Child Passenger Safety Week
Car crashes are the number one cause of death for children. Between 2013 to 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (N.H.T.S.A.) reported 3,313 children under the age of 13 died in car crashes. In 2017 alone, over 40 percent of children killed were not buckled in properly. Hundreds of parents and guardians every year skip the vital step of securing their children properly in the car. Most are simple mistakes, and without the knowledge that an error has been made. To help spread awareness and prevent further child fatalities on the road, the N.H.T.S.A. sponsors the annual Child Passenger Safety Week every September. From September 15 to 21, the N.H.T.S.A. along with countless other national organizations, launch active safety campaigns geared towards parents and guardians on the importance of car seat safety. Long Island families can access a bulk of community resources and events this week to assist them in properly choosing and installing their children’s car seats. To end the week, Saturday, September 21 is National Seat Check Day. Residents can visit several inspection stations in Nassau and Suffolk Counties to gain peace of mind that their little ones are safely secured. All New York parents can help spread awareness this week by staying informed on the facts. To help you get started, we’ve compiled some of the most crucial facts parents need to know about car seat safety. Car Seat Mistakes To Avoid Safe Kids Worldwide reports that for every 33 seconds, a child under the age of 13-years-old is involved in a car accident. Car seats are vital to protecting our children in the case of an accident, but only if they are being used properly. Unfortunately, most parents are not aware when they are making deadly car seat errors, leading to an increased chance of life-threatening injuries every time their child rides in the car. An article published in Fatherly highlights the seven most common car seat mistakes parents are making that could cause serious harm: Installing Car Seats Improperly:Common installation mistakes include wrong angles, using the wrong belt, not securing seat correctly, not following the manufacturer’s instructions. Turning Car Seat Too Soon:According to new recommendations released by the American Academy of Pediatrics, parents should keep their kids rear-facing as long as possible. Yet, a number of parents turn their kids around well before just because it’s easier. Not Fastening Seat Top Tether:The top tether of the car seat can keep children facing forward from toppling in a car accident. Fatherly reports more than 64% of parents don’t even use the top tether, and 50% aren’t attaching it correctly. Not Tightening Shoulder Harness Correctly:Leaving space in the harness is extremely dangerous and can cause your child to slip out of the seat and be ejected from the car. There should be no slack in the shoulder harness. Not Taking Off Winter Coats:Winter coats can cause a child to be loosely secured in a seat, even if it appears the straps are tight. There are an extra four inches of space between the coat and the child that can cause a child to fly out easily. Not Using The Right Seat:If children are in a seat that is too big or too small, they can be seriously injured in a car accident without the proper protection for their body. Missing Recalls:Not sending in the registration form for your car seat can cause parents to miss important safety recalls for their products that could put your kids in danger. The Worst Car Seats To Use Car seats are expensive. The cost alone of a modern-day car seat is enough to hinder a parent’s choice to purchase a new one. But holding on to subpar car seats or choosing cheaper options may not be a safer alternative. Here are the types of car seats parents should avoid: Expired Seats:Car seats have expiration dates for a reason. According to Consumer Reports, car seat components break down over time. This can lead to safety features failing in the case of a crash. Car seats that are typically over six-years-old should be replaced with newer models. Car Seats That Have Been In Accidents:Car accidents apply a large amount of force on objects inside the car, including the seats. Safety experts recommend replacing car seats after an accident due to the stress placed on the safety components. Keeping seats after an accident could result in life-threatening injuries or the product to fail in a crash. Second-Hand Seats: Parents who buy second-hand seats do not know the history of the product. These models may have been subject to recalls, accidents, and other types of mistreatment that compromise their integrity and durability. The cost reduction is not worth the risk. Walmart Trade-In Event Parents who are looking to purchase a new car seat or upgrade their current models will be excited about Walmart’s new Car Seat Trade-In Event. From now until September 30, Walmart will award customers a $30 gift card that can be used on any item in-store or online. The incentive is perfect to use on the next car seat you need for your little one. Here’s how to participate: Bring your car seat to the Customer Service counter from September 16 to September 30. Leave the car seat at the counter and walk away with a $30 Walmart gift card. There are only two-trade-ins allowed per household (booster seats are not eligible). For more information on the trade-in program, view Walmart’s policies here Long Island Child Passenger Safety Events Parents on Long Island should take full advantage of local resources and events available during Child Passenger Safety Week, including participating in National Seat Check Saturday. Making sure your child’s safety seat is properly secured and appropriate for their size could save their lives and protect them from permanent or disabling injuries. Nassau and Suffolk Counties both offer multiple sites for car seat installation assistance. Parents are required to make appointments before to ensure they have enough time to ask all
What Is A Personal Injury Case?
