How to Get a NY Accident Report
An accident report can be a crucial piece of evidence when it comes to seeking compensation after a motor vehicle accident. Filing an accident report can help illustrate liability, document the severity of injuries, and provide an account of overall damages sustained in a collision. While insurance companies routinely obtain copies of accident reports to process insurance claims, New York drivers who are filing personal injury claims may also need to request copies of these reports to support their case. Accessing accident reports is not a complicated process. However, how you obtain these documents can differ based on where your accident took place, the type of officer who filed the report, and the format you require the report to be in. What Is An Accident Report New York State Vehicle and Traffic law requires all drivers to file an accident report, titled Report of Motor Vehicle Accident (MV-104), after becoming involved in an accident exceeding more than $1,000 in damages. An MV-104 must be filed within 10 days of the accident occurring and contains pertinent information to the success of a personal injury case, including: Contact information for all parties involved in an accident (drivers and witnesses); Time, date, and location of an accident; Amount and severity of damages; Statements; Conditions of weather and road during the accident; Visual aids to illustrate the accident; Citations issued or laws broken; and Police comments and observations. Guidelines for Obtaining Accident Reports The process for obtaining a certified copy of an MV-104 report will depend on the location of the incident and Office of Jurisdiction who filed the report. According to the New York State Police website regarding collisions, drivers can use the following information to request accident reports for personal use: NYS Thruway Accidents: Requests for car accident reports occurring on the NYS Thruway and subsidiary arterials must be submitted to the New York State Thruway Authority by means of completing form TA-W4310. This form can be found online and includes collisions on I-87 South of Albany, I-90 West of Albany & the Berkshire Spur East of Albany, and the I-190 and Westchester County portions of both I-287 & I-95. Non-Thruway Accidents: Police reports filed by New York State Police officers on roads and highways, not including the NYS Thruway, must be requested through the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles by filling out form MV-198C. Accidents Investigated by Other Agencies: Police reports that are filed by local police departments as opposed to NYS troopers may follow different guidelines for requesting copies of MV-104 reports. To request a report, contact the police department located in the jurisdiction where your accident occurred to receive further instruction. Reports submitted electronically to the DMV by New York State Police or local departments are generally available for request within 30 days of submitting. However, drivers must be aware that not all agencies submit accident reports electronically. Some reports may take up to six weeks to become available for request and may require multiple follow-ups in order to obtain. Obtaining Accident Reports Through The DMV The New York State DMV website maintains copies of most filed MV-104 reports for up to four years from the date of an accident. To order a report, drivers must possess the plate number of a vehicle involved in the accident, the driver license number of a person involved, and/or the 8-digit DMV case number. Before paying to submit an official request, it’s important to first perform a free limited search to see if your report is available. Interested parties can then request an immediate download of a certified copy or a hardcopy to be mailed. Fees associated with these services include: Online Download: $7.00 search fee and $15.00 report fee for each report. Mail Request: $10.00 search fee and $15.00 report fee for each report. Drivers who are looking to access accident reports made by other drivers in an accident can follow the same steps above to obtaining these documents. Any reports that are unavailable via an online DMV search or through contacting local jurisdictions may require additional investigative measures to access depending on the variable of your accident. New York City and Long Island Accident Attorneys Our personal injury attorneys at the law firm of Siler & Ingber, have over 20 years of experience serving clients across New York City and Long Island. We protect your rights by maximizing recovery and securing the financial support our clients need to succeed on their road to recovery. Our winning attorneys know how to navigate through the claim process using past experience as insurance defense attorneys. We are not afraid to fight and are fully prepared to take your case to trial to get a justified verdict over settling for less. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to the negligence of another, our team at Siler & Ingber is here to help. With a 98% success rate, we have the experience and the know-how to help our clients achieve a favorable outcome. Contact us today at 1-877-529-4343 or schedule an appointment online anytime. We never charge a fee unless we recover money for you.
