Houston Personal Injury Lawyers Blog

Know How Fire Works!

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74400 — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Each year over $7 billion in property damage through house fires happen in the United States alone. It kills more than 5,000 people and injures countless annually, yet it is one of the most preventable accidents that we can avoid.

If you ever experience the horror of a house fire, you MUST know how fire works!

It is always good to KNOW your enemy, the case remains the same here.

How does Fire Work?

QUICKLY! In just two minutes, fire can create black smoke which will engulf your entire house. In five minutes, your entire home can be in flames. Since most home fires happen when the inhabitants are asleep, it is important to know that time is crucial! The only thing you must do is escape. Do not try and collect valuable things, the smoke enough will weaken you in the process.

HOT! Believe it or not, the heat is more threatening than the flames itself. At eye level, the room temperature will reach around 600 degrees! Inhaling the hot air will scorch your lungs the longer you stay. During a process called flashover, your entire room may get so hot that instantly everything will ignite at the same time.

SILENTLY! Flames, ironically, are the least of your worries when dealing with a house fire. Through a process called Asphyxiation, the fire will quickly use up all your oxygen and leave you only with poisonous gasses - like carbon monoxide - which will kill you. When sleeping, these poisonous gasses may take you to a deeper sleep, creating a bigger fight for you to escape.

When you are trapped in a house, it is no time to be a hero and rescue that fancy chair that your grandmother gave you. Your life is at stake and time is not on your side!

The lawyers at V&B have dealt with multiple clients who have had negligent house fires and brought millions of dollars in settlement. For more information, visit our case results page.

If you have been injured in a negligent house fire, we have created our website with you in mind. Countless amounts of free information have been loaded into our site and are constantly being updated daily. Do some research and educate yourself on your current situation.

For a free consultation, contact our offices today. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Prevent Your Car From Catching On Fire!

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74401 — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that standard auto insurance companies do NOT cover vehicle fires?

Many people have horrific stories of vehicle fires. In fact, in the United States, 33 car fires are reported every hour! One person a day dies – that is one too many.

If you have been injured in a car fire, it could very well be nothing to do with you, but everything to do with the manufacturer! It seems every time you turn your head there is a new recall with auto makers due to negligent equipment that may result in an accident.

In case this happens to you, we want you to be aware of how you can save yourself and prevent future mishaps.

A FEW TIPS:

• If you smell burning rubber or plastic, pull over and investigate. Do NOT try and make it home before seeing what the problem is.

• You MUST get in the habit of taking in your car for a tune up at least once a year. They should also check for gas and oil leaks.

• If you suspect a leak in your car, put a newspaper underneath during the night. In the morning, come back and check to see if there are stains.

• If a fuse keeps breaking, it is electrical trouble! Don’t let it keep happening without an investigation. It could very well be the source of a fire.
If your car catches fire while you are driving, it is important to know to remain calm. There are certain situations that require you to take action. For example:

• If there is smoke coming from under your hood, but no flames, you may crack the hood slightly and spray an extinguisher from a few feet away. Do NOT open the hood all the way as this can bring more oxygen (which fire feeds on) and can create a bigger issue.

• If the fire is near the gas tank, you must not try and take it out. Instead, you have to call the fire department.

• If suddenly your car catches quick fire, you must pull over immediately, get all passengers out, stay at least 150 feet away, and most importantly warn ALL who pass that your car is on fire and may cause an explosion.

If you have been injured due to negligent car fires, we urge you to do some research on our website. We have loaded it with free information that you will find helpful. You have a right to recover damages if the manufacturer is at fault for you injury!

For a free consultation, contact our offices today. 888-473-1258.

Dover Air Force Base Punished Workers For Being Whistleblowers

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74404 — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Dover Air Force Base supervisors retaliated against four civilian whistleblowers that worked at the mortuary after reporting several wrongdoings to higher authorities.

According to the whistleblowers, they were extremely concerned with what they were told to do to the returning corpses of dead veterans, like dumping incinerated partial remains in a Virginia landfill after setting them on fire. At one time, a worker was asked to cut the arm off of one of the dead – which he refused, saying it was not his decision to make, but the family’s.

After witnessing gory and vulgar scenarios, the workers decided to report to higher authority. For this action, supervisors at Dover tried to fire two of them and placed others on suspension and indefinite leave.

One worker, Trevor Dean, was the top civilian at the mortuary. Dean was transferred to a lesser, non-supervisory position. Quinton “Randy” Keel was a division director at the mortuary and was demoted in August.

After an 18-month investigation, the Air Force finally announced that they had disciplined the top supervisors that tried to fire the outspoken workers, but were not fired. Senior Air Force officials claimed that there was no evidence the supervisors broke any rules.

The case went all the way to congress, bringing criticism to many of its members towards the Air Force’s way of “discipline”, suggesting a tougher punishment. Two of the supervisors are still working at Dover.

Col. Robert Edmondson, the mortuary commander, was reprimanded for “failure in leadership.” Edmondson is still on active duty, but reassigned.

The Office of Special Counsel, an independent agency specializing in whistleblower complaints, said it would give the Air Force one month to take action. Last year, the agency had reinstated two other civilian mortuary workers who were fired at Dover.

If you feel that you have been blackballed or punished for being a whistleblower, you have legal rights! Research our website which is full of free information that can help you answer all your questions.

Contact our offices for a free consultation today. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Work Injury Causes Severe Burns in East Texas Plant Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74348 — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Earlier today, we reported on the biomass power plant explosion that critically injured two workers in East Texas. The men suffered severe burns and are listed in critical condition.

Our Houston work accident attorneys want to express to our readers that while these accidents are tragic, they are unfortunately quite common. Industrial workers are at a constant risk of electrical burns on the job in Texas, whether from a workplace safety violation, faulty wiring or environmental factors that cause a fire to spread.

Severe burns can cause extensive damage to the body. The layers of skin may be damaged beyond repair, requiring skin graft surgery. Your muscles can release toxins into the bloodstream after a burn, causing organ damage to bodily systems that may have already suffered lost blood vessels. In many cases, burn victims suffer infections, further extending a costly hospital stay.

Our attorneys have experience representing injured Texas plant workers who have suffered complex on-the-job injuries. We are familiar with workplace safety laws, and we know when employers have taken risks or ignored rules that would have protected their workers from harm. In addition, our board-certified Texas injury attorneys often consult with safety experts to prove liability in work injury cases, resulting in considerable compensation for our clients.

If you have suffered a burn or other Texas work accident injury, we can help you get payment for your medical costs and more. Fill out our online contact form today to set up your free consultation.

Family Files $4.25 Million Wrongful Death Lawsuit Against Toronto Bus Company

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74227 — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The family of a woman that was killed in a bus accident last year in Toronto has filed a $4.25 million wrongful death suit against the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), the bus driver, the driver of a truck, and Amherst Crane Rentals Limited who owned the truck.

Jadranka Petrova was just 43-years-old when she died on August 30, 2011 due to a multitude of unsafe acts. First of all, the suit alleges that William Ainsworth, the bus driver, was high on marijuana while driving.

Mr. Ainsworth was charged with criminal negligence by Toronto Police last October.

Petrova’s family claim that TTC was negligent for allowing Ainsworth to operate the bus while impaired. To make matters worse, the driver of a truck involved was reported to have slowed down abruptly without warning and didn’t keep a proper look out.

Amherst Crane Rentals Limited’s truck is said to not be mechanically fit to drive and the company should not have permitted an incompetent driver to operate their truck.

Petrova’s family claims $250,000 in special damages; $3-million in general damages; and $1-million in punitive, exemplary and aggravated damages against William Ainsworth.

The death of a loved one can be one of the most stressful and emotional times in one’s life, especially if the cause was because of negligence.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car or bus accident, you have legal rights for damages. Do some research on our website to find free information that will help you answer all the questions you may have.

For a free consultation, contact our offices today. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Sterling High School Girls Soccer Team Involved In Bus Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74232 — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

An investigation is currently underway to find the cause of an accident involving a school bus carrying sixteen Sterling High School students.

The school bus was carrying the Sterling High School girls’ soccer team and their coach when a multi-vehicle pile up created quite a stir among parents and students at Sterling.

The accident happened in LaPorte on Highway 146 and Highway 225. Authorities have said that there were only minor injuries reported and none of them were from anyone aboard the school bus.

Many are starting to look at certain issues involving school bus safety. In this particular situation, the students got out extremely lucky. However that is not always the case.

In Texas, most school buses do not have seat belts. Because they don’t have seat belts, it is way more likely that they will be injured if ever there was an accident.

To find out more about why buses don’t have seat belts, click here.

If you have been injured on a bus with no seat belt, you have a legal right for damages. A seat belt can be the only thing in the way of you and death. Visit our website for free information that can help you answer all your questions.

The attorneys at V&B have dealt with many bus accident cases and have settled millions of dollars for our clients. For more information, visit our case results page.

For a free consultation, contact our offices today. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

California Construction Worker Crushed To Death Due To Failed Safety Regulations

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74234 — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

In Milpitas, CA an unidentified carpenter was working at a construction site. It was a gated community where a crew was building a 5,800-sqaure-foot house. The worker was in a 12-foot-deep ditch when it caved in.

Instantly, he was buried and crushed to death. As of Monday evening, public safety workers have not yet been able to safely remove his body.

California workplace safety regulators are investigating the fatal work accident.

It was discovered that recent rains plus an absence of shoring in the foundation hole made the site unsafe. However, the contractor U.S Sino Investment did not comply with the stop-work order.

When contractors refuse to listen and obey safety regulations, accidents are bound to happen. There’s a reason why we have work safety laws – it’s with you in mind.

For more information on what to do if you have been injured on the job, click here.

The lawyers at V&B have an incredible track record, bringing millions of dollars in settlement for our clients who have had work accidents. Visit our Case Results on our website for more details.

If you have been injured on the job, we want you to know that you have legal rights for damages. We have designed our website for you! Do some research and educate yourself. We have given you free information which is updated every day with the sole purpose to help you with your situation.

Contact our offices for a free consultation. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Trucker Drug Use: A Major Cause of Texas Semi Accidents

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)74096 — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A recent study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration revealed a surprising fact about Texas truck wrecks: truckers are more likely to crash due to drug abuse than alcohol abuse, and the drugs most often abused by truckers were over-the-counter.

Over the course of two years, 25,000 truck accidents were caused by truckers abusing over-the-counter medications, accounting for 17% of all large truck crashes. Over-the-counter medicines were implicated in more than five times the amount of accidents compared to alcohol and illegal drugs combined.

Why do everyday medications play such a large role in Houston 18-wheeler accidents?

Sedating Effects. While many sedatives associated with abuse are prescription-only, there are several over-the-counter drugs that can induce a “high” or otherwise intoxicate the user. Simple cough and cold medicines are the most common culprit.

Lower risk of suspension. Truck drivers can abuse over-the-counter drugs with less risk of punishment from the trucking company or the police. However, driving under the influence or while intoxicated does not always mean “drinking and driving”; a trucker is still negligent and vulnerable to punishment if they are abusing any substance while on the road.

Make or Break a Deadline. Trucking life is tough, and its often the case that truckers are rushing to meet a deadline. Over-the-counter stimulants like caffeine pills, psuedoephedrine, and other herbal supplements are often abused in order to keep the trucker on the road longer. Truckers, like everyone else, should get enough sleep so they can be safe on the roads.

The experienced Houston semi accident attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom know that truckers don’t intend to do harm by driving under the influence. Unfortunately, substance abuse by truckers often results in life-altering or fatal injuries to innocent victims... with rarely any serious injury to the trucker.

Call V&B Attorneys today at (877) 724-7800 for a free consultation on your accident case, or fill out the form on the left for a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Truck Accident Case.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Brain Injury?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74147 — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Brain injuries bring almost 250,000 patients to hospitals each year and 50,000 of them end up dead. Car wrecks and sports injuries bring up to 90% of these injuries.

It is sometimes difficult to know when to seek medical attention. However, it’s important to make yourself aware of symptoms in case you or a loved one are having discussions whether to seek medical help.

A huge principle to know is that when an injured patient isn’t acting like themselves, chances are they must go to a hospital immediately.

Brain injuries have a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms. Depending on the person, some signs can appear immediately after the traumatic event, while others can appear days or weeks later.

The terms “mild”, “moderate”, and “severe” are used to describe the effect of the injury on your brain. A mild injury is still a serious injury that requires prompt attention and an accurate diagnosis.

A mild traumatic brain injury is usually a concussion. Signs to watch out for are:

Loss of consciousness
State of confusion or disorientation
Memory problems
Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Blurry vision, ringing in the ears, bad taste in the mouth,
Sensitivity to light
Mood swings
Depression or anxiety
Change in sleeping patterns

Moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries can also include a wide variety of signs which may appear within the first hours to days after a head injury:

Profound confusion,
Agitation, slurred speech,
Weakness or numbness
Loss of coordination
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Persistent headaches
Repeated vomiting
Convulsions or seizures
Dilation of pupils of the eyes
Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears

After a severe head trauma, it is often hard to understand that you may be a victim of a brain injury. Stubbornness may be the only thing between you and a serious lifelong issue. Don’t wait to seek out medical help!

The lawyers at V&B have designed this website with free information to help you answer all your questions regarding your injury. We urge you to do some research and educate yourself.
For a free consultation, contact our offices today. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Signs Of A Spinal Cord Injury And How To Deal With It

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74151 — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The spinal cord has a very important function to us because it contains the nerves that carry messages between your brain and your body. The spinal cord passes through your neck and back, making it critical if you have had a neck or back injury to know the signs of serious spinal injury.

Anyone who has experienced a significant trauma to his or her head or neck needs immediate attention. In fact, it’s safe to assume that one has a spinal injury until proven otherwise because spinal injuries aren’t always immediately obvious.

Numbness or paralysis (loss of movement) may result immediately or come on gradually as bleeding or swelling occurs around the spinal cord.

The time between injury and treatment can be critical in determining the extent of complications and the amount of recovery!

A spinal cord injury or neck injury can be caused by:

A bullet or stab wound
A traumatic car accident
Diving accident
Electric shock
Extreme twisting of the middle body
Landing on your head from a fall or sports injury

What are some symptoms of a spinal cord injury?

Numbness or tingling that spreads down your arm or leg
Weakness
Difficulty walking
Paralysis (loss of movement) in your arms or legs
No bladder or bowel control
Shock (pale, clammy skin; bluish lips and fingernails)
Lack of alertness
Stiff neck, headache, or neck pain

If you are involved with someone who has just suffered a spinal injury, it is important to know that you must NOT move them, unless it is absolutely necessary.

Hold their neck in the position in which they were found and do NOT try to straighten the neck. Check their breathing and circulation. If necessary, begin CPR.

If you have had a spinal cord injury, the lawyers at V&B designed our website with you in mind. We want our site to answer all the questions that you may have. Do some research and see what you will find. Educate yourself!

For a free consultation, contact our offices today. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

How Do I Deal With Psychological Trauma After A Car Accident?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74152 — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

It is no question that car accidents can cause severe psychological effects on those involved. Dealing with trauma is extremely important. Some individuals may go through PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder, especially when they have received serious injuries or witnessed a death brought about by a car accident.

Numerous psychologists will say that PTSD must be treated, especially when the victim is dealing with long episodes of depression.

What are some symptoms of trauma?

Irritability
Extreme anxiousness
Anger
Inability to sleep
Nightmares
Change in appetite (Binge eating or loss of appetite)
Depression
Frequent reliving of accident through thoughts
A constant tendency to feel unsafe.

Individuals who are experiencing such symptoms may feel disconnected from the world and from the people around them. They often lack emotion and sometimes feel numb towards everything.

Those who are suffering from PTSD must learn to face what has happened to them. It is unhealthy to avoid the memory and other triggers that will remind them of the accident.

Children suffering from trauma will have special needs. The most important fact to keep in mind when living with a traumatized child is to make him or her feel your love and support. Children must never feel that they are alone. Communicate with them and reassure them that they are safe. They can really benefit from the extra attention you give them. Never expect children to think and act like adults.

If you have been in a serious car accident that has rendered you with severe trauma, you have legal rights to recover damages. The lawyers at V&B have offered our help by designing our website with you in mind.

Our website is updated every day with free information that will help you answer the questions you may have regarding your situation. We urge you to take time to do some research and educate yourself.

Contact our offices today for a free consultation. 888-473-1258.

Is My Family at High Risk of a Texas Trucking Accident?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73969 — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you're a lone star state resident, you're already at high risk for a semi truck crash. Texas has one of the highest 18-wheeler crash rates in the country with over 200 fatal semi truck accidents reported every year.
According to the latest data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, over 50,000 large truck accidents took place in 2009 in the United States. Nearly 3,000 people were killed as a result, most of whom were passengers in small vehicles that collided with the truck.

The Texas Department of Transportation has narrowed down the causes of these accidents in the hopes of preventing them. They have discovered that over two-thirds of Texas truck wrecks occurred in rural areas, and that speeding, inattentive driving, and driving under the influence were usually factors in the crash.

The National Transportation Safety Board is trying to combat the problem on a federal level and has suggested several ways to improve trucking safety. Their recommendations include:

Requiring the Federal Highway Administration to re-evaluate semi truck rollover potential, including redesigning heavy trucks and identifying hazardous points in the road that can cause rollover accidents
Mandatory use of stability control systems on all tankers, and enforcement of these systems by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Rigorous performance testing for all trucks exceeding 10,000 pounds

Our Houston truck accident lawyers know that it can take years for such standards to go into effect. In the meantime, countless victims will suffer serious injuries after truck crashes—many of whom deserve compensation for their injuries.

Call Vujasinovic & Beckcom today at (877) 724-7800 for a free consultation on your case. When you call, we'll also send you a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Truck Accident Case.

Red Light Cameras May Reduce the Number of Texas Auto Accidents

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73970 — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

While many drivers see red light speed cameras as a simple revenue tool for the state, studies have shown that these simple tools may actually save lives.

According to a November 2008 study by the Center for Transportation Safety of the Texas Transportation Institute at Texas A&M University, the number of broadside or “t-bone” collisions in Texas went down drastically at intersections where red light cameras had been installed. The data collected from 56 intersections with cameras showed a 43 percent decrease in t-bone collisions over the course of the year.

In addition, a 2007 study by Iowa State's Center for Transportation Research and Education found that the annual "expected average number of crashes per quarter” caused by running a red light went down by 40% after cameras were installed at intersections.

T-bone accidents are the most common type of intersection collision and one of the most deadly for a car’s occupants. Since a car is less equipped to handle impact at the sides than it is at the front and rear, the passengers are more likely to absorb the force of an oncoming vehicle and suffer serious injury.

If you have been injured in a Texas side-impact crash, our Houston car crash lawyers may be able to help you obtain the compensation you need to heal. Call Vujasinovic & Beckcom today at (877) 724-7800 for a free consultation, or fill out our online contact form. We’ll also send you a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Car Accident Case.

Driving While Pregnant: How to Protect Your Baby in a Houston Car Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73966 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Pregnant women will often monitor everything they eat and drink to make sure their baby is safe. Unfortunately, many do not take similar precautions when they get behind the wheel. Nearly 170,000 car crashes involve pregnant women every year.

Here are just a few of many ways to avoid injury to your baby in a Texas pregnant car accident:

Always wear your seatbelt. Seatbelts greatly reduce the risk of injury in a crash, so make sure the seatbelt is buckled on your hips below your belly. Keep the shoulder belt attached and never put the shoulder belt under your arm.
Take breaks. Pregnant women are more susceptible to fatigue, which can lead to drowsy driving. Try not to drive more than five hours a day, and never drive if you are tired.
Keep the airbags on. Do not turn off the airbags while pregnant. You and your baby will be better protected if you leave them on.
Back up. To prevent a steering wheel injury to your baby, tilt your car seat back slightly and slide it further back from the steering wheel. You can also tilt the wheel upward toward your chest.
Get treatment. If you are in an accident, always seek medical attention immediately.

Our Houston accident lawyers have experience dealing with complex injuries after a car wreck. We know how to get compensation for your injuries from the at-fault driver and from the insurance company.

For a free consultation with an attorney, call Vujasinovic & Beckcom today at (877) 724-7800 or fill out our online form. We’ll also send you a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Car Accident Case.

Why Do Senior Drivers Cause Texas Car Accidents?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73967 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

You’re probably not surprised to hear that teenagers cause accidents due to inexperience or that cell phones cause distracted driving. However, there are a few safety hazards you may not have considered when it comes to elderly drivers.

Here are just a few ways elderly drivers in Texas are likely to cause accidents:

Medications. Seniors often take more medications than younger drivers, many of which can affect motor skills or dull the senses.
Failing eyesight. Even with eyeglasses, many seniors have difficulty reading signs or seeing long distances. Some seniors are unlikely to admit to faltering senses.
Hearing problems. Seniors with deteriorating hearing ability may not be able to hear sirens, horns, or other auditory clues on the road.
Decreased range of motion. The elderly are often less physically capable and cannot move their legs or arms fast enough to avoid an accident.

Our Houston accident lawyers know how to handle a senior driving wreck with care and compassion, while getting you the compensation you deserve for your injuries. With your help, we can make the roads safer for all drivers and get payment for your medical costs, making it easier for you to heal.

Call the attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom today at (877) 724-7800 to start your free consultation, or click the link above for a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Car Accident Case.

Is There Any Way to Avoid a Texas Road Rage Accident?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73968 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

While you may not be able to avoid getting into an accident with an aggressive driver in Texas, you can control the behavior of one driver: YOU.

Many people have driven angry without realizing the potential for an accident. Whether you have just received bad news or are simply taking your work stress home, road rage can impair a driver’s movements much the same way as fatigue or alcohol. By staying informed, you can recognize the symptoms of road rage and correct them before an accident occurs.

What you can do to protect against road rage while driving:

Anger can spread like a virus. If another driver cuts you off or makes you mad, try to shrug it off instead of passing it on.
If you suspect that your emotions are affecting your driving, pull off the road or take the nearest exit. Park in a public place and take several deep breaths until you return to a calm state.
Pay attention to your passengers! If they think you are driving aggressively, you probably are.
Do not drive immediately after receiving bad news or after a traumatic event.

Our Houston accident injury lawyers know that it is not always possible to avoid an accident. However, laws have been enacted to protect victims in road rage cases, which can help people who have been seriously injured in car crashes get compensation for their injuries.

For a free consultation on your road rage accident case, call Vujasinovic & Beckcom today at (877) 724-7800 or click the link above for a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Car Accident Case.

Katy Police Officer Loses Job after Double Fatal Crash in Houston

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74087 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

We have an update on the Waller County car accident that claimed the life of a mother and child earlier this week.

Officer Cody Parchman, a passenger in the vehicle that fatally injured Katherine Addison and her son Kendall, was relieved of his position on the Katy police force this morning. Parchman had been a member of the force for less than a month.

Instead of driving under the influence, Parchman let his 23-year-old friend Taylor McShan drive his pickup truck after a night of drinking. Unfortunately, McShan had also been drinking and took the wheel while under a suspended license, striking and killing Katherine Addison on Interstate 10.

Addison had gotten out of the car to change a flat tire. Her vehicle caught fire in the crash, and her son’s body was later discovered in the wreckage.

McShan will face criminal charges for the incident, but police were unsure how to proceed with Parchman. After conducting an internal investigation, Katy Police Chief Bill Hastings said the department ultimately chose to dismiss him because Hastings saw that he was intoxicated at the scene.

Addison’s family stated Friday that they believe Parchman should face criminal charges. While the accident is still under investigation, Hastings has attested that Parchman will not appeal his firing.

The Houston accident lawyers at Vujasinovic & Beckcom express their condolences to the Addison family, hoping they will find a way to heal after this senseless tragedy.

For free legal advice, accident victims are urged to call Vujasinovic & Beckcom at (877) 724-7800.

2011 Accidents Highlight Range of Texas Motorcycle Crash Injuries

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74088 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

As experienced Houston car crash lawyers, we realize that it’s impossible to always predict the severity of a car accident based upon the type of vehicles involved. A bicyclist can walk away from a head-on collision, and a rear-end accident can prove fatal.

Despite the fact that nothing is ever certain, we have noticed a trend with Houston motorcycle accident victims. Motorcyclists are certainly more likely to be injured in a crash than passengers in a car. The most important thing a motorcyclist can do to prevent injury in a crash is to prevent the crash from taking place by practicing safe riding. However, sometimes crashes are unavoidable, which is why it is crucial that you wear a helmet and adequate protection from road rash.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the accidents that made the news last year:

An Abilene man caught his kick stand on the ground and flipped over the handle bars. Although he was not wearing a helmet, he was not seriously injured.
A biker in Houston lost control of his motorcycle on a bridge and hit a concrete retaining wall. He fell 45 feet onto an embankment below and died of his injuries.
Texas musician Victor Villarreal was killed while riding his motorcycle; he was struck by a pickup truck.
A man and a woman ran into stopped traffic while riding a motorcycle in Farmersville. They were both ejected from the bike; the man survived, but the woman died at the scene.

Motorcycles cannot provide the same protection from injuries that motor vehicles do. Therefore, bikers should not only take as many precautions as possible while riding, they should also hold drivers accountable for the accidents they cause.

If you have been injured in a Texas motorcycle wreck, the attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom can get you compensation for your medical costs. When you fill out our online contact form to set up your consultation, we’ll send you a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Car Accident Case.

Are There More Teenage Car Accidents in Texas than Other States? USA Today Says Yes

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74089 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

In a recent story, USA Today attempted to discover a few reasons why teenagers are more likely to be involved in fatal car accidents. The news was not encouraging for teens in the South: eight of the 10 states with the highest fatal crash-involvement rates were found to be in the South.

There are a few different theories as to why this might be. Southern highway safety officials believe that law enforcement may be more relaxed in their states, and that drivers who speed or drive under the influence are more likely to get away with it. In addition, there are plenty of unlit rural roads that are unfamiliar to young drivers.

Another factor is the vehicles the teenagers are driving. Many parents are providing their children with access to SUVs or pickup trucks, both of which tend to have extremely low safety rollover ratings (some as low as two stars out of five). If these vehicles are hit on the side, they are more likely to roll over and cause serious injury.

All of these concerns are compounded by the same risks facing teens in other states: inexperience, distractions, lack of seatbelts, and the potential to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If the teens drive at night, their risk increases even more.

Our Houston car accident lawyers have seen far too many parents suffer the loss of a child in Texas car accidents. While nothing can ever replace that loss, our attorneys can provide closure for your case and seek compensation from anyone responsible for your family member’s injuries.

For a free consultation on your Houston car wreck case, call Vujasinovic & Beckcom today (877) 724-7800 or fill out our online contact form.

3 Ways a Trucker Can Be at Fault in a Texas Truck Wreck (Without the Driver Realizing It)

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74090 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

As you may know, trucking companies will often try to shift the blame of a semi-truck accident to the driver of the smaller vehicle to avoid paying damages. The trucking company’s effort to remove blame from themselves does not change the fact that sometimes the trucker is at fault. As a driver injured by a trucker, it’s important to consider that the trucker may have been breaking the law or a regulation on the day of your accident. These violations often go unnoticed, but if they are discovered they may be able to help your case against the trucking company.