If you’ve been injured in an accident, you might be wondering whether your case qualifies as a personal injury. You are certainly not alone. As defined by the American Bar Association, personal injury is a sector of the law that encompasses a wide array of damages sustained from accidents caused by negligence or intent. This could include damages sustained to the mind, body, or spirit, all of which are equally important to establishing someone’s positive well-being. When you sustain an injury in an accident that significantly affects your everyday life, you may benefit from consulting with a personal injury attorney. New York City and Long Island laws are made to protect citizens who have been wrongfully injured. By providing avenues for them to pursue civil claims for any damages sustained, accident victims can regain the compensation they require and seek justice after an unnecessary injury. The Different Categories of Personal Injuries Personal injury law covers a wide spectrum of lawsuits that some victims would not even think to explore. There are three different categories of personal injuries that an accident victim can seek damages for: Physical Physical injuries are typically the first type of personal injury that comes to mind when clients consider filing a claim. The types of physical injuries we often see in personal injury cases include: Traumatic Brain Injuries; Spinal Cord Injuries; Broken Bones; Severe Lacerations; Soft Muscle Strains and Tears; Internal Bleeding; and Long-Term Medical Conditions Physical injuries that are severe in nature could require several invasive procedures and follow up appointments with medical specialists, depending on the severity of the damages. Additionally, it could take months or years for an individual to fully recover. In the case where an accident results in permanent damage, an individual may be forced to reroute their entire life to accommodate an acquired disability, changing their home, work, and even social environments in one fell swoop. However, physical injuries do not have to be life-threatening to qualify for a personal injury claim. Someone who sustained mild to moderate injuries may still require time away from work to heal and attend doctor’s appointments when in recovery. Though not severely physically injured, these accident victims can also experience secondary injuries not physical in nature from experiencing a traumatic accident that negatively affects their overall health. Emotional You have rights in a personal injury lawsuit to pursue a claim for emotional suffering. These types of personal injuries are not taken lightly, as they can have detrimental effects on accident victims, particularly after catastrophic accidents. The onset of emotional trauma can be triggered by losing a loved one, losing a job, losing companionship, or any other traumas that result from an accident. Experienced personal injury lawyers understand the grand implications that an injury can have on individuals and families in the aftermath of an accident. The onset of emotional distress can stem from the overwhelming emotions of a negligent act or witnessing traumatic events during an accident, such as a loved one being injured. Emotional suffering can also be experienced when an injury causes permanent disabilities that change the course of someone’s life. Psychological The mental health of an individual who has been injured is just as important as their physical ailments. Accident victims can experience several additional psychological injuries negatively affecting their health, including: Depression; Anxiety; Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; Insomnia and Fatigue; Anger; Guilt and Shame; and Mental health conditions require additional services and treatment to recover from on top of the medical needs of an injury. These costs are not always covered by insurance and can result in significant out-of-pocket expenses for clients. Two Basic Components Of A Personal Injury Claim Regardless of what type of injury you sustain in an accident, every personal injury claim must be able to prove two main issues: liability and damages. Liability Personal injury claims must show that someone was liable for the injuries a victim sustained. It makes no difference whether the injury was caused by accident, negligence, or if it was intentional in nature, a personal injury lawyer must be able to prove that the defendant in the case was directly liable for the damage. Damages The damages sustained in a personal injury case do not have to be physical. Emotional and psychological damages are equally as harmful and can result in devastating consequences for an accident victim. The essential part of any personal injury claim is being able to prove the nature of the damages sustained and to what extent the damages have negatively affected your life. Once these two issues are covered, a personal injury claim will list all losses an individual has endured that could qualify for compensation. These areas may include: Income; Property Loss; Medical Bills; Pain and Suffering; Loss of Consortium (loss of companionship from injuries); Emotional Distress; and Adaptive Equipment. Accidents That Result In Personal Injuries As experienced attorneys in the area of personal injury law, our team at Siler & Ingber has seen it all. There are countless types of accidents that can result in a personal injury claim. These are some of the most common cases: Car Accidents; Pedestrian Accidents; Slip and Falls; Medical Malpractice; Mass Transportation Accidents; Dog Bites; Product Liability; Construction Injury; and Wrongful Death. Any of these accidents have the possibility of causing multiple types of personal injuries. The wrongful death of a loved one, the loss of a limb, the trauma of a catastrophic accident can all lead to serious conditions requiring long-term care and support. 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 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
Siler & Ingber’s Partner Ronald Ingber Named NY Metro Super Lawyer
Siler & Ingber LLP is proud to announce that managing partner Ronald Ingber has been named among the 2019 New York Metro Super Lawyers. This extraordinary honor stands as a true testament to Ron’s dedication to the firm and his passion for representing and fighting for the rights of the firm’s injured clients. The recognition of Super Lawyers is not easily obtained. Every year Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a patented selection process that involves peer nominations, independent research and peer evaluations. They highlight outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Of all the registered attorneys in New York State, only 5% are chosen for a Super Lawyers honor. “I feel honored to receive this recognition and be part of an outstanding group of attorneys that make up the NY Metro Super Lawyers.” stated Ron Ingber. We congratulate Ron on this notable achievement.
Speeding: The Most Reckless Driving Behavior!
