Actor James Woods Reaches Settlement with Hospital in Brother’s Wrongful Death Case

James Woods, the actor known for his portrayals of unsavory characters in movies like Nixon and Casino, and more recently, the television legal drama Shark, has reached a settlement with a Rhode Island hospital over the death of Woods’ brother, Michael.

In 2006, Michael Woods was admitted to the Kent Hospital emergency department with complaints of vomiting and a sore throat. However, soon afterwards, Woods suffered a heart attack and died.

The wrongful death suit brought against the hospital and attending physicians by Woods’ family members claimed that medical personnel did not do enough to help the ailing patient. However, the parties were eventually able to reach a settlement, including a provision that requires the hospital to open a research institute named after Woods’ brother and dedicated to researching – and helping to reduce – human errors in health care.

If a medical error has impacted your family, we can walk you through your legal options. Contact the medical malpractice attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

New York City Faces Lawsuit over Kite-Wire Injury

Long popular in South Asia, the sport of “kite fighting” has gained a growing following in the United States as immigrants from the region have taken up the traditional pastime in their adopted country. The sport was also featured in the bestselling novel The Kite Runner.

However, brewing concerns about the safety of kite fighting have been highlighted after a 12-year-old boy was injured by a glass-coated wire that broke free from a kite being used in a public match held in a New York City park. Jared Kopeloff of Flushing, NY was skateboarding when he collided with a floating kite wire that had drifted to the area from a nearby park. The extremely sharp wire slashed the boy’s throat, causing injuries that required nearly 500 stitches to repair. Kopeloff also lost two of his lymph nodes as a result of the incident. The boy’s family has filed a lawsuit against the city, claiming that allowing the sport to be carried out in public poses a grave danger to the safety of NYC residents.

Have you or a loved one suffered due to insufficient oversight on the part of a government authority? Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Lawsuit Blames Toyota Defect for Deaths

A lawsuit has been filed against automaker Toyota, claiming that defects in the acceleration systems of the company’s Toyota and Lexus automobiles have been responsible for a number of injuries and deaths.

Plaintiffs Chris Chan Park and Seong Bae Choi claim that thousands of the automaker’s Lexus and Toyota vehicles have defects that may result in unintended rapid acceleration under certain driving conditions. It is thought that the problem was a contributing factor in an August crash in San Diego that resulted in the deaths of a family of four, including an off-duty California Highway Patrol officer.

Toyota has asked car owners to remove the floor mat from the driver’s side of their vehicles, but has continued to deny that an underlying system defect may be to blame.

The current suit will determine whether class-action status will be granted in the case.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Oklahoma Helicopter Crash Prompts Wrongful Death Suit

When 20-year-old Darci Scraper accompanied newly licensed helicopter pilot Mark Mahaney on an early-morning aerial tour of the Oklahoma countryside, she was excited about the prospect of getting a bird’s-eye view of her hometown. Sadly, the trip ended in tragedy when the helicopter crashed for unknown reasons, killing both passenger and pilot. The wreckage of the aircraft was found on the banks of a rural creek two days later.

The wrongful death claim brought by Scraper’s parents argued that Mahaney’s family had acted negligently by entrusting the newly minted pilot with access to the aircraft. In support of this claim of negligent entrustment, the Scrapers’ lawyers pointed out that Mark Mahaney had a criminal record that included past charges of public intoxication and driving while intoxicated.

Has someone else’s recklessness caused harm to you or a family member? We can help you understand your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Lawsuit Filed Over Fatal Wyoming Rafting Trip Ends in Settlement

A June 2006 river rafting adventure ended in tragedy for three visitors to the Grand Teton National Park. Married couple John and Elizabeth Rizas, and another visitor, Linda Clark, were thrown from the raft they were riding in and drowned. The expedition was led and arranged by the Grand Teton Lodging Company, a privately owned venture that offers lodging and tours in the park.

In the wrongful death claim brought against the company by surviving relatives of those who died, it was alleged that the company routinely downplayed the inherent dangers of the white water rafting tours it led. After several weeks of jury deliberation in the case, it was announced that the parties had arrived at a mutually amenable settlement, although no specific dollar amount was announced.

Have you or a loved one suffered as the result of a company’s negligence or malfeasance? If so, you need the advice of a team of experienced personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. We will be sure to talk to you the same day you call, or within 24 hours.

Lawsuit Filed in Boy’s Gun Show Death

One Connecticut family’s visit to an area gun show ended in tragedy when their 8-year-old son inadvertently fired an Uzi submachine at himself and subsequently died from the resulting wounds. Christopher Bizilj had picked up the displayed weapon to examine it more closely. After the Uzi jammed, it was cleared by a 15-year-old booth worker and handed back to the boy, who then lost control of the gun and fired several shots that struck his own head. The Bizilj family has filed a lawsuit in the case, naming the booth employee, event organizers, and the owner of the weapon as negligent.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury, you need the assistance of a qualified team of attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Woman Widowed in Hudson River Helicopter Crash Files Lawsuit

In August 2009, a collision between a small airplane and a helicopter over the Hudson River between New York and New Jersey resulted in nine deaths. Among the fatalities was 43-year-old pilot Steven Altman.

Recently, a wrongful death lawsuit was filed on Altman’s behalf by his widow, Pamela Altman. Parties named in the case, which seeks over $1 million in damages, include the manufacturers of both crafts and the tour company that was involved in planning flights in the area. The suit alleges that American Eurocopter failed to install adequate safety devices in its aircraft, and that the tour company Liberty Helicopters had a poor safety record and failed to adhere to best practices in air traffic control and oversight. Altman also has plans to file suit against the FAA and its air traffic control employees, several of whom were engaged in personal phone calls and off-site errands at the time the crash occurred.