COVID-19 and Traveling Throughout NY
The coronavirus pandemic has forever changed the way New Yorkers should travel. Face masks and hand sanitizers have become as common to carry as a wallet or a phone. Many Long Island residents remain terrified to set foot inside of an airport, and stopping at rest areas on a road trip could become a thing of the past. Despite recent reports from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (C.D.C.) that classify recent national upticks of COVID-19 as ‘low’, the spread of coronavirus remains a significant threat. Traveling throughout New York State this summer is not an impossible fret to take on. However, staying educated on COVID-19trends and knowing what safety measures to take are two crucial steps New Yorkers must take to prevent the occurrence of secondary outbreaks. Current COVID-19 Hotspots While New York State continues to see a downward trend in COVID-19 activity, several parts of the country are experiencing a rapid increase. As of July 5, the COVID-19 Tracking Project reported that 21 states surpassed their previous records for the highest number of coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and deaths reported in a week. The states currently experiencing the most significant surges in coronavirus activity include Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. Traveling strictly within New York State does not make you immune to the rising health concerns in other parts of our nation. Upstate New York and New York City remain high-traffic tourist destinations for Americans, including those currently looking to escape the threat of COVID-19 hotspots. To reduce the risk of further spread, New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut have all implemented travel advisories during this time to help reduce the risk of secondary outbreaks. All out-of-state visitors from states with elevated coronavirus activity are required to self-quarantine for 14-days upon arrival before they travel more freely within the state. NYS COVID-19 Regulations Face coverings are not only highly recommended by health experts and backed by the World Health Organization, but the use of face coverings in New York State is still mandated under most circumstances. Effective as of April 17, Governor Cuomo issued executive orders 202.17 and 202.18, stating “any individual who is over the age of two and able to medically tolerate a face-covering shall be required to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or cloth face-covering when in a public place and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance.” While recommendations for best safety practices to contain the spread of COVID-19 throughout New York businesses may vary depending on the industry, promoting social distancing and providing ample room for customers to stand, wait, or to be served are required. If you see a business operating that is not following these basic safety procedures, it is best not to take the risk of stopping or entering an establishment. Safest Way to Travel Traveling by plane, bus, train, or other shared methods of transportation poses a higher risk of spreading COVID-19. Even when taking extreme precautions, it is impossible to avoid sitting or standing in proximity of other travelers when you are enclosed in a vessel or waiting among crowded terminals. Driving, while historically more dangerous in regard to vehicle accidents, is considered the healthiest mode of travel with the highest number of controlled variables. When riding in the car, you can control the number of passengers, where you stop, and how many other people you come in contact with. Where to Travel in NY Businesses have been reopening across New York State for weeks now, but no region is fully back up and running quite yet. Each region has entered a reopening phase based on its COVID-19 activity level and the ability to implement safety measures to reduce exposure. Phases not only limit which locations can open and when, but determine the capacity and guidelines required by each business. When planning your trip, research the phase or reopening status of each destination of interest. You can find the most updated information on phased reopening through New York Forward. What Activities are Safest The key to staying safe while traveling is to avoid activities that increase your exposure to crowds, enclosed spaces, and contaminated surfaces. Camping, hiking, swimming, and other outdoor recreational activities allow New Yorkers the most freedom to move about and avoid large gatherings. For more information on locations available for travel in New York, I Love NY provides a full list of what is open and to what extent. How to Protect Yourself While Traveling Changing the way you travel to protect your health is essential as we continue to monitor active outbreaks of coronavirus nationwide. The C.D.C. recommends all travelers, regardless of how far you are driving within the state, adhere to the following travel precautions on road trips: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after touching surfaces, being in a public place, coughing, sneezing, toughing your face, or eating; Use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available; Limit stops made to reduce contact with others; Bring extra medicine and supplies; Spread out and allow for ample room between groups; Avoid touching your nose, eyes, or mouth; Stay 6-feet apart from others; Wear a face covering when in public places; Do not travel if you are feeling unwell and monitor your health during the trip; and Pick up food instead of dining or bring your own food to cook at campsites or lodgings. How to Track Your Risk Google recently released a new online tool to help travelers decide where to visit and stop on their trips. The feature highlights COVID hot-spots and alerts travelers of areas with elevated levels of coronavirus activity. Google also provides travelers with specific information on the mandated safety requirements for locations and what phase or reopening they are in. Avoiding travel altogether as we continue to struggle through these unprecedented times is highly recommend. However, if you do choose to travel this summer, prioritizing safety is the
4th of July Kicks Off Summer Safety Risks
Fourth of July Kicks Off Summer Safety Risks While most Long Islanders will be celebrating Independence Day on a smaller scale this year, the need to plan for safety has never been greater. The Fourth of July remains one of the most hazardous and deadly holidays of the year. Between an uptick in reckless driving and dangerous recreational activities, carelessness in the summer season often results in disaster. Understanding what causes Independence Day accidents is the first step to keeping your family safe and healthy this summer. Regardless of how far you are traveling or the size of your gathering, there are always ways to prepare for a safer holiday weekend. Firework Dangers Fourth of the July fireworks shows are longstanding traditions that carry the risk of horrific consequences when things go wrong. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (C.P.S.C.), fireworks were responsible for at least 10,000 injuries in 2019. The most common accidents involved damage to the head, face, ears, eyes, and hands. Injuries ranged in severity from mild to fatal in the form of cuts and bumps, burns, abrasions, amputations, and instances of internal bleeding from forceful impacts. Despite the fact that home fireworks are illegal on Long Island and in New York City, officials have seen a rapid uptick of reported fireworks displays in neighborhoods throughout both Suffolk and Nassau County. At-home fireworks set off in unsafe locations can pose a serious risk to public safety. Just last week, a 3-year-old in NYC was badly burned by an illegal firework that came shooting through his bedroom window from the street below. All Long Islanders are encouraged to refrain from at-home fireworks to keep their community safe. Although most city and town fireworks shows have been canceled this year to limit large gatherings, there are still a few events, such as the Southampton Fresh Air Home Fund’s display, that can be seen from miles around, and are far safer than a backyard show. Drownings Drowning is one of the leading causes of fatalities for children, and a tragedy that even the best swimmers are not immune. It only takes about 60 seconds and 2 inches of water for someone to drown, according to Kids Health, and anyone of any age can become a victim. Pools, lakes, and beaches all have unique dangers that can increase a swimmer’s risk of drowning. Knowing the dangers of each body of water you swim in can help to reduce your risk and keep everyone in the water safe this season. Pools Backyard and public pools are a convenience that can prove to be deadly when safety precautions are ignored. Between 1999 to 2017, Newsday reported a total of nearly 90 drowning deaths in pools on Long Island: 24 in Nassau County and 65 in Suffolk County. Children ages 1 to 4 had the highest rates of drowning, followed by children ages 11 to 14, and adults ages 49 to 55. Parents of toddlers and small kids should always supervise their children in the pool, never leaving them alone in the water for any period of time. Swim lessons can greatly reduce a child’s chance of drowning if they find themselves falling in. However, supervision ultimately saves the most lives when it comes to accidents that catch kids off-guard. Additional safety steps all swimmers should take when in the pool this summer include: Installing sturdy gates to keep children out of the pool area when unsupervised; Encouraging no running around the pool to prevent falls; Keeping pool floats to a minimum to reduce the risk of children becoming caught underneath; Never swim while consuming alcohol; Never swim alone, especially at night; and Try to limit the number of people in the pool to avoid losing track of small children. Lakes and Oceans Drowning accidents on lakes and oceans occur for entirely different reasons compared to pools. Natural bodies of water are highly susceptible to weather that can change swimming conditions in the blink of an eye. Last year alone, The New York Times reported that 7 young adults drowned in separate instances within an 11-mile strip of New York City beaches after being pulled into the water unexpectedly by currents and waves. Swimmers who choose lakes and oceans must also watch out for vessels that can cause their harm, such as speed boats, jet skis, and tubes. Drowning accidents can also occur when people are not planning to swim but become knocked into the water due to rough conditions or collisions with other vessels. Swimming aids and life jackets, especially when used on a boat, are not just for kids. According to the 2016 Recreational Boating Statistic report published by U.S. Coast Guard, at least 83 percent of people who fatally drowned were not wearing life jackets. Life jackets are essential to saving lives when it comes to falling off a boat, getting caught in a riptide, or losing consciousness due to fatigue or injury. Other safety tips for swimming in lakes and oceans include: Always remain in designated areas; Do not swim alone or in deep water without supervision (even as adults); and Check the weather for riptide activity or inclement weather that can make conditions too rough to swim. Road Accidents Summer holidays are known for increased instances of reckless driving. But compared to all other holidays, Independence Day is the deadliest. According to the National Safety Council (N.S.C.), more fatal traffic accidents occur on Independence Day than any other time of the year. Studies have found that in addition to an increase in fatigued, drunk, distracted, and aggressive drivers, the presence of more cars on the road ups the risk of traffic accidents by at least 6.5 percent. Staying local may reduce your risk for traffic accidents, but it certainly will not eliminate it. Drivers can decrease their chances of getting into an accident by adhering to general safe driving methods, including: Always drive sober; Never drive while operating cellphones or electronics; Reduce the level of noise
Dangerous Uber Drivers: Who’s Really Behind the Wheel?
Ever wonder what it takes to become an Uber driver? It’s not as much as you think. There are potentially 900,000 active Uber drivers transporting riders around the country every day, and a large number of them could be unqualified. Here’s what riders need to be aware of before they hail their next Uber ride. Lack of Qualifications Uber boasts that its service has a job for everyone. The company claims on their website that “Most folks are eligible to drive on the Uber platform,” and this is by far one of the biggest concerns. According to Uber’s Minimum Driver Requirements, these are the current qualifications to become a driver: Meet the minimum age to drive in your city Have at least one year of licensed driving experience in the US (3 years if you are under 23 years old) Have a valid US driver’s license Use an eligible 4-door vehicle As proof of these qualifications, Uber requires drivers to include a copy of their driver’s license, proof of residency, proof of vehicle insurance, and a photo for their driver profile. Finally, the company then asks aspiring drivers to submit information to check their driving record and criminal history before they are able to start. The problem with Uber’s qualifications is that these minimum requirements do not necessarily constitute a safe driver. Some of the most concerning factors include: Inexperienced Drivers: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the first 18 months a driver has their license, regardless of age, is the most dangerous. Drivers between the ages of 16 to 19 are the most at risk for accidents, known for underestimating road dangers and falling victim to more distractions. Yet, Uber only requires that its drivers have at least one year of licensed driving experience or three years if they are under the age of 23. This allows two of the most inexperienced groups of drivers in the country to be transporting hundreds of people every week. No Driving Tests: Uber does not require its drivers to go through any training or testing to evaluate their knowledge of road safety. Drivers who not have a record of reckless driving can still demonstrate concerning and aggressive behaviors behind the wheel. The lack of traffic violations or points on their license could just mean they are a little better at not getting caught. Busy Roads: In metropolitan areas such as New York City, congested and busy streets can pose imminent dangers to even the most experienced drivers. Uber drivers are expected to pick up and drop off riders amid thousands of other vehicles, passengers, bicycles, pedestrians, and activities surrounding them. If they are not qualified to drive, the risk of getting into an accident and causing injuries to others drastically increases. Unsafe Vehicles: The Uber app requires a driver to operate a vehicle no more than 10 years old, with four-door accessibility. What they do not ask for is to inspect the car that a driver is using. It’s not enough to require a current registration and proof of insurance to ensure that a car is in good condition. These vehicles can easily lack proper maintenance or safety features which could lead to preventable accidents. Fraud: Uber does not interview drivers or inspect their vehicles as other companies may do when hiring employees. All driver information is submitted is through an online forum. These documents can be falsified and altered to meet the requirements needed to drive. It may also allow people to pretend to be another driver if the facial profile is similar enough to pass. Additionally, the minimal qualifications to become an Uber driver do not assess the overall safety of a person or possible risk of criminal intent. Thousands of Uber passengers in the last few years have filed claims against the company for instances of physical abuse, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. General interview questions regarding conflict management, or character references, may have led to the denial of some of these individuals passing