A new study on aggressive driving identified speeding as the riskiest driving behavior on the road. According to Insurance Journal, a study emerging from the University of Waterloo in Canada found that speeding was the strongest predictor leading to crashes compared to any other form of aggressive driving. Researchers of the study analyzed data provided from insurance companies in Texas and Ontario from over 28-million recorded trips. Speeding was the only behavior that consistently led to crashes and was the key differentiator when comparing trips where car accidents were present and those where they were not. Speeding has always been considered dangerous, but this new study provides tangible proof that speeding leads to a higher rate of preventable accidents. Here’s what all Long Island and New York City drivers must be aware of to help reduce reckless speeding accidents and fatalities. Why Speeding Is So Deadly Nearly 30 percent of all fatal traffic accidents involve speeding. In 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (N.H.T.S.A.) reported 9,717 speeding-related fatalities, most of which were entirely preventable. Speeding is against the law for a reason. Some of the most serious consequences from speeding according to the N.H.T.S.A. include: Increased ability to lose control of your car; Reduced reaction time to road hazards; Reduced effectiveness of vehicle occupant protection equipment; Increased degree of crash severity and injuries; Increased fuel consumption; and Economic implications of speed-related accidents. When a driver is traveling at excessive speeds, the number of road hazards and the severity of injuries significantly increase. The most dangerous conditions at moderate speeds can have catastrophic results when a driver is speeding. Some of these instances include: Inclement weather; Congested roads; Roads with increased speed limits (highways, thruways); Nighttime driving; and City streets with multiple modes of transportation and pedestrians. Pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents resulting from speeding vehicles can be particularly gruesome. These individuals have little protection to reduce the trauma their body experiences when struck by a car at high speed. Injuries sustained from these crashes are often fatal or result in permanent injuries and disabilities that alter someone’s life forever. Injuries Related To Speeding Accidents Internal and external injuries can be life-threatening in speeding accidents. When a speeding car crashes, the vehicle may come to a sudden stop, but everything inside continues to move with the same amount of force. Flying objects, steering wheels, windows, and car doors can cause victims of a speeding-related car accident significant injuries upon impact. A public safety video released by a police department in New Zealand shows the devastating results a speeding crash can have on internal organs. The force of a crash causes your brain, heart, and other vital organs to crash inside of the body similar to crashing to an object within the vehicle. Even while wearing a seatbelt, this can lead to internal damage that becomes more severe the faster a car is traveling at the time of an accident. Other serious injuries resulting from car accidents include: Brain Injuries; Spinal Cord Damage; Broken Bones; Ruptured Organs; and Internal Bleeding. Why Do People Speed Aside from emergency vehicles, who still have to drive with care to prevent accidents on the road, there is no good excuse for speeding. Yet, millions of Americans speed on our roadways every day, and most believe the behavior is justified to an extent. The N.H.T.S.A. reports these are some of the most common reasons for why drivers speed, including: Running Late: The majority of drivers who speed are running behind or late for an obligation. Americans have become overwhelmed with busy schedules. It’s hard to find a driver on the road who is not rushing off to the next thing. Traffic: Aggressive drivers do not like to wait in traffic. They would rather speed in and out of lanes to avoid sitting on congested roads, even if it puts others at risk. Anonymity: Anonymity is a sense of detachment drivers can experience that makes frequent speeders very risky on the road. These drivers see vehicles and pedestrians as objects to move around on rather than people being put in danger by speeding. Disregard For the Law: Some drivers believe that speed limits are suggestions. Going at least 10 to 20 mph over the limit is normal and ‘no big deal.’ Intoxicated: Drunk drivers may engage in speeding and not even realize it. Their judgment and ability to control a vehicle are severely impaired, which puts them at even more of a risk to others when traveling at accelerated speeds. Distracted: Drivers who are distracted may change speed limit zones without noticing. Unknowingly going from a 40 mile per hour town road down to a 25 mile per hour school zone without slowing down can prove disastrous in the case of an accident. Road Rage: Drivers experiencing road rage are the most terrifying and dangerous drivers to encounter. These individuals intentionally set out to harm others, and speeding is one of the most common behaviors they participate in. The Four Worst Driving Behaviors The University of Waterloo study did not just analyze speeding. Researchers identified four different types of aggressive driving leading to accidents that all New York City and Long Island drivers should be aware of, including: Speeding: Accelerating over the posted speed limit. Hard Breaking: When a driver slams their foot down on the break with excessive force. Hard Acceleration: When a driver slams their foot down on the gas with excessive force. Hard Cornering: When a driver turns around a corner quickly and forcefully, typically without slowing down. All of these aggressive driving behaviors can be associated with speeding. Hard breaking typically occurs when a driver is going too fast to stop safely. A driver may then use hard acceleration to speed back up, and hard cornering to avoid slowing down into a turn. What’s The Law Speeding is illegal in New York State, and drivers who are caught can face hefty fines. According to the New York State Governors Traffic Safety Committee,