Has your family suffered as a result of someone else’s negligence? Our team of qualified personal injury attorneys can help you sort out your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Atlanta Area Man Receives $9 Million Award After Being Scarred by Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

53-year-old John Henry Howard of Ellenwood, Georgia received a jury award of more than $9 million in a suit filed against medical care provider Boston Men’s Health Center. Howard’s suit claimed that the clinic, which specializes in the treatment of male sexual dysfunction, supplied him with a proprietary drug that caused scarring and other complications in his genital area. After injecting the drug as he had been instructed to by clinic personnel, Howard began experiencing pain, lesions, and other symptoms. However, he did not immediately seek medical care, as he claimed to have been confused by the instructions provided by the clinic.

A DeKalb County jury agreed with Howard’s claims and awarded punitive and health care damages in excess of $9 million.

If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of improper medical treatment, we can walk you through your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Illinois Woman Awarded $7 Million in Target Fall

80-year-old Illinois resident Claire Putman was entering a Des Plaines area Target store when she was knocked to the ground by the store’s automatic doors, which were malfunctioning. Putman suffered a number of injuries in the incident, including neurological damage that led to cognitive deficits. As a result of her injuries, Putman is no longer deemed capable of taking care of herself or her 59-year-old daughter with special needs and has had to be placed in a long-term care facility. Putman’s attorneys claimed that the doors did not have a safety switch that would allow the device to be deactivated in the event of a malfunction. Putman was ultimately awarded more than $7 million in the case.

Have you or a loved one suffered an injury due to a defective device? If so, we’re here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

New York Woman Wins $43 Million in Birth Injury Case

A 25-year-old patient suffering from cerebral palsy as the result of a birth injury received a favorable settlement in a lawsuit that had originally been filed against Bellevue Women’s Hospital in Niskayuna, New York nearly two decades ago.

The medical malpractice suit claimed that the hospital made several key errors at the time of Tiffany Busone’s delivery, including improper resuscitation and intubation. These errors resulted in a lack of oxygen, which in turn caused brain damage that led to cerebral palsy. Confined to a wheelchair and in need of round-the-clock health care, Busone was deemed by the court to have suffered severe economic and health problems as a result of the hospital’s medical mistakes. The $43 million verdict included $15 million for future pain and suffering, $6 million for past pain and suffering, and $20 for home health care costs.

Has your family been forced to cope with the tragedy of a birth injury? You need the advice of a qualified team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

O.J. Robbery Case Emerges as Focus of Vegas Personal Injury Suit

O.J. Simpson’s long-running legal woes have continued with a civil suit filed by the sports memorabilia dealer who was robbed at gunpoint by the former football star in a casino hotel in 2007. Bruce Fromong suffered several severe heart attacks in the aftermath of the armed robbery, which his lawyer claims were precipitated by the emotional distress of the attack. Several of the other individuals who were also said to have participated in the robbery are also named in the suit, which was filed in Las Vegas, Nevada.

If you or a family member suffered injury or illness as a result of another’s actions, we can help you understand your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Oregon Police Car Crash Yields $500,000 Settlement

Late one night in February 2007, Beaverton, Oregon resident Jean Marie Howell was trying to cross a busy highway intersection on foot when she was struck by a city police car that experts estimate was traveling at a speed in excess of 40 MPH. Upon impact, Howell was thrown onto the hood of the police car, striking the windshield and finally landing on the pavement. She suffered numerous injuries as a result of the crash, including a head injury, internal bleeding, and multiple fractures.

Although there was some controversy over Howell’s culpability in the accident, the judge in the case ultimately determined that the police officer had been negligent and had borne 50% of the responsibility for the crash. The original settlement figure was reduced to $507,500 to reflect Howell’s shared responsibility for the accident.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a pedestrian or vehicular crash? If so, we can help you understand your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Chicago-Area Plane Crash Yields $15 Million Settlement

Illinois restaurant owner Michael Waugh and three business executives were killed in a small-plane accident at the Chicago Executive Airport in Wheeling, Illinois in January 2006. As the twin-engine Cessna made its approach to the runway, it veered suddenly off course, crashing into a storage yard adjacent to the airport grounds. The wrongful death suit filed on behalf of Waugh’s widow and his three young sons alleged that financial powerhouse Morgan Stanley held some measure of responsibility in the crash, as it had a policy of allowing its employees to fly personal planes to business meetings and other events.

In addition, the suit named Morgan Stanley senior vice president Mark Turek, who piloted the plane, as being negligent in the crash. The judge who approved the recent $15 million settlement awarded $6 million to Mrs. Waugh, with the remainder being divided among the couple’s three sons.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an airplane crash, you need the advice of an experienced team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the aviation attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Couple Awarded $18 Million in Missouri Big Rig Crash

A Missouri judge found that a driver for Holmes Transport, Inc. displayed negligence that resulted in the crash that injured 14 and killed three.

Investigators reported that truck driver Jeffrey D. Knight became distracted in the moments before the collision, taking his eyes off the road when reaching for a ringing mobile phone. It was also found that Knight was operating his truck in violation of several safety rules, such as having exceed the maximum driving hours over the preceding week.

One of the other drivers who was injured in the crash was 53-year-old Mark Tiburzi, whose injuries now require round-the-clock care in a residential nursing facility. A judge recently awarded $4.2 million to Tiburzi’s wife Cheryl and $13.8 million to Tiburzi, himself.

Several other personal injury and wrongful death suits are pending in the case.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a big rig collision? We can help you assess your chances of receiving financial compensation from those who caused the crash. Contact the Big Rig attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

More Personal Injury Suits Filed Against Makers of Birth Control Pill Yaz

Pharmaceutical giant Bayer is under attack for problems associated with the oral contraceptive known as Yaz or Yasmine.

First, the company received censure from the FDC over unsubstantiated claims and unstated risks in advertising spots for Yaz. Now, the oral contraceptive is at the center of a tidal wave of personal injury lawsuits. One of the most recent of these was filed in Illinois by Kerry Sims, a young woman who claims that the drug caused her to develop a type of lung blood clot known as a pulmonary embolism. Other suits that have been filed have linked Yaz to health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, gallbladder disease, and even death. Many of these suits claims that the informational literature provided by Bayer does not fully explain the risks associated with the product. To date, more than 50 deaths have been attributed to the drug in FDA reports.