as drivers. But with all Uber functions being completed online, these risky drivers are allowed to pass. A History of Reckless Screenings When the Uber app first came out, almost anyone could become a driver. If you were capable of signing up for the app, had a license, owned a car, you were immediately entrusted with the lives of the millions of potential users who could ask for a ride. In 2017, Uber came under fire by multiple states for hiring thousands of drivers who did not meet the standard requirements for driving, or who possessed criminal and felony backgrounds. Several drivers had a history of concerning offenses, including sexual abuse, substance use, and violent behaviors. Others had racked up years of charges and violations for acts of reckless driving. After slightly improving their screening methods, Uber reported in 2018 that at least 40,000 drivers nationwide had been let go for no longer qualifying to drive through the app. However, safety advocates have still found these driving qualifications to come up short, as passengers continue to report injuries and accidents committed at the hands of dangerous drivers. New York City and Long Island Car Uber Accident Attorneys Uber riders are in control of which ride they choose, but they can’t predict the type of driver who is behind the wheel. If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber accident, our team at Siler & Ingber is here to help. With a 98% success rate, we have the experience and the know-how to help our clients achieve a favorable outcome. Our Uber accident attorneys at the law firm of Siler & Ingber, have over 20 years of experience serving clients across New York City and Long Island. We protect your rights by maximizing recovery and securing the financial support our clients need to succeed on their road to recovery. Our winning attorneys know how to navigate through the claim process using past experience as insurance defense attorneys. We
American Children Are Getting Too Many Antibiotics!
As many as 1 in 4 children in the United States could be taking too many antibiotics. In a recent study highlighted by HealthDay News and published in Clinical Infectious Diseases, researchers found that doctors in children’s hospitals nationwide are giving antibiotics to pediatric patients inappropriately, and most often when unneeded. Patients who are overexposed to antibiotics are more likely to develop antibiotic resistance- a condition putting them at an elevated risk for fatal infections. It’s important to note that we are not providing health advice. As Long Island safety and health advocates, our team at Siler & Ingber believes in the power of information to make educated decisions about your child’s health. These are the facts parents should be aware of when it comes to antibiotics. The Misuse of Pediatric Antibiotics Antibiotics are life-saving medications that have been used to prevent the spread of bacterial infections for almost a century. But too much of anything can be unhealthy; antibiotics are no exception. The researchers in the Clinical Infectious Diseases study were curious to know how often antibiotics were really necessary to treat hospitalized pediatric patients. Researchers evaluated over 12,000 children at 32 children’s hospitals who were taking one or more antibiotics for the following factors: if the cases required antibiotics, if a different antibiotic should have been used, and if the duration of the antibiotic use was appropriate. At least 1 in 3 pediatric patients evaluated received one or more antibiotics while in care. Among this group, 25 percent received at least one antibiotic categorized as ‘inappropriate’. These cases included: Receiving the wrong antibiotic (27%); Receiving antibiotics for too long (17%); Taking unnecessary antibiotics (11%); and Receiving antibiotics in place of other drugs that could have reduced infections (11%). The antibiotic study also found that children who were diagnosed with pneumonia were the most likely to receive unnecessary antibiotics in the hospital. Common Questions About Antibiotics Antibiotics are not a cure-all drug. But if you’re a parent who’s confused about how and when antibiotics are supposed to be used, you’re not alone. The American Academy of Pediatrics (A.A.P.) compiled the following list of answers to the most common questions parents have surrounding the topic of antibiotics: How do children become antibiotic-resistant? The repeated use of antibiotics can lead your child to develop bacteria in their body that can no longer be killed by antibiotics. Your child can also develop resistance if they are taking the wrong antibiotic to prevent infection, including broad-based drugs that cover a number of possible conditions. These types of bacteria are extremely harmful, as they can spread to other children and adults, resulting in the same harmful resistance to antibiotics. Will antibiotics help a cold? Unfortunately, no. Colds are caused by viruses and antibiotics are used to kill infections caused by bacteria. Can antibiotics be used to prevent the possibility of a bacterial infection caused by a virus? The A.A.P. reports that bacterial infections do not commonly follow viruses. Using antibiotics as a prevention method for these rare occurrences may do more harm than good. Can antibiotics treat ear infections? Antibiotics may or may not be effective depending on the cause of the infection. The A.A.P reports most ear infections are the result of a virus, but it is up to your child’s doctor to look for signs and symptoms. Do antibiotics treat sore throats? More than 80 percent of sore throats are caused by viruses. Antibiotics are used to treat group A streptococci infections, also known as ‘strep throat’. What are the side effects of antibiotics? Antibiotics are strong medications, and 1 in every 10 children can experience side effects, including: rashes, allergic reactions, nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain. How long does it take for antibiotics to work? It can take anywhere between 48 to 72 hours for an antibiotic to take effect. What is the difference between antiviral and antibiotic? Antibiotics are used to kill bacteria that can lead to infections, while antivirals are prescribed to high-risk children to prevent serious side effects of viruses, including the flu. How To Advocate For Your Child The thought that a doctor would prescribe unnecessary medication to a child is discomforting. But it happens more often than we’d like to believe. Parents are the strongest (and sometimes only) advocate for their child’s health. When your child is prescribed antibiotics, don’t be afraid to ask questions to find out if this is really the best and safest course of treatment. To start, these are some questions you should be asking your child’s health care provider before administering antibiotics to your children: Does my child need antibiotics? Are there any safer options? What are the risks? How do I safely administer them? Are these drugs specific enough to their condition? Keep your children safe from adverse reactions to antibiotics by staying informed. For more information, visit HealthChildren.org. New York City and Long Island Medical Malpractice Attorneys Our medical malpractice attorneys at the law firm of Siler & Ingber, have over 20 years of experience serving clients across New York City and Long Island. We protect your rights by maximizing recovery and securing the financial support our clients need to succeed on their road to recovery. Our winning attorneys know how to navigate through the claim process using our past experience as insurance defense attorneys. We are not afraid to fight and are fully prepared to take your case to trial to get a justified verdict over settling for less. If you or a loved one has been injured due to medical malpractice, our team at Siler & Ingber is here to help. With a 98% success rate, we have the experience and the know-how to help our clients achieve a favorable outcome. Contact us today at 1-877-LAW-4343, or schedule an appointment online anytime. We never charge a fee unless we recover money for you.