Drinking and Driving on Labor Day- Don’t Take A Chance
Labor Day weekend is only days away, and Long Island police departments are already on the prowl to catch drunk drivers in the act. Suffolk County police arrested eight motorists for impaired driving at a sobriety checkpoint in Huntington Station this past weekend as a part of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) campaign, “Saturation Saturday.” According to Newsday, this safety initiative is conducted annually on the Saturday before the upcoming holiday weekend to encourage motorists to drive sober by threatening hefty penalties. The drastic increase in drunk drivers on the road makes Labor Day one of the deadliest holidays of the year for car accidents. In 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 376 traffic fatalities over this holiday weekend- 36 percent of these accidents involved a drunk driver. Law enforcement officers nationwide, including on Long Island, have joined organizations such as the N.H.T.S.A. in initiating a high-visibility enforcement campaign spanning from August 14 through September 2. The increased presence of officers on the road aims to reduce the number of drivers who drink and drive, and to spread awareness on the dangers alcohol can have on someone’s driving abilities. One Drink Could Be One Too Many Drunk driving takes the lives of over 10,000 Americans every year. Alcohol can impact a driver’s judgment, vision, color distinction, and reaction time; all factors which can lead to increased traffic accidents. Drunk driving accidents are entirely preventable, and it doesn’t take a large amount of alcohol for them to occur. Most drivers who choose to drink and drive give excuses such as “I only had one drink,” or “I feel fine.” The fact of the matter is that one drink does not make someone immune to the risks of intoxicated driving. A driver’s level of intoxication is based on several different factors which can all vary depending on the circumstances under which the drink was consumed. The Student Well-Being McDonald Center at the University of Notre Dame describes these as the most significant factors that can affect someones intoxication level and Blood Alcohol Content (B.A.C.), even from just one alcoholic beverage: Rate of Consumption Choosing to down multiple alcoholic drinks quickly because you have to drive later will always backfire. The quicker you consume an alcoholic beverage, the faster your B.A.C. will rise. Type of Drink One beer is not equivalent to one glass of hard liquor. Different types of alcohol have varying levels of alcohol content. Consuming stronger drinks will result in a higher B.A.C. High alcohol content drinks are also absorbed slower, which may delay the feeling of intoxication leading someone to drink more than they should. Size of Drink One drink of alcohol can vary greatly depending on how much is in your glass. One 12 ounce beer, one 4 to 5 ounce glass of wine, and one 10 ounce wine cooler all have the same alcohol content. Considering most people are not measuring how much alcohol they pour into their glass, it can be easy to consume more alcohol in one drink than intended. Mood Surprisingly, your mood can play a significant role in how intoxicated you become. If someone is experiencing depression, anxiety, or anger prior to drinking alcohol, the enzymes in their stomach will change the way their body reacts to processing the alcohol. Researchers found mood begins to deteriorate when B.A.C. is about .07, regardless of how happy you were when you started drinking. Food Drinking alcohol before you eat is a recipe for disaster. Someone who consumes alcohol on an empty stomach as opposed to a full stomach will become intoxicated much quicker. High Tolerance Having a high tolerance for consuming alcohol does not mean you can still drive. Someone who does not experience as many effects from alcohol may still have a B.A.C. over the legal limit, and make decisions on the road they might not have if sober. Illness Drinking while you are ill or in recovery from an illness can result in a higher B.A.C. and the feeling that you are more intoxicated after fewer drinks. This occurs because the body is typically dehydrated after being sick, which increases the effects of alcohol. Medications Adverse reactions to medications when drinking is more common than you might think. Mixing medications with alcohol is deadly on its own, but it can have serious consequences for an individual who is unaware before getting behind the wheel. Certain medications can cause the effects of alcohol to skyrocket after only one drink. Even some herbal medications can have adverse reactions when mixed with alcohol. Fatigue Consuming alcohol can cause you to feel fatigued, but drinking when you are already fatigued can intensify the effects of alcohol immensely. When someone is fatigued, their liver is less efficient and processes alcohol much slower, resulting in an abnormally high B.A.C. Weight The amount you weigh can determine how many drinks it takes for you to become intoxicated. Someone who weighs 185 pounds could have a B.A.C. of 0.025 after consuming two drinks in an hour, while their 130-pound friend could have a .053 B.A.C. after the same type and amount of alcohol in the same timeframe. The bottom line is there is no situation where driving after you consume alcohol is safe. There is no special math equation that can help you determine how many drinks you can have before you are too drunk to drive. Drinking any amount of alcohol is not worth getting behind the wheel or causing an accident that could alter someone’s life forever. Know The Signs Preventing drunk driving accidents starts with keeping drivers who are intoxicated off the road. When someone has been drinking, they have lost the ability for you to rely on their judgment. Being able to recognize the signs of a drunk driver can help you stop friends and family from getting behind the wheel and making a grave mistake they cannot take back. According to Healthline, here are the signs to look for that could
What Does A Personal Injury Attorney Do?
