toxins. It’s best to avoid toy jewelry altogether, especially if it’s imported from China. China has a history of producing toys contaminated with lead paint and other toxins.
To be safe, teach your children to avoid chewing on toys and to wash their hands regularly, especially after playing outdoors. Soil is often contaminated with lead, especially if it’s near a roadway (thanks to a history of lead in gasoline).
If your child has been injured by an unsafe toy, contact an experienced Atlanta, Georgia personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation. Call MLN Law at 404-531-9700 to schedule a free consultation.
Labels: child safety, product liability, product recall, toy safety
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