Trench Accidents On Long Island: What’s Causing The Uptick
Trenching and excavation worksites on Long Island are showing a sudden uptick in preventable accidents. On Monday morning, a construction worker was seriously injured after falling into a 12 to 14-foot trench on a worksite in Sands Point. Officials reported the worker was walking across a board placed over the trench when the surrounding dirt caved in. It took 75 firefighters from across eight counties to rescue the worker who remains in serious condition. Tragically, two construction workers were killed just last week while digging a hole for a residential septic tank in Nassau County. Officials reported the men fell 30-feet down into the trench when the walls suddenly collapsed, quickly covering them with over seven feet of wet-dirt; both workers were pronounced dead upon their recovery. Pedestrians who walk near areas where trench and excavation work is frequent have also been known to sustain injuries. This past October, a woman fell into a poorly covered construction pit in Midtown Manhattan. Witnesses reported the lid laid to cover the pit collapsed when the woman walked over it, dropping her 5-feet down instantly, and leading her to sustain a head injury. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (O.S.H.A.) describes trenching and excavation work as one of the most hazardous operations in the construction industry. One wrong move in or around a trench can prove to be a deadly mistake. It’s essential that employers prioritize the safety of workers and pedestrians by taking extreme safety precautions to prevent trench accidents and life-threatening injuries before a project begins. What Causes Trench Accidents O.S.H.A. defines an excavation as “any man-made cut, cavity, trench, or depression in the earth’s surface formed by the east removal,” and a trench as “a narrow underground excavation that is deeper than it is wide, and is no wider than 15 feet.” Regardless of depth and width, both of these structures can prove deadly under the right circumstances. O.S.H.A. reports that nearly 60 percent of fatal cave-ins occurred in trenches that are 10-feet deep or less. Trenching and excavation accidents typically occur under the following conditions: Cave-Ins: Trench collapses and cave-ins pose the greatest risk to workers and pedestrians, resulting in dozens of fatalities and hundreds of injuries each year. Weak Soil: There are several types of soil workers can encounter when performing trench work. Some are less stable than others and can cave-in more easily. Heavy Machinery: Construction equipment can cause dangerous shifts in the soil and increase the risk for cave-ins by adding extra weight to the perimeter of a trench. Working Near Traffic: Trench work near busy roads can be particularly dangerous when it comes to monitoring the stability of a worksite. The ebb and flow of traffic can compromise the structure of a trench, as well as pose the additional risk of vehicles accidentally crashing into the excavation site. Utility Lines: Workers who run into unexpected utility lines or natural gas piping increase their risk of electrocution injuries and exposure to gas leaks. Exposing these pipes can also lead to cave-ins depending on where the pipes are located underground. How To Prevent Trench Accidents Most trench accidents are a result of inadequate planning before excavation work begins. It doesn’t matter how many trench and excavation projects an employer has completed in the past. Every site is different and requires significant preplanning to reduce the risk of fatal trenching accidents. According to O.S.H.A’s Trenching and Excavation Safety Report, these are some of the areas employers should focus on to reduce accidents: Preplanning Employers can start planning for trench safety the moment they begin to bid on a site. Traffic patterns, weather, soil classifications, fall protection needs, and surface and groundwater levels are only a few of the factors to consider when deciding whether a location is safe for a trenching project. If there are too many red flags in preplanning for the site, chances are there will only be more down the road. Prevention There are four different types of protective systems employers can use on their worksites to prevent trenching accidents caused by cave-ins: Benching: excavating the sides of a trench to form a series of horizontal levels or steps. Sloping: cutting back the trench wall at an angle to form a consent slop. Shoring: installing aluminum hydraulic or other types of supports to prevent soil movement. Shielding: using trench boxes or other types of support to prevent collapses. Not all of these methods will be effective depending on the type of soil on your work site. Employers must do their research to determine the soil classification, depth of the trench needed, the water content in the soil, and other operations in or around the site before they make a decision on the best prevention method to protect workers. Additional ways employers can protect workers include: Make sure materials and equipment are free from damage; Training all employees accordingly on trench safety practices; Providing warning systems and zones for equipment surrounding excavation work; and Providing appropriate covers and barriers to prevent workers and pedestrians