Have you or a family member fallen prey to an unsafe drug or medical device? If so, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Wrongful Death Suit Filed in South Dakota Circumcision Case

For most new parents of little boys, the circumcision process is a simple (if slightly nerve-wracking) experience. However, for the Keefe family of Pierre, South Dakota, this typically simple procedure turned tragic. After six-week-old Eric Keefe was circumcised at a hospital on the Rosebud Indian Reservation, where the family lives, everything seemed to be fine. However, after the infant was discharged, he suffered massive blood loss, ultimately dying the next day. The wrongful death lawsuit filed in the case claims that the Indian Health Service Hospital failed to provide the parents with proper discharge instructions and medication. The Keefe family is seeking $2 million in the case.

Has your family been affected by substandard medical treatment and/or advice? If so, we’re here to help. Contact the medical malpractice attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Slip in Chicago Airport Yields Victim $800,000 Settlement

Diana Sarkar was en route to attend a medical conference when she slipped and fell in Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. The incident caused Sarkar to sustain a fractured kneecap and torn cartilage, injuries that severely impeded her mobility and limited her ability to work at a normal pace. The suit brought against the city of Chicago, which oversees O’Hare Airport, claimed that the incident was caused by airport employees’ failure to properly clean spilled food in the area, resulting in a residual oily patch that prompted Sarkar’s fall.



Have you or a family member sustained an injury in a public place that was caused by another’s negligence? You need the advice of an experienced team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the slip and fall attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

New York Nun’s Death Results in Pointed Fingers, Lawsuit

Sster Mary Murray, a 90-year-old resident of St. Zita’s Villa in Monsey, New York, was killed after being struck by a 200-pound freestanding closet that toppled to the ground in her living quarters. Murray’s nephew has filed a lawsuit against the company that supplied and installed the closets, claiming that their practices were negligent and unsafe. The company made a counter-claim stating that Murray’s own recklessness was responsible for the incident, according to court documents. Several other parties are also named in the wrongful death suit, which notes that previous incidents of injury and damage resulting from the closets falling down had been documented at the facility.



If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or negligent installation practices, we’re here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Family of Idaho Trucker Sues Farm in Fatal Crushing Incident

Truck driver Chad Thompson was carrying out his daily rounds in the farmlands of Idaho when a routine stop turned tragic. The 30-year-old was buried under a 40-foot-tall pile of silage and killed instantly. Silage is fermented fodder that is fed to farm animals like sheep and cattle, and is frequently stored in the tall metal silos that dot farms and pastures. The lawsuit filed against silo owners 4-Bros Dairy claims that they were negligent in their construction of the pile and care of the material. A dollar amount for the damages claimed has not yet been released in the impending suit.


Have you or a loved one been harmed by negligent business practices? If so, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Lawsuit Filed in Aftermath of Indiana Car Crash

42-year-old Carl Walker of Knox, Indiana caused a widespread damage and multiple injuries in a recent series of car crashes on Indiana’s U.S. 30. Driving a company vehicle from his business, Walker and Walker's Specialized Logistics, Walker collided with five vehicles in an incident that was said to have stemmed from a known health condition from which Walker has long suffered.




The lawsuit was filed on behalf of 46-year-old Darla Kirn, whose right arm and hand were severely injured in the crash, resulting in partial amputation. Several other members of the Kirn family sustained injuries in the incident, as well. The lawsuit asks for $10 million in combined damages.



If you or a family member has suffered as the result of a car crash, we can help you understand your legal options. Contact the car accident attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Arkansas Surgeon Hit with Multiple Malpractice Claims

A second medical malpractice lawsuit has been filed against John Weiss, a Fayetteville surgeon specializing in heart problems. The latest suit, brought on behalf of patient John Walters, claims that Weiss negligently failed to remove a surgical tool known as a blue surgical tunneler from Walters’ left leg after performing heart surgery on him in December 2004. The tool was discovered in July 2008, when another physician ordered an x-ray image of Weiss’ hip in the course of diagnosing another ailment. A subsequent diagnosis of leukemia has been attributed to the impeded blood flow caused by the foreign body. The malpractice suit filed against Walters seeks monetary damages for pain, suffering, and medical expenses.


Have you or a loved one suffered as a result of poor medical care? If so, we’re here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Scaffolding Manufacturer Targeted in Suit after Construction Site DeathsIt

It has long been known that construction jobs rank among the most deadly in terms of workplace fatalities, but defects in the manufacture of a workplace safety device may have contributed to the risky environment in at least one Texas fatality. Several construction workers were killed on an Austin worksite when scaffolding attached to a large condominium development collapsed, causing three laborers to plunge to their deaths. A lawsuit that has been filed in the incident claims that scaffolding manufacturer American Mast Climbers created a defective product and did not attach sufficient safety warnings to the equipment. Several contractors and subcontractors that were involved in the project have also been named in the suit.

If you or a loved one has been placed in harm’s way by a defective or substandard product, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Indiana Bridge Collapse Prompts Lawsuits

A small-town Fourth of July celebration took a catastrophic turn when a pedestrian bridge collapsed, plunging over 50 townspeople who had gathered to watch a fireworks display into a lake. Multiple lawsuits have now been filed in the case, many of which have claimed that municipal officials acted negligently by allowing too many people to mount the small bridge. Plaintiff Treneice Campbell suffered some of the most severe injuries, including a spinal fracture that has required her to use a wheelchair.