Here are three ways truckers can cause accidents without drivers spotting their violation:

Overloading. Most people can’t tell how much a truck weighs by looking at it. However, there are strict weight regulations on semis—and stiff penalties for breaking them. For instance, a trucker over the limit could pay up to $15,000 per day for knowingly overloading a rig.
Wrong route. Truck routes have to be planned ahead of time for safety—and drivers are required to stick to them. A trucker could be at fault for your accident, regardless of the other circumstances, if he strayed from the approved route.
No safety car. Rigs carrying oversized loads are required to have escort vehicles in front and behind while traveling on highways. If these were not present on the road during your Texas semi crash, the trucking company could be held liable.

Most victims are not well-versed in trucking regulations, so the trucker’s violations go unnoticed at the scene. By getting the advice of a Houston truck accident lawyer,, victims can benefit from our experience gathering evidence from driver logs and weigh stations to find out if the truck that hit you was in violation of the law.

For a free consultation on your case, call Vujasinovic & Beckcom today at (877) 724-7800. When you call, be sure to request a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Truck Accident Case.

NHTSA's Top Ten Factors that Cause Texas Truck Accidents

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)74091 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Texas is one of the three highest-risk states when it comes to truck accidents. There are more semi crashes in Texas, Florida and California than anywhere else in the U.S.—and the reasons might surprise you.

The Large Truck Crash Causation Study was released in 2007 and compiled from data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The study found that the most common accident-causing factors, in descending order, were:

Brake problems
Interruption in the traffic flow (such as congestion)
Prescription drug use
Speeding
Unfamiliarity with roads
Roadway hazards
A required stop before crash (such as a crosswalk or red light)
Over-the-counter drug use
Inadequate law enforcement
Fatigue

Not only were there other factors involved in these accidents, such as reckless driving, but most accidents involved a combination of these factors. If a tired trucker is speeding on an unfamiliar road to make a tight deadline, the chances for an accident are substantial.

As experienced Houston truck wreck lawyers, we’ve seen these situations before: a rig’s brakes lock up, the cargo shifts, and the rig is sent crashing into a passenger vehicle. We can hold these truckers accountable for causing an accident and get you the compensation you deserve for your injury.

Call Vujasinovic & Beckcom today at (877) 724-7800 or fill out our online form to receive a free consultation on your Houston semi accident case.

Driving by the Lights: How Signals Prevent Texas Car Wrecks

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)74097 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

You probably don’t need a Houston car accident lawyer to tell you that traffic signals prevent car accidents. However, we have been in this business a long time and seen many drivers fail to approach intersections correctly, use their headlights, or properly signal to other vehicles. Traffic lights and vehicle lights can stop Texas car wrecks before they happen—but only if drivers use them correctly.

Here are a few safe driving tips for the common light signals encountered on the roadways:

Red lights. If you are approaching an intersection at high speed, never “coast” toward the red light hoping it turns green in time for you to come speeding through. Always assume the light will stay red, and start braking at a safe distance. It's important to keep in mind that we see many car accident victims who were involved in rear collisions. Speeding while approaching an intersection and then slamming on the brakes may not give the driver behind you enough time to slow down.

Green lights. If you’re nearing an intersection and you’re not sure how long you have before a light turns green, do not scan over to the pedestrian crossing light in hopes of gauging how much time you have until it turns yellow. First, this action takes your eyes away from the road and also from the main traffic lights you should be paying attention to. Second, the pedestrian crossing lights do not always coincide with the traffic lights, especially in cases of green turn arrows and “no walk” signs. The best way to approach in intersection is legally, cautiously, and always prepared to slow down if the light turns yellow.

Headlights. It’s surprising how many people neglect to turn on their headlights, using only daytime running lights even during the evening. Remember: you can’t drive if you can’t see! Know where your high-beams and fog lights are—and don’t be afraid to use them. If you are involved in an accident and you failed to turn your headlights on when the situation called for it, you are more likely to be found at-fault for the accident.

Turn signals. Unlike traffic lights, these signals are completely under your control. The simple act of signaling your lane change can prevent a collision, so make a habit of using them—even if other drivers don’t.

These tips may seem like Driving 101 to you, but it's incredible how many people fail to follow these simple safety guidelines. We see these failures every day... in the form of debilitating injuries and tragic car accidents. We fight for the victims of negligent drivers.

For more information about your Texas auto accident, request a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Car Accident Case, by filling out the form on this page. You can also call Vujasinovic & Beckcom at (877) 724-7800 to get a free consultation on your case.

Should Texting And Driving Be More Enforced By Law?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73846 — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Should text messaging behind the wheel be more enforced by the law?

A mother in Dover, New Hampshire seems to think so after a driver who was text messaging hit her three children on their way to school.

Since none of the children were killed and the driver had no prior offense, only a $500 fine was given. Police at the city of Dover have said the appropriate charge was given based on the law.

The mother, Lori Wilson, is outraged. Her children Alyssa, 16, Zach, 14 and Caleb, 10, are all likely to suffer serious long-term injuries.

Caleb has a fractured nose, lacerations to his face requiring staples, and a concussion. Alyssa has a severe concussion, lacerations to her forehead, a severely bruised hip, and swelling in her back. Zach suffered from badly bruised legs.

Despite the numerous yellow signs that warn drivers of pedestrian walkways, many still do not pay attention.

If the children suffered “serious” bodily injury, the driver could have faced a class A misdemeanor charge, and if any of the children had died, the charge would have been felony-level negligent homicide.

Text messaging while driving is considered “distracted driving”. Many laws surrounding distracted drivers vary from city to city, but that doesn’t mean that you have to suffer!

To learn more about distracted driving in Texas, visit our blog which will explain in detail the laws of distracted driving in Texas.

The lawyers of V&B have built our website to give you free information which will arm you with knowledge regarding your situation. Do some research. You might be surprised at what you find.

Contact our offices today for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

DePuy Hip Replacement Has Injured Thousands, Don't Be Caught In Their Trap!

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73847 — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

It seems that we are constantly hearing stories from people who are dealing with the aftermath of defective artificial hips. The turbulent matter of the DePuy hip recall has affected thousands of patients around the country.

The day-to-day struggles that has faced the victims are enormous. The New York Times recently covered yet another story about the DePuy Recall, which is now the largest medical implant failure in the last several decades.

One unidentified victim was forced to go five months without a left hip at all. His entire life was altered. He had reported that he had little to do except sit in a recliner while waiting to regain mobility.

The financial costs were high as medical bills quickly grew. When the victim underwent the operation to replace the defective product, he faced another complication. His pelvis was damaged in the surgery and infection soon followed. Nearly half a million dollars later, he is still suffering.

Thousands of people in the U.S and many in our state of Texas are in very similar situations. Patients were told that the DePuy device would last fifteen years or more and a major deciding factor was based on this “fact”. The consequences of that decision are now irreversible.

A surprising fact was that experts who have inspected this hip product have said that they found it no better than older models. A new study (which involved both knee and hip replacements) found that no new device released in that last five years was of any better quality than before. In fact, 30% of the new devices were found to be worse than older products.

BEWARE THE TRICK!

Just because a product is new does not necessarily make it better. We cannot be fooled by good words like “new” or “upgraded” or “advanced” or “improved”. This type of vocabulary gets shoved in the faces of unsuspecting victims before the reliability of the product is fully tested and understood.

The lawyers at V&B are currently representing many clients who have suffered from defective products. In the past, we have settled millions for our clients’ suffering and know how to handle corrupt corporations such as these.

If you have been a victim of a defective product, please visit our website. We have designed it with immense information that will help you answer all your questions. We believe that knowledge is power and we want you to arm yourself. Do some research and see how we can help your situation.

Contact our offices for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

Paraplegic Dies From Brain Injury, Having No Signs of Injury

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73848 — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Seventy-nine year old paraplegic, Raymond Fields, has died from a catastrophic brain injury. His death has baffled doctors since there appeared to be no physical signs of how it happened.

In 2001, Fields had undergone an aortic valve replacement in 2001 and had since been on the blood-thinning drug warfarin. Fields suffered a hemorrhage of the spinal column in 2005 which left him a paraplegic.

Fields was staying in a sheltered accommodation in Tilehurst in England. In September, an alarm had been raised when the staff didn’t get a response from him during their routine morning calls on the intercom system.

After going to check, the workers found Fields lying in his bed, breathing but unable to answer. After calling an ambulance, he was diagnosed as having suffered a catastrophic brain hemorrhage.

There was no sign of bruising or head trauma, but Fields had suffered a large subdural hematoma. He suffered spasms which could be enough to throw him on the floor. Even if he hit his head on a pillow, it was enough to give him a severe head trauma which caused him to have an acute subdural hematoma.

Could the drug warfarin have been the trouble? We have seen multiple cases against certain blood-thinning drugs which have caused bad effects on the brain.

V&B has given you information that you can use to your benefit. We urge you to do some research on our website that is specifically designed to help you answer all your questions.

Contact our office for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

Pakistan Issues Intense Recall On Medications After 27 People Are Dead

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73752 — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

At least twenty seven people over the last month have been killed in Pakistan due to a contaminated drug. An intense drug recall is being administered all over the country.

The government-run Punjab Institute of Cardiology has given thousands of doses of the faulty medicines free of charge to patients with heart problems. Investigators suspect bits of metal in the pills are responsible for heavy bleeding, which is responsible for these wrongful deaths.

Over one hundred people have been admitted to hospitals because of symptoms and according to sources the death toll is much higher than originally thought.

So far, five drugs have been banned that are believed to be contaminated and three people have been arrested in connection with the deaths. One unnamed pharmaceutical factory has been shut down.

The deaths began just last month. When patients were coming in to hospitals, their symptoms were very similar to dengue fever, but doctors soon realized that it wasn’t that. They discovered the one thing in common with all the patients was heart disease, and their medications were from the Punjab Institute of Cardiology.

The Pakistan government spends little money on health issues, which is why many Pakistanis do not trust state-run medical centers.

In these economic times, free medication seems like the best thing you can ask for. However, many facilities have neglected to do proper safety tests on these medications that are being issued to thousands of people.

The lawyers at V&B specialize in defective products such as these and know what it takes to bring down corrupted pharmaceutical companies. Visit our website for free information to answer all your questions.

If you have been victim to a defective product that brought you serious injuries, you have rights. Contact our office for a free consultation. 888-473-1258.

Texas Man Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit Against Ford Motor Co.

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73753 — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Ford Motor Co. has a wrongful death lawsuit filed against them by the husband of a deceased Texas woman.

Mohammed Aref and Rosemary Johnson are suing Ford on behalf of Aref’s late wife, Sandra Louise Smith. According to the lawsuit, Ford was negligent in the design and manufacture of his wife’s Ford Expedition which ultimately resulted in Smith’s death.

On May 30, 2010, the plaintiffs were traveling on I-30 in a 2003 Ford Expedition when the left rear tire failed, leading to a de-treat event which cause the vehicle to yaw and roll over.

Smith and Johnson were ejected from their seats, even though they were wearing proper seat belts. Johnson and Aref were seriously injured, while Smith died at the scene.

Ford Motor Co. has been accused of negligence for failing to design and manufacture a crashworthy vehicle and for failing to mitigate the risks of complete or partial occupant ejections by belted occupants during rollovers by the use of rollover protection and/or side curtain airbags.

Aref is seeking an award of damages for Smith’s conscious pain and suffering, mental anguish, medical bills, funeral and burial expenses, and for his pecuniary losses. Johnson is also seeking an award of damages for physical pain, impairment, disfigurement, and medical care.

If you or a loved one has been injured or wrongfully killed, you must be overwhelmed by the aftermath of expenses and other costs. You have rights and V&B wants to make sure you know them.

Our website is specifically designed to help you answer all the questions you may have regarding your situation. Free information is updated every day for you to arm yourself with knowledge.

Contact our offices today for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

Kelsey Seybold Clinic Ordered To Pay $1.9 Million For Negligence

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73756 — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Kelsey-Seybold Medical Clinic and it’s employee, Dr. Jim Patrick Benge, has been ordered to pay $1.9 million for permanently injuring a woman for the rest of her life.

In August 2008, Lauren Williams went in for a hysterectomy, administered by Benge. Unbeknownst to Williams, while she was under anesthesia Benge had brought in a resident to perform 50% of the surgery. The resident had never performed this procedure before. Williams’ organs, including her bowel, were perforated during the surgery. The injuries were discovered three days later at which point Williams was septic and it was discovered that they were all irreversible.

Williams spent three weeks in a coma and months re-learning to walk, talk, and care for herself. Today, she lives with a permanent colostomy and according to testimony, she will be an intestinal cripple as she grows older, due to internal adhesions resulting from gastrointestinal damage.

During trial, Kelsey Seybold defended themselves by saying an unknown resident can perform surgery on a patient without full disclosure to the patient, an argument which was ultimately rejected by the jury.

When a doctor agrees to perform surgery on a patient, it should be that surgeon who operates, unless the patient agrees otherwise.

V&B has dealt with many cases involving negligence and has settled millions for our clients. Don’t be a victim. Through our experience, we have created a website that is designed to answer all the questions you may have that will help you with your situation.

Knowledge is power! Research our website to educate yourself.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence, you have rights. Contact our offices today for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

Two Teenagers Are Dead After Car Crash In Amarillo TX

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73653 — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Two Amarillo teenagers are dead after their vehicle was struck by an SUV.

19-year-old driver Kaylin Pearson and her 19-year old passenger Kerniece Jonf were heading west on Amarillo Boulevard early Sunday.

Pearson was turning left onto North Florida Street when her car was hit on the passenger side by a Chevy Tahoe. Both girls died at the scene.

The unidentified 50-year-old driver of the Tahoe and his passenger were not injured.

An autopsy will be administered to Pearson and Jonf. It is unclear if alcohol had any involvement from either party.

Car accidents happen every day and as drivers, we have the responsibility to maintain the utmost precaution when it comes to safety.

On our website, we have given you free information that will help you to answer all the questions you may have. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, we urge you to do a little research on our website. Knowledge is Power. Educate yourself.

Contact our offices for a free consultation today. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Four Students Hospitalized In Aldine School Bus Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73655 — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Four Aldine Independent School District students were hospitalized after their school bus crashed, along with two other vehicles, on I-45 near Gulf Bank.

The identities of the children and the drivers of the two vehicles have yet to be released.

According to a spokesperson from Aldine Independent School District, the children didn’t have serious injuries but were taken to Texas Children’s Hospital as a precaution to aid whiplash or concussions.

Details about the crash are unknown at the moment and it is unclear when or if authorities will make it available.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a school bus accident, you have rights. The lawyers at V&B make it their duty to protect their clients by giving them hands on knowledge. Visit our website for free information that will help you answer all the questions you may have regarding your situation.

For a free consultation, contact our offices today. 888-473-1258.

Investigation Underway For A Hit-And-Run In Tyler TX

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73657 — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

On Saturday, at the intersection of w. Gentry Parkway and N. Bois D’Arc in Tyler, TX, an unidentified male was the victim of a hit-and-run accident.

According to witnesses, the man was walking northbound on N. Bois D’arc attempting to cross Gentry Parkway when a vehicle struck him. The vehicle was identified as a blue or green Chevy Caviler or similar body type.

The car failed to stop and help the man after the accident and continued eastbound on W. Gentry Parkway. It is unclear if the man had the right of way or not, but some are saying it has the smell of a hate crime. The victim was a Hispanic male and according to some sources, he was clearly in the line of vision.

The victim was taken to East Texas Medical Center for life-threatening injuries. The driver has yet to be found, but an investigation is currently underway.

As drivers, we have the lawful responsibility to stop and care for a possible pedestrian accident. V&B has taken many pedestrian cases over the years and have settled millions for clients. We have the experience it takes to fight the system. Don’t be a victim of a hit-and-run accident. Educate yourself by visiting our website for free information.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of a hit-and-run, contact our office for a free consultation. 888-473-1258.

Texas Man Is Injured After Crash Involving Four 18-Wheelers

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73586 — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

An Idaho car accident involving four 18-wheelers and two other vehicles left Zachary B. Henager of Temple, TX severely injured. Another driver involved in the crash was killed.

According to Idaho State Police, Henager was driving his automobile when it went out of control on U.S Highway 95, just north of Coer D’Alene, Idaho.

Henager ran into an 18-wheeler which then collided head-on with a semi operated by James M. Mady. Mady was killed at the scene.

During the scene, another tractor-trailer swerved to avoid the crash and the rig hit a fourth semi. Following this, an SUV also swerved causing his vehicle to drive directly into a ditch.

Henegar and the driver he ran into are currently hospitalized and U.S 95 was shut down for eleven hours.

18-wheelers are monsters of the highway. When driving next to them, they should always be welcomed with caution.

V&B has represented many clients involved in 18-wheeler accidents and have settled millions of dollars for our clients to heal their physical and emotional damages. The most important thing for you is to arm yourself with knowledge.

Don’t be a victim of an 18-wheeler crash. Visit our website for free information, let us answer your most difficult questions.

Contact our offices for a free consultation, toll free. 888-473-1258.

Worker Suffers Severe Burns When His Company Breaches Safety Codes

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73588 — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

An Englishman named Asim Qureshi was employed by JVM Castings Ltd, an aluminum casting firm, when he suffered severe burns to his leg, right arm, shoulder, and face after molten metal suddenly sprayed out from the back of the machine he was working on.

His burns were so severe that he was unable to work for two months after the accident. Today, his hands and legs are still scared. Molten metal can reach temperatures of 650 degrees Celsius which completely burned through Qureshi’s clothes.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in England has prosecuted JVM Castings Ltd on Qureshi’s behalf. HSE’s investigation revealed that the back of the machine was not guarded and the employees’ clothing and eye protection were unsuitable.

JVM Castings Ltd was fined 6,000 pounds and ordered to pay court costs after they admitted a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act, following the prosecution.

Many companies such as these fail to uphold health and safety codes, unbeknownst to their employees. If you have been a victim of a work accident or a victim of a burn injury, the experienced lawyers at V&B want to give you valuable information regarding your situation.

Visit our website for free information to answer the questions you may have. Do some research on our site, it is designed to give you the knowledge you need.

Contact our offices for a free consultation today. 888-473-1258.

Three Finland Nurses Are In Criminal Court After Accidentally Poisoning Newborn Babies

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73568 — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

In Finland, three nurses have begun a criminal trial for accidentally feeding newborn babies and small children Chlorhexidine, a corrosive cleaning product, instead of a sugar solution.

The nurses claim that both Chlorhexidine and the sugar solution are kept in nearly identical bottles and have denied all bodily injury charges.

After being given the doses, the children were rushed to intensive care when the defendants realized their error. Some babies had to be placed on respirators. One was issued an emergency baptism and has yet to fully recover.

The district prosecutor says that the nurses didn’t do it on purpose, but the issue is that the injuries would not have happened if they had been more careful.

On the other end, the nurses are saying the pharmacy which packaged the dangerous chemical is the culprit. Their attorney is asking why the pharmacy isn’t on trial. Both solutions were packaged in identical bottles.

No matter whose fault it is, these babies are still severely injured. Accidents happen every day because the very people that are supposed to be protecting our safety in hospitals are human, just like us. Also, just like us, they need to be held accountable for mistakes that happen on their watch.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence, you have rights. The lawyers at V&B have offered their help by giving you free information on our website to help you answer all questions you may have.

Contact our offices for a free consultation. 888-473-1258.

Texas State University Motorcycle Accident Sends Biker To Hospital

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73541 — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A horrific motorcycle accident happened on Texas State University Campus when a man lost control of his bike while traveling southbound on Sesson Drive. The biker swerved into oncoming lanes and collided with the Campus Loop bus.

When the San Marcos Police Department arrived on the scene, the driver of the bike was talking, however his injuries were severe. The bike was swept under the bus’ front axle and fragments were scattered all over the street.

Sessom Drive was closed as the street was cleaned, causing bumper to bumper traffic to surround the campus.

Witnesses that were on the bus have said the impact was so intense, they thought they hit the guardrail. It wasn’t until they saw the motorcyclist lying on the road that they realized what had happened.

The motorcyclist was taken to the University Medical Center Brackenridge for treatment. There have been no reported injuries from anyone aboard the bus.

Motorcycling is one of the most dangerous forms of transportation. It is extremely easy to lose control and to underestimate timing of oncoming traffic. Injuries happen every day. Don’t be one of them!

The lawyers at V&B have settled many motorcycle cases, the most recent for $4.5 million where the rider was not wearing a helmet. We have the experience it takes to help you deal with the aftermath of your injuries.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you have rights.

Visit our website for free information that will answer all the questions you may have. Contact our offices for a free consultation today. 888-473-1258.

Transel Elevator Inc. Is Under Investigation After Death Of New York Ad Executive

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73542 — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The freak accident that wrongfully killed New York ad executive Suzane Hart in an elevator is still on the minds of many New Yorkers, however alarming facts have surfaced regarding Transel Elevator Inc., the elevator company that inspected the elevator which killed Hart.

V&B reported on this case within minutes of it happening back in December and since then, we have dug up new information and found reporter Murray Weiss reporting on the story. Sources have told Weiss that Transel Elevator Inc. did not follow the rules for governing elevator maintenance.

The company didn’t inform the Buildings Dept. that it had finished work on the elevator which killed Hart. If they had done this, a final inspection would have happened by the city inspector whom might have discovered a broken kink.

But why would the company fail to say that they were finished? Possibilities are endless. There could have been a rush and they couldn’t afford to have an elevator out of service. Money might have been a factor.

The Manhattan District Attorney’s office will soon be taking over the investigation. According to Weiss, the workers that were doing maintenance on the elevator have been less than cooperative which comes at no surprise given the fact that there are several active cases against Transel.

A witness to Hart’s death is filing a civil lawsuit against the company. Adding to that, another suit was brought by a Union Square building super who fell down an elevator shaft when he stepped through elevator doors that had opened before the elevator arrived.

Currently, the lawyers at V&B are fighting another elevator company, Kone. Our client was a victim to negligent maintenance when a heavy freight elevator door fell on her head.

Companies like Transel and Kone are supposed to put the safety of its passengers first and by failing to uphold the rules of elevator maintenance, people’s lives are at risk.

If you have been injured due to defective machinery, you have rights. Visit our website for free information we have given to answer all the questions you may have regarding you situation.

For a free consultation, contact our offices today: 888-473-1258.

An Academy TX School Bus Crashed In Temple And Sends 32 To Hospital

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73429 — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

On Tuesday morning, an Academy school district bus, carrying thirty eight children from all grade levels, was making its first stop of three school locations when a tractor-trailer ran a red light and clipped the bus, flipping it onto its side and ejecting a nine-year-old boy through the escape hatch.

The bus driver was knocked unconscious and thirty two people were sent to the hospital, twenty nine of them being children. Three children were said to be in critical condition. The driver of the trailer, along with another adult were released from the hospital.

The bus driver seems to still be in critical condition. It is believed that all children were inspected for concussions, as well as the driver. Long term effects may ensue, especially among the little ones.

The truck that ran the red light is said to be a hardware truck.

The critically injured victims face a long road to recovery. Along with the physical damages, there is also extreme mental anguish that happens.

Counselors were said to be available the following day. Especially with small children, a horrific scene can stay with them for the rest of their lives.

If you have been injured in a bus accident, you have rights. The experienced lawyers at V&B know how to handle your situation. Visit our website to answer all the questions you may have and search for free information that will help you move forward after your accident.

For a free consultation, contact our office toll free: 888-473-1258.

A Dallas Man's Bicycling Injury Causes Uproar In The Cycling Community

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73451 — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A North Texas cyclist, Dallas Torres, was just starting his daily 40-mile bike ride around Dallas when a car slammed into him on the Jefferson Boulevard bridge, throwing him onto the windshield and breaking his neck.

According to his wife, Marissa, he is in bad shape and with therapy, doctors hope that he makes a full recovery.

This injury seems to be the last straw for the cycling community. Bike lanes would vastly improve the safety of bicyclists, but the upgrades have been thrown around City Council for a while now.

According to the committee, the City of Dallas does not have the money to re-stripe 840 miles of pavement for bike lanes. Adding bike lanes to the Jefferson Boulevard bridge had been considered a priority project until the funding came into question, just last month.

Last year, city leaders announced that they will be adding hundreds of miles of bike lanes across Dallas. The announcement gained so much support that other cities, like Fort Worth, also embraced the concept.

Unfortunately, the $16 million project is not in their budget, according to council members. Donations are likely to play a major part in funding the project.

Jason Roberts, co-founder of Bike Friendly Oak Cliff, was frustrated to learn about Torres’ accident. Roberts said that he is not completely surprised, an incident like this was what they were afraid would happen. Bike Friendly Oak Cliff has been raising money themselves to pay for such improvements on the road.

If there were bike lanes, situations like this are bound to be a lot safer. Accidents happen every day, make sure that it doesn’t happen to you!

If you have been a victim of a bike accident, contact the lawyers at V&B for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

Visit our website for free information that will answer all your questions. Our website is designed to give you security by presenting you with the knowledge you need.

Rimrock Stages Bus Crash In Montana Leaves 2 Dead and 32 Hospitalized

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73122 — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A Montana bus crash could be under investigation due to negligence.

A Rimrock Stages Bus was traveling on I-90, Near Missoula, Montana, when it slid across a patch of ice and plunged into the median. The bus slammed onto its side and then back upward again at an angle.

Bodies of passengers were flown around the bus during the fatal scene which lasted about a minute. Luggage was thrown, windows were shattered, and rocks shot inside the sliding bus.

When the vehicle came to a halt, passengers were screaming in pain. Some were hollering names which were not answered, according to witnesses.

Two people were found dead when paramedics arrived. All the passengers on board were sent to the hospital for injuries, eight of them being critical.

The American Bus Association commented on the accident saying that conditions were bad and the driver was obviously driving too fast given the circumstances.

The driver has a good safety record and many years of experience driving buses, but investigators say they would be looking at the bus’ “black box” data recorder to determine if it was a case of negligence.

Another factor that came into play was the fact that there were no seat belts on the bus. Several states now require belts on school buses, and according to the American Bus Association, they have supported requiring belts on passenger buses but it’s been hampered by the lack of a federal standard for retrofitting older vehicles. However, many new large buses now come equipped with seat belts.

An Austin man named Doug Taylor was a passenger on the bus. He was diagnosed with five broken ribs, a left lung that is punctured and partially collapsed, and small fractures in the lumbar vertebrae in his back. Taylor is currently in the hospital so doctors can keep an eye on the lung.

Do you feel that you have been injured in a bus crash due to negligence? V&B is dedicated to helping you get justice. Visit our website for free information regarding your situation.

Contact our offices today for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

St. Louis Industrial Worker Crushed To Death

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73126 — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Butler Merchandising Solutions, a sign making company in St. Louis, witnessed a fatal workplace accident on Tuesday.

Brady Perkins died after he got stuck in the press machine while working the night shift at the facility. Perkins was crushed to death.

There were no other witnesses that saw the incident, so it is unclear why Perkins became trapped in the “pickup truck-sized” press.

The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are expected to launch an investigation, but with no witnesses it can be very difficult.

Safety protocols need to be demanded by employees at companies such as these. When people speak up about issues, they are more likely to change. Injuries do not need to be a constant worry.