from falling in. Employee Safety Employees who are physically working in and around excavation sites are ultimately at the most risk when it comes to accidents. Employers would ensure their workers are properly trained in taking extra precautions on the jobs. Suggested precautions from O.S.H.A. include: Keep all heavy equipment away from the trench edges; Identify sources that may affect trench stability before workers enter the excavation area; Keep extracted soil and other materials at least two feet from the edge of a trench; Be aware of any underground utility wires and where they are located before digging; Inspect trench often, especially after rain or snow; Do not work under suspended or raised loads; and Always wear personal protective equipment on the job. Pedestrian Safety Keeping trench and excavation work well marked and barricaded is the most effective method to prevent pedestrians from becoming injured when passing by. Placing covers and planks over trenches and holes for pedestrians to cross not
What Is A Catastrophic Injury
Most personal injuries cause a great deal of pain and inconvenience. However, some accidents are so severe, the results leave victims with unrepairable damages. These types of cases are classified as catastrophic injuries. They result in some of the most devastating and challenging outcomes, often adversely affecting every aspect of a person’s life. Types of Catastrophic Injuries Catastrophic injuries generally fall into three categories: cognitive injuries, spinal cord injuries, and physical injuries. Cognitive Injuries Cognitive injuries are among the most challenging types of catastrophic cases. These injuries result from traumatic damage to the brain and can take years to diagnosis the full extent of the damages sustained. Cognitive injuries may include difficulty with chronic pain, memory, speaking, sleeping, or the ability to retain new information. In the most serious cases, brain damage can also result in permanent alterations to someone’s personality and demeanor. Spinal Cord Injuries Spinal cord injuries involve traumatic damage directly to the spinal cord or bones and nerves surrounding the spine. The most common types of spinal cord injuries include cervical, lumbar, thoracic, and sacral injuries. Spinal cord damage can be classified as complete (permanent damage to the spinal cord) or incomplete (partial damage to the spinal cord). Both types of injuries can significantly affect a person’s mobility, daily functioning, and quality of life. Physical Injuries Physical catastrophic injuries include all other injuries to the body, aside from the spinal cord and brain. Examples include burn injuries, amputations, severe fractures, nerve damage, and organ damage. What Accidents Lead To Catastrophic Injuries Catastrophic injuries are the result of accidents involving serious trauma, force, or hazardous materials and equipment. This may include: Car accidents; Bicycle or pedestrian accidents; Construction and workplace accidents; Truck accidents; Surgical errors; Property hazards; Falling accidents; and Defective products or medication. What Constitutes a Catastrophic Injury Injuries classified as catastrophic must meet certain requirements when filing a personal injury claim. Catastrophic injuries are defined differently depending on the type. To qualify as ‘catastrophic’, an injury must be or have: Incapacitation; A permanent functional disability; A severe disability or impairment; A serious impact on at least one of the body’s major systems; A period of suffering prior to a terminal condition or death; and/or An injury to a significant vital organ or body parts such as the brain, neck, or spinal cord. Catastrophic injuries do not only bear heavily on the survivors. Families of survivors are equally as impacted by these tragedies, sometimes giving up their own lives to care for injured loved ones. When choosing a lawyer to file your claim, it’s crucial to choose an attorney who is experienced in catastrophic injury cases and will take all damages experienced into account. Catastrophic injury lawyers must be able to prove why an injury meets catastrophic standards and how it has globally impacted on a survivor’s life. Failing to do so could result in a denied claim or a lower monetary reward than needed to get someone back on their feet after an accident. New York City and Long Island Catastrophic Injury Attorneys Our catastrophic injury attorneys at the law firm of Siler & Ingber, have over 20 years of experience serving clients across New York City and Long Island. We protect your rights by maximizing recovery and securing the financial support our clients need to succeed on their road to recovery. Our winning attorneys know how to navigate through the claim process using past experience as insurance defense attorneys. We are not afraid to fight and are fully prepared to take your case to trial to get a justified verdict over settling for less. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to the negligence of another, our team at Siler & Ingber is here to help. With a 98% success rate, we have the experience and the know-how to help our clients achieve a favorable outcomes. Contact us today at 1-877-529-4343, or schedule an appointment online anytime. We never charge a fee unless we recover money for you.