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident, your first step after receiving medical care might be to consult with a lawyer. You may have heard that personal injury lawyers are the ones to call after an accident when negligence was the cause. Most personal injury firms advertise that they will represent your best interests in court and fight for the compensation you deserve- but what exactly does that mean? We Are The Voice Of The Injured Despite what many believe, personal injury lawyers are not your average attorneys. Personal injury lawyers advocate for individuals and families at one of the worst times in their lives. They are a beacon of hope for victims who have been wrongfully injured, and whose lives may be altered forever after an accident. When someone experiences a catastrophic injury, a personal injury lawyer is focused on your rights as well as your well being. They understand the life-long effects serious injuries can have on an individual, and they are not afraid to step outside of the box to seek justice on your behalf. Personal Injury Attorneys Play Different Roles While personal injury attorneys can secure you the compensation you deserve after an accident, this is by far the only job they take on. Committed to advocating and empowering individuals who have been wrongfully injured, personal injury lawyers take on several different functions throughout the legal process: Informing Clients of Their Legal Rights Experienced personal injury lawyers are well versed in civil law and can explain your legal rights in a language that is easy to understand. One accident can have several different claims depending on the circumstances, and personal injury lawyers will pursue each one to determine the total cost of damages in your case. It’s easy to label someone as ‘wrong’ for causing an injury to someone else. But that’s not enough to file a lawsuit. In order to prove negligence, your attorney must be able to show which rights were violated in your case and how. This requires personal injury lawyers to delve deep into every accident to determine how best to inform clients of their rights to justice. Counseling Clients on The Process There are several actions clients take after an accident that can jeopardize the success of their claim, even when obvious negligence is present. Most individuals wouldn’t think twice about talking about their injury, particularly when it comes to posting on social media- that’s another benefit of having a personal injury attorneys. Personal injury lawyers provide critical advice to accident victims on what to do and what not to do after an accident. Steps to take before filing a claim may include keeping records, securing documentation, and following up with doctors. While actions to avoid could include posting details on your social media, contacting the negligent party, or providing any statement without consulting with your lawyer first. Staying On Top Of Deadlines Each personal injury claim has a separate process and statute of limitations that must be followed to file successfully. Personal injury attorneys keep track of all these deadlines to ensure requirements are fulfilled in a timely manner. According to the New York State Unified Court System, a personal injury victim has three years to file a claim. Filing after this time will result in an automatic dismissal no matter how serious the accident. Negotiating With Insurance Companies Clients who are injured in incidents such as a car accident may have to go head-to-head with insurance companies that are not always there to help. Most insurance companies are teaming with experts ready to fight claims or find reasons not to pay out the full benefit a client deserves. Personal injury attorneys are known for standing up to insurance companies to protect clients from the common mistakes that end in denied claims. These attorneys have seen time and again the tricks insurance companies use to reduce maximum rewards and will negotiate terms for their clients to avoid them. Trial Preparation Settlements are common in personal injury cases, but some circumstances do require a case to go to trial. This is when personal injury attorneys set down their litigation responsibilities and put on their trial hats. Some of the most successful personal injury attorneys in the country are also trial attorneys. These professionals, well versed in personal injury law, aggressively pursue cases in court in the best interest of the clients. The best personal injury attorney also prepares their clients for the hardships trial can bring, providing support and guidance throughout the proceedings. Personal Injury Duties That May Surprise You Personal injury lawyers are unlike many other attorneys in the industry. These are not the lawyers you see on television, sitting at their desks and waiting for the phone to ring. These advocates are out in their community, getting involved in local change, and fighting for their clients at every turn. Take a look at some of the more surprising duties personal injury lawyers take on that put them ahead of the rest: Becoming Medically Informed The majority of personal injury cases involve some sort of physical injury. So not only do personal injury lawyers possess an excellent understanding of serious injuries, but they also connect with dozens of medical specialists who can break them down. Personal injury attorneys develop valuable relationships with physicians in the process of sorting through the physical aspects of a case. These physicians help to determine the severity of an injury and the most likely cause. Knowing so many professionals in the medical field is also beneficial for clients who are looking for referrals on their road to recovery. Investigating and Gathering Evidence Personal injury lawyers are similar to detectives when it comes to your case. It takes a significant amount of evidence and facts to prove negligence after an accident, and not all of them are easy to find. Accident scenic that occur in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, and on Staten Island are susceptible to the fast-paced NYC traffic.
New York Welding Accidents
Welding is by far one of the most dangerous jobs amongst construction and industrial-related occupations, and every year welders are injured in a variety of ways and deserve legal recourse. Welding injuries can occur to even the most experienced in the industry, and many times these types of injuries are serious and can leave an individual out of work for months at a time or be life-altering. There’s no denying the financial strains on employees and their families when a construction worker is forced to miss work for extended periods of time, and there are many instances in which welding injuries are simply too expensive to be fully covered by an individual’s insurance. On this page, we are going to go over the common types of welding accidents, how you can decipher your grounds for legal recourse, and the details of recovering damages within these types of personal injury cases. If you have any questions and would like to inform us about the details of your injury, always feel free to contact us for a free consultation so we can begin the initial steps towards your best course for legal action. How Welding Accidents Happen Welding injuries tend to happen in industrial or construction settings, but there are always extenuating circumstances that can