If you feel that you have been victim to a work-related accident, visit our website for free advice on how we may help your situation. Contact our office for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

China's Work Fatalities Dropped, Can the U.S. Follow?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73127 — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Last year In China, more than 75,000 people were killed due to work-related accidents. This is a 5% drop from the year before.

Luo Lin, head of the State Administration of Work Safety in China reported at a national conference on Saturday that work safety improved in the country’s most important sectors last year.

For example, coal miner deaths went down 19% and overall coal mine accidents dropped 14.4%.

If China can raise the safety in the workplace, can the United States do the same?

Last year, thousands of fatal work accidents occurred in America, with Wyoming being among the most dangerous states. Though Safety Administrations have tried to take initiative, it doesn’t seem that enforcements are doing the best they possibly can.

In China, 4,700 people were held responsible for fatal accidents by their safety administrations. 808 people were investigated for criminal liability. So far, just being two weeks into 2012, an accident investigation panel under China’s Cabinet settled nine of thirteen major accidents that had occurred last year.

Today, workers feel obligated to not say anything against their companies in fear of becoming blacklisted. This is illegal! A company is supposed to protect their employees, not endanger them.

Workers are injured on the job every day. Since companies do little to help them, most of the time they are forced to work with neck pain, back injuries, shoulder injuries, and even brain injuries.

The lawyers at V&B are experienced and know how these companies operate. V&B has settled millions of dollars for our clients in the past.

If you feel that you or someone you know has been injured at the work place and feel you need justice, the lawyers at V&B can help. Visit our website for free advice regarding your situation.

Contact our offices today for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

Oklahoma Jury Awards $1.8 Million To Birth Injury Victim

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)73128 — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

An Oklahoma family was awarded $1.8 million for their child, Chaylee.

During the birth of four-year-old Chaylee in 2008, the doctor inadvertently ripped and ruptured nerves in her left shoulder, which rendered her left arm useless.

The lawsuit claimed that Chaylee’s doctor made two incredible mistakes. First, the doctor chose to utilize a vacuum delivery despite the relatively good health of the baby in utero. Secondly, during delivery Chaylee’s shoulder became
stuck behind her mother’s pelvic bone and the doctor pulled down on Chaylee’s head which caused severe damage.

The damage to Chaylee is most likely permanent. Her left arm will always be shorter than her right arm and will be little use to her. Her injury will also likely delay the advancement of the fine motor skills children develop rapidly at her age.

$1.2 million went to past and future medical bills as well as lost wages. $600,000 was awarded for pain and suffering.

Severe birth injuries happen every day and negligent doctors need to be held accountable. Though Chaylee has had justice, thousands of families across the United States are seeking theirs.

V&B knows how the system works and we have helped to reward our clients millions of dollars in the past. Please see our website to view testimonials. Knowledge is power and we strive to help answer all the questions you may have.

If you or a loved one has experienced injuries due to negligent doctors, you have rights. Browse our website for free information regarding your situation. Contact our offices today for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

UPS 18-Wheeler Truck Caught Fire On I-45

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72982 — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

An 18-wheeler UPS truck caught fire early this morning, just after midnight, driving from Houston to Dallas.

The truck was headed northbound on I-45 in Conroe when the driver reached
across the cab for something on the floor, causing him to be distracted.

The truck swerved outside the shoulder, near a construction area, and slammed into the end of a guardrail. The truck lost its axels, jackknifed and immediately became enveloped in flames.

Traffic was backed up for miles. North Montgomery County fire departments worked long hours through the night to clean the remaining debris.

The Texas Department of Transportation arrived to repair road damage.

Meanwhile, the distracted driver of the truck was taken to a hospital in stable condition. It is obvious that drivers who work well in the night can also be extremely drowsy. It is unknown at the present time what his condition was while he was driving.

Because it was a UPS truck, there were many packages lost in the fire. One of them had a small amount of ammunition. One of the bullets exploded and ricocheted off a fire truck while the authorities were trying to tame the flames. Luckily, there was no damage.

Drivers behind 18-wheelers are human beings. Sometimes a slight lapse of judgment can cause a fatal accident on the highway which will bring you, the driver, in serious danger.

If you have been injured by an 18-wheeler, visit our website. We have striven to answer all the questions that you may have, by giving you free information regarding your situation. Contact us toll free for a free consultation: 888-473-1258.

Would Your Car Survive a Texas Side-Impact Car Accident?

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)72731 — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you first purchased your car, you probably considered its safety rating in case of an accident. While you may be reasonably protected from a head-on crash, you may not have considered the effects of a side-impact collision for passengers in the back seat.

Luckily, both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety perform separate tests on all new vehicles to see how they would stand up in a Texas t-bone crash:

The NHTSA uses two crash-test dummies weighing 170 pounds, one in the driver’s seat and the other directly behind the driver. A barrier weighing 3,000 lbs is then slammed into the driver’s side of the vehicle at 40 mph, and the trauma to the dummy’s head, neck, chest, and pelvis is measured. The NHTSA bases its star ratings one (over 26 percent chance of injury) to five (5 percent or less chance of injury).

Since research indicates that the passengers most likely to be injured in a side-impact crash are people of small stature (such as women, teenagers and children), the IIHS test uses two dummies that are 5 feet tall and weigh 110 pounds, the size of an average 12-year-old. The IIHS measures the impact of injury and gives one comprehensive side-impact rating ranging from “good” to “poor.”

As Houston accident lawyers, we know that the extent of injuries in a crash depend not only on the car, but who was involved in the accident. Teenagers and children are common occupants of the backseat and can suffer extreme injuries in side-impact collisions.

For more information, order our FREE book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Car Accident Case, or call an attorney at Vujasinovic & Beckcom today at (877) 724-7800 for a free consultation.

Montana Industrial Worker Injured On The Job

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72717 — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Douglas Dove, an industrial worker in Montana is currently in the hospital after he was critically injured on the job near Frenchtown.

Dove worked for Industrial Technologies Corp., which was contracting a property bought by the Illinois-based Green Investment Group, was conducting work to prepare the site for development as a mixed-use green technology center.

In the statement released by Industrial Technologies, Dove appeared to be cutting metal with a torch when a piece fell on top of him. It is unclear how big the actual piece was that hit him, but he is still suffering from the injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, you have legal rights. Contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we can help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Wyoming Has The Highest Work Fatalities In The U.S.

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72718 — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

It might come as a surprise to people that the state of Wyoming has had the highest or second highest work fatality rate for the past nine years, making it one of the most unsafe work environments in the nation.

Former state epidemiologist Timothy Ryan issued a report to Gov. Matt Mead which outlined the poor safety record of the state.

Now two Wyoming groups are calling for changes to improve workplace safety in the state. The Wyoming AFL-CIO, which represents 55 Wyoming unions, and SAFER, the Spence Association for Employee Rights, a law firm that represents injured workers.

The two safety groups are calling for Additional Wyoming OSHA employees and inspections, higher fines for employers who encourage not reporting workplace injuries, and to make company injury records public.

Ryan’s report also pointed out the failure of state and industry leaders to take the issue seriously enough to make changes. Many presidents and vice presidents of big Unions and Associations throughout the state have agreed that safety has been a huge issue these last years.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration offers voluntary on-site consultations to tell companies what needs to be changed and how to change it. It’s a service that is minimally used by employers.

Ryan’s release outlined changes certain groups must make in order to ensure worker safety. Mark Aronowitz, lead attorney for SAFER, stated: “What we urgently need is a renewed commitment to safety with on-the-ground changes, from the highest levels of our state government down to individual work sites,”

Gov. Matt Mead has apparently reviewed the recommendations and noted the need for systematic changes, like identifying trends, failures, and necessary improvements in a timely manner, which can all be done with better access to data.

To gain better data, Mead is moving the epidemiologist position to the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, which should break down barriers to data access and analysis. Data is needed to identify developing trends as to whether efforts by industry and the state are making an impact.

These similar changes helped Alaska improve workplace safety as well.

Changes won’t come overnight. Preventing injuries and fatalities should be the primary focus of change. Receiving data can only do so much, it is the extreme acknowledgement of workers safety which will and always be the main issue.

If you have been injured at work due to negligent safety procedures, you have rights. Contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and to obtain free information on how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Seven Year Old Dies Under School's Watch

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72652 — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

7-year-old Ammaria Johnson is dead after suffering an allergic reaction from a peanut product. Emergency crews arrived at Hopkins Elementary School on Monday, but not in time to save the child. Johnson was already in cardiac arrest and later pronounced dead at CJW Medical Center.

The girl’s mother, Laura Pendleton, claims that she had authorized an allergy action plan to give her daughter Benadryl in case she had a reaction. However the school did not give Ammaria the medication. Pendleton also says that she had tried to give an aid at the school EpiPen for emergencies, but was told to keep it at home. Epipen gives a dose of epinephrine which would have reversed the symptoms, giving enough time for Ammaria to be taken to the hospital.

Food allergies affect an estimated 6 – 8% of children under age 5. According to Maria Acebal, head of the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, Ammaria’s death underscores the need for all teachers to have basics of food allergy safety as part of their orientation and continuing education. Acebal has since supported a bill that would let all schools give EpiPens to any student, regardless if they have a prescription.

A spokesperson for Chesterfield County Public Schools has stated that for any medication, the school would have to be in possession of the medication to provide it and that the medication they receive should be specific to that child, from the parent.

Pendleton has continued to claim that she tried to make her daughter’s medication available to the school.

If a loved one has suffered a wrongful death, contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

What You Need to Know about the Zimmer Knee Replacement Recall from a Houston Injury Attorney

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72270 — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When a manufacturer recalls nearly 68,000 products of a certain type, you know something went wrong. Unfortunately, many Americans who have undergone a knee replacement have been treated with a defective knee replacement device. Zimmer Holdings, one of the major manufacturers of knee replacement devices, issued a complete recall in September 2010 of one of its devices due to a devastating defect.

As knee replacement lawyers, we have witnessed many tragedies due to defective products. It is particularly disturbing that companies that manufacture products designed to improve people’s lives actually end up making those lives worse. Zimmer’s knee replacement recall showed us that even the leading manufacturers can make a widespread and costly mistake.

So what went wrong with the Zimmer devices?

The recall was set in motion by a group of orthopedic surgeons who noticed an exceptionally high failure rate of Zimmer knee replacement devices. After examining several cases, the issue with the devices was determined to be a loosening of one component that led to a failure of the device. Every single one of the 114 cases confirmed by the FDA required a revision surgery to fix the knee.

This 2010 recall is separate from the current issues with the Zimmer CR-Flex models. Apparently, there are concerns over even more knee replacement devices, which means there may be many more victims of knee replacement failure. The CR-Flex models are allegedly facing a higher than normal rate of failure. Despite Zimmer’s best efforts to counter the claims that its CR-Flex model is defective, many victims of premature Zimmer knee replacement failure are contacting attorneys to see if they are able to collect compensation.

If you have received a Zimmer knee replacement device and experienced failure or complications, consider contacting the Houston knee replacement attorneys of Vujasinovic & Beckcom at (877)724-7800. We can provide expert analysis of your case and a free consultation so you can know whether or not you are entitled to compensation.

Columbia Will Remove Defective PIP Breast Implant For Free

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72525 — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Columbia’s Health Ministry has said they would pay for removal of the defective breast implant manufactured by Poly Implant Prothese (PIP), only if a doctor recommends it or if they have ruptured.
PIP was once the third largest breast implant maker in the world, but in 2010 France ordered them to withdraw the implants after an investigation revealed it was using industrial-grade silicone in some of its products.

The implants appeared to have an unusually high rupture rate. Links to the unsafe silicone have possible links to cancer from the gel.

Argentina, Columbia, and Brazil have brought a huge flock patients from around the world to have breast implant surgery at an affordable rate. However, use of the PIP implant has been banned in these countries as well.

It is estimated that some 15,000 women have PIP implants in the Andean nation.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this defective implant, contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72526 — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Nearly 200 Americans are killed every year due to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. Carbon Monoxide is a deadly, colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that is produced in products that are in nearly every home across the nation. A lot of these products may malfunction without the consumer ever knowing it, until it is too late. Don’t be a victim. Educate yourself.

What is Carbon Monoxide? Carbon Monoxide, or CO, is produced by the incomplete burning of fuels, such as coal, wood, charcoal, oil, kerosene, propane, and natural gas.

CO can be found in cigarette smoke, house fires, faulty furnaces, heaters, wood-burning stoves, internal combustion vehicle exhaust, electrical generators, propane-fueled equipment like portable stoves, and gasoline-powered tools such as cars, leaf blowers, lawn mowers, high pressure washers, concrete cutting saws, power trowels, and welders.

When exposed to large amounts of CO in the air, the normal functions of your body change. Usually, your body gets rid of all CO made naturally. However with the exposed CO, your red blood cells are affected in their transport of oxygen to the blood. CO is over 200x stronger than oxygen, so instead the red blood cells become attached to the CO instead of oxygen. When this happens, your body is limited of oxygen and can lead to major problems.

What are the symptoms? Carbon Monoxide is extremely hard to detect, unless you know the symptoms.

* Mild symptoms include lightheadedness, confusion, headaches, vertigo, and flu-like effects.

* Severe exposure can lead to depression, confusion, vomiting, and memory loss.

* Larger exposures can lead to significant effects on the central nervous system and heart. Death can occur very quickly.

How can you prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

1.) Make sure all your appliances are installed properly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If it is too complex, get a
qualified professional to install the unit.

2.) Never operate a portable generator or gasoline engine in an enclosed space, like a garage, house, tent, or other building. Even with open doors and windows, these spaces can trap CO within the space. This also includes the burning of charcoal and the running of a vehicle.

3.) Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm! They are not expensive and will provide protection. Install an alarm in the hallway near separate sleeping areas in the home, and make sure it is not covered by furniture or curtains.

4.) Never use ranges, ovens, or clothes dryers to heat your home!

5.) Never cover the bottom of natural gas or propane ovens with aluminum foil. Doing so blocks the combustion air flow through the appliance and can produce CO.

6.) During home renovations, ensure that appliance vents and chimneys are not blocked by tarps or debris. Make sure appliances are in proper working order when renovations are complete.

Don’t let Carbon Monoxide Poisoning be an option for you. Prevention remains a vital public health issue. According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, carbon monoxide detectors are as important to home safety as smoke detectors are. Every home should have at least one CO detector, and one on each floor.

If you or anyone you know feel has been affected by Carbon Monoxide due to malfunctioned products, you have rights. Contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information regarding how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Signs of a Defective Knee Replacement from a Trusted Houston Injury Lawyer

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72268 — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you were suffering from chronic knee pain or disability, you were most likely overjoyed at the thought of a procedure that could dramatically improve your quality of life. Unfortunately, knee prosthetic manufacturers have made some costly manufacturing errors, and many innocent people have suffered because of this. The signs and symptoms of a defective knee replacement may not always be obvious, and learning these important markers may help you receive compensation, if you are a victim.

Many victims of a defective knee replacement have a hard time determining whether or not their pain or other issues are caused by the healing process or by a defective device. This is why it is pivotal to follow your doctor’s orders and to communicate any changes to your doctor. When it comes to defective devices though, sometimes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking will persist to the extent that you may suspect something is wrong. This is when it may be time to consult with an experienced Houston knee replacement attorney.

Here are some of the more common symptoms of a defective knee replacement:

Pain that is excessive, unanticipated, or that persists longer than your doctor says it should.
Swelling can be an indicator that damage is occurring in the knee due to a defective device.
Difficulty walking or standing can indicate that a portion of the device has broken off or that surrounding tissue and bone is damaged.
Decreased range of motion may indicate that your knee replacement device is not functioning as it should.

It is important to note that some of these symptoms can also indicate infection or other serious complications. If you suspect that your knee replacement may be defective, considering contacting the Houston knee replacement attorneys of Vujasinovic & Beckcom at (877)724-7800 for a free consultation.

Famous Retired Bagpiper Dead In Retirement Home Fire

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72445 — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

In Canada, famous bag-piper Darby McCarrol died in his home at Smokey Hollow Estates, a retirement community. The death was the first fire-related fatality in the County of Brant in Ten Years. McCarrol was an accomplished piper known across Canada and the United States.

McCarrol, on the evening of the fire, had saved his dog but sadly could not save himself. He was overcome by smoke and is believed to have choked to death from carbon monoxide.

After an investigation, the fire was ruled an accident, caused by the “improper disposal of smoking materials.” Though according to officials, they cannot identify if it is cigarettes beyond a reasonable doubt for the fire.

Even if investigators found cigarettes on the scene, they have to be 100% certain that the individual was smoking them at the time of the cause of the incident. One of McCarrol’s neighbors had said that he was a smoker.

The fire caused $100,000 in damage.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of negligent fire accidents, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B today for free information and a free consultation. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Fashion Designer & Model Both Found Dead From Carbon Monoxide

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72446 — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Just hours after New Years Day, the bodies of fashion designer Ade Chandra Kirana Sagi and former model Randi Yana Putra were discovered dead.

According to autopsies performed at the hospital, the victims had red spots on their body and mouth, their nails also had turned blue – all of which are signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.

According to police, the two died from the gas without knowing it. However investigations are underway to figure out where the gas came from, though it is thought to be from a water heater in the bathroom. Since there were illegal drugs found in the home, an investigation is digging deeper in the story. However, the autopsy does not show signs of an overdose.

Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer that can be released in the simplest of appliances like heaters, stoves, lawn mowers, ovens, and vehicle exhaust.

Symptoms of mild poisoning can be lightheadedness, confusion, headaches, vertigo, and flu-like effects; larger exposures can lead to significant toxicity of the central nervous system and heart, and even death.

If you feel that you or a loved one has been affected by carbon monoxide poisoning, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for a free consultation today. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Signs that Your Hip Replacement is Defective

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72267 — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The sole purpose of performing surgery is to improve your quality of life. Unfortunately, many patients who undergo a hip replacement surgery receive a defective device; this can lead to incredible suffering and complicated revision surgeries. The warning signs that a device may be defective can be subdued or incredibly obvious.

If you have received a hip replacement and are experiencing the following symptoms, you may want to consult with an attorney to see if your device is defective:

Swelling: Swelling is often a sign that something is wrong. Swelling can be caused by a number of factors, including the body’s inflammatory immune response and trauma. In the case of hip replacements, a trauma event like dislocation of the hip can cause noticeable swelling. Defective hip prosthetics are known to dislocate more often than properly manufactured units. Swelling could also indicate a host of other issues with your hip replacement.
Pain: Experiencing excessive or unanticipated pain after your hip replacement is a tell-tale sign that something is not right. While pain may be unavoidable in your specific situation, there are times when a defective hip prosthetic can cause excessive pain due to grinding, improper sizing, and metals releasing into the bloodstream.
Difficulty Walking: Many patients seek a hip replacement to help them walk, so it is quite discouraging when the surgery seems to make their problem worse. Difficulty walking is a convincing sign that either your surgeon performed an error or the actual device was defective. Difficulty walking could be caused by dislocation, bone fracture, premature failure of the device, infection, and general improper manufacturing of the device. A device that is functioning improperly can cause all of those ailments and inhibit your ability to walk.

If you are experiencing these symptoms after your hip replacement, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries. Contact Vujasinovic & Beckcom for a free consultation at (877)724-7800. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff of Houston hip replacement attorneys is ready to make the law work for you.

Waco Man Jailed After Leaving Scene Of Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72374 — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Neri Galan of Waco, Texas was arrested for leaving the scene of an accident on I-35 near Clear Lake, Iowa, which left one man dead.
On Friday, Frederick Langrock was driving a Chevrolet Astro Van down I-35 when he rear-ended a charter bus, driven by Galan. According to the Iowa State Patrol, the impact caused Langrock’s van to rest on the inside shoulder of the highway.

Galan fled the scene, leaving Langrock there to die in his van.

Galan and the charter bus were later found by unmentioned sources. Galan was taken to the Cerro Gordo County Jail, but was later released.

Leaving the scene of a personal injury accident is a Class D felony and can result in serious jail time and monstrous bails. When a death is involved, the moral dilemma is clear and may offer years of lock up.

It is unclear who Galan’s attorneys are and he hasn’t made any statement regarding his felony.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of a hit and run, you have rights. To find free helpful information, visit our FAQ page to answer your questions. Contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for a free consultation today. 888-473-1258.

One Killed, Two Injured In Metro Bus Collision

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72375 — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

In Bethesda, Maryland, A two vehicle bus crash involving a Metro bus and a Toyota Tacoma left one person dead and ten people injured.

49-year-old Nkono Ayaovi Edorh was driving a Toyota Tacoma pickup on the Rockville Pike southbound lane when the truck crossed the median and drove into the northbound lane, where it collided with the Metro bus. The bus veered off the road and hit a tree, seriously injuring the driver and nine of its passengers.

Edorh was killed from the crash.

Investigations are underway as to the reason why Edorh’s truck crossed the median. There have been no reports of witnesses, so the possibilities can be many.

Metro buses are gigantic vehicles and can cause major damage when involved in a crash, especially since most buses do not have seat belts for their passengers.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bus crash that left serious injuries or death, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Don't Be A Victim Of House Fires This Year

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72378 — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

It might surprise people in Texas to know that across the U.S, December, January, and February are the top months for home fire deaths, according to the national Fire Protection Association.

During summer months, firefighters are busy with active fires as visitors swell the population and start negligent fires across the state. However, during these cold months, firefighters answer more service calls involving smoke in buildings or sparkling outlets.

Why the increase of house fires during the winter?

A big factor that comes into play is defective heating equipment. When you think of Texas, heating equipment might not be the first thing that comes into your mind, especially if you’re a new resident. Heaters can give off poisonous gas, overheat, and sometimes spark.

Public service announcements have made awareness a little more attainable. One such note has been to keep combustibles three feet away from sources like space heaters, appliances, fire places, and candles, all of which we use during the winter time.

Just last week on Christmas, a mobile home in South Carolina was completely destroyed due to a little spark from a toaster. This can easily be prevented if you educate yourself on fire safety.

During this record breaking winter, don’t become a victim of a home fire. Take precaution when using electrical appliances, be aware of poisonous gasses from heaters, and don’t let inexperienced people start your fireplace.

Don’t be a victim of a house fire nor smoke inhalation this winter season.

Let 2012 Be An End To Bad Driving

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72379 — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

It is a new year! Let’s make a national resolution to be safer on our highways. Millions of Americans are not aware of how dangerous cars can be under the care of a negligent driver. This can be the year of great change in our awareness.

When you get in your car, be aware of the Deadly D’s of Driving:

Distracted Drivers

Drunken or Drugged Drivers

Drowsy Drivers

No one should drive under the influence. Pick a designated driver for the evenings in which you plan to drink. You can take a cab or stay with a friend.

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety offers a link to a list of “Sober Ride” programs by state. These programs offer rides to intoxicated patrons (most of the time for free).

A lof of information has been shared through social websites about the “Tipsy Tow” program, which is a program that will pick you up if you've had too much to drink over this New Years Weekend. “Tipsy Tow” is not nationwide, not being available in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware.

These programs have been issued by AAA to make sure that drunk driving is not an issue in this year.

The experienced attorneys at V&B want you to not be a victim of negligent drivers. We offer you free information on our website that may help you answer your top questions.

If you have been injured by a negligent driver, contact our office today for a free consultation. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Texas Injury Lawyer Outlines Findings of a Study on Hip & Knee Replacements

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72266 — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Medicine, like many other technical fields, advances at an incredible rate. When we think about the medicine of tomorrow, we imagine safer and more effective cures. We do not typically imagine a future of less effective treatments and no proven benefits—but Australian scientists have discovered that modern hip and knee replacements have been doing just that.

In a study published by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, scientists announced that modern hip and knee replacement devices were not improving the lives of patients, and they were at times making their lives worse. Over the past few years there have been many recalls due to hip and knee replacement failures. Here are the major findings of the study:

None of the newer prostheses (both hip and knee) had a lower rate of revision surgery than older devices. Revision surgery is a second surgery performed to fix the initial hip or knee replacement.
27% of newer hip replacements actually had a significantly higher rate of revision surgery compared to older devices.
29% of newer knee replacements had a significantly higher rate of revision surgery when compared to established devices.
30% of newer devices were linked with a significantly worse end result compared to older devices.

How could it be that newer devices were not only offering no improvement over older devices, but they were also increasing the rates of dangerous revision surgery? Also, a 30% higher rate in bad outcomes for patients signifies that there is something very wrong with this picture. Manufacturers are bringing products to market that are injuring people.

At Vujasinovic & Beckcom, our Houston hip and knee replacement attorneys have the experience and dedication necessary to fight for your compensation. If you have been injured by a defective prosthetic hip or knee, we can put the law to work for you and do everything we can to help pay for medical bills and pain and suffering. To get started, give us a call toll free at (877)724-7800.

Houston Personal Injury Lawyer Explains How Manufacturers Abuse the FDA's 510(k) Process

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72265 — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been the victim of a failed hip or knee replacement, you may have wondered how a defective device was allowed for your surgery. It may seem impossible to believe, but critical prosthetic devices like hip replacements or knee replacements can come to the market with little or no testing through the FDA’s 510(k) process.

So what’s wrong with the FDA’s 510(k) process? Well, it may not be so much of a problem with the FDA as it is a problem with manufacturers. For new medical devices entering the market, they must be approved for sale through the FDA. The FDA has a process called 510(k), which is in place to allow products that are significantly similar to products released before May 28, 1976 to come to market without testing. This is in place because one could argue it is foolish to demand money be spent on testing for products that are so similar to tried and true products already on the market.

Though, as always, manufacturers have exploited the 510(k) process and brought defective products to the market. The FDA claims that products must be “substantially equivalent” to those already on the market. However, many new hip and knee replacement devices differ in technology, material, and even function from the products they are supposed to be “substantially equivalent” to.

As experienced hip replacement and knee replacement attorneys, we have watched the recall process and failure rates vigilantly. It is obvious that manufacturers are bringing products to the market that are dangerous and unproven. If you have been the victim of a hip or knee replacement failure, please give the attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom a call at (877)724-7800 for a free consultation.

Houston Injury Lawyer Details Complications of a Bad Hip Replacement Device

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72264 — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

For a surgical procedure that occurs so frequently, you would expect hip replacements to increase in safety and effectiveness over time. However, a recent Australian study has demonstrated that new devices have actually injured patients and not demonstrated a benefit over traditional devices. If you have been the victim of a hip replacement failure, you are most certainly filled with the desire to seek answers and justice.

Hip replacement prostheses are often recalled due to manufacturing errors or problems with the design or materials used. Newer prostheses are made of organic polymers like polyethylene and metals like cobalt, chromium, and titanium. Some of these newer prostheses have been recalled due to higher than expected failure rates. A notorious recall is the 2010 DePuy Orthopaedics recall of the ASR XL Acetabular System and the ASR Hip Resurfacing System.

These hip replacement devices were recalled due to several issues that often arise with defective prostheses:

Metal Toxicity: Metals from a prosthesis can be ground down due to improper design and dissociate into their own ions (think of a single metal atom with a positive charge). These ions can wreak havoc locally in the form pseudotumors (small masses caused by a reaction to the metal) or enter the bloodstream and cause systemic damage.