Coronavirus: Should Americans Be Worried?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a Level 3 Travel Warning for Americans this Thursday due to the ongoing outbreak of the coronavirus- a respiratory illness similar to the deadly SARS virus that killed 774 people worldwide. The C.D.C. announcement came only one day before the second confirmed case of coronavirus in the United States was reported this morning in Chicago. The warning urges all travelers to avoid unnecessary trips to Wuhan, China where health officials report the virus originated. Wuhan officials also recently reported a sharp increase in infected citizens: 916 confirmed cases and 41 deaths linked to the virus to date worldwide. According to a recent article by CNBC, the majority of cases have been reported in mainland China. Other reported cases of the coronavirus have been reported in Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand , Vietnam, South Korea, Singapore, Japan, Taiwan, and now the United States. Global health officials are working together to contain this rapidly expanding outbreak in fear that it could become the next pandemic. Staying informed is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of contracting the coronavirus. Know the facts and spread awareness in your community to keep your loved ones safe. What We Know About The Virus Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause respiratory illnesses in humans. The current coronavirus strain, also known as 2019-nCoV, originated in the city of Wuhan, China as early as December 2019. Coronaviruses typically only result in mild respiratory systems, but two strains in our history have proven to be more deadly: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). It’s unclear how fatal the current coronavirus will become as Chinese officials continue to struggle with containing the fast-moving illness. However, at least 26 fatalities have occurred in approximately 30 days, and all countries remain on high alert. The C.D.C. is warning all Americans to avoid unnecessary travel to the Wuhan area. Chinese officials have taken significant steps to reduce the spread of the virus outside of the country: Shanghai Disneyland was shut down, a travel lockdown was issued from central China affecting 35 million residents, public transportation services have been suspended to nearby towns, and quarantine areas are currently under construction. Health Risks and Symptoms According to the C.D.C, coronaviruses can potentially lead to life-threatening health conditions such as pneumonia and bronchitis. Infants, adults over the age of 65, and individuals with a compromised immune system are the most at risk for the serious effects of the virus. Symptoms of the coronavirus may only last a few days and can include: headache; runny nose; cough; sore throat; difficulty breathing; fever; and a general feeling of being unwell. Individuals at risk of contracting the coronavirus include anyone who has recently visited Wuhan, China, or who has come in contact with an infected traveler. If you believe you are suffering symptoms of the coronavirus or that you might have been exposed to someone with active symptoms, call your healthcare provider immediately for guidance. Coronavirus Activity In The U.S. The second confirmed case of coronavirus in the United States was announced today by the C.D.C. The patient is a 60-year-old woman currently in isolation at a hospital in the Chicago area. Authorities reported the woman had flown into Chicago from Wuhan on January 13. Because she did not show signs of illness during travel, officials do not believe she spread the virus during this time. She has since reported minimal contact with others upon her return. The first confirmed case of the coronavirus in the U.S. was reported on January 21 in Washington. The patient, a male in his 30’s, had also recently returned from a visit to China. Currently, at least 63 patients across 22 states are under investigation as possible carriers of the coronavirus. Another possible scare of the coronavirus was reported in New Jersey early this morning. Thankfully, medical tests came back negative. How Travelers Can Protect Themselves At this time, health officials are unclear as to how the coronavirus is spreading from person-to-person. Anyone who must travel should be taking the following precautions on their trip: Avoid contact with people with confirmed illnesses; Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer throughout the day to kill germs when soap and water are unavailable; Do not travel without consulting with your healthcare provider. Wear a mask for precaution. For travelers specifically going to Wuhan, health officials recommend avoiding animal markets, touching animals (alive or dead), and consuming products that come from animals such as uncooked meats. Any traveler who arrives from Wuhan may be subject to a health screening to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus. These screenings may include a questionnaire and a thermometer read. Anyone with active symptoms may be required to undergo additional health assessments. Staying informed about recent health outbreaks is crucial to keeping you and your family safe. For more information on the coronavirus and updates, review the resources listed below: Centers For Disease Control and Prevention: Novel Coronavirus in Wuhan China , About Coronaviruses The New York Times: Maps of Where The Coronavirus Has Spread The Washington Post: Coronavirus- Live Updates
Top 3 Causes of Trucking Accidents
Tractor-trailers and large freight trucks can lead to devastating road accidents when errors occur. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (I.I.H.S.) reports 4,136 people died in large trucking crashes in 2018. Sadly, most of these victims were occupants of other vehicles. While some of these accidents were a result of unforeseeable circumstances, research shows most trucking accidents are entirely preventable and occur due to negligence and recklessness on the part of the operators. In a study performed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (F.M.C.S.A.) titled the Large Truck Crash Causation Study (L.T.C.C.S.), these were the top three causes of trucking accidents that all drivers should be aware of: Speeding Speeding is considered the deadliest reckless driving behavior on the road, accounting for nearly 30 percent of all fatal traffic accidents in the country. The L.T.C.C.S. study found 23 percent of all large truck accidents listed speeding as a leading factor, particularly in collisions resulting in fatalities. Crash rates become even higher on slippery roads when snow, ice, and sleet can make it difficult for trucks to stop. The F.M.C.S.A. found speeding accidents involving large trucks can be dramatically decreased when drivers follow legally posted speed limits on roadways. When slippery roads are present, drivers who reduce their speed by one-third on wet roads and one-half on snowy roads have a better chance of stopping soon enough to prevent an accident. Brake Issues At least 29 percent of large truck accidents in the L.T.C.C.S. study occurred due to poorly maintained brakes. Braking issues are preventable hazards that can often be resolved with regular maintenance and frequent inspections. Braking issues can include: squealing, squeaking, and grinding; wobbling, vibrating, and scraping; leaking fluid; uneven distribution of breaks which pull cars to one side; burning; spongy or soft feeling brake pedal; and bouncing. Brake failures prevent trucks from stopping in time to avoid road hazards such as a fixed object, vehicles, passengers, and bicycles sharing the road. Trucks already take 20 to 40 percent more roadway to stop than an average passenger vehicle. When brakes are not up to par, this process can take even longer. Lack of Preparation Truck drivers travel all over the country, encountering hundreds of roads they have never traveled on before. Drivers in at least 22 percent of truck accidents assessed in the L.T.C.C.S. study listed unfamiliarity with their route as a leading cause of their crash. The most dangerous of these including, sharp turns, low bridges, and narrow or congested streets. While drivers cannot possibly prepare for every road hazard or unfamiliar curve, planning ahead and doing research on an upcoming trip can reduce the risk for accidents caused by human error. Drivers who get up and go, failing to plan ahead, are most at risk for causing accidents made when driving in unfamiliar territories. New York City and Long Island Truck Accident Attorneys There is no excuse for reckless driving. Truck drivers who fail to drive safely put others at unnecessary risk for catastrophic losses and injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident due to negligence, the attorneys at Siler & Ingber are here to help. With a 98% success rate, we have the experience and the know-how to help our clients achieve a favorable outcome. Contact us today at 1-877-529-4343, or schedule an appointment online anytime. We never charge a fee unless we recover money for you.