lead to these types of accidents. Although New York law could inhibit an employee’s abilities to hold a co-worker or employer liable, you are always able to qualify for compensatory recovery from any third party who contributed to the causation of your injuries. Some of the common types of welding accident injuries we come across include the following: Eye Injuries — Welders will many times be too exposed to bright light and welder’s flash, or arc eye, can cause serious eye surface and retina damage that can end up resulting in serious issues like cataracts and potential blindness. Skin Injuries — UV radiation from welding can seriously burn a worker’s skin, and when a welder experiences many years of UV radiation exposure it can lead to serious conditions like skin cancer. Fire and chemical burns are also common skin injuries associated with welding accidents, as well as burns from hot metal and slag. Fume Injuries — Welding fumes create microscopic particles that are capable of invading a worker’s lungs, and over long periods of time these fumes can lead to cancer, kidney damage, nervous system disorders, serious lung problems and issues with an individual’s joints and bones. Protective equipment and industrial gloves can’t always prevent welding injuries, and no matter what type of welding is being conducted at your workplace it’s your manager’s responsibility to thoroughly explain the hazards associated with each welding job and make certain that OSHA’s safety protocols are consistently being abided by. Symptoms of Arc Eye Radiation Arc eye symptoms don’t always immediately appear, and many welders can remain unaware of the fact that they’re experiencing an arc eye burn until hours after the exposure. It’s always important for welders, and those working around welders, to take proper precautions. Some of the most common symptoms or arc eye include: Mild or intense pain in the eyes Unusual sensitivity to light Lack of ability to look directly at light sources Irregular watering of eyes Eye reddening Feeling as if there is sand or some type of grit in eyes Common Symptoms of Toxic Fume Exposure Chemical byproducts are always a result of a welder applying intense heat to metal-based materials, and this consistently exposes welders to dangerous toxins. This type of exposure to toxic fumes over long periods of time can lead to serious illnesses like Parkinson’s disease and several types of cancer. Some of the common symptoms of toxic fume exposure include: Impaired speech Psychological issues Tremors, or involuntary shaking Vulnerable coordination, balance, and essential motor skills Determining the Validity for Legal Recourse When someone endures any type of workplace injury, it typically depends on the negligence of a third party or entity in terms of validating the worker’s ability to file a civil lawsuit. Every legitimate welding accident lawsuit must include the following elements: Duty of Care The person who contributed to the causation of the welding injury needs to have had some sort of duty of care towards the victim, and this typically means they had a legal obligation to maintain a safe worksite and provide properly functioning equipment to the welder. Breach of Duty Every valid lawsuit must be able to prove that an individual or entity ended up breaching their duty of care to the accident victim, and this breaching of duty is legally defined as the necessary negligent behavior that leads up to the accident or injury. An example of this would be a contractor providing faulty equipment to a welder. Some of the more common types of negligence in welding injury cases include: Unsafe working conditions Insufficient toxic fume or burn protection Faulty or defective equipment Lack of adequate warnings about worksite dangers Lackluster job site supervision Causation This essentially means that the individual or entity’s breach of duty was the direct cause for the accident or injury the victim endured, and it’s important to know that a breach of duty isn’t solely enough to have a valid lawsuit. So playing off the same example, a contractor is only liable for a welder’s injuries if the faulty equipment they provided ended up being the direct cause for the welder’s injury or accident. Damages A welding accident victim also needs to be able to prove that they suffered economic or non-economic damages as a result of their injury in order to have a valid case. Some of the common types of recoverable damages in welding accidents include the following: Medical Care Treatment costs Ambulance rides Emergency medical care Hospital bills Physical therapy and other rehabilitation Ongoing care Future medical necessities Lost Wages Lost wages Reduced earning capacity Loss of future benefits Non-Economic Damages Pain and suffering Emotional anguish Reduced quality of life Mental distress Wrongful Death Contact
Spinning Lawsuits Are On The Rise!
Indoor cycling studios may be causing more harm than good. An industry that was meant to attract exercise enthusiasts looking for a rigorous and fun workout is now finding themselves with a boatload of lawsuits. From pushy instructors to malfunctioning equipment, cycling studios are putting riders at unnecessary risk for physical, emotional, and psychological injuries. Spinning classes are meant to be high-intensity workouts that can be extremely dangerous for beginners when studios neglect to prioritize safety. Any Long Island or New York City resident looking to sign up for a spinning class should understand the risks and how to spot an unsafe studio before it’s too late. Why Spinning Injuries Occur Injuries sustained in spinning classes can be serious enough to lead to permanent damage. Most spinning injuries occur during a rider’s first class, either from overexertion or improper riding postures. Other injuries are caused by preventable accidents due to unsafe or improperly maintained equipment. An article published by Business Insider highlights these factors as the leading causes of spinning injuries riders need to know before booking a seat: Unsafe Classes In an attempt to step outside of the box, some studios have begun to offer ‘dance spin classes.’ These classes incorporate dance moves riders use while on the bike that are not only unproven to help you stay fit, but could be unsafe. There are several moves these classes are encouraging that could lead to injuries: Bobbing up and down:Moving the rest of your body while pedaling fast has the potential for causing lower back injuries. Pedaling with no resistance:Simply pedaling is not enough to get your heart pumping, and it could also be harmful on joints and muscles. Standing on one pedal:This move has resulted in many riders falling off their bikes, or putting too much pressure on the pedals which lead them to break over time. Aside from the physical damages sustained from unsafe classes, riders are being cheated out of their hard-earned money and fitness goals. Instructors at spinning studios who offer dance classes are considered ‘performers’ rather than coaches; facilitating moves that are entertaining and fun but do not help riders meet their goals of getting in shape as they claim. Poorly Set Up and Maintained Studios Studios do not always create the safest atmosphere for spinners. Crowded bikes can leave opportunities for riders to strike or knock each other off. Ventilation and cooling systems are also not always up to par, leaving riders