Dislocation: If the device is not shaped properly, it is more likely to dislocate at some point. Dislocation is the most common complication from a hip replacement.

Revision Surgery: Prosthetic devices that are poorly designed lead to revision surgery. Revision surgery is another hip procedure that either fixes the device or installs a new one. Revision surgery increases the patient’s risk of complications, pain, and a poor outcome.

There is no excuse for hip replacement manufacturers that bring devices onto the market that injure patients. If you have been the victim of a hip replacement failure, please consider contacting the Houston hip replacement attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom. Visit our online library of informative articles and give us a call toll free at (877)724-7800 for a free consultation.

NFL Gets Hit With Concussion Lawsuits

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72185 — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Football, hockey, soccer, and other sports are a great way for family and friends to come together. During this hard economic time, going to a game can be very therapeutic. However if you or a loved one is a diehard athlete, it is important to know that concussions happen in nearly every sport there is. Lifelong symptoms will occur if you do not treat them properly.

In the last few months, the NHL and the NFL are feeling pressure to regulate standards on dealing with concussions. The NFL has been hit by multiple lawsuits from professional athletes in the game.

These athletes have come together claiming their concussions weren’t treated properly, hence giving them lifelong brain injuries with symptoms ranging from headaches, sleep disorder, dizziness to cognitive problems, short term memory loss, and depression. Worst of all, they are claiming the NFL gave them medical treatment which only enhanced the symptoms, without telling the players.

One of the suits is Finn v. NFL, filed by former New York Giants fullback Jim Finn and 11 other retired players: Sean Berton, Dan Collins, Scott Dragos, Joe Horn, Matt Joyce, Jerome Pathon, Isaiah Kacyvenski, Sean Ryan, Brad Scioli, Chris Walsh and Paul Zukauskas.

The plaintiffs of Finn v. NFL claim that they sustained multiple concussions during their careers and were never warned of the correlative health risks. They allege that before their games, all were given doses of Toradol, a non-steroidal drug that relieves pain but also thins blood, making for easier bruising and exacerbating impact injuries such as concussions. The players were not warned of the side effects.

Finn v. NFL is not the only suit that is being thrown to the NFL. Two other suits were filed around the same time and have included players like Jamal Lewis, Dorsey Levens, Kyle Turley and Patrick Surtain.

All suits have filed nearly the same complaints towards the NFL, claiming the NFL failed to protect players from suffering similar fates and it has been hiding the issue and misleading players for years. Their side effects have been long ignored by the industry only to keep putting the players back on the field and protect its interests.

The NFL brings millions of people in the U.S to its stadiums every year. Not to mention on television and millions in shirts, mugs, helmets, and all the other things you see at football stands around the country.

The NHL is slowly starting to get some heat also. The number of concussions among athletes are on the rise.

Sidney Crosby, hockey’s greatest star, returned from an 11 month concussion layoff to only play eight games, then went back on the injured list when his symptoms returned. Shea Weber, of the Nashville Predators, one of the top defenceman, was sidelined indefinitely with a concussion. John-Michael Liles of The Leafs and Simon Gagne of the Los Angeles Kings have both been lost to a concussion.

Concussions are very serious and athletes are the most at risk. Regulations need to be made regarding the safety of players, especially our kids in Junior High and High School, who are an even greater risk. Concussions at a young age are more likely to cause permanent damage and future problems as they grow.

If you or a loved one feels they have received permanent damage because of a concussion or brain injury, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Fired Worker Is Awarded $300,000 For Whistleblower Complaint

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72195 — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

After filing a whistleblower complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a Railroad worker was awarded 300,000 dollars in back wages, compensatory damages, attorney’s fees, and punitive damages.
The complaint was filed after an employee for a Nebraska-based Union Pacific Railroad Company was fired after informing the company of an injury he received at the job. After reporting his injury, the worker was then given suspension without pay and fired three weeks later.
As a result, the worker filed a whistleblower complaint with the OSHA. After an investigation, the OSHA discovered the employee’s claim to be accurate, believing that the suspension and termination were based solely on the reporting of his injury to the railroad company.
Along with the 300,000 award, OSHA ordered the company to reinstate the worker’s position and cover the monetary compensation. The company was ordered not to retaliate against the employee.
Retaliation against an employee that reports injuries is a direct violation of the whistleblower protection provisions under the Federal Railroad Safety Act (FRSA). Apparently, the Railroad Company in question has violated the FSRA four times in 2009.
What is a whistleblower complaint?
A whistleblower complaint is one that alleges misconduct from a department or company. The OSHA’s whistleblower protection provisions were put in to place so employees can be protected from retaliation for speaking up. Employees have rights under the Occupational Safety Health Act of 1970 which says that no person shall be fired or discriminated against if they file a complaint or are report a work injury.
If you or anyone you know has been fired or injured on the job, contact the experienced lawyers at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

A&M Defensive Lineman Killed By 18 Wheeler

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72198 — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Last Thursday, A&M’s backup offensive lineman Joe Villavisencio died when his car crashed directly into an 18 Wheeler near Normangee on FM 39.
Villavisencio was headed home to Jacksonville for the holidays when his car swerved. The 18 Wheeler was headed in the opposite direction when the two vehicles met at impact.
The driver of the 18-wheeler was not hurt in the accident, but Villavisencio’s died at the scene.
Family and friends have spoken out about the incident saying they lost a tremendous individual and one of the most respected players. Villavisencio had spent the last three years in a backup role on the A&M College Football Team and played against Baylor and Kansas this season.
Funeral Services were held on Monday.
The identity of the 18 Wheeler Driver is yet to be released.
If you or anyone you know has been injured or killed by an 18 Wheeler, contact the lawyers of V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

GM Recalls 20,000 Cadillacs Worldwide

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72100 — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

General Motors Co. is recalling 20,000 Cadillac SRX crossover vehicles worldwide, due to potential problems with the transmission shift cable. 8,789 of the recalled vehicles are in the United States.
The recall will begin in January and will be free of charge, according to GM.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Cadillac SRX vehicles made from October 26, 2008 through June 23, 2011 had transmission shift cables that could come out of a transmission bracket.
When the cable comes out, the vehicle can be unable to move and can result in drivers believing the transmission is in park, when it is not.
The recall began when one driver wrote to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reporting an unintended motion of his Cadillac when he shifted from park to drive to park again.
Whether you own a Cadillac SRX or not, it is very important to take away the fact that it all started with one simple letter. The power one person can have may save lives around the world.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by a defective product, you have rights. Contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Worker Sent To Hospital Following Industrial Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72121 — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, a man was critically injured in an industrial work accident while working at the scene of the Malletts Creek Restoration Project, a developmental plan to help improve the water quality in the Huron river.
The Ann Arbor Police Department and Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department both responded to the scene on Tuesday, shortly after 1pm. They found the worker pinned under an excavator which was stuck in the mud.
The rest of the workers were sent home and traffic was slowed while rescuers freed the victim from the equipment and was taken to University of Michigan Hospital immediately after. The worker’s condition is currently unknown, but reports have indicated severe pelvic injuries as a result.
Meanwhile, an investigation is underway as to the cause. Police are trying to determine which agency holds jurisdiction. The equipment belonged to Mead Bros. Excavating, the company was awarded a $2.2 million county contract last summer to do the excavation project.
Only time will tell if the injury was a result of a defective excavator or unsafe work protocols. It is known that the worker was working with the excavator in an obviously muddy area, just fifty feet from a dirt bike path.
If you or someone you know has been injured at work, contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

60-Year-Old Man Turned Away From Hospital With Broken Neck

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72122 — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

In the United Kingdom, on December 16th, Bob Davies was turned away from a hospital after suffering a broken neck from a fall, being told he was just another “Friday Night Drunk.”
Davies is 60-years-old and a self-employed plasterer. On the evening of the 16th, Davies was out with a few friends when he nearly fainted and fell over. The next thing he knew, he was rushed in an ambulance to the Princess Royal Hospital. It was there he was sent home in a taxi, despite insisting he couldn’t move his arms and legs.
The next day, his wife Hazel called a local medical helpline. A doctor on the line told Mrs. Davies to call an ambulance so Mr. Davies can be examined properly, in fear he may have suffered a stroke. After an X-ray and a CT scan, they discovered Mr. Davies had a broken neck. On that Monday the 19th, he was moved to Oswestry’s Orthopaedic where they found his spinal cord damaged, which may prevent future recovery.
Bob Davies must now spend at least six weeks in the Hospital for treatment. A large outcry from his friends and family have surfaced, stating that the hospital didn’t examine Davies properly the first time, despite the fact his arms, legs, and hands weren’t working.
Around the globe, patients get turned away every day from hospitals. Serious injuries can result from these wrong assessments from doctors.
If you or a loved one feels they have been neglected from a serious brain, neck, or back injury, contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Meet our team and browse our website for answers to your questions. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Distracted Drivers Are The Number One Killer Of Teens In The U.S.

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72123 — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Last year 5,474 people were killed on U.S roadways and an estimated 448,000 were injured in car crashes that involved distracted drivers.
In a recent poll, nearly 49% of drivers under the age of 35 have reported using their phone while driving. Though most people know it is dangerous, it still happens. We have become a society that thinks we are somehow better than everyone else on the road when it comes to driving. Today, 57% of drivers rate themselves as better than the average driver.
Here are a few facts. While a driver is texting, their eyes are off the road an average of five seconds. If you are driving 55mp, five seconds can cover an entire football field.
Out of all the drivers on the road, teenagers have proven to be the most at danger. Nearly 90% of teens have said that they have been passengers in a car when the driver is distracted. If this continues to happen, fatalities and car accidents are likely to increase over the next few years.
Now what can you do to help prevent texting and driving? If you are a passenger in a car with a distracted driver, speak up! Become the solution. By not saying anything, you become part of the problem. Tell your friends not to use their cell phone, get a bumper sticker, spread the word. Little things can help save a life.
Buckle up! Even if you are in a car that is driving safely, that doesn’t mean other drivers on the road are. 60% of drivers on the road, at any given time, are using their cell phone, according to a recent poll. Think about that the next time you are driving.
Distracted driving is the number one killer of American teens. Alcohol related accidents among teens have dropped, but teenage traffic fatalities have remained unchanged because distracted driving is on the rise.
Browse our website for free information and facts about distracted driving. We believe that knowledge is power. If you or a loved has been injured or killed due to a distracted driver, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for a free consultation. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Record $150 Billion Settlement For Burn Injury Victim

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72019 — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The biggest personal-injury award in U.S. history happened on Tuesday with a record breaking $150 billion in punitive damages to the parents and estate of Robert Ray “Robbie” Middleton.
The award was first presented to send a message to the entire legal system to finally charge Don Willburn Collins for the burn injuries of Middleton.
Middleton was set on fire in 1998 on his eighth birthday by thirteen-year-old Don Willburn Collins. Collins had sexually molested Middleton two weeks prior.
According to the case, Middleton had just received a tent for a birthday gift when Collins attacked him in the woods near his home, just northeast of Houston. Collins threw a cup of gasoline in Middleton’s face, tied him to a tree with fishing line, poured gasoline on him and set him on fire. Middleton was able to escape as the fishing line melted, and neighbors found him collapsed at the edge of the woods.
At the time, Collins was detained for a short period of time, but was later released due to insufficient evidence and because of how young both boys were, the reliability of their testimonies seemed uncertain. Middleton was difficult to communicate with during the proceedings due to his injuries.
On Tuesday, a jury in La Grange, Texas found in the Middleton’s favor, ordering Collins to pay them $370 million in actual damages. The Middleton family was not expecting to be rewarded the entire thing and only wanted people to know that Robbie Middleton didn’t deserve what happened and hoped the requested sum in itself would send a message to the world.
Sadly, Middleton suffered enormous deformities even after numerous skin treatments. He died at the age of twenty, in April, after developing skin cancer.
Collins, who is now twenty-six, is currently in prison for assaulting another eight-year-old victim. He is due to be released from prison next year.
Even after the being rewarded the sum, attorneys for Montgomery County are finding it extremely difficult in charging Collins for the assault. They are working very hard to gather evidence and witnesses in hopes to finally find justice for Robbie Middleton.
Before this record breaking settlement, the largest civil settlement on record was $145 billion in a Florida class-action case against tobacco companies.
After suffering a severe injury, you might feel that justice can be hard to come by. If you or a loved one is seeking justice, contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation. Visit our FAQ page for free information on your situation and how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Four Injured When Driver Travels In Opposing Lane

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72020 — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

On Friday, four people were injured when a vehicle driven by forty three year old Shaana Baise traveled in an opposing lane of traffic on U.S. 277, eight miles south of San Angelo in Tom Green County.
Enrique Vasquez was one of the drivers that had swerved in an attempt to miss her, but instead they collided head-on and proceeded to roll over, finally coming to a rest upside down.
Vasquez had two passengers with him at the time, a woman and a three-year-old boy. Both of them were sent to the hospital for minor injuries. Baise and Vasquez suffered devastating injuries as a result and are still in the hospital.
Meanwhile, an investigation is underway as to why Baise was driving in the opposite side of the lane. It is currently unknown if she was intoxicated or distracted, but Baise was issued a citation for driving on the wrong side of the road and not passing.
Experts have said when exposed to a driver that is driving in the opposite side of the road, it’s important to slow down and pull over to the side so to avoid any kind of impact. Swerving often leads to major panic for the other drivers on the road and can cause accidents.
If you or someone you know is victim of a negligent driver, you have rights. Contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

One Pilot Killed In Training Flight, Two Others Injured

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72000 — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A plane has crashed near Denton Municipal Airport, killing one pilot and injuring two others.
Xie Chengjie and Zhao Shuran were two pilots from China studying at the US Aviation Academy for a yearlong program to get their instrument rating. The instructor, Michael Lin, was aboard the plane.
The three men were flying to San Antonio on a training flight early Tuesday morning when the plane crashed just outside of Austin.
Chengjie was found dead at the scene, Shuran and Lin were found in the wreckage and taken to the hospital for serious injuries.
Authorities are unsure which pilot was driving the plane and have no answer to why it crashed.
If you or someone you know has been injured on an airplane, contact the attorneys at V&B for a free evaluation and free information. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

4 Injured In Chicago Taxi Cab Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)72002 — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

In Chicago this morning, four people were injured when a distracted driver of a van ran a red light and smashed into a taxi cab, carrying two passengers.
Following the collision, the taxi flipped to its side and flew into a light pole just outside City Hall. The hood of the cab was caved in and the front of the van was flattened.
It was later discovered that the driver of the van did not have a valid driver’s license.
Both of the drivers were taken to the hospital in semi-fair conditions. The two passengers that were in the cab were taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital. A 32-year-old woman in serious condition with head injuries and a 40-year-old man in fair condition.
In most cases, passengers riding in taxi cabs do not typically wear seat belts.
The average driver on the road doesn’t pay attention to the fact that other drivers can be less responsible. Hundreds of drivers are on the same street, the same highway, and at the same time. Negligent drivers exist and they almost ways lead to a near fatal end.
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of a negligent driver, you have rights. Contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Pregnant Pedestrian Is Victim Of A Hit And Run

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)71918 — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A search is still out for the driver who hit a pregnant woman on December 5, 2011 in Tyler, TX.

The woman was 29-year-old Latasha Little. Little was crossing the street in the 700 block of N. Palace when she was hit by a vehicle that was preparing to turn left. Little was thrown onto the hood of the vehicle then onto the ground.

Little walked to the A&W Grocery to use a phone when the driver of the vehicle pulled into the parking lot. Upon seeing that Little was calling authorities, the driver fled. Little was not able to provide a detailed description of both the suspect and vehicle, but she was able to identify him as an elderly black male.

Little received lower back pain and was transferred to the hospital. There hasn’t been any serious issues regarding her pregnancy, but the hospital took all necessary precautions.

Meanwhile, Tyler Police are still searching for the driver of the vehicle, and are attempting to obtain a video from surveillance cameras at the A&W Grocery. The investigation will be ever going until the driver is caught.

If you have been a victim of a hit and run or have been hit by an automobile in any circumstance, you have legal rights. Contact the experienced lawyers at V&B for a free consultation and free information. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Amtrak Train Collides With Truck Near Austin

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)71920 — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

On Sunday, an Amtrak train collided with a truck at a crossing near Austin, TX.

The accident occurred near the intersection U.S 79 and Highway 130, west of downtown Hutton. A 44-year-old truck driver from San Antonio was driving a company box truck, carrying a small car with no passengers, when it crossed the tracks despite the train blowing its whistle.

For several hundred yards, the train kept going, crushing the truck and ejecting the driver in the process. Apparently, several passengers did not even feel the crash and thought it was just merely a speed bump.

Following the accident, passengers were taken to a nearby church to wait for alternative transportation. Buses were taking them to Fort Worth to continue their journey on the tracks.

The train held 211 passengers and a crew of 14. In total, two passengers received injuries but refused treatment. The driver of the truck is in critical condition at Seton Medical Center Williamson in nearby Round Rock.

Debris from the wreckage was cleared fairly swiftly.

If you or anyone you know has been injured while traveling or working on the railroad, you have rights. Contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for a free consultation and free information. Toll Free: 888-473-1258

Young Woman Granted $7 Million in Bus Accident Trial

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)71922 — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Ashley Reedy, a 24-year-old Colorado woman has been awarded $7 million by a Dallas jury, from a roll-over crash on a Greyhound bus in Wheeler County, TX. The bus accident trial lasted three weeks.

According to Reedy, the Greyhound driver was using a cell phone while driving in icy conditions on I-40. While talking on his phone, the driver braked improperly while approaching a wreck on the highway. The bus lost control and rolled over, injuring Reedy’s head, neck, and back.

The jury awarded Reedy $2.2 million in damages and $4.8 million in punitive damages. Through the verdict, Reedy can now have the surgeries she desperately needs. Hopefully in the following months, bus companies can see this as an example on new protocols.

The driver in this particular case received three speeding convictions shortly before Greyhound hired him and had used his cell phone seventeen times in the three hours before the accident.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent bus driver, the experienced attorneys at V&B can help. Contact us today for a free consultation and free information on how we may help. Toll free: 888-473-1258

18 Wheeler And Bus Crash Closes I-35

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)71781 — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

On Tuesday, just south of Austin on I-35 between Woodward and Riverside, an accident involving a bus and an 18-wheeler truck injured five people.

Upon the arrival of paramedics, six people went to the hospital, five of them severely injured and one with minor injuries. Four people refused to go to the hospital claiming their injuries weren’t life threatening.

The accident closed north bound traffic for several hours. There is no answer on what caused the accident.

18 wheelers are extremely dangerous on the road. When involved in an accident, they can cause much more damage than any other vehicle.

Recovery from accidents vary from person to person, but we must not underestimate the aftermath of concussions. Directly after a head trauma, one might not feel symptoms at first. You still should do a checkup with your doctor to be sure. Be responsible for your own health.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18 wheeler crash, contact the attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

5 Things to Do After your Houston Semi Truck Accident

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)71457 — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

You’ve just been in a Houston semi accident. Your body is full of adrenaline, and your mind is spinning. You just want someone to tell you what to do to make it through this.

Fortunately, we can help.

Five things to remember after you’ve been in a Texas truck crash:

Remain calm. This may be the hardest step, but it is crucial. Take deep breaths to clear your head, and prepare to speak clearly to police and ambulance drivers.
Take pictures. If you are not injured and your car is not in traffic, get out and take pictures of the damage, the truck, and the accident scene using your cell phone camera.
Report the truck driver. Paperwork is evidence. By filing a report with the police and the trucking company, you are building evidence against the trucker that can be invaluable to your case.
Get it in writing. Always request a copy of the police report from the officer at the scene.
See you doctor. Even if you don’t think you are seriously injured, always schedule a checkup with your doctor to be sure.

As trusted Houston accident lawyers, we have seen people suffer needlessly after truck crashes because they did not hire an attorney to fight for their rights. To get a free consultation, call V&B Accident Injury Lawyers today at (877) 724-7800. When you call, we will also send you a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Truck Accident Case.

V&B Attorneys: Helping Pedestrians Hit by Cars in Texas

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)71458 — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

More and more Texans are getting out into the fresh air for a good cause: commuting. Those who walk, bike, or even run to work are getting all the benefits of exercise while spending less money on gas; it seems like a win-win situation.

Until, that is, they collide with an irresponsible driver.

In 2003, 4,749 pedestrians were killed as a result of car crashes in the U.S., and roughly 70,000 pedestrians were injured by vehicles. This data suggests that pedestrians account for 11 percent of all vehicle fatalities every year.

A few facts about pedestrian accidents in Texas:

Car-pedestrian crashes are most likely to take place between the hours of 4pm – 12am.
About 70 percent of pedestrian victims are male.
Pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur in urban areas.
In most cases, speeding and alcohol use are common contributors to pedestrian accidents.
Elderly victims are statistically less likely to be hit, but more likely to be killed when they are.

As experienced Houston accident attorneys, we know that these accidents often cause much greater injury for the person on foot, resulting in missed work, high medical costs and a long hospital recovery.

The attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom can get you compensation for your Texas pedestrian injury. To learn more, call us today at (877) 724-7800 for a free consultation.

Amarillo Motorist Crash Kills Passenger

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)71625 — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

One man is dead from a motorcycle accident on Friday in Amarillo.

A female motorist was driving a 2012 Kia sport on Texas Loop 335. She carried a male passenger when she turned left onto Coulter Street in front of a 2008 Ford F-250, driven by Benny Sadler.

Sadler was driving east on the Loop when he struck the Kia and its two riders.

Both the driver and passenger were taken to the hospital after medics arrived on the scene in the early afternoon. The male passenger was declared dead at the hospital. Potter County Justice of the Peace Thomas Jones has ordered an autopsy on the victim.

The driver of the Kia is still in the hospital and is being treated for life-threatening injuries. Sadler did not sustain any injuries from the crash.

Amarillo police’s Traffic Investigation Division is investigation the crash and are withholding the identities of the two victims.

Motorcycling can be one of the most dangerous forms of transportation, especially when riding on fast distracting roads. Proper equipment and well-mannered driving is crucial when dealing with motorcycles.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed on a motorcycle, contact the attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Replacing your Car: Property Damages after a Texas Car Wreck

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)71454 — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

After a car crash in Houston, you probably sought medical attention for your injuries. You made sure everyone in your vehicle was okay, and you gave the police a full report.

So now there’s just the small matter of your car: it’s totaled.

Although Texas requires Personal Injury Protection (PIP) to cover your medical expenses after a car accident, you may be still stuck with a totaled vehicle. By seeking personal property damages from the other driver, you may be compensated for:

Cost of vehicle repairs
Replacement cost of your vehicle
Towing costs and vehicle storage costs
Any required appraisals or your car or belongings
Replacement of any personal belongings damaged in the accident
Repair costs of any private property damaged in the crash

An experienced Houston accident attorney can tell you whether you are entitled to compensation for your property losses. If you need more information on what to do next, click the link on the right of this page for a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Car Accident Case.

Remember: You shouldn’t have to pay for an accident that wasn’t your fault. If you missed work due to a Texas car accident injury, call Vujasinovic & Beckcom today at (877) 724-7800 for a free consultation.

How to Spot Texas Trucker Fatigue—and What to Do About It

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)71453 — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

While you could certainly spot a truck driver who is asleep, it can be trickier to tell if a trucker is drowsy. In fact, most truckers won’t even realize how tired they are until they are involved in a Houston semi truck accident.

The easiest way to tell if a trucker is alert is by his driving behavior. Here are a few telltale signs of truck driver drowsiness:

Wandering in and out of highway lanes
Frequent changes in speed
Drifting off the road and onto the shoulder
Sudden braking or frequent jerking of the wheel

If you suspect that a trucker is not in control of his rig, you should always the authorities to any potential threat to road safety. Take the following steps to ensure that you and your family stay safe:

If you cannot get off the highway, allow plenty of following distance behind the truck.
Report the driver using the posted ID number on the back of the semi.
If a trucker is driving erratically, call 911 and give them your location.
If a tired trucker caused your accident, get advice from an experienced Houston accident lawyer.

From the moment you are involved in a Texas semi accident, the trucking company will gather evidence to protect its driver. You need someone fighting on your side.

Call V&B Accident Injury Lawyers today at (877) 724-7800 to start your a free consultation and we’ll send you a FREE copy of our book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Truck Accident Case.

Is Texting Illegal? A Guide to Texas Distracted Driving Laws

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)71459 — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

On June 17 of this year, Governor Rick Perry vetoed a bill that would ban text messaging for all drivers across the state. Although texting while driving remains legal for adults, the rules are different for underage drivers, who are forbidden from using any wireless communication devices while behind the wheel.

To complicate matters, many of the laws surrounding distracted driving are enforced by individual cities rather than the state. Here is a short guide to Texas cell phone and texting bans:

Learners permit holders may not use hand-held cell phones in their first six months of driving
School bus drivers may not use cell phones while children are on-board
Drivers are not permitted to use hand-held devices while in school crossing zones.
Several cities have enacted local distracted driving laws, including Dallas, San Antonio, Galveston, El Paso, Missouri City, Austin, Stephenville and Amarillo.
As of January 14, the city of Galveston has banned text messaging while driving. Any driver caught texting within city limits could face a fine up to $500.

As Houston accident lawyers, we see a multitude of traffic violations and accidents that were not intentional - oftentimes a distracted driver is not aware that they are breaking the law, similar to how most drivers do not intend to get in an accident. This is no excuse though! Drivers who break the law (willingly or not), who are negligent, and who cause an accident by driving unsafely need to pay for the damages that they have caused you. The laws may vary from city to city, but the damage done to you is all the same.

If you have been injured in a Houston car accident, consider calling V&B Accident Injury Lawyers today at (877) 724-7800 for a free consultation. You can also order our FREE book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Texas Car Accident Case.

Mother Sues School Board For Death Of Child

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)71462 — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Christina McDonald, a mother from Gallatin, Tennessee, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Sumner County Board of Education for the death of her 9-year-old daughter, Alexis Thompson.

On March 8th, Thompson’s step father, Dusty McDonald, picked the third grader up from an after-school program at Benny Bills Elementary on a revoked license. He had been drinking all day and was extremely intoxicated when he arrived at the school.

Dusty McDonald crashed his Chevy pickup into a tree and fled the scene, leaving 9-year-old Thompson trapped and critically injured, later dying at Sumner Regional Medical Center.

According to the civil lawsuit, school officials at Benny Bills were negligent in their duties when they allowed Thompson to leave with the intoxicated step-parent.

Dusty McDonald was not on the approved transportation list, and rather than calling Thompson’s mother, the program leader gave Thompson over and called police, even after smelling alcohol on the driver’s breath.

It is the program’s policy to allow children to leave only with people whose names are on the student’s emergency card, unless they show to be intoxicated, in which case they call another name from the card.

As of now, there is no district wide policy stating who may pick a student up from school. The practice has been to release a student to a parent unless notified of custody arrangements.

It is alleged that by allowing Thompson to leave with Dusty McDonald, they played a great factor in her death.

The school officials that have been cited in the lawsuit as the parties responsible have not given a comment about the incident, and the Board of Education has 30 days to file a response to the allegations.

Dusty G. McDonald was sentenced to 22 years in prison and will serve six years before he is eligible for parole.