Hidden Ladder Dangers: How To Prevent Injuries
Over 43 percent of all fatal falls over the last decade involved people who were using ladders. According to a study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 90,000 others are treated in emergency rooms for ladder-related injuries every year. The study found that construction and mining industries saw the most fatal accidents involving ladders. The majority of fatal falls involved traumatic head injuries, and companies with the fewest employees ranked highest for ladder-related fatalities. Ladders are essential tools that are found at most workplaces across the country. But when ladders are not used safely, life-threatening work injuries can occur. 4 Most Common Ladder Mistakes According to another study by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (C.P.S.C.), ladder injuries have increased by 50 percent over the last 10 years. Other startling findings from the C.P.S.C. report include: 50% of ladder-related accidents occurred when climbers are carrying items or tools while on a ladder; 700 occupational deaths per year were caused by elevated ladder falls; 32% of injuries from ladder accidents resulted in fractures, the most common type of ladder-related injury. Most ladder accidents can be linked to four common mistakes people make when using ladders on the job: 1. Using Damaged or Worn Ladders It is incredibly dangerous to use old or damaged ladders, regardless of how high you are climbing. Ladders endure an enormous amount of wear and tear in industries such as construction and manufacturing. Overtime, ladder components can become weak and ineffective, causing them to break while workers are climbing. This is especially true for wooden ladders that can warp with exposure to extreme heat and humidity. 2. Selecting The Wrong Ladder There are thousands of options when it comes to choosing a ladder for your workplace. But that doesn’t mean all of them will be appropriate for the job. Selecting a ladder that does not hold enough weight or is too short can allow them to fall or break. Altering ladders to fit the job puts the structural integrity of the device at risk, and further increases the chance of an accident. 3. Incorrect Placement The incorrect positioning of a ladder can lead to disaster before a climber even begins. Ladders placed on uneven or soft ground will not stay straight and sturdy as workers climb. And ladders that are placed in front of unlocked doors or in high traffic areas of the workplace can be knocked over by others walking by. This can be especially dangerous when unstable ladders are left unoccupied, as they can cause traumatic injuries to surrounding workers when they fall. 4. Incorrect Use There will always be people who use tools in ways they were not designed to be used. These human errors result in some of the most catastrophic accidents when it comes to ladders. Examples of using ladders incorrectly include altering a ladder to become longer, standing on the very top step, using ladders horizontally as bridge-like structures, or attempting to move ladders while suspended in the air. Other Hidden Dangers There are several other factors a worksite that can lead to ladder-related injuries. Some include: Weather Conditions: Workers who use ladders outdoors can experience sudden inclement weather conditions that can increase the risk for accidents. Rain, wind, snow, and ice are all conditions known for leading to falls. Ladder Recalls: Defects in manufacturing can lead to the sale of dangerous ladders. In 2018, a recall of over 78,000 Werner ladders was initiated after reports were made of ladders breaking beneath workers. Some of these ladders were up to 26 feet tall. Medical Emergencies: Workers who experience medical emergencies while on a ladder can become seriously injured in the case of a fall. Some workers have been known to experience blurry vision, vertigo, and panic attacks when climbing ladders, all putting their immediate safety at risk. These factors can be hard to predict, but they are not impossible to plan for. Most ladder accidents are 100 percent preventable when precautionary measures and safety measures are used on the job. Preventing Ladder Accidents The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (O.S.H.A.) recommends the following safety steps for reducing ladder-related injuries across all industries: Follow all manufacturer instructions for how to operate your ladder properly; Only use a ladder with the proper weight and height limits you require for the job; Inspect ladders frequently or before each use; Always replace or repair broken and worn ladders; Place ladders on a firm and even service; Make sure all locks are secure and the feet of the ladder are even on the ground; Never place a ladder on top of other objects to extend the length. Use a larger ladder; If available, have a coworker hold the ladder steady from the ground and serve as a spot; and Use fall equipment protection to prevent injuries if a ladder-accident does occur. If you are using ladders outdoors, check the weather for any signs of inclement conditions that could pose a danger to climbers. If you have any health-related conditions that could put you at risk for falling when on a ladder, check with your doctor before performing elevated tasks. New York City and Long Island Personal Injury Lawyers Our personal injury attorneys at the law firm of Siler & Ingber, have over 20 years of experience serving injured workers across New York City and Long Island. We protect your rights by maximizing recovery and securing the financial support our clients need to succeed on their road to recovery. Our winning attorneys know how to navigate through the claim process using our past experience as insurance defense attorneys. We are not afraid to fight and are fully prepared to take your case to trial to get a justified verdict over settling for less. If you or a loved one has been injured in a work-related accident, our team at Siler & Ingber is here to help. With a 98% success rate, we have the experience and the know-how to help our clients achieve