at risk for sustaining heat illnesses with the inability to cool down. The bikes used in spinning studies are unlike traditional pieces of workout equipment at the gym that see an ebb and flow of users on occasion. Spin bikes are used rigorously for prolonged periods of time, multiple times a day. Wear and tear on these bikes is frequent without proper upkeep, leaving optimal opportunities for injuries due to a bike malfunction. The Indoor Cycling Association highlights a number of stories featuring riders with various stories of how they were injured on a spin bike. Some riders fell over handlebars on bikes that collapsed because they were poorly set or broken Others experienced terrifying drops mid-ride when faulty seats gave way during workouts. Riders are not the experts when it comes to spinning classes. It should be up to the instructors and the owners of these facilities to maintain their equipment and coach riders on how to properly set up their bikes before the class begins. Unfortunately, this responsibility often falls on the participants to guess and hope their bike does break during their ride. Bad Instructors Spinning instructors are there to provide guidance and to keep riders safe, not to cause more harm. Some spinning class instructors never leave their bike to provide feedback or help realign riders when they use unsafe posture. Others ask riders to pull stunts on their bikes that can lead to falls and traumatic injuries. One of the reasons why some cycling instructors are causing physical harm to riders is a lack of knowledge regarding anatomy and physical fitness. Business Insider reports cycling studios such as SoulCycle, a studio known for crazy dance routines on spinning bikes, openly admit their instructors have no background in fitness. Not only are they unable to provide useful tips for proper riding positions throughout the class, but they also may not realize the moves they are requesting from participants are bad for their overall health and safety. Additionally, several reports have been filed against instructors who are causing verbal and emotional harm to participants paying to be in their class. One spinning lawsuit published by The Hollywood Reporter described a rider suffering from ’physical and mental pain’ at the hands of a rude instructor. The rider who attended the class, taught by spinning celebrity coach, was humiliated by the public feedback she received during class. So much, the rider sustained a stress injury attempting to keep up with the group to avoid any further ridicule in front of her peers and employer she was taking the class with. Ignoring First Time Riders In a number of spin classes, first-time riders are encouraged to seek bikes in the back. This is the opposite of what studios should be doing. New riders need to be able to see instructors to learn how to ride correctly in order to prevent injuries. Riders who are in the back and do not know what they are doing may go the entire class using improper riding techniques that could lead cause significant bodily harm. Most Common Spinning Injuries Riders can experience a range of stress injuries from spinning classes from using improper positioning, pedaling techniques, or equipment. A study published in the American Journal of Medicine admits some spinning injuries are so severe they are comparable to the trauma experienced by car accident victims, leading to both external and internal damage. Rhabdomyolysis is a serious condition affecting the muscles, caused by a significant lack of oxygen. Doctors usually see these types of injuries
Siler & Ingber Weekly Gift Card Giveaway!
Our team at Siler & Ingber is proud to be a part of the Long Island and New York City communities we serve. Giving back to others and keeping New York families healthy and safe is a passion of ours. And without our friends and followers in our online communities, our mission would be far less successful. To show our thanks to all our Facebook supporters, Siler & Ingber will be kicking off a 10-week Gift Card Giveaway. Over the next few months, we will announce a new gift card prize every Friday. Winners will be announced the following Wednesday each week on our Facebook page. Here are the gift cards followers could win and the dates they will be posted for the giveaway: 8/16 – $50 – Dunkin Donuts 8/23 – $50 – Target 8/30 – $50 – iTunes 9/6 – $50 – Starbucks 9/12- $50 – Dunkin Donuts 9/20- $50 – Target 9/27 – $50 – iTunes 10/4- $50 – Starbucks 10/11 – $50 – Dunkin Donuts 10/18 – $50 – Target How To Enter Facebook users can enter the gift card giveaway by following these simple steps: ‘Like’ and ‘Follow’ our Facebook page. Private message us that you have completed the first step and to request a link to access the online entry form. Complete the online form with valid information. Submissions must be received by the Tuesday before we announce the winner on Wednesday. All participants must complete these three steps to enter the giveaway- no exceptions. By submitting to the gift card giveaway, you are also agreeing to allow Siler & Ingber to list your name in the weekly Facebook announcement and to tag your profile. Show Your Support To Win! We want our followers to know this is not a fictional giveaway. If you are selected as a winner, please agree to provide the firm with a photo (selfie or normal) wearing our Siler & Ingber hat and holding up the gift card for all to see. You can also send us a video thanking Siler & Ingber. A photo or video must be received within 5 days of receiving the gift card to be timely posted on our Facebook page. To all participants- thank you for your support and good luck! Siler & Ingber Gift Card Giveaway- Terms and Conditions Competition held by Siler & Ingber LLP, 301 Mineloa Blvd., Mineola, NY 11501 PH: 1-877-529-4343 Information on how to enter and prizes form part of these Terms and Conditions. Entry into this Promotion is deemed acceptance of these Terms and Conditions. The Promoter is Siler & Ingber LLP, 301 Mineloa Blvd., Mineola, NY 11501 Entry is only open to Facebook users over the age of 18. The winner will be randomly selected by Siler & Ingber. Prize Details- $50 Pre Paid Gift Cards to the following establishments: Dunkin Donuts, Target, iTunes, Starbucks. The competition will be finalized at Siler & Ingber LLP, 301 Mineloa Blvd., Mineola, NY 11501 The winners will be notified every Wednesday starting on 8/21 and extending until 10/25. The winner will be notified via Facebook announcement on the Siler & Ingber page. If the winner does not claim the prize or does not wish to accept the prize, Siler & Ingber will redraw the prize at random. The Promoter will take no responsibility if the prize winner’s contact details and entry details are incorrect or incomplete and the prize winner cannot be contacted. The Promoter’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable, non-negotiable. Prizes, or any unused portion of a prize, are not transferable or exchangeable and cannot be taken as cash. If there is a dispute as to the identity of an Entrant, the Promoter reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to determine the identity of the Entrant. The Promoter will make arrangements for the fulfillment of the prize. The prize will be sent by mail to the winner’s nominated postal address. The Promoter will cover all postage costs and will take no responsibility for prizes damaged or lost in transit.