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of someone else’s poor judgment or negligence, we can walk you through your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

West Virginia Big Rig Crash Yields Family $16 Million Settlement

What started out at as a typical drive in the West Virginia countryside ended in tragedy for Rhonda Henson of Cleburne. Henson and her husband were traveling south on a local byway when a large piece of equipment was dislodged from a big rig tractor trailer that was driving in the opposite direction. The gas drilling equipment smashed into the Hensons’ vehicle, causing injuries that would later result in Rhonda’s demise. Investigators found multiple safety infractions that contributed to the accident. In a recent settlement, Pioneer Drilling, the company that employed the driver involved in the crash, paid $16 million to the Henson family.

Have you or a family member been injured in a big rig crash? We can help you understand your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Popular Summer Sandals at Center of Tennessee Injury Lawsuit

Long at the center of a heated fashion debate and more recently reported to be on the verge of financial collapse, the company behind the Crocs brand of sandals is now under fire from a different direction. The parents of a Johnson City, Tennessee girl have filed a personal injury suit against the company, claiming that the shoes contributed to an accident in which the preschooler’s foot was pulled into an escalator, resulting in extensive wounds and fractures. The suit is the latest in a series of safety claims against the company, many of which have resulted from incidents in which children were injured.

If you or a loved one has been injured by an unsafe product, you need the advice of an experienced team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

First Lawsuits Filed in DC Metro Crash

On June 22, 2009, the Washington, D.C.-area Metro commuter train system suffered a blow when a crash killed nine and inflicted injuries on more than 80 additional passengers. Now, in a move that will likely presage many additional suits, the first personal injury lawsuits have been filed by passengers injured in the crash. Mother and daughter passengers Bernea Bell and Ivey Epps were on board the Red Line train 112 when it slammed into an idle train. The pair claim to have suffered significant injuries in the incident, and their suit lays blame on Metro officials for failing to inspect and regularly maintain the system’s brakes.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a vehicle crash? If so, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Maryland Birth Injury Lawsuit Nets Award of $4 Million

A jury in Maryland agreed with the claims of negligence brought forth in a malpractice case against an emergency room physician and an obstetrician. Now 9 years old, Ryan Dineen suffered from a lack of oxygen at the time of his birth and developed a severe case of cerebral palsy as a result.

His mother was admitted to an area hospital during the 36th week of her pregnancy with complaints of nausea and abdominal pain. While her condition was being assessed, the fetal heartbeat was not monitored consistently. Hours after her admission, it was found that the baby’s heartbeat had dipped significantly, prompting doctors to launch into an emergency caesarean section procedure. However, the suit claims that this action was taken too late to prevent the lack of oxygen that ultimately resulted in Ryan’s cerebral palsy.

Has your family been impacted by the tragedy of a birth injury? If so, we can help. Contact the birth injury attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Museum Fall Spurs Lawsuit in California

What started out as a pleasant jaunt to a city museum turned painful for 81-year-old San Rafael resident Janet Cole. After leaving the facility, Cole stepped out the front door and then stumbled after failing to see the step down from the threshold. Cole’s suit claims that inadequate lighting in the area and the lack of a yellow ‘caution’ marking contributed to her spill, which resulted in a fractured right leg and nearly three months’ inpatient care in area hospitals. The Coles’ suit claims premises liability, general negligence, and loss of consortium.

Have you been injured in a public fall? If so, you need the help of an experienced team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

GM’s Bankruptcy May Disrupt Defective Device Lawsuit

After a car crash that left 8-year-old Amanda Dinnigan catastrophically injured two years ago, evidence came to light suggesting that a faulty seatbelt mechanism in the family’s GMC Envoy may have been to blame. A lawsuit stating as much was filed on behalf of Amanda, who is now a quadriplegic whose medical care costs exceed $500,000 annually.

Amanda Dinnigan is only one of more 1200 plaintiffs currently involved in personal injury claims against GM. Unsure of what their fate will be in the aftermath of the company’s recent bankruptcy, these litigants are banding together and demanding protection. One request that has been made is that Congress set aside funds to compensate victims who may have been injured by defective GM products. However, a final determination of the best course of action has not yet been made.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or device, time is of the essence. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

R&B Superstar Brandy Agrees to Settlement in Wrongful Death Case

Chart-topping singer and former Moesha star Brandy Norwood has agreed to a settlement in a wrongful death suit filed against her by three children who were killed in a 2006 crash that killed their mother, Awatef Aboudihaj. Two of the children who each received $300,000 payment in the case were in the car at the time of the multi-car pileup that claimed their mother’s life.

Brandy also faced legal claims from a number of other drivers who were injured in the crash, as well as several claims from other relatives of Awatef Aboudihaj. In turn, Brandy had filed suit against driver Mallory Ham, who she claimed bore most of the blame for the collision.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash, we can walk you through your legal options. Contact the Los Angeles car accident attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Michigan Woman Awarded $3M in Medical Malpractice Case

65-year-old Michigan resident Sue Apsey was awarded nearly $3 million in a medical malpractice case filed against an area clinic known as Shiawassee Radiology Consultants. While undergoing surgery performed to remove an ovarian cyst in January 2000, Apsey fell victim to a bowel leak. Despite multiple rounds of imaging that were carried out to pinpoint the source of the problem, radiologists did not detect the bowel leak. Furthermore, multiple doses of barium were administered to Apsey over a ten-day period to aid in the imaging process, but because of the perforation in her bowel, the potentially toxic chemical caused Apsey to develop multiple gastrointestinal tract infections. As a result, Apsey developed a hernia and had to undergo several rounds of surgery to correct the problems she had developed.

Have you or a loved one suffered injury or harm as a result of medical negligence? If so, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Lawsuit Filed in California Car Crash Case

The parents of 22-year-old Alexander Ruiz, who was killed in a February 14th collision in the Santa Rosa area, filed a suit against Dylan Morse, the son of a prominent district attorney in the area. Passenger Ryne Spitzer was also named in the lawsuit.

Shortly after the crash, the pair were found to be intoxicated and to have forged driver’s licenses and marijuana in their possession. The grocery store chain Safeway, which sold the minors beer shortly before the collision, is also named in the suit. In addition to the civil lawsuit, Morse is facing criminal charges in the case.