If you have experienced a death of a loved one due to negligence, contact the attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation on how we may help. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Woman Killed In Elevator Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)71267 — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

This morning in Manhattan, workers were going about their daily morning routine when 41 year old Suzzane Hart entered an elevator, which closed on her. Her leg and foot were caught instantly as the elevator shot up, dragging her body into the shaft between the first and second floors. She was killed immediately.

Two other women who were in the elevator watched the entire scene in horror and are being treated for psychological trauma but were not physically injured, according to Fire Department officials.

Hart worked for Y&R advertising agency, which is one of many companies working in the 25 story office tower near Grand Central. The building was built in the 1920s.

The Fire Department and the Buildings Department were on the scene and caused quite the stir among the tenants and pedestrians passing by.

To anyone that works in an office building, this is their worst fear. Especially when elevators are meant to be trusted, inspected, and transport you up to as many as sixty floors!

If you know a loved one that has been injured or wrongfully killed in a mishap, contact the attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Toxic Fumes Leaves One Employee Dead

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70945 — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

In Theresa, WI, one man was accidentally killed and another was hospitalized after inhaling toxic chemicals while working at Vivid Image, Inc.

Vivid is a small business, owned by Thomas Persha, the hospitalized victim. The business manufactures screens for televisions and other video equipment. It is believed that Persha and another employee, Roman Torres, were mixing chemicals when the fumes accidentally leaked out in the process.

The two men were found unconscious by Persha’s wife, who had been calling the office for hours with no answer. When the paramedics came, they discovered Torres dead and Persha unconsious with extensive chemical burns and toxic fume inhalation.

Persha had to be decontaminated at the scene before being transferred to the hospital, where he is in stable condition. The owner of Vivid authorized an environmental services company to decontaminate the facility.

Meanwhile, the OSHA is investigating the reason behind the leak. Toxic chemicals like Toluene, Screen Coating, and Paraloid B were discovered at the scene. These dangerous chemicals can lead to comatose and death, which was the case with Torres.

It turns out that Vivid, Inc. had a similar situation a couple years ago at the same business. A UPS delivery guy discovered two men unconscious at the address and called 911. The incident was classified only as an ambulance call.

The question is, how safe are the safety procedures? According to the OSHA, because Vivid Image is a small-time operation, with just two employees, many federal safety reporting rules don’t apply, including documentation of work related incidents.

Because of this lack of procedure, the OSHA did not know about the past incident. They have said that had they known, they would have investigated the business and its safety hazards.

Luckily, Vivid had registered the chemicals it stored at its facility and had a pre-plan on file with local authorities, which was a key factor in the rescue response. In the pre-plan, it states what chemicals were in the building and what it’s used for. It was available to the firefighters and rescue workers so they know what to expect. Unfortunately, a lot of businesses don’t make a complete list, which is why the OSHA does semi-annual inspections.

The inspections can be rather invasive which is why a lot of small business owners do not report injury incidents, nor do they have to, according to the current law.

If you or anyone you know has been a victim of toxic chemical inhalation, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Children Suffer Long Term Effects After Head Trauma

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70715 — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to a new study, children who have had a concussion or other traumatic brain injury are more likely to develop severe headaches for up to a year, more so than children with any other bodily injury.

Horseplay and rough housing are a leading factor in head injuries among kids. More than half a million children go to the hospital each year for head injuries. Because there is a lack of treatment, results can lead to long-term problems, such as insomnia, headaches, lack of focus in school, the dropping out of extracurricular activities, and tempers.

Heidi Blume, of Seattle Children’s Research Institute, recently tracked the progress of kids that came into the emergency room with a brain injury. 402 were mild and 60 were severe. When comparing the patients to other children that came in with an arm injury, Blume’s team discovered that three months after the injury, 43 out of 100 with mild injuries complained of headaches, 37 out of 100 with severe injuries complained of headaches, and 26 out of 100 with arm injuries complained of headaches.

It is a startling conclusion. Children with mild brain injuries were more likely to have headaches than those who suffered severely. It is unclear as to why, but it has been noted in the past before. Barlow speculated that there might be something about the mild and severe trauma that interferes with the mechanisms of sensing pain in the brain, but researchers haven’t gotten to the bottom yet.
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Another thing that was discovered was that the risk for having headaches after a head injury was especially pronounced among girls than boys. Girls with a mild injury were more than twice as likely to have headaches regardless of the type of injury. Blume stated that girls might be more likely to speak up about their headaches, but doesn’t think it can all be chalked up to that, there’s something else going on.

After all, women are more likely to suffer migraines than men, which might be due to hormone levels and perhaps hormones play a role with headaches after head trauma too.

There are few ways to treat children suffering from headaches after head trauma. No studies to guide treatments of post-traumatic headaches in children have happened, which usually results in the doctor telling the parent to offer rest and hydration.

Industrial Worker Killed By Crane In Port Of Houston

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70652 — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

This morning, the Port of Houston was at a silence after one of their workers accidentaly died in an industrial mishap in the Barbours Cut Container Terminal on East Barbours Cut Boulevard in Morgan’s Point, TX.

The unidentified worker was hit by a crane, which severed both of his legs. He was taken to Bayshore Medical Center in Pasadena where he was pronounced dead from the injury.

Investigators are trying to figure out why the wrongful death occurred. Certain facts about who was behind the crane and why the victim was in its path is not known at this time, but workers who operate heavy cranes are told to be aware of workers walking below, especially at night.

The worker was a member of the International Longshoremen's Association union, which seems likely to be a heavy voice as the investigation grows.

Whether this tragedy was an unavoidable work accident or if it is another case of not following proper safety protocols, work deaths happen every day due to negligence.

If you or anyone you know has been injured or killed in a work accident, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

18 Wheeler Crash On The Katy Freeway

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70656 — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Katy Freeway saw an incredible happening early Monday morning. An 18 wheeler hit a concrete divider, causing the cab to completely separate from the rest of the semi. The driver and a passenger were pinned against the pillar while the rest of the semi skidded down the freeway and exploded.

The 18 wheeler accident happened on the Katy Freeway eastbound near the Taylor street exit. It’s expected that weather and speed was a factor in the crash. The driver lost control on the wet surface, creating an inevitable circumstance.

Both the driver and the passenger were cut out of the cab by firefighters.

Debris littered the freeway as the morning rush hour came in. Both directions of the freeway were closed and the inbound lanes were opened just after 7:30am.

It is said that the two patients should not have survived such a remarkable crash, but miraculously they were in stable condition when they were transported to Ben Taub Hospital.

Poor weather conditions are a huge factor when dealing with car accidents, but speeding never should be. Every day, there are cases where people aren’t so lucky. Negligent or distracted drivers play a giant role in car accident deaths.

If you or anyone you know has been injured or killed by a negligent driver, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Model And Editor Gets Sliced By Airplane Propellers

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70658 — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Lauren Scruggs, model and creator of the online fashion magazine “Lolo,” is recovering from several surgeries at Parkland Hospital in Dallas after she walked into moving propellers from a small two seat aircraft at a private airport in McKinney, TX.

Scruggs was returning from a flight to watch Christmas lights with a friend when she accidentally walked into the propeller. She sliced the left side of her face which damaged her facial nerves, which control her smile, her brow, and opening and closing her eye. Her collarbone was broken, her skull was fractured, and her left hand was so damaged that doctors had to amputate it.

A roaring outcry of support has spread for Lauren’s family. The Scruggs family has said that they have faith she will make it through.

Meanwhile, an immense investigation is starting with why Scruggs was able to exit the plane when pilots are told not to allow passengers to exit while the propellers are still moving. The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating and has said that Scruggs should never have been able to exit the plane.

Unless the pilot was keeping the plane idle while Scruggs was switching places with the passenger, there was no reason anyone should have exited.

Time will tell where the investigation goes. If you or anyone you know has been injured by an accident due to negligence, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Nautilus Recalls 10,000 Schwinn 460 Ellipticals

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70563 — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to the U.S Product Safety Commission, Nautilus, Inc. has issued a recall for about 10,000 ellipticals with the model name Schwinn 460.

Nautilus, Inc. is located in Vancouver, Washington and has developed such products like Bowflex, PEARL iZUMi, Schwinn Fitness, StairMaster, Trimline, and Universal. For over 30 years, they have been supplying exercise machines marketed as applying greater resistance in motions where muscles are strongest, reaping better results.

The Schwinn 460 was proved to be dangerously defected when one consumer was working out on the machine and the foot plate detached, causing him to strike his knee. Nine other similar reports have been documented.

For $1,000 consumers could buy the Schwinn 460 online and in selected stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods between July 2008 and May 2011.

Consumers are supposed to trust the makers of their products to deliver a safe and reliable product, and when it shows to be defective, the consumers have a right to know.

If you or anyone you know has been affected by a defective product, contact the attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll free: 888-473-1258.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed In Federal Court For Maintenance Worker

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70432 — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A wrongful death lawsuit has been filed on behalf of Nolan Phillip Knoblock, a maintenance worker who was killed by a broken overhead crane on Oct. 30, 2010. The case was moved to federal court in New Orleans last week.

Knoblock was changing a light bulb in the West Bridge area of the LOOP Marine Terminal and was using the West Bridge Overhead Crane as a work platform to gain access to the light when the crane unexpectedly moved forward, pinning Knoblock between the crane and cable tray.

Employees tried to free Knoblock, but despite their efforts, he died as a result from the work incident.

After LOOP conducted their own investigation to the cause, it was found that a wiring problem in the crane was the cause for its defectiveness.

The Knoblock family filed the lawsuit against Offshore Process Services Inc., Konecranes Inc., Donavan Meyer Associates Inc., Oil States Martec Crane Services Inc., Oil States MCS Inc. and Oil States Industries Inc. for failing to complete a thorough inspection of the crane, claiming that the crane was safe without completing an adequate inspection, despite the fact that the wiring problem existed, and for failing to alert LOOP and other entities of the problem.

The plaintiffs are asking for an award of damages for medical expenses, loss of services and support, loss of society, care and affection, grief and mental anguish, punitive damages, interest, court costs and an award of damages for Nolan Knoblock's conscious pain and suffering prior to death.

No one should be victim to equipment malfunction, though many jobs are exposed to such negligence. If you or any one you know has been a victim of a work accident, contact the attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation on how we may help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Mississippi School Bus Gets Hit By 18 Wheeler

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70397 — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

On Friday, twenty students were on their way to school in their local school bus when their driver, blind from the sun, pulled out in front of an 18-wheeler and was hit in the rear, flipping the school bus on its side.

The school bus carried 20 students and all were injured. One female student was air lifted to University Medical Center in Jackson and others were being treated at Tyler Holmes Memorial Hospital in Winona.

It was reported Friday evening that two students are in critical condition, three are in stable condition, and two were treated or discharged.

It is unknown how some of these injuries may have long term effects as they begin to heal, the ages of the students ranged from elementary to high school. In children, injuries tend to heal quicker.

School bus accidents are rare. When they happen, entire communities are affected. Since most School Buses do not have seat belts, it is more likely that when an accident like this does happen, riders are in more danger.

If you or anyone you love has been victim to a bus accident or 18 wheeler accident, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll free: 888-473-1258

Honda Motor Has Highest Recall Ever This Year

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70400 — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

In 2011, Honda Motor Co. has recalled more than 3.2 million vehicles, 2.7 million have been for defective air bags, and 1.5 million have been to find hundreds replacement parts. It is Honda’s largest recall in history.

Today, The fifth separate recall since 2008 has been issued, expanding to 876,000 in the United States, all for air bag problems which has been linked to two deaths, including 18-year-old Ashley Parham, who died in May 2009 when metal shards hit her after the air bag deployed in her 2001 Accord

Honda says it will replace air bags in 217,779 vehicles issued in 2001-02, saying the air bags might inflate with too much pressure upon impact, causing it to rupture and shooting metal fragments through the bag cushion, injuring or killing the driver.

603,421 vehicles had been recalled to find 640 replacement parts, but it was extended 30,000 worldwide and another 270 replacement parts. This recall includes 2001-02 Accord, 2001-03 Civic, 2001-03 Odyssey, 2002-03 CR-V, 2003 Pilot, 2002-03 Accura 3.2 TL, and 2003 Acura 3.2 CL vehicles.

The latest recall was prompted after a crash and injury in Florida by a Honda which wasn’t recalled. Honda has said that they are now confident they found all potentially faulty vehicles.

If you or anyone you know has been injured by a Honda, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.

Two Atlanta Contractors Dead From Boom Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70357 — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Two contractors are confirmed dead from a work accident in Atlanta after a cherry picker, in which they were on, toppled over and threw them over 40 feet to the cemented ground. The contractors were working outside an apartment complex, weatherproofing the side of the building.

According to Atlanta Fire Rescue, when the two contractors were attempting to move the lift to another location, it got stuck on a small curb. Upon trying to maneuver the lift around, it flipped over, dropping the workers 40-feet to the concrete. The heavy machine followed and landed close to them on the ground.

The crash was heard by everyone in the area and immediately caused a scene. One witness says he saw one of the contractors leg over the side of the bucket on the crane, the other was on the grass just barely moving.

After a series of 911 calls, the scene had a dozen fire fighters and numerous police officers. EMTs took the men to Grady Memorial Hospital where they died from their injuries.

Fulton County Medical Examiners appeared at the scene quickly and tried to configure the cause of the accident. Big cranes like these are supposed to be able to maneuver quite easily with two people in the bucket. Even if there is a lot of shaking and bouncing, the lift is supposed to handle situations like that.

If you or anyone you know has been injured at work due to defective or unsafe equipment, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll Free: 888-473-1258

Ice And Fog Causes 50 Car Pile Up In Hendersonville, TN

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70381 — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

In Hendersonville, TN, fifty drivers were victim to the heavy fog when one tiny created an incredible 50 car pile-up on Vietnam Veterans Parkway, killing one person and injuring seventeen.

It all started just before 7am yesterday morning, when a car crashed into a mail truck as it turned on a curved overpass, which had a thin layer of ice on it. Combined with the fog, prevention was nearly impossible for the cars behind to stop in time. One driver stated that the fog was so thick, once you hit the car in front of you all you could do is stare in your rear view mirror and hold on tight for the other car to hit you.

After crashing, most of the drivers got out of their cars to check if any of their parties were injured. They walked to the front, trying to find the beginning of the pile up, discovering it was nearly impossible in the thick fog to see that crashed cars were lined up for nearly a mile.

Among the victims, 28-year old Paul Jackson Warren was killed when his Toyota slammed into an 18-wheeler. Warren was a newlywed.

The weather just before the crash dropped to 25 degrees, which is why there was so much ice around the highway. But questions are rising to whether it was mother nature or a negligence with the highway itself.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, contact the experienced lawyers at V&B for free information and a free evaluation on how we can help. Toll Free: 888-473-1258

Lone Star Motorcycle Rally in Galveston Leaves 3 Riders Dead

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)70135 — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Lone Star Motorcycle Rally in Galveston, Texas, brought an estimated half-million bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts to the area at the beginning of November, providing a great boost to the local economy. However, the Houston Chronicle reported that three bikers were killed in Texas motorcycle accidents during the rally while three others were injured.

On Friday, 51-year-old Houston resident Guy Dale Stratton may have failed to stop at a stop sign before striking the broad side of a school bus. The man, who was not wearing a motorcycle helmet, is in critical but stable condition.
Later that evening, a 34-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman were riding a Harley-Davidson on I-45 in Galveston when the driver struck a curb and crashed the bike. Witnesses said the bike was speeding and that the riders were not wearing helmets. Both were pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.
On Saturday, 19-year-old Mathew Taylor crashed his motorcycle into a pickup truck at the intersection of 51st Street and Harborside Drive. Taylor was killed in the bike crash, in which speed may have been a factor.
On Sunday, a 44-year-old female rider from Rosharon suffered a traumatic brain injury when her motorcycle collided with another motorcycle on Seawall Boulevard.
Later that evening, 57-year-old Michael Brett suffered a head injury on FM 3005. According to reports, the man was traveling at a very high rate of speed and attempting to change lanes when he struck the rear of a pickup truck.

While the vast majority of motorcycle riders attending the Lone Star Bike Rally had a safe and fun weekend, we cannot stress enough how important it is for everyone on the road to be aware, be safe, and follow the rules of the road during these large events.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Texas motorcycle accident, call our Houston personal injury attorneys today.

One Boy Killed, One Injured in Port Bolivar Halloween Accident

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)70133 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Two sixth-grade boys were struck by a pickup truck on Halloween in Galveston County as they attempted to cross the street to attend an event at the Port Bolivar Volunteer Fire Department. One boy, 12-year-old Ernesto Rodriguez, was killed in the Texas pedestrian accident while his friend, 11-year-old Christian Balderrama, was seriously injured in the Halloween traffic accident.

According to the Galveston County Sheriff's Office, the boys were riding in the back of a pickup truck on the way to a Halloween party, driven by Balderrama’s father. The driver stopped the truck on Loop 108 while waiting to turn into the Fire Department’s driveway. They boys jumped out of the stopped truck and ran across the street, where they were hit by an oncoming vehicle driven by a 52-year-old Beaumont man.

Grief counselors were available at Crenshaw Elementary School in Crystal Beach to help the boys’ classmates cope with the situation; a Sheriff’s Office spokesman reminded parents that while it is legal for children to ride in the back of pickup trucks, it is not the safest option.

At Vujasinovic & Beckcom, we would like to add that parents, children, and all drivers on the streets in Texas on Halloween should be especially vigilant for pedestrians. Halloween remains the deadliest night of the year for pedestrians around the country, though many of the tragedies that take place on this holiday could have been prevented.

If your family has been affected by a Halloween pedestrian accident in Port Bolivar or a traffic accident anywhere in Texas, you may need legal assistance. Contact the Texas personal injury attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom today to schedule a free, private meeting.

Groves Man Dies in On-the-Job Tractor Accident in Jefferson County

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)70136 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

An apparent on-the-job accident in Texas left a tractor operator dead last week in Jefferson County.

According to the Beaumont Enterprise, 34-year-old Enrique Aguilar of Groves, Texas was mowing an area near South China Road on Monday, November 14, when the tractor he was riding slid off of a levee and into a canal, perhaps overturning on top of him.

Aguilar was last seen on Monday morning at about 7:30 a.m. Someone spotted and reported the overturned tractor that afternoon, and emergency responders were at the scene soon after. At 5:40 p.m., the Beaumont Fire-Rescue dive team recovered the body of the man, who was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. His death was listed as an accidental drowning.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office stated that there will be an investigation into the fatal Texas tractor accident. It is currently unclear who Aguilar was employed by at the time of the rollover.

Sadly, rollover accidents are all too common for tractor operators in Texas – and these accidents often result in serious injury or death. If you or a loved one has been injured in an on-the-job tractor accident in Jefferson County or the surrounding area, speak to an attorney today about the details and cause of your worker accident. The Texas worker accident lawyers at Vujasinovic & Beckcom may be able to help you.

Elderly Couple Escapes Death From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70118 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 400 Americans die every year from accidental deaths by carbon monoxide poisoning, being most common in seniors 65 and older. 20,000 emergency room visits and 4,000 hospitalizations happen every year as well.

In Dallas, two senior citizens were victims of carbon monoxide poisoning. Richard and Margaret Harrington escaped death last Friday when their furnace started leaking odorless carbon monoxide gas while they slept.

Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer. It binds the red blood cells making it difficult for oxygen to circulate in the body. People who are sleeping may die from carbon monoxide poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms, which include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.

When the Harrington’s daughter tried calling repeatedly with no answer, she drove to their home to discover her mother moaning and crying in bed, having difficulty talking. Her father was slumped over in a chair in another bedroom.

During the trip to the hospital, Richard Harrington had two heart attacks. His liver and kidneys failed and he was in a coma for four days. When a person is short of oxygen, it is common for organs to shut down.

Richard Harrington finally opened his eyes Friday afternoon, the day after Thanksgiving. His family was around him at the time. Margaret Harrington escaped serious bodily shut downs and was present in the room, fearful that they would have to turn his machines off. Though Harrington’s eyes have opened, it is still no guarantee that he will recover.

Carbon Monoxide poisoning is extremely common and very preventable injury. If you or someone you know has been victim of carbon monoxide poisoning, contact the attorneys at V&B for a free evaluation and free information on how we may help.

Fortworth Teen Dead In Car Crash

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70012 — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

In Fort Worth, 17-year-old Christian Hernandez was riding in the backseat of a Chevrolet Cobalt. According to police, the 19-year-old driver was going down a hill when she lost control on the wet road. It had started to rain a few minutes prior to the accident.

The car clipped a minivan, hit a retaining wall, rolled onto its right side, hit a parked car in the driveway, and crashed into the garage of a house. The garage was converted into a room, where a woman was sleeping. The roof collapsed and caused the woman minor injuries.

Hernandez was taken to John Peter Smith Hospital and was pronounced dead at 1:34 am on Saturday. The four remaining people in the car were not seriously injured.

According to neighbors, a sign warning drivers to slow down on the hill was obscured by tree branches.

If you or anyone you know has been injured or killed in an accident, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for a free evaluation and free information on how we may help.

Texas Firefighter Loses Arm Thanksgiving Morning

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70014 — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

On Thanksgiving morning, volunteer firefighter Kimberly Huckabee was backed over by an 18-Wheeler which caused her left arm to be amputated and a few fingers from her right hand chopped off.

Huckabee arrived on the scene to assist in directing traffic after an oil tank truck driver fell asleep at the wheel on SH 105, striking two culverts, causing the truck to explode.

Huckabee was directing traffic several miles away on SH 105 near Pinewood cut-off when the 18-wheeler tried to turn around, backing into her. The tanker carried 6,700 gallons of crude, which set fire and was allowed to burn while several firefighters stood by.

Huckabee still remains in the ICU of a Beaumont hospital. Her left arm was amputated, she received heavy head trauma, and doctors are attempting to reconnect several fingers from her right hand.

Family and Friends have since established an assistance fund at Community Bank where donations can be made to help Huckabee, who was also a Medic with Hardin County.

If you or anyone you know has been severely injured or killed by negligent tank drivers, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and a free evaluation.

Jury Trial Set For Eleven Year Old's Wrongful Death

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)70016 — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A jury trial has been set by a Superior Court judge regarding the wrongful death suit of 11-year old Alyssa Squirrell, reports the Orange County Register.

Squirrell was killed in a training accident in the Huntington Beach Junior Lifeguards program on July 14, 2009, making her the first accidental death in the program since 1964.

During a training exercise about 100 yards out in the ocean, Squirrell was one of 25 Junior Lifeguards. The exercise required them to swim to the boat, climb on board, and when the boat started to drive, they were then to jump back into the water.

Unfortunately, Squirrell and one other girl did not make it back when the boat started to circle. Squirrell was struck by the boat and suffered deep lacerations to her hips and legs.

The young girl's death prompted a wave of support for the family, the city employees involved, and the program that many residents have said is a much-loved part of the community.

The family's lawsuit does not say how much compensation they are seeking. Both the family and the city are expected to meet in April for a required settlement conference.

If you or someone you know has been wrongfully injured or killed, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and a free evaluation on how we may help.

Country Band Sugarland Gets Hit By Lawsuit

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69795 — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The famous country band Sugarland was hit by a lawsuit, filed Tuesday in Marion Superior Court in Indianapolis. So far, 48 plaintiffs have been attached with 7 wrongful deaths in the forefront. It is said that they are seeking a jury trial, according to the Associated Press.

On August 13th, Sugarland was minutes away from performing a concert at the fairgrounds in Indianapolis when a gust of wind that exceeded 60 miles per hour caused the stage to collapse, killing seven people and injuring dozens of passionate fans. Video of the collapse spread rapidly across the internet and is most likely going to be used as evidence for trial.

According to the lawsuit, Sugarland and other parties involved in the concert had a duty to make it a safe environment and were in breach of reasonable care. One of the lawyers for the plaintiffs has said that the band had the final decision about whether the show should go on, adding: “Unfortunately, this tragedy could have been prevented if the responsible parties had been concerned about the concertgoers that night.”

22-year old Caitlyn Kahlenbeck is the latest person to join the lawsuit. Kahlenbeck suffered a closed brain injury from a cut to the back of her head, a broken collarbone which required two surgeries, broken ribs that punctured her lungs, a fractured eye socket, and cuts and bruises. She spent 10 days in the hospital and according to her lawyer, she still has a long road to go.

The attorneys have commented about the investigations saying it has revealed many people were responsible, and a lot of research has gone into the lawsuit, including on-site studies by engineers and weather experts.

Kahlenbeck had hoped to move to an out-of-state college, but her injuries have delayed those plans. She has not been able to drive and has had limited mobility as she recovers.

This is just one story out of 48 people attached to the case. The states liability for damages from the incident is capped at $5 million under state law.

Sugarland did not comment on the lawsuit, however they did play a free concert in Indianapolis to make up for the missed show and to help raise money for the victims.

If you or anyone you know has been severely injured due to negligent judgment, contact the lawyers at V&B for a free evaluation and free information regarding your situation.

Robotics May Change The Future With Spinal-Cord Injury Victims

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69802 — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

It sounds like something out of a Science Fiction movie, but it could be the very thing that will change the lives of nearly 250,000 Americans living with a spinal-cord injury.

The development of robotics and computer microchips are offering new possibilities to help patients move around and become more independent than any other invention has before.

One of the newest products is ReWalk. This new motorized exoskeleton is a new revolutionary product designed to help immobilized people walk again. The patient wears a small computer and a remote control on their wrist to give commands to the suit, telling it to stand, sit, walk, etc. The feedback is received from motion sensors at the joints.

ReWalk has shown great results on the select few that have been being used as “test-drivers.” These patients have had neck or back injuries, causing them paralysis in the spinal-cord. In just a few try outs, patients have been greatly changed by the new technology.

Another revolutionary product is the Tongue Drive System. It’s an operating system that works through a tiny magnet piercing the tongue. Tongue Drive System is geared for patients who are paralyzed and have no use of their arms and legs, making it nearly impossible to move a wheelchair.

The Tongue Drive System works by the patient touching different teeth to send commands through a headset to be processed by a smartphone. For example, to initiate a “right command”, they would hit their tooth on the right side with just a tap of the tongue.

For people who are in a wheelchair, this new technology is incredible. The potential it has to change lives is tremendous and most patients are anxiously waiting for the products to be launched.

The ReWalk is currently approved to be used in rehabilitation centers and is expected be ready for consumers in 2012.

Currently, a clinical trial is under way for patients to test the Tongue Drive System in their own homes.

It is unclear to tell right now if the products are completely safe to use, though they have been FDA approved. Only time will tell if this is the first in a brand new wave of robotic products, or if they are, in fact, too good to be true.

If you or anyone you know has had a spinal-cord injury, contact the attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation on how we may help.

Texas Family Sues for Wrongful Death After Reno Air Show Tragedy

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69546 — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Following the Reno air show tragedy that took place in September, the family of a Texas man has filed the first wrongful death lawsuit in connection with the plane crash.

According to local news sources, the family of Craig Salerno has filed a Texas wrongful death lawsuit against the Reno Air Racing Association. They stated that the crash was an avoidable accident caused by the negligence of the pilot, the crew, and the organization that put on the event. In addition, the family is suing a collection of mechanics and designers who altered the World War II plane in order to make it faster and more powerful.