Car Accident Attorneys: When It’s Time To Call
Someone who is injured in a car accident is rarely thinking clearly. Between the stress of the accident and the physical pain of the injuries sustained, it can be difficult to determine what to do first. Without a doubt, your health and safety are a priority. Calling the authorities to report the crash and to seek medical attention for any serious injury should come immediately after an accident. Once these two critical steps are completed, the next challenge is deciding whether or not to call a lawyer. If you were injured in an accident, contacting a personal injury attorney could be extremely beneficial. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the tedious process of filing a successful insurance claim for the full benefits you deserve. In cases where your medical treatment exceeds the no-fault coverage amounts, a personal injury attorney can also help file a lawsuit if the accident was caused by the severe negligence of another driver. Car Accident Attorneys Will Fight The Insurance Companies New York City and Long Island car accident victims who attempt to file an insurance claim on their own after an accident can get themselves into immediate trouble. Insurance companies have teams of experts ready to fight claims and deny maximum rewards. Their resources include lawyers and adjusters who are only looking out for the best interests of their employers- not the victim of a crash. New York is a “no-fault” insurance state, meaning no matter who causes the accident, drivers who are insured can be reimbursed for expenses such as medical costs and other subsequent damages from an accident. The minimum amounts for liability insurance New Yorkers are required to purchase before registering a vehicle include: $10,000 for property damage; $25,000 to $50,000 for an injury; and $50,000 to $100,000 for a death. No-fault benefits could cover a variety of expenses for an individual after an accident, including lost wages, transportation, medical bills, prescriptions, and more. Drivers involved in an accident looking for these types of reimbursements must file a successful claim within 30 days of an accident to be considered. This can be easier said than done, especially if you have sustained serious injuries. Unfortunately, insurance reimbursements are not guaranteed; particularly when a claim is filed late or incorrectly. Car insurance claims are not always as straightforward as they appear to be, and missing information can get even the most catastrophic accident claims denied. Competent car accident attorneys understand the tricks insurance companies use to provide minimal compensation to clients who deserve more. With full knowledge of how to file a successful car accident claim in New York State, personal injury lawyers can help clients avoid the most common mistakes that lead to denied claims. Why Insurance Companies Can Deny Your Claim Insurance companies have complete control over determining the outcome after a claim is filed, and they are not in the business of handing out money. Some insurance providers will do whatever it takes not to provide full rewards to a customer, even if a person’s life depends on it. Representing yourself against large insurance companies after an accident will most likely not end well. A car accident attorney can help you provide the pertinent information your claim requires to receive the maximum benefit by focusing on these key factors: Accurate Accident Reports: Filing a police report for an accident is not as easy as you might believe. Attorneys often help their clients obtain accurate police reports of the accident that include all the details insurance companies are looking for when reviewing a claim. Picture Evidence: Pictures of the scene of an accident can be critical when it comes to proving fault when a serious injury occurs. If a driver ignored a right-of-way law or clearly marked traffic stop, photos will help in the case of a dispute. Proof of Expenses: Clients may not realize how many expenses they can claim from the injuries they sustained after an accident. An attorney will help tally up the cost for all medical treatments and damages from the accident to determine the necessary amount a client needs to get back on their feet. Ongoing Medical Treatment: Victims of accidents who are injured may not go to follow-up appointments out of financial fear. Car accident attorneys educate their clients on the importance of attending all doctors appointments to accurately support the injury claim. When Car Accidents Lead to Serious Injuries If you are seriously injured in an accident, your medical bills and treatments could meet the threshold for coverage. In these cases, personal injury attorneys are the best resources to use to file a lawsuit against a driver whose negligence was the cause of the accident. Serious injuries that could qualify for a lawsuit after an accident include: Brain Injuries; Spine Injuries; and Burn Injuries. Filing a claim against another driver in addition to filing a claim with your insurance company can become stressful. Keeping all the details and timelines straight is not easy, especially when you are in pain and possibly disabled after an accident. When you call a winning personal injury attorney, these professionals will take on the burden of keeping multiple claims organized. They understand the inner workings on what is required to successfully file different types of claims. Skilled personal injury attorneys possess the resources to represent your best interests, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve when wrongfully injured. Finding The Best Attorney For Your Claim Finding the best personal injury attorney will take some time. Unfortunately, not all of them are equal. These are some of the red flags clients should be looking for when researching firms in their area: ’Settlement Mills’ Some personal injury attorneys are only out to settle, not to fight. These firms are called ‘settlement mills’, where the goal is to get as many cases as possible for any settlement amount. Non-Contingent Most personal injury lawyers charge a contingency fee allowing clients to pay nothing unless a case is won. Personal injury attorneys