If your family has been impacted by the tragedy of drunk driving, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Victim of Operating Room Fire Awarded $1.3 Million in Ohio Case

When 20-year-old Lauren Wargo arrived at the plastic surgery center operated by Dr. Bryan Michelow for a simple mole removal procedure, she hoped to emerge from the procedure with an unsullied complexion and improved self-confidence. However, a fire broke out during the procedure, causing Wargo to sustain second-degree burns over her face and neck.

Wargo, under sedation, had been receiving oxygen through a face mask during the procedure. When Dr. Michelow began to use a cauterizing device known as a “bovie” to remove the mole, the electrical charge ignited the oxygen in the air, causing flames to erupt.

The jury found that Dr. Michelow failed to notify the anesthesia assistant that he was going to activate the bovie and to turn off the oxygen, as is standard practice. As a result, the jury in the case attributed 100% of the blame for the incident to the doctor. Furthermore, it was also found that Dr. Michelow later tried to conceal his mistake and lied to Wargo and her family about the events leading up to the fire, prompting them to add an additional $425,000 in punitive damages.

Have you or a loved one fallen victim to medical malpractice? We can help you determine the best course of action in your case. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Whole Foods Big Rig Case Settled

On October 16, 2005, a touring bus carrying the members of the Chippewa Falls High School marching band collided with a semi truck that had overturned on a Wisconsin highway. Five people on the bus were killed in the collision, including several of the band directors. Recently, a wrongful death case brought by the surviving family members of one of the band directors was settled by the upscale grocery store chain, Whole Foods, which owned the semi truck.

It was found that the truck driver, Michael Kozlowski, regularly committed a number of egregious safety violations, including driving on only a few hours of sleep and beginning his shift soon after spending hours consuming alcohol in local drinking establishments.

Although Kozlowski was cleared of criminal charges in the case, Whole Foods recently reached a settlement with several families of those killed in the crash. The terms of these settlements remain undisclosed.

Has someone else’s unsafe practices caused harm to you or a loved one? We can help you understand your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

California Family Files Wrongful Death Claim Against Toyota

In 1997, a single-vehicle car crash caused the death of an 18-month-old infant. The accident occurred when the baby’s mother lost control of the Toyota truck she was driving and ran off the road, hitting a tree.

The crash was later attributed to a defect in the Toyota’s steering relay rod, a problem that had been identified by the company and was the target of a later recall. However, the California family in this case claims that Toyota failed to properly notify them of the problem. The lawsuit goes on to criticize Toyota’s recall notification system, which statistics show typically results in only 30% of affected vehicles being repaired.

If a defective product or device has resulted in an injury for you or a family member, you need the expert advice of an experienced team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

$6 Million Judgment in Tennessee Brain Injury Case

A jury in Hamilton County, Tennessee has found local gastroenterologist Michael Goodman to be 51% at fault in the erroneous medical treatment that led plaintiff Kristen Freeman to be afflicted with permanent brain damage.

33-year-old Freeman consulted with Dr. Goodman to get to the bottom of the ongoing bowel and GI problems she had experienced for some time. However, the diagnostic procedures that Goodman performed set off a chain of adverse reactions that ended in Ms. Freeman experiencing significant brain damage. Today, Ms. Freeman can no longer care for herself and requires 24-hour assistance.

The endoscopy and colonoscopy that Dr. Goodman and his staff performed caused a rupture in Ms. Freeman’s small intestine. Within hours after the procedure, Ms. Freeman was vomiting and in severe pain. However, when the patient called the doctor’s office to ask about her options, she was given an anti-nausea prescription, but was not advised to seek emergency care. The next day, she suffered cardiopulmonary arrest and developed severe brain damage.

Have you or a loved one suffered as a result of improper or inadequate medical treatment? If so, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Malpractice Suit Filed in Death of West Virginia Infant

West Virginia mother Sara Norman thought she was doing the right thing by taking her ill infant, Lainey, to a local emergency room for treatment after she was vomiting green-hued bile and acting lethargic. However, according to a recent wrongful death claim filed in the case, the lackadaisical medical treatment that was afforded to Lainey at the Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital set off a chain of events that led to the infant’s demise.

Although Lainey’s troubling symptoms were noted and several diagnostic tests were performed, physician Andrew Hughes chose to discharge the infant without ascertaining the cause of her illness. The problem was subsequently found to be a bowel obstruction, but by the time the diagnosis was made, Lainey had suffered multiple organ failure and soon passed away.

Have you or a family member suffered due to a medical practitioner’s carelessness or mistake? If so, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Model and Entertainer Settles Personal Injury Suit Against Martha Stewart Brand

Multi-talented Illinois resident Patrick Albanese wasn’t planning on severely hampering his career prospects and earning capacity when he unfolded a lounge chair on his backyard deck in June 2008, but instead of sinking into relaxation, the magician, actor, banjo player, and hand model severed a piece of his right index finger. The chaise lounge, part of the Martha Stewart brand sold in K-Mart stores (a Sears subsidiary), collapsed unexpectedly, lopping off the tip Albanese’s finger – and harming his livelihood in the process. Albanese’s suit against the company claimed that design flaws made the chair unsafe. The case was recently settled for an undisclosed amount, but court records show that similar personal injury claims related to the product have been brought against the company in other states.

If an unsafe product has caused you or a loved one to suffer, we can walk you through your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Ohio Women Claims Zinc Poisoning in Suit Against Fixodent

Longtime denture-wearer Sherry Mosley turned to the popular over-the-counter product Fixodent to help secure her artificial teeth and eliminate some of the quality of life problems that are commonly associated with denture use, such as slippage, self-consciousness, and eating difficulties. However, over a number of years, Mosley noticed that several troubling symptoms began to occur when she used the product, such as dizziness, lethargy, paralysis, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness and generalized pain. By the time that the problem was diagnosed as zinc toxicity, Mosley’s body had compensated by decreasing its copper levels, a deficiency that resulted in irreversible neurological damage. The high levels of zinc used as bonding agents in products like Fixodent have come under fire in recent years, prompting a growing number of lawsuits like Mosley’s.