The air show accident took place when an antique plane lost a trim tab or a piece of its tail during flight, causing the aircraft to suddenly dive into the stands filled with spectators. Ten people were killed in the crash and many more suffered an array of injuries. Salerno, a Houston employee of Continental Airlines and a father of two young children, was believed to have been killed instantly in the crash.

The Reno Air Racing Association did not comment on the wrongful death lawsuit, except to say that they expect other families and injury victims to file claims as well.

Have you lost a loved one due to the negligence or recklessness of someone else? Speak to our knowledgeable Houston wrongful death attorneys today by calling 877-724-7800.

Florida Interstate Worker Killed By Negligent Teen

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69692 — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Steven Arthur Morgan was pronounced dead at the scene of an accident after he was struck by a car driven by 18 year old Brandon Joseph Conti on I-75 on the evening of November 23rd.

Morgan was an employee of DBI, a company contracted to do interstate maintenance. While fixing an earlier fender bender accident, Morgan was working in the southbound emergency lanes of I-75 when Conti was distracted and tried to avoid the traffic which was stopped due to the earlier accident and lost control of his car.

Conti hit Morgan after striking the guide cable in the median and overturned, landing upright. A passenger in the car, Tyler Lee Cutright, was ejected from the car and flown to Blake Trama Center for serious injuries.

The Florida Highway Patrol found Morgan dead at the scene.

Drivers can make stupid mistakes, especially when it comes to avoiding traffic, but that doesn’t mean that the victims and the families of victims should be held responsible.

If you or anyone you know has been injured or killed by negligent driving, contact the injury attorneys at V&B for a free evaluation.

Loyola Study Shows Smoke Inhalation Leads To Respiratory Failure

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69594 — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Smoke Inhalation has been described as one of the leading causes of death in fire victims. In fact, respiratory failure is now the most common cause of death at burn centers.

60 – 80% of fire-related deaths in the United States have been because of smoke inhalation and thermal injuries. The biggest surprise is that many could have been prevented. Currently, in hospitals around the country, burn victims have received excellent care for surface burns, however the deaths of respiratory injuries have been increasing.

The dangerous aftermath is lurking deep within the lungs of burn victims, and diagnosis of inhalation injuries are not always straightforward. Symptoms may be delayed until 24 – 36 hours after the injury occurred.

In the United States, about 40,000 people are hospitalized for burn injuries each year. As many as 20 percent of fire victims also have smoke-inhalation injuries.

Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine has published a study in the November Issue of Critical Care Medicine. The study, lead by Senior Author Elizabeth J. Kovacs, PhD and First Author Joslyn M. Albright, MD, shows the severe role that smoke inhalation injuries play in the overall respiratory system.

Researchers at Loyola conducted an observational study of 60 burn patients. The patients were ranked by Grade, 0 (no injury) to 4 (massive injury). The results of the study were staggering

One of the biggest concerns was Inflammation. Inflammation occurs after a victim inhales smoke. When this happens, proteins are released which can trigger wound healing. However, too much inflammation will damage healthy tissue.

Researchers examined proteins called cytokines contained in fluid flushed out of the patients’ lungs. Upon examining 28 cytokines associated with inflammation, it was found that 21 were at their highest in patients with the most severe smoke inhalation injuries.

The patients who have the lowest smoke inhalation injuries (Grades 1 or 2) spent around seven days on the ventilator, while patients with high inhalation injuries (Grades 3 or 4) spent around 23 days on the ventilator.

Digging deeper, researchers also found that patients with low inhalation injuries spent around 13 days in intensive care, while high inhalation injuries spent about 24 days.

Thirty-three percent of low-inhalation-injury patients required a tracheotomy, compared with 52 percent of high-inhalation-injury patients.

Researchers wrote that their findings could "serve the purpose of better understanding the biological mechanisms behind smoke inhalation injury."

Smoke inhalation deaths have been around since the first century, and most of the time we don’t know it is there, which is why it is important for anyone who has been in a fire accident to have a respiratory exam.

If you or anyone you know has been a victim of dangerous smoke inhalation, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for information and a free evaluation.

Galveston County Woman Seeks Damages After Texas City Car Accident

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)69545 — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Texas City woman has filed a lawsuit against a Hitchcock man after a car accident that the woman claims was caused by inattention and distracted driving. The Texas personal injury lawsuit was filed in Galveston County this week, though the automobile accident took place last fall.

According to the Southeast Texas Record, Belinda Caldwell was driving on Texas Avenue when Roberto Vela was on 28^th Street, attempting to turn onto the road. Vela allegedly turned in front of Caldwell without looking at approaching traffic. Caldwell’s vehicle was damaged and she was injured in the crash.

Caldwell is seeking $80,000 in damages, claiming that Vela was driving with a suspended license, failed to avoid a collision, failed to control the speed of his vehicle, and failed to yield to oncoming traffic.

Sadly, distracted driving and driver inattention is one of the most common causes of Texas car accidents. It is important to note that drivers can be inattentive or distracted, even if they are not using a cell phone or otherwise occupied.

If you have been injured in a Texas City car accident that you believe was caused by driver inattention or distracted driving, call Vujasonic & Beckcom today to learn more about your case and speak with an experienced Houston personal injury attorney.

Chicago Construction Worker Dead From Accident

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69418 — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A demolition accident in the South Side of Chicago left a construction worker dead on Wednesday, November 16th.

What was supposed to be a routine work day turned fatal. The work-related accident happened when a piece of a heavy concrete beam and part of the ceiling fell onto a worker who was working on the top floor of the three-story building site. The fallen pieces left him with serious injuries.

When the emergency crews arrived, they pronounced him dead at the scene, reported NBC Chicago. No identity has been released at this time.

Reportedly, another man was also working on the top floor with the victim who was not injured.

The U.S Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are investigating the accident, particularly what caused the concrete beam and other material to fall. If the construction workers were working in an unsafe environment, the company can face serious consequences.

If you or a loved one has been injured at a construction site accident or by any work-related accident, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and a free evaluation.

Driver Runs A Red Light And Sends Three People To Hospital

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69260 — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

On Thursday, an accident on Almeda Road involving an Audi Sedan and a Ford Explorer left three people in the hospital.

According to police, the Ford Explorer was distracted and ran a red light, colliding with the Audi who was making a left turn on West Orem from Almeda Rd. They hit head on, instantly knocking out the engine from the Audi, which hit two cars.

The police were called around 1:45pm to find the cars almost completely torn apart and the drivers in dyer condition.

The driver of the Ford Explorer that ran the red light was a female, unnamed, who was rushed to the hospital. The driver of the Audi, also female, had a male passenger in the car with her. Both of them were rushed to the hospital as well. Police had stated that at least two of the people were in critical condition, though it is not clear who.

The crash left debris on Almeda which caused the road to remain blocked to northbound traffic for several hours.

Every day we hear stories of bad drivers. Drivers that don’t pay attention to what they are doing while on the road with other drivers and risking their lives by careless judgments. Running red lights is a serious matter. If you are a victim or know someone that has been affected by a person that has ran a red light, contact the lawyers at V&B for a free evaluation today.

18-Wheeler Crash Kills Driver And Shuts Down I-20 Eastbound

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69193 — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

35-year-old Andrew Mayfield from Beckvile, TX died Thursday morning. At around 4:30 am Mayfeld was driving his 18 Wheeler when it hit the back of another 18 Wheeler truck at the cross section bridge of I-20 and FM 31, in Harrison County. Both 18-Wheelers were headed east.

Following impact, Mayfield flew from his truck, killing him instantly. The other driver was not injured and called 9-1-1 just as the trucks caught fire. It is unclear if the cause was problems with the road or reckless driving.

The crash seriously damaged the overpass as well as the cement columns that divide the lanes, which the trucks hit after impact. Emergency crews put out the fire and worked for more than six hours to clear the scene. The inside lane of I-20 will remain shutdown while engineers fix the overpass.

DPS Trooper Jimmy Benton was at the scene, “When we got out here the truck was still on fire, both on top and down below so we had two different fires burning. We got the Dept. of Transportation inspecting the integrity of the bridge, to make sure it was going to be safe for traffic to pass and also we have the accident reconstruction team in here reconstructing the accident.”

One of the columns that holds the bridge up sustained tremendous damage and structural engineers are inspecting the bridge and the fire on top of the road.

The construction is going to be extremely time strenuous on the busy Interstate, making drivers concerned for when they will be finished. Investigators have said that the lane will most likely be shutdown till Christmas.

The body of Andrew Mayfield was taken to Down’s Funeral Home in Marshall, TX. Officials have stated that during the time of the accident, Mayfield was wearing his seatbelt.

18-Wheelers are monsters of the road. They can be vicious, they can be extreme, and they can be deadly. If you have been a victim of an 18-Wheeler crash or know someone that has died because of a crash, contact the attorneys at V&B for free information on how you can be helped.

Worker Loses Arm On Vessel In Milwaukee

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69146 — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

On Saturday, 60 year old Superior Ronald L. Hackensmith was working alone on a ship docked in Milwaukee when his arm was chopped off by a conveyer belt, getting completely severing it all the way up to the shoulder.

The ship was the SS St. Mary’s Challenger, which had more than 9,000 tons of cement. Hackensmith was working by himself near the conveyer belt, three decks below the main deck when the work-related accident happened around 9:15pm.

According to the ship logs, there was a hydraulic oil leak. Hackensmith knew of the leak and had asked other crew members to shut down the engine and restart it. After the crew members had done what he said, Hackensmith requested yet another shutdown which the log failed to show. Though it is known that the engine was restarted and running when Hackensmith was injured.

Investigators have listed the suggested manner of death as an accident, however Milwaukee police are investigating deeper.

If you relate to this story or know someone that has been injured or killed while working on a vessel or ship at sea, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and help.

Top Ten Things You Should Know About Concussions

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69034 — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

For the 24th Annual Dolan Lecture at Virginia Hospital last week, Dr. Richard Glenn Ellenbogen spoke on behalf of concussion awareness since the hospital plans to open its own concussion center in 2012.

Dr. Richard Glenn Ellenbogen is a professor and chairman of the Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of Washington School of Medicine and has worked for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In March 2010, Ellenbogen became a co-chair for the NFL’s Head, Neck, and Spine Medical Committee.

When the NFL was spotlighted by Congress in May 2010, Ellenbogen and his colleagues had to make fast changes to policies regarding concussions and how they should be treated.

According to the CDC, 1.7 million traumatic brain injuries happen per year in the U.S. It is because of these new guidelines and precautions, Ellenbogen states, that more concussions are being reported.

To help you recognize the symptoms and prevent injuries in sports, Ellenbogen listed ten facts about concussions everyone should know:

1. Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

When a concussion occurs, the brain shakes violently against the skull. This can alter the way your brain normally works. Immediate symptoms may include blurred vision, nausea or vomiting, and fatigue.

2. Concussions are prevalent in every sport, should you play one.

The highest rate of reported concussions in the NCAA is not in football, but in women’s ice hockey, at .90 per 1,000 athletes. On the other hand, the reported concussion rate was .04 for football players.

3. Wheel Sports and Cycling are among the top sports to experience concussions.

Football, playgrounds, running and falling, and soccer, in that order, represent the next most common causes.

4. The “How many fingers am I holding up?” test is no longer valid.

Just because one can correctly answer this question does not mean he or she is okay. An exam should last at least seven to eight minutes. Ask them to repeat a set of words or digits backwards.

5. When in doubt, sit them out.

Even if an athlete seems fine and is not exhibiting any signs or symptoms of a concussion after a collision, it’s best to keep him or her off the field or court, anyway. Do not assume the role of a health-care professional when you’re evaluating the athlete. Coaches and parents should take note of the athlete’s immediate behavior and symptoms to help the health-care professional during the examination.

6. Severely concussed athletes may have lingering symptoms for 21 days or more.

A study found that boys’ soccer and girls’ volleyball had the highest rates of severe concussions, at 11.8 and 8.9 percent, respectively.

7. Concussions can have a poor effect on a student’s academic performance.

Ellenbogen recalled a young female patient who came to him after suffering three concussions in one year. The once straight-A student was now receiving D’s on her tests and papers. Why? According to the CDC, potentially severe effects of TBIs include problems with attention and memory, as well as depression, anxiety, and personality changes.

8. Some form of the Lystedt Law has been passed in 33 states.

The Lystedt Law requires any youth showing signs of concussion to be examined and cleared by a licensed health-care provider before being allowed to return to play. The law was named after Zackery Lystedt, who at age 13 was severely injured after sustaining a concussion during a football game and returning to the field after being sidelined for just three plays. Ellenbogen helped develop the law in Washington, which was the first state to pass such a law.

9. Males are more likely to suffer concussions than females.

However, concussed females are more likely to report their injuries and take longer to recover. More research needs to be done on the gender differences in concussions, Ellenbogen says, including whether one’s head size, neck strength, or hormones have any influence on concussions.

10. A database of reported concussions in youth and professional sports is in the works.

With a database, professionals will be able to do more research on the effects of the injuries, particularly on the increased risk of developing dementia, Parkinson’s, and other brain disorders later in life.

Concussions are a serious and sometimes fatal event if left untreated. If you feel like you or someone you know has been affected by a serious concussion, with or without any affiliation with sports, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information on how we can help.

Kotex Tampons Recall 1,400 Cartons For Infectious Bacteria

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)69048 — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Kimberly-Clark Corporation has recalled over 1,400 cartons of Kotex tampons for defects.

Tests have shown that the plastic tubing in these particular cartons contain the bacterium Enterobacter Sakazakii. Dangerous infections can occur after usage. The bacteria can cause problems ranging from vaginal infections to pelvic inflammatory disease, and possible “potentially life-threatening infections.”

Women with immune-compromised conditions such as HIV are at higher risk, according to MyHealthNewsDaily. The report also included a detailed breakdown of locations which received the potentially infected product.

The impacted product includes both 18-count and 36-count packages of the Kotex Natural Balance Security Unscented Tampons Regular Absorbency which was shipped to retail customers between October 29, 2011 and November 2, 2011 in specific Walmart stores in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico and Texas; specific Fry’s stores in Arizona; and specific Smith’s stores in Utah and Arizona.

Kimberly-Clark Corp. has stated in a press release that all stores have been notified of this recall and were instructed to remove the product from their shelves, also stating that consumer should contact a physician immediately if they have used the impacted product and experienced unusual vaginal discharge, rash, fever, headace, vomiting or abdominal aches. It’s a higher risk if they are HIV positive, have AIDS, cancer, an existing serious illness or may be pregnant. If a consumer has the impacted product and are using them still, they must stop immediately.

If you think that you are a victim of this bacterial infection or know of someone that may be, contact the experienced attorneys at V&B for free information on how we can help.

Hawaiian Helicopter Crash Kills Pilot And 4 Passengers, 2 of Them Newlyweds

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)68717 — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of a touring helicopter crash, which killed the pilot and his four passengers.

Among the dead were Michael and Nicole Abel, who had just married five days prior and were on their honeymoon. Two other unnamed passengers were touring from Ontario Canada were also on the chopper with Nathan Cline, a very experienced pilot.

The helicopter belonged to Blue Hawaiian, a company that gives over 160,000 helicopter tours a year for all the islands in the state. The helicopter was a touring chopper that was carrying the five people on an excursion of West Maui and Molokai when it went down near an Elementary School on Thursday.

The cause of the crash is yet to be known, but it is expected to be a result of bad weather.

When the helicopter crashed, it was immediately engulfed in flames. The bodies were recovered after the fire had died down inside the helicopter, just a quarter mile away from the Elementary School.

The owner of Blue Hawaiian, David Chevalier, said that the passengers were taking a 45-minute tour that departed from Kahului, on Maui. Nathan Cline who was piloting the chopper had a good reputation. In fact, he was a personal friend of the Mayer of Maui, Alan Arakawa. The pilot had taken Arakawa along with his team around the islands when they were having tsunami problems. According to Arakawa, the pilot was very experienced in dealing with dangerous situations.

The helicopter that crashed was an EC-130 chopper. It was less than a year old and was on lease from Nevada.

Touring helicopters have seen their share of crashes through the years over the tall mountains of Hawaii. In March 2007, four people died when a Heli-USA Airways helicopter crashed at Princeville Airport on Kauai. In 2005, a helicopter crashed into the ocean off the coast of Kauai. In 2004, five people were killed when a helicopter crashed into a mountain on Kauai.

If you know someone that has been injured or killed in a Helicopter crash, contact V&B for free information on how our experienced attorneys can help.

Mexico's Interior Minister, Francisco Blake Mora, Is Dead From Helicopter Crash

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)68729 — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Yesterday was a sad day in Mexico as the second most powerful official in the country, Francisco Blake Mora, was one of seven passengers killed in a helicopter crash. The helicopter was on its way to a prosecutor’s meeting in the neighboring state of Morelos. The chopper crashed on a green hillside just south of Mexico City.

According to a preliminary report by Mexico’s Civil Aviation Authority, there was no explosion or mechanical fault reported by the pilot that day. The report stated the pilot chose not to use radars or instruments that would be able to spot dangerous hurdles during the flight, which may have cause the wrongful deaths of eight people.

Mora was the Interior Minister working directly under Mexican President Felipe Calderon. As the front runner in the war of illegal drug cartels in Mexico, Mora dedicated his entire career to fighting against the deathly toll that has taken the lives of many Mexicans in the last five years.

“It was a very cloudy day and an accident looked probable.” President Calderon stated yesterday, “It was probably an accident.” In a televised address, Calderon stated that no explanations can be ruled out, saying that Mora was a “great Mexican.”

Among the powerful around the world that has expressed their grief, our own President Barak Obama called President Calderon saying he is “shocked and saddened” by the death of Mora and the seven others.

Meanwhile, rumors are quickly spreading about the irony that Mora is the third top security official under Calderon’s team to be killed in a government air accident. Though it could be down to a string of bad luck, one analyst is questioning the protocols the government takes when flying high officials. Another debate is up in the air claiming that the drug cartels have taken matters in their own hands.

According to the Communications and Transport Minister Dionisio Perez-Jacome, Mexico has requested help from the U.S National Transportation Safety Board as well as the French office that investigates Aviation Accidents.

The ministry is expected to give a news conference later on Saturday.

As the world mourns and questions the causes of Mora's death, we can also question the safety measures that pilots are taking when flying.

If you or anyone you know has been affected by negligent pilots or protocols, contact our experienced attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation on how you may be able to get answers.

Disney Is Found Partially Responsible For Death of Employee

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)68480 — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) concluded a two and half year investigation with Walt Disney Resorts regarding the wrongful death of 21-year-old employee, Austin Wuennenberg. The NTSB’s report was 14 pages long and tackled Disney from all angles, investigating the procedures and policies that could have been enforced which would have prevented the work related death of Wuennenberg.

Wuennenberg was operating a monorail train that was traveling on Epcot’s Loop Track and was shutting down for the night. At the same time, another train was transferring from the same track onto a Switch Beam, which required a controller to activate a track switch. The track switch was never engaged and the train kept going in reverse onto Wuennenberg’s path. The trains collided, killed Wuennenberg, and cost $24 million dollars in property damage.

Though NTSB’s report cited two negligent coordinators as the primary cause, it goes much deeper than that. The park is also at fault due to lack of standard operating procedures leading to unsafe practice when reversing trains.

For instance, the driver that operated the train that killed Wuennenberg never switched from the front to the back of the train when he was driving it in reverse, so to operate it more safely in a forward-facing position. The driver has said that it was not uncommon practice. Which made investigators question why would this kind of procedure be allowed?

Another note that the report investigated was Disney’s lack of requirement for the cooordinator to be in the control tower when directing the monorail systems. The tower has a grid showing the monorail beams’ alignment and an emergency shutdown switch that can stop all trains at any time. The switch could have saved Wuennenberg’s life had a coordinator been present in the tower.

Another thing that puzzled Investigators was that the Park does not require employees in the monorail shop to be responsible for operating the track switches. In the shop, there are video monitors that show the position of the switch beams. After interviewing many workers, they have said that the monitors are mainly used to verify a train is not on the beam before activating the switch – rather than using the monitors to verify the track had been realigned after the command was entered in the tower.

According to Greg Hale, the chief safety officer of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, upon reading the 14 page report from the NTSB, they have reviewed the monorail operations and have already started enhancing the system.

The death of Wuennenberg could have been easily prevented if proper safety precautions had been taken.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed because of a Work Related Accident, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and a free consultation on how we may help.

Subaru Issues Second Recall in Two Months For 2011 Outback and Legacy

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)68273 — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Subaru has recalled 69,590 of 2011 Outback and Legacy models due to a defect in the sunroof. According to Subaru’s report, the sunroof glass will loosen or totally detach itself from the moving vehicle, making the flying debris on the roadway extremely hazardous for the vehicle and other motorists driving beside. A crash is likely to occur if the detachment happens.

The vehicles that have been affected were produced between August 3, 2010 and July 1, 2011. Consumer Reports has stated that the reason the recall has been issued is because of improper assembly. The sunroof can detach due to the “amount and position of the adhesive between the glass” and the retainer is inadequately applied.

The auto manufacturer began notifying owners of the defect in October and said that Subaru dealers “will inspect the glass adhesion condition and either apply more adhesive or replace the glass for free.”

This is not the first time Subaru recalled the Outback and Legacy. Just last month, Subaru recalled 195,080 Outback and Legacy models manufactured between January 7, 2010 and May 20, 2011 for windshield wiper issues, saying “faulty components inside the wiper motor’s bottom cover could overheat.” If the bottom of the motorcover overheats, the windshield wipers will fail to work, making it difficult to see.

Subaru is expected to notify the owners to these vehicles by the end of this month.

Clearly, the Subaru Outback and Legacy continue to have problems, but recalling them can only do so much. A crash can always result when you least expect it and injuries happen. If you own a Subaru Outback or Legacy Model and feel like you may have been a victim, contact V&B for free information and a free evaluation of your case.

Fairview, TX Worker Dead From Poisonous Gas And 1 Missing In Sewer Line

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)68169 — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Last Thursday in Fairview, Texas, two contract workers for the North Texas Municipal Water District went down a wastewater collection line to remove a clog, finishing up a yearlong operation, when they were immediately overcome by poisonous gas fumes present in the line. According to sources, one of the men was a supervisor. He went down the line and didn't emerge for quite some time and another worker went down after him.

One of the men was pulled out and pronounced dead while the other is still missing beneath. Rescuers are still searching for the worker and will most likely use cameras and a Fire Rescue team to find him.

According to Fairview Fire Chief Dick Price, the chances of finding the missing worker alive are "pretty slim."

The missing worker is most likely to have been swept downstream deeper into the line, which is several miles long. Sewer lines are full of poisoned gas and are buried at different depths.

"Our initial indications are that the oxygen level was probably insufficient to support their operation." Price said.

It is known that the two workers were not wearing protective gear when they went down, though the standard procedure for those working on sewer lines is to monitor air quality before going in.

An investigation is underway by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

If you know anyone that has been injured or killed as the result of a dangerous condition involving a poisonous gas or a failure to provide proper safety equipment or any similar situation, contact the attorneys at V&B for a free consultation or free information on how V&B may help.

The Wright Profemur Z Hip Replacement Implant Have a High Risk of Failure

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)68104 — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

At an alarming rate, Wright Medical Technologies are experiencing failure with their Wright Profemur Z Hip Replacement Implants.

Though many of the devices have been surgically implanted, there have been several cases filed against Wright Medical Inc. claiming the Profemur Z hip implant is defective. In most cases, the implant had failed within 2 to 3 years after the surgery, despite the fact that a hip implant should last around 15 years.

In one case, X-rays revealed a problem due to a loosened acetabular cup, which appeared to have rotated 90 degrees from its original position, causing considerable pain in the affected right hip and the need for replacement surgery.

The FDA has been criticized for approving such a product with Wright Medical Technologies. The implant is a modular stem and is two pieces, not one. Theoretically, this should allow the surgeon more options for modifying the implant geometry and should yield better results, however, that is not the case.

The Australian National Joint Replacement Registry issued an annual report that said the cumulative revision rate of the Wright Profemur Hip Implant was 11.2% at just three years. Australia maintains one of the strictest medical registries, collecting data from every knee and hip implanted on the continent. This kind of data is invaluable to patients and healthcare providers, as well as medical device manufacturers. Simply, this information reveals which implants are working and which are problematic. The Wright Profemur Hip Implant is at the top of the problematic list.

Further investigation revealed that the Implant was approved by the FDA under the 510(k) protocol. This means that the FDA is allowed to approve any device that is “substantially equivalent” to a product already on the market, and does not require human trials.

Not surprisingly, devices that are approved via 510(k) protocols are the most recalled products out of any other. For example, according to a recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, 113 medical devices were recalled between 2005 and 2009 and 80 had undergone 510(k) approvals. The Institute of Medicine recommended that the FDA get rid of the 510(k) process, saying it “offers patients no assurance of safety.”

If you are a victim of this defective product or know anyone who has been affected, the attorneys at V&B will help you get the information you need to know. Contact us for a FREE consultation and for information regarding other defective products.

Yaz May Cause Dangerous Blood Clots In Young Women

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)67985 — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will be holding a meeting with Scientific Advisors on December 8th to hopefully reach a final conclusion about the defectiveness of the birth control pill Yaz.

Yaz and other related pills were Bayer’s second-best-selling franchise last year at $1.6 billion in global sales.

The battle is with the hormone Drospirenone. This hormone is found in the newer forms of birth control drugs. It is known to increase potassium levels in the blood and is believed to be the cause of these dangerous blood clots.

Last Thursday Federal Health Scientists reported that Yaz and other newer birth control treatments containing Drospirenone, such as Beyaz, Safyral, Syeda, and Loryna appear to increase the risk of dangerous blood clots way more than older medications containing Levonorgestrel, which is the safer hormone.

The FDA released a new study which reviewed the medical history of more than 800,000 U.S women taking different forms of birth control between the years 2001 and 2007. It was found that women taking Yaz had a 75% greater chance of having dangerous blood clots than women taking older birth control drugs.

In Denmark, a similar study was given and delivered identical results.

If Drospirenone appears to be dangerous for young women, why then is it still being put in these claimed “new and improved” birth control drugs? Consumer Safety Advocates have criticized the FDA for approving newer, more expensive drugs when older and more generic drugs are much safer.

“At a certain point we have to ask why the FDA continues to approve drugs that are less safe and have no benefit compared to drugs already on the market,” said Dr. Diana Zuckerman, president of the National Center for Women and Families, a consumer group for women’s health issues. “With all these different birth control options, why take the most expensive one that can also kill you?”

The agency also reported higher complications in women using the Ortho Evra patch from Johnson & Johnson and the Nuvaring vaginal ring from Merck & Co. Inc. Those drugs combine estrogen, which is present in all birth control pills, with two other synthetic hormones launched in the last decade.

Drug companies have always tried to convince their market that safety is their priority, but study after study has shown that sometimes a small pill can bring to you dangerous side effects.

If you think that you or any loved one has been affected by taking Yaz or a similar birth control, contact the attorneys at V&B by simply using the contact forms on this site.

V&B can give you free information regarding Yaz and other dangerous drugs.

Defective Throttle Blamed in Fatal Corpus Christi Car Accident Lawsuit

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)67724 — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Texas defective car lawsuit has been filed against Chrysler automakers following a tragic Corpus Christi traffic accident last winter.

According to local news sources, Fidel Flores was driving a Dodge Durango in Corpus Christi when he claims the car suddenly accelerated and would not stop even when he slammed on the brake. The vehicle crashed into a townhouse near McArdle and Rodd Field, killing 80-year-old Bettie Nelson, who was cooking in her kitchen. Flores was not charged or cited in the uncommon car accident though he died of unrelated health problems shortly after the crash. Another person, 92-year-old Wendell Keetch, was seriously injured in the crash.

The TX defective product attorney representing Keetch and the family of Nelson has filed a lawsuit claiming that the Corpus Christi car crash was caused by a defective throttle in the Chrysler. The throttle caused the car to accelerate without warning. Chrysler has not yet responded to the lawsuit.

We are often quick to blame the driver when it comes to car accidents like these, but sometimes crashes are caused by less common issues, such as mechanical problems, defective car parts, or acceleration issues. If you have been involved in a Texas car accident that you believe was caused by a dangerous or defective car part, speak to a Houston personal injury attorney immediately about your case.

Port Author Grandmother Sues Family Dollar Store after Injury

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)67723 — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

An elderly Port Arthur woman has filed a Texas personal injury lawsuit against an area Family Dollar Store, as well as the store's manager, after she was allegedly injured by falling boxes while shopping.

According to the Southeast Texas Record, 72-year-old grandmother Doris Hickerson was shopping at the Port Arthur Family Dollar store in June of last year as she regularly did. As she was waiting to check out, Family Dollar manager Winnie Douglas was stacking soda crates nearby. During the stacking process, some of the crates fell, striking Hickerson and injuring her.

The Jefferson County personal injury lawsuit claims that the bargain store did not provide a safe environment for customers and that the Family Dollar failed to warn customers of the dangers of shopping in the store. While the lawsuit does not detail Hickerson's injuries, it does ask for compensation regarding medical bills, lost wages, mental anguish, disfigurement, impairment, pain, and court fees.

Stores and shops like the Family Dollar are legally obligated to warn customers of dangers and to provide their customers with a reasonably safe environment. If you or a loved one has been injured in a store, it is vital to understand what caused the accident, who was at fault for the accident, and who should be responsible for damages. Contact Houston accident attorneys Vujasinovic & Beckcom today to schedule a private, no-obligation meeting with a lawyer.

Fatal Beaumont Worker Accident Lawsuit Going to Trial in Texas

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)67726 — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

The widow of a Beaumont road construction worker who was killed in an on-the-job accident has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the trucker who allegedly caused the crash, as well as the truck company that employed the trucker.

According to the Southeast Texas Record, 52-year-old Santos Granja of Beaumont was among a group of Texas Department of Transportation road workers installing reflectors on Highway 73 last summer. Suddenly, the road crew was struck by an approaching commercial 18-wheeler, driven by Sergio Munguia and owned by Best Transportation Services. The big rig hit three vehicles, including two trucks that were driving behind the vehicle Granja was working. While the truck driver did not suffer serious injury, four TxDOT employees were rushed to the hospital for treatment.

The Texas worker accident trial is expected to begin next week, with both sides presenting different accident reconstructions. Evidence for the case includes the truck's black box event recorder, the trucker's driving logs, and pictures of the accident scene.

Road workers have one of the most dangerous jobs in Texas - and it is vital that justice is served after these workers are injured or killed on the job. If you or a loved one has been injured in a road construction accident, speak to a Houston worker accident lawyer today about your case. Call us, write us, or stop into our offices to schedule a free, private meeting with an attorney today.

Dulles Airport Bus Drivers Call Their Vehicles "Unsafe"

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)67749 — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Dulles International Airport bus operators that ferry passengers and employees between parking lots and the main terminal have expressed concerns that the vehicles they drive are old and unsafe. Fearful that they may get fired, several drivers have spoken up on the strictest terms that they would remain anonymous.

“We report things are wrong, but they don’t act on it,” said one operator. Another driver said that the buses “break down all the time.”

Though the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority says there is a regular repair and maintenance schedule for the vehicles.

Drivers say their buses have bad brakes and transmissions, worn-out tires, inoperable turn signals, poor suspensions, oil leaks and broken air-conditioning units. Doors don’t open and close easily — or sometimes at all. In one case, a steering wheel came off in their hands.

The Washington Post reported on the issue. The Post requested and reviewed 300 pages of maintenance reports on four buses that drivers said were the worst performers. The records, from September 2010 to August 2011, showed that three of the buses were broken down every month, with a range from 1 to 13 days. The fourth bus had one month when no problems or repairs were reported. Most problems were repaired within 24 to 72 hours.

The Airport Authority also says it plans to soon replace some of the aging buses. However according to their own employees, they are just saying what they want you to hear.

“They’re playing games,” a driver said. “They are just moving around the buses that have problems.” He then recalled an instance when he reported to his supervisor that he had to use an emergency brake to stop a bus he was driving in an employee parking lot. An hour later, he saw the bus being used in a passenger lot.

Officials say they follow the Federal Transit Administration guidelines. Under those guidelines, the average retirement age for vehicles is 15.1 years.

The FTA does not have guidelines for airport buses but the Airport Authority said the average age of its buses is nine years old, with the oldest at 14 years old.

Mike Wolf, a spokesman for Standard Parking, wrote in an e-mail: “We operate a very safe fleet of buses at Dulles and would never put an unsafe bus on the street… whenever a breakdown does occur, in accordance with established policy it is called in immediately and that bus is replaced immediately… there is a schedule for maintenance for each bus, based on mileage and other factors. All of the repair work is done at a shop at Dulles and is checked by a supervisor.” He continues to say the Dulles buses are in a “high-use environment,” adding that none of the repairs drivers talked about are unusual and that all “would be expected to arise in the ordinary life of buses.”

Many drivers have a different view, stating “They do emergency repairs, and then they put [the buses] back out. They’re old, and things break constantly.”

One driver stated that when he reported to his supervisor that the buses were in bad shape, the supervisor said: “If you don’t want to drive the bus, go home.”

Authority has said Standard Parking gives it “monthly reports on all repairs that are performed by their subcontractor FleetPro.”

FleetPro had no comment.

The Airport Authority said it had budgeted $3.3 million to buy new buses, which would be delivered next year.

This does little to prevent the constant anxiety of the drivers, whose safety is at risk on a daily basis. Unfortunately in the present economy, the reality of being strained to work in an unsafe environment makes life a constant game of Russian Roulette for the drivers at Dulles Airport.

GM Issues Another Recall for Chevrolet Vehicles for Constant Tire Issues

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)67708 — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

GM recalled 36,000 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossover SUVs from model year 2012 because the tire-monitoring system was defective in alerting drivers when their tires are 25 percent underinflated.

The systems in the 2012 vehicles should warn drivers when tire pressure drops 25 percent below the recommended pressure, but it fails to do so. The warning light doesn't even appear until the tire pressure falls more than 25 percent.

Federal safety regulators say underinflated tires can overheat which may lead to a blowout and a crash.

The recall involves Chevrolet Impalas that were built between July 18 and Sept. 6 of 2011.

Owners of these vehicles should bring their Impalas to their dealer to get the tire pressure monitor fixed. An update a on the computer system will also be installed free of charge.

This is not the first time GM has seen problems with their vehicles. A recent suit was filed in Detroit which claimed GM was fully aware of a defect in the 2007-2008 Chevrolet Impala’s rear suspension rods, but failed to inform retail buyers. The lawsuit claimed the rods caused premature rear tire wear and the constant need for realignment.

In July 2008, GM issued a bulletin for the 2007-08 Chevrolet Impala, however it only covered police models. Dealers only had the authorization to replace the cars’ rear suspension rods, perform an alignment, and fit tires with new rubber ONLY for police model Impalas, not for retail buyers.

GM claimed that the police model was significantly different than the retail model, but the lawsuit suggested otherwise which is evident due to several internet posts and complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Most complaints have dealt around accelerated rear-tire wear and some owners complained of bald tires after just 6,000 miles.

Despite these complaints, GM never issued a recall for the Chevrolet Impala issue.

It is clear that GM has had a history with Chevrolet in the past and doesn’t seem to be learning from their mistakes, failing to inform the drivers of their vehicles and risking their safety.

Defect in Brake System Causes Harley-Davidson Recall For 308,000 Motorcycles

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)67535 — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Harley-Davidson issues one of the largest recalls in their 108 year history with 308,000 bikes recalled across the U.S.

Last week, Harley Davidson filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that there could be a design defect in the Touring, CVO Touring and Trike motorcycles from the 2009 through 2012 model years. This defect exposes the brake light switches to heat rapidly from the exhaust system, causing the lights to fail. When this happens, it can cause fluid leaks and possibly the loss of rear brakes, which can result in an accident.

It all began in June 2010 when the company received a report of a Trike model motorcycle losing its rear brakes, due to this defect. An investigation then began and in July 2010 the investigators made a trip to Louisiana to inspect another motorcycle crash, which injured one person. It was not concluded if this crash was caused by the same problem, however it is stated by Maripat Blankenheim, the company spokesperson, that no more crashes have been reported to the company since then.

The recall is costing the company a whopping 10 to 12 million dollars and will be charged as an expense in the fourth quarter, according to a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

The company doesn't seem to be phased by it. They are jumping quickly to try and solve the issue, shipping rear brake light switch kits to its dealers which will be installed for customers free of charge.

This free installation will not help those who have purchased bikes from individuals or dealers not part of Harley's network. In fact, they would not have even received letters from the company notifying them of the defect.

Only authorized dealers will have kits to repair the recall-related problems.

Tragic tractor-trailer wreck kills driver in Houston following tire blow-out

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)67365 — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to the Houston Chronicle, a tractor-trailer caught crashed and caught fire, trapping the driver and causing his death.

According to witness Selvin Dias of Pasadena, he saw a tire on the rig blow-out, after which the driver lost control.

Five or six people tried to help the driver, but they couldn't get him out of the truck before he died.

One of the commentors on the Houston Chronicle website said as follows:

"That tire better have been properly maintained, inspected and not retread by the owner or they should get a needle in their greedy arm. Too many of these trucks are flying around with ghetto shop brakes and trailer park cheap tires killing drivers and operators."

Unfortunately, it is true that too many trucking companies cut corners on tire maintenance, putting their drivers and the motoring public at risk. We hope that the appropriate police department fully investigates this tragic incident, including a detailed investigation of the cause of the tire failure. But all too often, the true root cause of these types of tragic accidents don't get fully investigated by law enforcement, either because of lack of time, interest, resources, or expertise.

For the sake of the driver's loved ones, let's hope this incident is fully and competently investigated.

Pearland Baby Badly Burned by Scalding Hot Tub Water

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)67237 — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

A helicopter was called to the scene of a burn injury in Pearland, Texas this week after a babysitter called 911. A one-year-old baby had been seriously scalded by bath water.

According to local news sources, a 12-year-old relative of the baby boy was babysitting and in the process of giving the child the bath when she left the room for a moment with the water running. While she was gone, the baby turned the hot water up and then fell into the tub. She called for help immediately after realizing the seriousness of the burns.

A Life Flight medical helicopter was called to the scene. The baby is expected to recover from his burn injuries, which covered his neck, ears, back, and torso with blisters. The Pearland burn accident is still under investigation by local police, through the babysitter has not been cited or charged.

This Texas burn injury story is an important reminder that not all burns involve fire, and that small children can be especially susceptible to burn accidents and scalding incidents. Never leave your child alone near bath water.

Scalding burns can be extremely painful and expensive - and can lead to permanent scarring and medical issues. Has your child been injured in a burn accident or scalding accident that was caused by another's carelessness or negligence? Speak with a Houston burn injury attorney today to find out more about your case.

Houston High School Students Observe Mock DUI Car Accident

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)66760 — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

The fact that 60 percent of fatal teen car accidents in Texas involve drunk drivers is not lost on the Houston Police Department, the Spring Branch Independent School District, or the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. The fact that high school kids can be hard to reach is also not lost on the groups. One shocking demonstration has many teens thinking before they drink and drive.

This week on the west side of Houston high school, teens watched as a mock car accident scene unfolded before their eyes - with their classmates as victims. Two demolished cars were set up in a school parking lot while car accident "victims" were scattered around the scene - one thrown hanging out of a shattered windshield and another ejected onto the street. Fake blood and the sound of approaching sirens completed the scene. Soon, emergency vehicles and responders arrived on the scene, arresting a driver, removing others on stretchers, and zipping one teen up in a body bag.

Although this mock car accident may seem like a drastic measure to teach kids about driving while intoxicated, both students and administrators say that sometimes it takes this much drama to get through to kids. They also said that having the event before a social event like Homecoming truly keeps kids safer.

Has your child been involved in a Houston area drunk driving accident - and you believe someone else was at fault for his or her injuries? Speak to a Texas personal injury attorney today about the crash.

Port Arthur Man Killed In Left-Turn Car Accident In Orange County

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)65837 — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

A left-turn accident in Orange County has left one man dead and two others with serious injuries.

The Texas car wreck occurred at six in the morning on Wednesday when a pickup truck on FM 1006 made a left turn onto Foreman Road near the Lanxess Plant. The truck’s passenger side was broadsided during the turn by a pickup truck traveling in the opposite direction on FM 1006.

Both drivers of the pickup trucks, a 57-year-old Orange man, and a 46-year-old man from Port Arthur, suffered serious injuries: one has since been released from the hospital after treatment while the other remains hospitalized. The passenger of the truck that was not turning, 52-year-old Luis Magana Cardenas, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.

The fatal Orange County car accident is under investigation by authorities. At this time, it is not clear if the first pickup truck turned in front of the second pickup truck or if the second pickup truck was speeding or driving recklessly. Hopefully, more information regarding the accident will come to light as police review evidence.

Left turn car accidents and broadside accidents are some of the most common wrecks we see in Texas. What are the two best ways to prevent them? Always give yourself extra space when turning across oncoming traffic, and always drive the speed limit.

Have you or a loved one been the victim of a left turn accident that was not your fault? Schedule a meeting with a Texas car accident attorney today.

League City Man Killed After Allegedly Running Light In Texas City

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)65838 — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

A League City man was involved in a one-car accident on South Shore Boulevard in the early hours of Tuesday morning, according to a local Houston news source.

League City Police reported that 23-year-old Justin Freeman was approaching the intersection of East FM 518 when witnesses say he ran through a red light, lost control of his pickup truck, and crashed into several obstacles, including a street sign and a tree. Emergency responders found that Freeman was ejected from the passenger side window of his vehicle when it rolled and a medical professional pronounced him dead at the scene of the crash.

Freeman, a bartender and waiter at local burger restaurant Tookies, leaves behind a four-year-old daughter. The Texas pickup truck accident is under investigation, and it is not yet clear whether drinking, speed, or reckless driving were factors in the fatal League City wreck.

The Houston personal injury attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom send their condolences to Freeman’s family and friends during this difficult time.

It is sad cases like these that serve as stark reminders to wear your seat belt at all times when you are behind the wheel. Seat belts are designed to keep you in the cab of a pickup truck during rollover incidents and prevent those in the cab from being ejected through a window or windshield. League City, drive safe and buckle up to prevent car accidents and injuries!

Fatigued Corpus Christi Driver Causes Car Accident, Injuries

tom@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)65839 — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

This week in Corpus Christi, Texas, a fatigued teen driver fell asleep at the wheel, drifted from his lane, and slammed into an oncoming pickup truck and damaged a third vehicle. According to a local news station, the young man was returning with some friends from a fishing trip when he nodded off while driving. The three-car accident injured four people, all of whom were rushed to local hospitals for treatment.

This Corpus Christi car accident is a somber reminder of how dangerous driving while tired is. Even though these teens were following the rules of the road, not driving under the influence, and not driving recklessly, they were returning from a long day and hadn’t rested properly before making the trip home.

When driving after a trip or vacation, there are certain steps you should take to prevent falling asleep at the wheel:

•    Don’t drive for more than two hours or longer than 100 miles without taking a break.
•    If you are traveling with a group, designate a co-pilot to stay awake and alert with the driver.
•    Try not to drive late at night or early in the morning – this is when most fatigued driver accidents occur.
•    If you are taking a long day trip, consider stopping for the night and resting before returning home.
•    Realize that many “tricks” for staying awake while driving, such as rolling down the window or turning up the radio – do not work as well as stopping and resting.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a Texas car accident that could have involved a sleepy driver or falling asleep at the wheel? If so, it is important that you speak with a Corpus Christi personal injury attorney about the particulars of your case.

Union Pacific Worker Killed While Inspecting Rails Near Abilene, Texas

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)65190 — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Union Pacific worker was struck by an oncoming vehicle outside of Abilene, Texas, on Sunday afternoon while inspecting the rails from a hi-rail vehicle.

According to local news sources, 59-year-old Elmer Hulse, of Wakarusa, was in a hi-rail vehicle - a self-propelled pickup truck fitted with rail wheels - moving westbound on the railroad tracks. He was then struck by an oncoming vehicle at the intersection of the tracks and Jeep Road. Reports say that 52-year-old Jean Aker, of Abilene, was driving south on Jeep Road and did not see the hi-rail vehicle on the tracks.

The driver broadsided Hulse's hi-rail vehicle, causing it to leave the tracks and roll several times. Hulse was pronounced dead at the scene of the Texas railroad accident, while Aker was transported to a local hospital in Dickinson County with non-life-threatening injuries.

Union Pacific and local authorities will be investigating the Texas railroad worker accident. It is unclear what safety features are present at the intersection of the tracks and Jeep Road, or whether those safety features were working properly at the time of the accident.

Accidents involving rail employees are different than other types of traffic accidents and worker accidents. If you or a loved one has been harmed while working on the job for a railroad company, speak with a Texas FELA accident attorney today.

Conroe Man Files Texas Jones Act Lawsuit After Crane Accident

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)64596 — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Texas man has filed a Jones Act lawsuit in Beaumont after he seriously injured his neck and back in a crane accident. He states that the accident was caused by negligence. The worker, who is from Conroe, is seeking compensation for his medical costs, pain and suffering, distress, maintenance and cure, attorney's fees, court costs, and interest.

According to court documents, Daniel Laxson was working for Towing Management on June 29 when the company was assisting the M/V AET Explorer vessel. During the job, Laxson was struck by a crane on the ship and seriously injured. He was pulling cable out of the water at the time of the incident.

The seaman - who is suing Atlantic Marine Equipment, Towing Management and the M/V AET Explorer - says that the companies did not properly supervise the workers, did not properly train the workers, did not provide sufficient safety equipment, did not have an adequate crew, and did not properly maintain their vessel.

Are you a seaman who has suffered a maritime injury while on the job or at sea? You may need the assistance of a Texas Jones Act attorney. At Vujasinovic & Beckcom, our personal injury attorneys have extensive experience handling maritime accident cases and offer clients a free, private meeting to discuss their case. Call 888.473.1258 today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Texas Company Sued After Marshall Worker Dies Of Heat Stroke

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)62883 — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Texas brick company is being sued for wrongful death after one of its employees died of heat stroke while working in extreme conditions for an extended period of time.

According to local news sources, Francisco Javier Oviedo-Ramirez was working at the Boral Brick plant in Marshall, Texas, in August of last year when his fellow employees noticed that he was showing dangerous signs of heat exhaustion. As his symptoms of disorientation, confusion, and lethargy continued, his co-workers let their managers know that the man was suffering a medical emergency. Soon, after no intervention, the man fell into a coma from heat stroke and was rushed to the hospital. He never woke up and died two weeks later.

Now, Maria Molina Oviedo is suing the brick company, Boral Industries Inc. and Boral Bricks Inc., for wrongful death, stating that his three children deserve compensation. In a lawsuit filed in Marshall County, court documents show that Oviedo believes that the company was negligent in protecting the man from heat stroke, in failing to provide a safe work environment, in failing to take proper action when he displayed symptoms of heat exhaustion, and in failing to take steps to assess his condition.

She is seeking damages for medical expenses, funeral expenses, loss of future earnings, pain and suffering, mental anguish, court costs, and interest.

Your employer is legally responsible for your health and safety while on the job. If your loved one was killed in an on-the-job accident caused by negligence, you should speak with a Houston wrongful death attorney today.

Texas Worker Dies In Oil Rig Accident In High Island

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)62882 — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Texas oil rig employee was killed by blunt force trauma in an on-the-job accident that took place in High Island on Monday night.

According to the Galveston County Daily News, 56-year-old Ralph Hudspeth of College Station was killed while working to dismantle an oil rig in Southeast Texas about seventy miles outside of Houston. During the dismantling process, it seems that the worker was struck by a load of pipes – Hudspeth was standing by a forklift that was moving the pipes when the pipes shifted and fell from the heavy machinery onto the worker.

The worker was rushed from the small town on the Texas Gulf Coast to a Galveston medical center, where doctors pronounced him dead as a result of his injuries.

Working on oil rigs is one of the most dangerous and deadly jobs that you can hold in Texas – and accidents, injuries, and fatalities are far too common. While some oil rig accidents couldn’t have been prevented, others could have been caused by the negligence of the company, defective products, or other preventable issues. If you or a loved one has been injured in a oil rig accident in Texas, speak to an experienced and knowledgeable Houston attorney with a history of handling these complex legal cases.

Texas Wrongful Death Lawsuit Blames Grill Manufacturer For Fatal Burns

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)62881 — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A mourning couple has filed a Texas wrongful death lawsuit against a grill manufacturer that they say is directly responsible for the death of their 12-year-old son.

Two years ago, Daniel and Heather Hamm were having a backyard barbeque with their son, Joshua. The young man had just flipped over the hamburgers and closed the lid of the grill when the lower charcoal door came open, shooting flames in the direction of Joshua. He inhaled the flames and was severely burned by the possibly defective product, a Model 92930 30-inch Deluxe Charcoal Grill manufactured by Royal Oak Enterprises and sold by Wal-Mart.

The boy was rushed to the Children’s Hospital in Dallas, but went into cardiac arrest in the ambulance. He died from his burn injuries the next day. According to the Texarkana court documents, the family is suing for wrongful death, medical expenses, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, mental anguish, grief and sorrow, loss of love and affection, loss of emotional support, and court costs. The couple believes that the grill maker was grossly negligent in selling a grill with an improperly closing charcoal door and in not warning grill users of the dangers and risks of their product.

Product manufacturers have a legal responsibility to sell safe and properly functioning devices – and if they sell a defective product, they are responsible for the injuries or deaths that are a direct result of their negligence. If you have been injured by a defective grill in Texas, speak to a Houston products liability attorney today.

Texas Woman Sues After Defective Space Heater Allegedly Causes House Fire

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)62880 — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

The manufacturer of an infrared space heater is being sued by a Texas woman who claims that the product is defective and caused a fire that destroyed her house in December.

The Canton woman, Temple Bolt, is suing Suarez Corp. Industries (doing business as Sci Direct) after their allegedly defective product, EdenPURE infrared space heater, model 1000XL, allegedly caught fire and burned down Bolt’s Texas home.

According to the defective product lawsuit, which was filed in Tyler, Texas, the space heater did not have a device to turn off the product if it overheated and did not have the appropriate thermal protection to guard against overheating and fire. In addition to its improper design, the lawsuit claims that the product did not contain sufficient warnings about the potential dangers of the product – either in its manual or in its advertisements.

Bolt is asking for $232,548 in the dangerous product lawsuit – which covers the cost of the damage to her home, the property inside her house, her living expenses since the fire, interest, and court costs.

While many people assume that the products that they buy are inherently safe, some manufacturers sell devices that are dangerous and even deadly. If you have been injured or harmed by a defective and dangerous space heater, speak to a Houston products liability attorney today about the incident.

Jones Act Lawsuit Filed In Galveston By Ship Captain

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)62879 — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

An injured ship captain has filed a Jones Act lawsuit in Galveston after he claims he was injured twice while aboard a vessel owned by his employer. The Jones Act case was filed in the Galveston Division of the Southern District of Texas at the end of June and will be heard by U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt.

According to the Southeast Texas Record and court documents, Joseph Deon Junior was working for Global International Marine Inc. when he suffered serious injuries in two different incidents. He claims that his employer did not fulfill their duty furnish a seaworthy vessel.

In the first incident, which took place last fall, Deon was lowering a piece of equipment onto the vessel when a rope broke, causing the worker to fall backward down a fight of stairs and into the engine room. Weeks later, he slipped on the vessel’s wet deck and further injured himself. Now, he is suing for medical costs, impairment, disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of earnings, loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering.

If you have been injured while on the job on a sea vessel – and that injury was caused by your employer’s negligence, it is possible that you could be eligible to file a Jones Act lawsuit. Maritime law can be complex and confusing, but a Texas Jones Act attorney can help you better understand your legal options after a sea-related accident and injury.

After Suffering Stroke, Texas Man Files Lawsuit Against Four Loko

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)60977 — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Donna, Texas, man is suing a beverage company after he allegedly suffered a stroke after drinking two cans of Four Loko, a controversial drink that mixes high concentrations of alcohol with caffeine.

The dangerous and defective product lawsuit states that Texan Robert Villa purchased and drank two cans of Four Loko from a convenience store last year. After drinking the beverages, the man felt the right side of his body go numb and lost consciousness. The next day, he suffered from a number of other health problems, prompting him to go to the emergency room. There, he discovered he had suffered a stroke.

Four Loko was effectively banned by the FDA not soon after the incident – after research revealed that the combination of alcohol and large amounts of caffeine caused extremely dangerous situations, injuries, and deaths. Two wrongful death lawsuits have already been filed against the company, one regarding a man who was killed in a traffic accident after imbibing the drink and one who shot himself after drinking the beverage.

In Villa’s products liability case, he is seeking $75,000 in damages. He believes that the drink company, Phusion Projects, did not properly warn consumers about the danger of the drink. Currently, less alcoholic versions of the drink that do not contain caffeine are still for sale in many states around the country.

Have you or a loved one been harmed been harmed by Four Loko, or another dangerous product? Speak with a Texas product injury attorney today.

Texas Family Collects $1.1 Million After Fatal Food Poisoning

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)60978 — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A San Antonio produce company will pay a Texas family $1.1 million in damages following a fatal case of food poisoning that took place during a listerios bacteria outbreak in certain celery products last year.

In 2010, 81-year-old Hermilo Castellano Senior of Seguin, Texas, died after eating celery tainted with a deadly strain of bacteria. An investigation into the incident, which sickened at least ten people over three Texas counties and killed five elderly people, linked almost all of the food poisoning cases to Sangar Produce & Processing Co., a Texas company that produces cut celery among other products. In the wake of the deaths, thousands of pounds of produce were recalled around Texas from over three hundred distributers.

The company was shut down in the fall of last year following the outbreak and did not show up for the defective product wrongful death trial.The family of the deceased man was awarded a default settlement.

Both the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found listerios contamination at the San Antonio food factory – along with several other violations and safety issues. The company initially denied that their food contained the bacteria, stating that their own inspection had not revealed problems.