If you have been harmed by an unsafe product, you need professional legal advice. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Personal Injury Suit Filed in Nebraska Salmonella Case

Omaha, Nebraska resident Stephen Beumier has filed a personal injury suit against CW Sprouts, Inc., the company that distributes a number of alfalfa-based products under the brand name SunSprout. According to an ongoing federal investigation, Beumier was one of more than 120 people in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, and South Dakota who developed symptoms consistent with salmonella food poisoning after eating tainted alfalfa sprouts. Beumier’s suit alleges that the company did not adhere to industry standards of best practice in the storage and packaging of its agricultural products.


Has a defective product caused you or a family member to experience pain, illness, or injury? If so, you need the advice of an experienced team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Wrongful Death Suits Filed in Fatal Florida Big Rig Crash

In the early autumn of 2008, a peaceful September afternoon turned tragic for a group of North Marion Middle School students in Ocala, Florida, when a big rig truck collided with their school bus. The bus had stopped to allow students to disembark when a big rig truck struck the vehicle from the rear, killing 13-year-old Margay Schee. Police reports indicated that big rig operator Reinaldo Andujar Gonzalez was momentarily distracted by his cell phone and did not notice that the school bus had slowed to a stop. Although not yet proven, there are also allegations that Gonzalez had not had the federally mandated amount of sleep before operating the vehicle. Schee’s parents have filed a wrongful death claim in the case, and other parents whose children sustained injuries in the crash have also filed suit.

If a family member or loved one has sustained injuries as a result of another’s negligence or carelessness, we’re here to help you understand your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Patients Can Now Sue Drug Makers

On March 5, 2009, the U.S. Supreme Court, in a landmark decision, ruled that people who suffered injury as a result of prescription or over the counter medications, approved by the FDA, may now sue the drug manufacturer.

Have you or a family member sustained a injury as a result of an FDA approved medication? Let an experienced personal injury attorney walk you through your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

$29.5 Million Settlement Awarded in Chicago Brain Injury Case

On September 17, 2008, Illinois resident Renea Poppel had just settled into her normal morning commute when the train she was on ran off the tracks between Joliet and Chicago, injuring more than 100 passengers and killing two. Poppel sustained severe injuries in the derailment, including a broken pelvis, a broken neck, and severe brain damage.

Even after more than 20 surgeries, Poppel requires the use of a wheelchair and experiences ongoing sensory problems.

An investigation conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board cited human error in the derailment, noting that an engineer did not properly slow the train before attempting to change tracks. The suggested speed for such a maneuver is approximately 10 miles per hour, while black box data indicate that the commuter train was traveling at an estimated 69 miles per hour.

A Cook County jury awarded Poppel $29.5 million in the case, citing her medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of normal life, and future damages.

Have you or a family member sustained a traumatic injury? Let an experienced personal injury attorney walk you through your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

California Arrest Leads to Personal Injury Settlement

When Long Beach resident Karla Goodrow was arrested for public drunkenness at a July 21, 2006 house party, she was confident in her ability to beat the charges – the architectural design student had not consumed any alcohol on the night in question.

However, in a scuffle that preceded her arrest, Goodrow’s then-boyfriend Anthony Goodrow had his jaw broken by police when he tried to prevent her detainment. Video taken at the party show officers congratulating one another with high-fives as Anthony Goodrow writhes on the ground, bleeding and in obvious pain.

The incident kicked off a string of questionable and unethical actions on the part of area police, including bogus charges filed against both Goodrows. Although the criminal charges were later dismissed at trial, the Goodrows reported that they feared police persecution and continued to feel traumatized long after the incident. The City of Hawthorne issued the couple a $1 million settlement in the case.

Have you or a loved one suffered as a result of someone else’s actions? If so, you need the advice of an experienced team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Seattle Man’s Death Sparks $1.5 Million Settlement

Although Seattle Metro bus driver Sandie Olosky had a long history of on-the-job mishaps and accidents and had previously been fired because of her poor driving record, she was reinstated shortly before the fatal accident that killed 21-year-old Michael Dalhquist.

In an April 2007 incident, Olosky lost control of the bus she was driving and swerved into oncoming traffic, killing Dahlquist and injuring a passenger who was riding in Dahlquist’s truck.

In addition to the $1.5 million settlement, Seattle Metro officials have met with Dahlquist’s parents to discuss policy changes that might prevent another tragedy like this from occurring. The agency has since instituted a policy that mandates retraining and suspension for drivers who are repeatedly cited for poor performance.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s carelessness, we’re here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

iPod Ignition Results in Defective Device Lawsuit Against Apple

An unnamed minor sustained burn injuries to the leg when his iPod Touch caught fire while tucked inside his pocket. The device, which was turned off when the incident occurred, popped and burst suddenly into flames, causing the youngster’s pants to ignite. The flames traversed the child’s pants and undergarments, resulting in second-degree burns to the hip and upper leg area.

The child’s mother, Lynette Antrobus, filed suit against device manufacturer Apple, as well as several of the retail personnel who sold the iPod device to the family. The suit requests $75,000 for medical costs, the damaged device, and pain and suffering.

Have you or a loved one been harmed by a defective device? If so, you need the advice of an experienced team of personal injury lawyers. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Medical Malpractice Suit Ends with $2.5 Million Settlement

When Kentucky resident Sophia Savage was admitted to the Three Rivers Medical Center facility for a hysterectomy in 2001, she had no idea that her medical problems would worsen as a result of the procedure she was about to undergo. However, due to a medical mishap that left a surgical sponge in her abdomen after the procedure was over, that’s exactly what happened. Fours year later, ongoing complaints of abdominal pain led to a series of x-rays, which revealed that a surgical sponge that had been left behind had fused with her lower intestines. Surgeons were forced to remove nearly 50 centimeters of her small intestine to resolve the problem, although Savage still experiences ongoing gastrointestinal distress related to the incident. A jury awarded her $1.9 million for past and future pain and suffering, as well as $65,968 for medical expenses. Savage’s husband was awarded $500,000 for loss of consortium.