Food poisoning is often simply an unpleasant experience – but for the sick, the elderly, or the young, it can be deadly. Produce and food companies have a legal obligation to protect customers from tainted food and dangerous bacterial strains. If you or a loved one have been seriously harmed by a case of food poisoning, contact a Houston product liability attorney about your case.

Texas Hospital Faces Wrongful Death Lawsuit After Spine Surgery Went Wrong

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)60979 — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A hospital in Houston is being sued for medical malpractice and wrongful death after a patient died during a spinal surgery five years ago.

According to Outpatient Surgery Magazine, Jennifer Renee Abshire went to Renaissance Hospital in Houston for sports-related spinal surgery in 2006. During the operation, the surgeon, Dr. Merrimon Baker, accidentally severed an artery but did not notice the fatal mistake and completed the procedure. Abshire was then moved to recovery, where a number of nurses failed to notice that the patient’s abdomen was quickly filling with blood. Abshire soon bled to death from the surgical mistake and the alleged negligence of the nursing staff.

In the medical malpractice lawsuit, her family states that the hospital should have been well aware of Dr. Baker’s troubled past, which included medical malpractice, loss of privileges, hospital discipline, drug abuse, and mental health issues. The lawsuit also states that the nurses caring for the patient breached the standard of care by failing to recognize obvious surgery complications.

The hospital attempted to have the case dismissed by arguing that the medical expert in the case did not sufficiently prove intent to harm, but the motion was denied.

It is not known the amount or kind of damages the Abshire family is seeking in the Texas wrongful death case.

Corpus Christi Police: Seatbelts Saved Lives In Rollover Accident

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)58748 — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Corpus Christi Police say that multiple lives may have been saved this week because seven people involved in a serious pickup truck accident all decided to buckle up before hitting the road.

The two-vehicle accident took place on Independence Day as thousands of Corpus Christi headed to the Bayfront area to celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks. The wreck took place on the Harbor Bridge when an allegedly speeding pickup truck slammed into another pickup truck, causing the latter vehicle to roll. The crash caused a significant traffic jam and resulted in minor injuries, but police say that the accident could have had much more serious consequences.

Because all three people in the car that rolled over were wearing seatbelts, no one was ejected from the vehicle or suffered serious head injuries from hitting the roof of the cab. Instead, even though the passengers had to be extracted through the front windshield by emergency responders, the three people only received a few bumps and bruises. Similarly, the five occupants in the other pickup truck, which was ticketed for speeding, were all wearing seatbelts and all escaped serious injury.

It’s a great reminder that seat belts save lives – and we hope that in the future the worst consequences of serious rollover accidents are a few bruises and some backed up traffic.

Frisco Construction Worker Suffers Serious Electrical Burns

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)58709 — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A construction worker who was involved in the building of Elevate Life Church’s Cathedral of Frisco was transported to the hospital this week after suffering serious electrical burns while on the job.

According to Star Local News, an unidentified construction worker was on the second story of the building and near an electrical panel when the accident took place. The man suffered second- and third-degree burns in the worker accident and was airlifted to the burn center at Parkland Hospital in Dallas for treatment. The man’s current condition is not known.

The fire chief who responded to the accident said that they checked the building for damage as well as other dangerous conditions. They found that the building was not damaged and that other workers were safe. An investigation into the accident will follow, as it is not yet clear what caused the burn accident or whether the man actually came into physical contact with the electric panel.

Construction workers are especially susceptible to electrical burns, as they often work near power lines or in buildings with exposed electrical wires. These burns can have extremely serious consequences and can require months of treatment, reconstructive surgery, and physical therapy. If you have been the victim of an electrical burn while on the job, speak with a Texas burn injury attorney today.

Texas High School Student Burned In Chemistry Lab Accident

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)57506 — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Summit High School student suffered serious burns to his arms and face while conducting a science experiment in a lab at school.

The boy, a sophomore in a chemistry class from Mansfield, Texas, received first and second degree chemical burns at school when his experiment took a wrong turn at just before two in the afternoon on Monday, May 23. The school called the police, and emergency responders rushed the male to Parkland Memorial Hospital for treatment. He was released on the same day. It is not clear whether the student was wearing protective gear, such as gloves or eye protection, or whether a teacher was present.

While we don’t often think about the dangers of chemical burns, or while we think of chemical burns as something that only happens to industrial workers, chemical burn accidents can also take place at home or at school. Chemical burns can be extremely painful and lead to long-term consequences such as scarring, breathing issues, and vision problems. Since all chemical burns are different, depending on the cause and severity, never attempt to treat a chemical burn at home.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a chemical burn, or has your child been injured at school? Be sure to speak with a Houston burn injury attorney about your rights and your legal options for compensation.

Humble Bar Sued After Fatal Drunk Driving Accident

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)57505 — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Texas family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against a Humble bar that allegedly sold large amounts to alcohol to two young men before a dramatic car accident that killed them both. According to the lawsuit filed in Harris County, the company Humble Cricket, doing business as Hoot County Saloon, was grossly negligent in continuing to serve the men alcoholic drinks after they were intoxicated.

The car accident took place at about 2:30 in the morning on Wednesday morning, April 27, in Atascocita. The driver of the car, 23-year-old Eddie McPayne, lost control of the vehicle. It rolled several times, coming to rest upside down on an empty trailer in a U-Haul parking lot.

Both McPayne and the passenger, 23-year-old Bill Gonzalez II were thrown from the vehicle and died from their injuries. McPayne was found in the parking lot and was rushed to a local hospital, where he was soon pronounced dead. Gonzalez was thrown 170 feet from the car and came to rest in a nearby wooded area. Rescue workers were not aware there was a passenger in the car and the man’s body was not discovered until the next day when his father looked for him at the scene of the crash, suspecting that he might have been involved.

According to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code and Texas and Texas dram shop laws, a bar, saloon, liquor store, or restaurant can be found responsible for the injury or death of a patron if the company acted in a negligent manner. Have you or a loved one been harmed because of the reckless actions of a bar or saloon in Texas? Contact a Houston injury attorney today.

Conroe Car Dealership Sued After Steering Wheel Malfunction Allegedly Causes Crash

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)57280 — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Who could be responsible for your car accident and injury? While many people are familiar with personal injury lawsuit that sue for the negligence of another driver, the manufacturer of the vehicle, or even the entity that designed the road, in some cases, a automobile mechanic or car dealership could be responsible for your accident and injury.

Here’s one recent case:

This month in Harris County, truck accident victim Randy Scott and his wife Valerie Scott filed a personal injury lawsuit against three car dealerships: De Montrond Auto Country in Conroe, A.C. Collins Ford in Pasadena and Gullo Ford Mercury in Conroe.

According to court papers, Scott was driving his truck on the Hardy Toll Road when his steering wheel column malfunctioned, causing him to lose control of his truck and crash. He suffered a number of injuries and is now suing for compensation. According to Scott, he had had a number of problems with his truck since he purchased it from Gullo Ford Mercury a little over a year before the accident. In addition, he says that A.C. Collins Ford most recently worked on the truck and caused a missing pin in the steering column that ultimately caused the car accident.

Scott and his wife are suing for actual damages, compensatory damages, and special damages as well as court fees and attorney fees.

Study: I-45 In Houston Most Dangerous Road In Texas For Teens

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)57278 — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

As summer approaches, the rate of teen car accidents, injuries, and fatalities will rise significantly along with the temperature. In fact, the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are the deadliest when it comes to teen driving.

In order to raise awareness of this dangerous time, the Texas Department of Transportation has released a list of the most dangerous roads and stretches of highway for teen drivers based on crash data collected in the last five years.

What are the most dangerous roadways for teen drivers in Texas? Teen safety advocates say to be wary of I-45 and I-10 in Harris County, Highway 59, and the 610 Loop. On the Harris County stretch of I-45 alone, there were over 3,000 car accidents involving teen drivers since 2006. While some of these crashes were not preventable, many teen driving accidents involve inexperienced drivers, drinking and driving, distracted driving, speeding, and reckless driving. In addition, safety advocates note that Texas teens aren’t buckling up nearly enough, especially at night or when with friends.

What can we do to help curb the number of teen driving accidents and injuries, especially on the roads mentioned above? Be sure to set a good example for your teens by following the rules of the road and always buckling up. In addition, teach your kids about the dangers of texting and driving and other driver distractions, including socializing too much with others in the car while behind the wheel.

Pearland Boy Dies Of Head Injuries Following Golf Cart Rollover

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)57276 — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

One young boy was killed and another child was injured earlier this month in a Pearland golf cart rollover accident. The siblings were both students in the Pearland Independent School District.

According to the Alvin Sun, 9-year-old Phillip Koterba and his 14-year-old sister were visiting an older brother who was house sitting in Manvel. The oldest sibling was not present when Koterba began driving the golf cart with his sister as a passenger. The golf cart accident took place when the boy drove the vehicle into a ditch where it overturned.

Both children were rushed to Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Texas Medical Center. While the sister was treated for non-life-threatening injuries, Koterba suffered a traumatic brain injury in the crash and died the following day.

At Vujasinovic & Beckcom, we can’t say it enough: during the summer months in Texas, the number of child injuries and child head injuries skyrockets. Be sure to protect your children from these summer accidents as best you can, by supervising your younger children, teaching your children about helmet safety, and providing your children with the information they need to stay out of dangerous or reckless situations.

If your child has been injured in an accident – and that accident was caused by the negligence of another party – speak to our Texas personal injury attorneys today about your case.

Austin Teen Brain Dead After Tragic Skateboard Accident

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)55571 — Wed, 25 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

A 16-year-old boy from Northwest Austin was pronounced brain dead following a skateboard accident and head injury he sustained the day before. According to the Austin Statesman, Anderson High School tenth grader Heath Eiland fell was fatally injured in an accident on Tuesday when he fell 25 feet while skateboarding near MoPac Boulevard and Parmer Lane. His friends called 911, and Eiland was rushed from the drainage ditch to St. David's Round Rock Medical Center.

The boy had been attempting to skate a large concrete “half-pipe” and was not wearing a helmet. His friend told the 911 operator that he was “bleeding intensely.”

He was not conscious or responding when the ambulance arrived and deteriorated further at the hospital. Even though there was no chance of recovery, his parents made the decision to keep their teenaged son on a ventilator so that eight of his organs could be donated to others in need. Greif counselors were on hand at Eiland’s high school, where the boy played soccer.

Health parents showed their son’s picture at a public appearance and reminded kids everywhere to wear a helmet while skateboarding – it could have saved their son’s life.

While many kids know that they should wear helmet while riding a bike or rollerblading, fewer kids seem to realize that helmets are important when skateboarding, too, especially when attempting new tricks or skating on uneven surfaces.
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Three Relatives Die In Gulf Of Mexico Swimming Accident

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)54753 — Thu, 19 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Several days after the South Texas swimming accident took place, the Coast Guard has recovered the third and final body of the drowning victims, which was found in the Gulf of South Padre Island.

According to local news sources and Cameron County authorities, three male relatives visited a South Padre Island beach on Wednesday but did not return. The body of 22-year-old Ivan Bolado was found hours after police believe the beach accident took place among the island’s jetties. Bolado’s cousin, and 18-year-old male, was found a few days later. Finally, the 18-year-old’s younger brother, a 12-year-old boy, was found on Sunday morning. The family of the youngest boy will view and identify the body this week.

Especially with summer approaching, the number of water accidents, swimming accidents, and drowning accidents will rise throughout the state of Texas. It is very important to educate your children and teens about the hazards of swimming, strong undertows, and the dangers of mixing alcohol and swimming. In addition, make certain that your own pool is fenced and secured – and that you supervise all children who swim on your property.

Has one of your loved ones died in a drowning accident that you believe could have been prevented if not for negligence? Speak to a Texas wrongful death attorney today about the details of your case.

Widow Of Deceased Roofer Says Texas Worker Injury Law Must Change

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)54752 — Fri, 13 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Victoria Hurtado is $45,000 in debt from medical bills and funeral costs and mourning the loss of her husband. Hurdtado believes that her husband’s death was caused directly by his employer’s negligence, but a loophole in Texas worker injury law won’t allow her to find justice or get her bills paid.

In 2004, Victoria and her husband Angel began working for Guadalupe Roofing as contractors based on a verbal agreement. When working on a structure in West Austin, Angel fell from the building and died in his wife’s arms. She said that they had never been given safety equipment or safety training.

In the days after the on-the-job accident, Victoria discovered that the roofing company did not carry workers’ compensation, and a state law on the books protects general contractors from lawsuits if they aren’t present at the scene of a worker accident. Since the couple was not supervised at the time of the fall, the chances of being able to successfully sue the roofing company for compensation were very low. Now, the statute of limitations for suing the roofing company has passed, and Hurdtado remains in debt and without her husband.

Workers’ compensation law and worker injury law in Texas can be complicated, frustrating, and, in some cases, just plain unfair. If you or a loved on have been injured in an on-the-job accident and your employer does not carry workers’ compensation insurance, it is vital that you speak with an experienced Houston worker accident attorney.

You May Be Eligible For TX Workers Comp If You Were Injured While Traveling For Work

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)54750 — Mon, 09 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

At the end of April, the Texas Court of Appeals heard an interesting workers’ compensation case that we can learn a lot from.

A man working for a landscaping company was driving to a required work-related conference in a city several hours from where he lived. The leadership conference would least several days and the man would be traveling to the event with a co-worker in a company vehicle. On his way to pick up his coworker on the first day of the event, the man was killed in a Texas traffic accident.

The man’s family was awarded Texas workers’ compensation benefits, but the company’s insurer protested the award. The insurer argued that the man was traveling the same route that he took to work at the time of the car accident and that he was simply going to an alternate work site when he crashed. The Texas Court of Appeals explained that the man was not simply coming or going from work, he was traveling specifically for work to a different city in a company truck. The fact that he wasn’t far from his home at the time of the truck crash and on the same route that he took to his office was not relevant.

While those who are injured during a routine commute to and from work are often not covered by workers’ compensation, those who are on business trips when injured or killed often are. If you have a question about your own Texas workers’ compensation claim, speak with a work injury attorney today about your case.

21 Personal Injury Lawsuits Filed After San Antonio School Bus Crash

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)54646 — Sat, 07 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

A number of VIA bus riders in San Antonio have filed personal injury lawsuits after a Northside Independent school bus rear-ended the vehicle as it stopped to pick up passengers. The school bus driver, who has been fired as a result of the accident, claims that the brakes on the bus stopped working in the seconds before the crash.

Cameras on the VIA bus captured mover a dozen people suffering injuries as the crash occurred – one man was thrown to the floor, while the bus’ driver appears to suffer from whiplash. A man just boarding the bus injured his foot. While nine people were immediately brought to the hospital for treatment, 12 more sought medical attention after the crash. There were no students on the school bus at the time of the accident as the driver had just finished its middle school route and was on its way to the high school. The school district is concerned that between the lawsuits and the totaled $100,000 bus, it will face even more tough budget issues in the coming year.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a Texas bus accident? The bus company or other entity may be responsible for your medical bills and other damages. Speak with a Houston Texas bus wreck attorney today.

Houston Company: Worker Killed In Gas Wellhead Explosion

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52522 — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Houston-based company Hilcorp Energy has reported that one of their workers was killed and another was seriously injured in a gas wellhead explosion on Thursday, March 31.

The on-the-job accident took place a few minutes after noon this week when police believe a pressure buildup at the site led to an explosion. A small gas leak was found after the explosion but was soon under control. A number of government agencies arrived on the scene to determine the cause of the explosion and whether or not the worker accident should have been prevented.

Hilcorp Energy released a statement that stated that it would fully cooperate with the local, state and federal investigations that will examine the exact causes of the worker accident. The statement also sent sympathy to the families of those injured and killed in the explosion accident and emphasized the company’s ongoing focus on employee safety.

Houston Production Plant Celebrates One Million Hours Without A Worker Accident

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52520 — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

This week the 400 workers employed at Houston’s Bucyrus International production plant celebrated one million continuous operational hours without a worker injury or worker accident. The milestone, which was observed with a special luncheon, represents about three years of manufacturing.

The company produces belts, continuous mining machines, longwall conveyor systems, and longwall plow systems – and the environment that the workers are in is filled with potential hazards and opportunities for worker injuries and worker accidents. Workers weld, use heavy machinery, work near high-voltage lines, and are exposed to dangerous gases each day – but no one at Bucyrus has been seriously injured while working in years.

How does the Houston company prevent on-the-job accidents? They say that they regular inspections of work areas by both professionals and the workers’ themselves help keep the plant safe, while employees also have in-depth discussions regarding “near-miss” accidents and how similar issues could be avoided in the future.

Texas Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed After Roofer Suffers Fatal Fall

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52509 — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

The estate of a Spring man who was killed while on the job has filed a Harris County wrongful death lawsuit against the roofing company where he worked.

Exactly two years ago, Jose Perez was working as a day laborer on the roof of a building as an employee of All Seasons Roofing. During the workday he fell from the roof of the building onto the ground below, suffering a traumatic brain injury. Though he was rushed to the hospital and placed on life support, he died 13 days later after he was declared brain dead and taken off of his breathing machine.

It is unclear how the fatal worker accident took place or whether the roofing company had taken all reasonable safety measures to prevent worker falls. Perez’s surviving family members are seeking $5 million in damages, including court costs.

Do you have questions about a fatal Texas worker case? Talk to a Houston wrongful death attorney today.

Three Pedestrians Injured In Houston Hit-And-Run Accident

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52508 — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

One woman was taken to a Houston hospital and two others were treated for injures on the scene after a car struck a group of pedestrians on Fairdale Lane early on Thursday morning. According to local news sources, several pedestrians were talking on the corner of Fairdale Lane and Fountain View Drive in southwest Houston at around 2 a.m. when a car slammed into them, throwing one woman into a nearby ditch. After the pedestrian accident, the driver sped off without stopping.

The woman was taken to Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, where she is currently listed in stable condition. Witnesses to the accident say that the car that was involved in the Texas hit-and-run accident was a dark-colored Ford Explorer SUV. Anyone with information regarding the hit-and-run crash, which police say could have involved drinking and driving, should contact the authorities as soon as possible.

Texas Residential Facility Sued After Special Needs Man Chokes To Death

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52507 — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

A family is suing an assisted living facility in Spring, Texas, for wrongful death after they say that the facility did not properly care for a special needs resident.

According to local news sources, the Texas wrongful death lawsuit was filed by Norma and John Archer on behalf of the estate of Guy Archer. Guy, who was mentally disabled, was living at the United Bible Fellowship Ministries, which is owned by Julius and Madeline Glass. On the day of Guy’s death, the wrongful death lawsuit states that an employee of the assisted living facility, Leslie Norris, left the adult man alone while he ate – a violation of his care plan. Guy, who was known to eat his food in a fast and unsafe manner, choked to death on his food.

The Texas family is seeking an unspecified amount of compensation from both the staff member and the nursing home, plus the cost of court fees.

Major League Baseball joins NFL, NHL in cracking down on concussions

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52207 — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Concussions, brain injuries and their long-term consequences have been big issues for professional sports lately. Under increasing pressure from doctors, retired players and team members, organizations like the National Football League (NFL) have created new rules for how players are evaluated and treated for concussions.

These organizations are just beginning to understand the long-term impact that repeated concussions can have on professional players. There have been high-profile cases of retired players struggling to live with the after-effects of concussions they sustained on the field during their prime. After retirement, players are finding that they suffer from an unusually high rate of memory, cognitive and other problems related to repeated concussions.

Now the Major League Baseball (MLB) association is joining the NFL in issuing new rules about concussions. The National Hockey League (NHL) has also been working to reduce the number of concussions experienced by players on the field.

Changes by MLB include:

Establishing a seven day disabled list specifically for concussions.
Establishing mandatory baseline testing for all players and umpires
New steps that must be used to evaluate players suspected of suffering a concussion.
Requiring each team to designate a specialist who deals with minor brain injuries. This specialist would have to evaluate players and umpires as needed.
Evaluations of players and umpires would have to be sent to MLB's own medical director for review before they are cleared to play again.

MLB hopes these changes will prevent injured players from being rushed back into play, which is the worst thing to do when suffering from a brain injury.

Need to talk to a lawyer about a brain injury / concussion accident? Please contact our Houston office today.

Texas brain injury lawyer explains how music therapy works

patti@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52210 — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Music therapy for brain injury victims? If you are a skeptic, this may sound like a scam to take advantage of TBI victims and their families desperate for help. However, music therapy - including music speech stimulation and melodic intonation therapy - has been shown to help some brain injury victims regain their ability to speak.

How could something like this work? As it happens, our brains process music and language differently. This means that if the language center of your brain is damaged in an accident, you may still be able to sing. This phenomenon was first discovered during World War II, when doctors found that music helped soldiers with brain injuries recover faster.

A technique for getting mute patients to communicate through song

Doctors have found that some patients who are unable to speak a single word can actually sing along to popular songs that they knew before their accident. Doctors can then substitute words in the songs until the person is talking and communicating while they sing.

This process appears to work because the brain can be rewired after an injury. It may take time and may require tricks like music therapy, for some TBI victims recovery is possible if the brain is allowed to reorganize and make new connections.

Struggling to get the care you need after an accident that led to a traumatic brain injury? Tired of fighting with the insurance company over your care? Please contact our office to speak with our skilled Houston brain injury attorneys.

Liberty TX trauma victims have higher death rate years after injury

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52226 — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

It is such a huge relief when an accident victim survives serious trauma inflicted by a bad Liberty TX auto accident. Many families assume that they are "out of the woods" once their loved one pulls through the initial hospital stay and moves on to rest and recovery.

Unfortunately, recent research reveals that there is still cause for worry. Researchers have found that trauma victims, like those involved in serious auto accidents, are more likely to die than other hospital patients. This increased risk of death can last for several years after the accident.

To date not much is known about the long-term effects of trauma on an individual's health and lifespan. The studies that have been done indicate that more work is needed to determine how trauma can lead to further problems like significant illnesses and death years later.

While this may be a depressing finding, it is important for accident victims and their families to know. Why? Many insurance companies will pressure car wreck victims to settle quickly after an accident, because they know that the longer they wait the more likely the victim will discover additional accident-related problems that will cost more money.

If you settle with the insurance company too soon, and you find further problems because of your accident - or, worst case - you die from your injuries, you may be out of luck. An experienced auto accident attorney can help you protect your rights, your future, and your family's future.

La Porte TBI lawyer: can light therapy help brain injury victims?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52112 — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Researchers are investigating whether a treatment as simple as self-administered light therapy can help improve cognitive function and ward off symptoms of PTSD in victims of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

After a serious brain injury, La Porte accident victims are at risk of suffering memory issues and an inability to focus and sustain attention. TBI victims are especially at risk of experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can strike any accident victim after a traumatic event. PTSD is concerning because it can make recovery and therapy difficult, not to mention turn daily life tasks into a struggle.

Light therapy, according to some researchers, has the potential to help TBI victims. They claim that low-level LED lights have been shown in cell-based studies to improve cellular metabolism and produce beneficial effects.

To show how it works, a Boston area research team used transcranial LED light therapy on two patients suffering from long-time traumatic brain injuries. Both patients showed improvement after treatment with the lights, and continue to use them at home. The results were published in the journal Photomedicine and Laser Surgery.

As the size of the study was so small it isn't clear if cognitive light therapy will work on a wide scale. Researchers believe that further study is needed to see if phototherapy has a place in treating brain injuries and other central nervous system disorders.

Struggling after a La Porte brain injury or a head injury sustained in another Texas city? Please check out our brain injury page for more information, and contact us today to find out how we can help you.

Baytown brain injury victims: could music therapy help you?

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52098 — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Brain injuries are so unpredictable that it can be difficult to know what the future holds or how to treat them. Baytown residents struggling with a traumatic brain injury or side-effects from a concussion may be wondering if there are any alternative therapies that may help.

One treatment being talked about now is music therapy, being used on congressional representative Gabrielle Giffords, who was shot in the head. Giffords' music therapist is using techniques intended to trigger memories via music.

Music can be used in a variety of ways with brain injury patients, therapy that is done right there in Texas at places like the Institute for Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR) in Memorial Hermann Hospital.

Types of music therapy that can help traumatic brain injuries or the depression that can follow include:

Using rhythmic music to aid walking and movement;
Improving speech and voice quality through singing;
Pain reduction through listening to music;
Musical improvisations to help with emotional issues.

In Ms. Gifford's case, music therapy was used to help her recall nursery rhyme words, which helps her speech and memory improve. Some researchers believe that music therapy helps all part of the brain after injury, including movement and mood.

Suffering from a traumatic brain injury or concussion in Baytown or another nearby Texas town? Please visit our head injury page for more information, and contact us to discuss your legal options.

Texas traumatic brain injury victims look to stem cells for hope

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)52002 — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Families of traumatic brain injury (TBI) victims in Texas are always looking for hope in the form of innovative treatments and therapies, to help their loved ones regain brain function. The tragic injury sustained by congressional representative Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona has brought much of this new research to light.

Children with TBIs are a major concern for doctors and researchers, as they often suffer from serious complications and disability after a bad head injury. Without any treatments or therapies currently available, parents and caregivers are forced to watch their children suffer with little hope of a medical miracle. However, current research right here in Texas holds much promise and hope for these children's futures.

Treating traumatic brain injuries in children with stem cells

A study recently published in the scientific journal Neurosurgery, published for the Congress of Neurological Services, shows promise for the use of a patient's own stem cells to treat injury. In the study, 10 children ranging in age from 5 to 14 years were given their own bone marrow stem cells intravenously.

The study was designed to only investigate the feasibility and safety of the procedure, and did not formally examine how effective it was. However, six months later all the children showed significant improvement and 7 of the 10 kids were left with mild or no disability. If scientists can duplicate these results and prove they work, an untold number of children will benefit.

Need legal help after an accident that led to a traumatic brain injury? Please contact us at 1-877-724-7800.

Southeast TX accident victims: a head injury can haunt you for years

brian@vbattorneys.com (Blog Author)51357 — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

No matter how mild or severe your head injury after a Texas accident, researchers have recently found that any head injury can affect your chances of survival for up to 13 years. This surprising discovery was made when researchers in Scotland tracked the progress of 2,000 people.

Of these individuals, 757 were treated in a Glasgow hospital between 1995 and 1996 for a head injury. The remaining individuals were a mix of patients who had visited the hospital for other reasons during that time, and healthy individuals from the nearby community.

After 13 years, 40 percent of the head injury victims were dead, while only 28 percent of those admitted to the hospital for other reasons were dead, compared with 19 percent of those in the surrounding community.

These results were surprising to researchers. Typically head injuries contribute to death within the first year after the injury. After this time passes, many people assume that associated risks have passed. However, in reality researchers discovered that head injury victims were more likely to die from circulatory, respiratory, psychiatric, digestive and other external causes than others in their community.

Being young, researchers found, is no protection against this phenomenon. Young and middle-aged head injury victims were more likely to die within 13 years after their injury than elderly victims. In fact, individuals aged 15 to 54 were more than six times as likely to die compared to those with no head injury.

Why would a Texas personal injury attorney want to share this information? Many times accident victims settle quickly after an accident that was not their fault - and quick settlements are often small settlements. A skilled brain injury attorney can help you take your future into account when requesting a fair settlement, which will help you protect your family if the worst should happen.