Have you or a loved one been impacted by medical malpractice? If so, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Tainted Peanut Case Prompts Wave of Personal Injury Claims

The case of questionable food safety practices at the nation’s largest peanut processing facility has made headlines in recent weeks. At the current juncture, more than 630 cases of salmonella-related illness have been linked to the Blakely, Georgia plant, and it is suspected that as many as nine deaths may have been caused by the company’s products.

It was recently announced that parent company Peanut Corporation of America has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The news came in the wake of at least a dozen personal injury suits that have already been filed, with dozens more expected in the weeks and months ahead.

Even if Peanut Corp.’s assets are liquidated in bankruptcy, legal experts say that civil litigants can still be compensated for their damages. One option that claimants may pursue is naming other companies who used the tainted peanuts in their products, including Kellogg’s and several other well-known brands.

Although various investigations are still underway in the case, there are early indications that managers at the plant deliberately overlooked signs of contamination and poor conditions at the manufacturing facility. In court, these actions could come into play as proof of malfeasance and negligence.

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a company’s negligence or dangerous business practices, you need the advice of a team of experienced personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Malpractice, Wrongful Death Claims Filed Against Oklahoma Surgeon

In 2006, Oklahoma City neurosurgeon Paul Francel garnered worldwide attention when the risky brain surgery he performed on a Russian teen that had a large cancerous tumor on the brain stem left the patient brain dead. Months later, the patient died after having remained in a coma for some time.

The parents of patient David Kurbanov have filed multiple complaints against Francel, claiming that the standard of care provided by the surgeon did not reflect current medical practice guidelines. Shortly after the surgery, the Kurbanov family began expressing doubts about the medical team that had performed the operation. Although the outcome of the surgery did not go as smoothly as planned, Francel and his staff continued to pursue national and international media coverage in the case.

Since the time of David Kurbanov’s death, half a dozen malpractice and personal injury claims have been filed against Francel in other cases. The state licensure board also has an investigation underway.

Have you or a loved one suffered as a result of medical malpractice? We can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

West Virginia Plane Crash Spurs Wrongful Death Suits

In a season that has been marred by multiple airplane accidents and crashes, the surviving family members of several victims killed in a commuter plane crash in West Virginia have filed wrongful death lawsuits.

The small plane took off from Chicago on January 29, 2009, with a planned destination of Florida. However, the plane crashed in a forested area near Kenova, West Virginia, killing six passengers, including a father and daughter who are the focus of the first filed wrongful death claims.

Investigations have not yet revealed the cause of the crash, although low fuel and icy weather conditions have both been named as possible suspects. The suit filed by family members also names a number of negligent acts, such as failing to undertake extensive pre-flight inspections and precautions. The surviving family members are asking for at least $50,000 in damages.

Has an accident derailed your family’s health and happiness? Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Trooper’s Suit Alleges TASER Demonstration Bent Surgical Screw

When Massachusetts state trooper James Foley agreed to participate in a demonstration of a TASER electroshock weapon at a 2006 training seminar, he had no inkling that the less-than-lethal weapon would leave him with debilitating pain. Due to a previous injury, Foley had a significant amount of surgical hardware affixed to his left leg. The moment that workshop personnel applied the tasers to his body, Foley felt pain shoot through his leg.

It was later determined that the force of the shock caused a surgical screw to bend so sharply that Foley’s femur was fractured. Although Foley has since returned to active duty on the force, he works in a diminished capacity, and his injury suit claims a number of personal and professional losses that have negatively impacted his earning power and quality of life.

Have you been harmed by a defective product or as a result of someone else’s error in judgment? If so, we can help you sort through your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours

Parents File Suit against Ohio State University in Student’s Elevator Death

Andrew Polakowski’s first year at college was cut short by a fatal elevator mishap. The 18-year-old freshman from Erie, Pennsylvania was on an elevator that became stuck between two floors of a campus building. When Polakowski tried to escape the elevator, he sustained a massive crush injury which ultimately resulted in his death.

In response to the wrongful death suit that Polakowski’s parents filed in the case, Ohio State University legal officials have claimed that Polakowski contributed to his own demise by packing into an already-crowded elevator. The case continues to proceed toward trial, and Polakowski’s parents are seeking at least $50,000 in damages in the suit.

Have you or a loved one been injured by defective equipment or a malfunctioning device? Let an experienced team of personal injury attorneys help you choose the best course of action. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Oregon Logging Truck Crash at Center of Lawsuit

On January 24th, 2006, Oregon resident Ronald Gill was operating a tractor along a stretch of road in rural Riddle when he was struck by a cargo truck owned by local logging company S.A. Schuyler & Sons. The force of the collision ejected Gill from the tractor, which then fell on top of him, killing him instantly.

Gill’s widow filed a wrongful death suit in the case, seeking more than $2 million in damages from the company and its driver. It is claimed that the driver was exceeding the posted speed limit of 55 mph and operating the vehicle in an unsafe manner for the existing road and weather conditions. The case is scheduled to go to trial in October 2009.

Have you or a loved one been injured in an automobile collision? We can help you figure out the best legal course of action. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or clal us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Wisconsin Grocery Store Fall Results in Lawsuit

A November 2008 visit to a local supermarket turned dangerous for Wisconsin resident Erica Wilson. As she was stocking up on produce and other fresh provisions near the store’s salad bar, Wilson slipped and fell on a puddle of accumulated water. She sustained injuries to her back, neck, and shoulders. The lawsuit that was filed against the market claims that the store negligently allowed defrost runoff from a nearby refrigerated storage unit to accumulate, creating unsafe conditions. The suit seeks compensation for Wilson’s medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A court date has not yet been set in the matter.

Have you suffered as a result of someone else’s negligence? We’re here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Minnesota Pork Plant Illness Outbreak Spurs Defective Device Lawsuit

A Minnesota man employed by a pork plant that supplies processed meat products to Hormel has filed suit against that company and the makers of a meat processing machine, claiming that the device he operated at the plant caused him to develop a rare neurological condition. Dale Kinney operated a machine that removed the brains from pork carcasses that were processed at the plant, and last year, he was among a group of workers who began to experience unusual neurological symptoms. Doctors investigating the case have termed the condition “progressive inflammatory neuropathy.” Although it is not yet known how the equipment was involved in causing or exacerbating the condition, Kinney and his attorneys claim that the defective device played a central role in the transmission of the mysterious illness. He is asking for at least $50,000 in damages.

Has a defective device caused you to develop an illness or injury? If so, we can help you understand your options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

$6.5 Million Settlement Reached in Illinois Birth Injury Case

A settlement was recently agreed upon in a birth injury case that was filed following the April 7, 2001 delivery of infant Roberto Morales Jr. During the delivery, medical personnel at Aurora, Illinois’ Provena Mercy Medical Center delivered the drug Pitocin to the mother in order to induce contractions and expedite the delivery process. However, this drug is also known to cause reduction in the infant’s heart rate and oxygen level. The suit filed against the hospital claims that medical personnel failed to respond to signs that the infant was in distress due to a restricted oxygen supply. Although the at-risk infant was transported by air to a more advanced hospital facility soon after birth, he sustained a critical brain injury as a result of oxygen deprivation during delivery and will likely require lifelong care.

Has the tragedy of birth injury touched your family? You need the advice of an experienced team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Family Files Suit in Florida Wrongful Death Case

Florida resident Ronald Carl arrived at Oak Hill Hospital in Brooksville last summer to receive treatment for what doctors diagnosed as a simple boil. In keeping with standard treatment protocols, Carl was prescribed a course of antibiotics and sent home. Several days later, Carl returned to the hospital, this time to receive treatment for unstable blood sugar levels. During this visit, a culture was taken of the infected wound, and lab tests determined that Carl was infected with the strain of staph known as Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus. However, the patient was not informed of this diagnosis and the information was not added to his medical record. Carl was readmitted to the hospital two months later, and died in the ICU within 24 hours of his arrival. Carl’s surviving family members recently filed a suit against the doctors who treated the patient, claiming both wrongful death and medical malpractice.

Have you or a loved one been harmed by medical malpractice? If so, we’re here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

New Mexico Big Rig Collision Yields $15 Million Settlement

Kansas residents Terry and Donna Frederick were driving across New Mexico when they collided with a commercial big rig truck. The truck was being operated by driver Robyn Getchel, who later tested positive for drugs, including methamphetamines. Getchel was backing up from a rest stop onto the highway when the collision occurred. Several passengers in another vehicle were killed, and Terry Frederick suffered a severe spinal cord injury. A judge later reduced the jury award in the case to $15.3 million, claiming that Getchel only bore 65% of the blame in the collision.

Have you or a member of your family been impacted by a big rig collision? If so, we’re here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Blink-182 Drummer Files Suit in Fatal Crash

After playing a free concert at the University of South Carolina on September 19, popular musician Travis Barker and several of his crew members chartered a jet to return to Los Angeles. Soon after takeoff, the aircraft crashed, killing both pilots and several passengers. Barker and key personnel sustained major burns and other injuries. Although the causes of the accident have not been definitively determined, the lawsuit alleges that both mechanical defects and negligence on the part of the pilots played a role in the crash. A trial date has not yet been set in the case.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product, we’re here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Pennsylvania Jury Awards $20.5 Million in Birth Injury Case

A Pennsylvania Jury agreed with a malpractice claiming that several preventable errors were made by medical personnel during Cody White’s June 2001 birth. Specifically, a four-hour delay that occurred during the delivery process is believed to have deprived the neonate of oxygen at a crucial juncture, resulting in cerebral palsy. Although monitoring equipment indicated that the fetus was in distress, a doctor did not arrive to attend to the birth for more than two hours. At that time, the medical team opted to attempt to induce the birth rather than initiate an emergency C-section. Today, Cody requires round the clock care. Much of the jury’s $20.5 million award will be dedicated to his lifelong health care needs.

Our team offers caring, compassionate legal advice and counsel to families who have been impacted by the tragedy of birth injury. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Washington Family Awarded $9 Million in Death of Son

In 2006, 12-year-old Andrew Muno died as he was undergoing surgery to repair a severe wound on his arm. The wrongful death suit filed by his parents claimed that the anesthesiologists assigned to the surgery should have requested assistance when Andrew began to experience difficulty breathing. It was later determined that the respiratory arrest was linked to an allergic reaction to an antibiotic Muno received prior to the operation. A jury awarded $7.5 million in the case, and more than two million dollars in interest earned during the appeal process was also added to the award.

Has your family suffered as a result of a medical mistake? Let a member of our team help walk you through your options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Workplace Slip-and-Fall Injury Results in Six-Figure Settlement

After falling in a workplace accident in 2006, Missouri resident John R. Brooks was initially taken to a hospital emergency room and was later referred to Freeman OccuMed Hospital. The occupational medical specialists assigned to the case did not detect multiple rib fractures that had led to internal bleeding in Brooks’ chest and eventually led to a dangerous condition known as a hemothorax. On multiple occasions, these problems were overlooked and Brooks was directed to return to work. The jury in the case agreed that these actions were consistent with malpractice, and Brooks was awarded over $500,000 in total compensation in the case.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a slip-and-fall incident? If so, you need the advice and expertise of an experienced personal injury lawyer. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.