California Serious Injury & Wrongful Death Blog

"ME TOO" SEATS ARE DANGEROUS FOR OUR KIDS SAYS U.S. SAFETY COMMISSION

2011-05-25T11:14:00.000-07:00

The CPSC warns parents to immediately stop using the Phil & Ted’s “metoo” clip-on table top chairs as they can detach from the table creating serious fall and amputation hazards to children who are sitting in them. Here is a video produced by the CPSC which demonstrates how our children are in danger. Phil & Ted’s refused to agree to the CPSC’s request for a national recall. The Heller Law Firm (www.seriousinjury.org) is investigating a possible class action to get your money back. If you purchased one of these chairs and are interested in pursuing legal action or want more information, please call 800.992.9947 or email shayne@hellerlaw.net. No cost/obligation.

Lawsuit Filed in Colorado Bus Crash

2011-05-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

Members of a Dallas-area church were traveling on a ski trip in Colorado in December 2010 when their chartered bus was involved in a collision, injuring nine of the passengers. The suit alleges that the driver of the bus, Fred Kornegay of the company Gotta Go Express Trailways, Inc., was engaging in unsafe driving practices before the crash occurred, despite the treacherous conditions of the road. The collision occurred when Kornegay attempted to make a turn at too great a speed, losing control of the vehicle. The lawsuit asks for an unspecified amount of damages.

If another’s negligence has caused you or a loved one to suffer, we can help you assess your legal options. Contact the Los Angeles bus accident attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

CPSC ISSUES WARNING TO PARENTS USING TABLESIDE BOOSTER SEATS

2011-05-06T19:50:00.000-07:00

The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) issued the following press release today regarding the Phil & Ted's metoo chairs:

NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2011
Release #11-218

CPSC Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC Alert: Consumers Urged To Stop Using phil&teds USA Clip-on Chairs Due To Serious Dangers Posed To Children

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns consumers that some "metoo" clip-on table top chairs, imported by phil&teds USA Inc., of Fort Collins, Colo. put young children at risk of serious injury due to multiple safety hazards. CPSC is urging consumers to stop using some metoo clip-on chairs immediately.

The product is an infant/toddler chair with a nylon fabric seat and a metal frame that clamps onto tables using two metal vise clamps. The upper part of each clamp rests on the table top and has either a rubber clamp pad on its underside or a rubber boot covering it. The chair is sold in three fabric colors - red, black and navy.

The clip-on chairs affected by this warning do not have plastic spacers between the table clamps and the front horizontal metal bar. The clip-on chairs that have plastic spacers between the table clamps and the front horizontal metal bar are under evaluation.

The company has refused to agree to a national recall of their hazardous product that is acceptable to CPSC. The company has offered a repair kit consisting of rubber boots to place on the upper clamp grips of the chairs. Consumers should be aware that CPSC has not approved a repair kit for this product, despite the firm's prior statement that it was conducting a recall "in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission."

CPSC is urging consumers to stop using the affected metoo chairs at this time in order to prevent the risk of injury to children.

The affected metoo chairs pose serious fall and amputation hazards to children placed in them. Children can suffer impact and head injuries when the chair detaches from the table and falls with them in it. CPSC staff is aware of numerous incidents involving the affected metoo chairs.

CPSC staff has determined that the clamps can detach from a variety of different table surfaces. Additionally, the chairs can detach when children move around or use their feet to push against other objects. Staff also determined that the lack of adequate space between the horizontal metal bar at the front of the chair and the clamps can cause children's fingers to be severely pinched, lacerated, crushed or amputated if caught between the bar and the clamp when the chair detaches.

In addition to hazards with the affected clip-on chairs, the product packaging and instructions provide conflicting information. The product's packaging and marketing information show the product being used in ways that may lead to the chair detaching from the table. However, the product's instructions do not adequately warn against this type of use.

Tens of thousands of the affected metoo chairs may have been distributed since May 2006 for about $50 through philandteds.com, Amazon.com, Buy Buy Baby, Target, Toys R Us, other online retailers and a variety of independent juvenile specialty stores.

To see this safety alert on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the products involved, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11218.html

Do you own one of these chairs? If so, we would like to speak with you. Please call defective product attorneys at The Heller Law Firm at 800-992-9947 for more information or visit our website at www.seriousinjury.org.

Fatal Mississippi Car Wreck Results in $375,000 Settlement for Family

2011-05-04T13:50:00.000-07:00

In 2007, brothers Ricky and Lamonte Brown were traveling on I-220 near Jackson, Mississippi when their vehicle was struck by a car driven by Roderick Evans, who was being pursued by Mississippi State Trooper Julius Hutson at the time of the incident. Ricky Brown died as a result of the injuries he suffered in the collision; Lamonte Brown survived but was seriously injured and required extensive medical treatment. Recently, the Mississippi Tort Claims Board gave its seal of approval to a $375,000 settlement in response to the wrongful death suit that was filed by the Brown family.

Have you or a family member been harmed by another’s reckless behavior? We can help. Contact the Los Angeles car accident attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

TV Host Dr. Phil Sued Over Dog Attack

2011-04-27T13:47:00.000-07:00

Although he’s known for dispensing tough love and homespun advice on his popular television talk show, it appears that he’s better at dealing with humans than with his own animals, at least according to a lawsuit filed by beauty expert Janet Harris. The suit alleges that during a 2009 visit Harris paid to Dr. Phil’s home in Beverly Hills, she was suddenly attacked by Maggie, the family’s Jindo, a Korean dog breed. The attack led to numerous injuries on her arm and hand. The suit further alleges that Dr. Phil delayed seeking medical attention for Harris, as he was afraid that press coverage of the incident would harm his reputation.

If you or a family member has suffered an injury in a home or business, you need the advice of a skilled personal injury attorney. Contact the Los Angeles dog bite attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Family Sues Nursing Home Over Resident’s Fatal Fall

2011-04-20T13:44:00.000-07:00

In October 2010, 89-year-old Carrie Delay, a resident of the Motion Picture & Television Fund's nursing home in Woodland Hills, California, suffered a serious fall on a staircase in the facility. Delay, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, was in a wheelchair at the time of the incident, which resulted in a spinal fracture and several other significant injuries. She died a week later, prompting her family to file a lawsuit against the facility alleging that it was negligent in its care for Alzheimer’s-stricken patients. Delay’s death was the latest in a string of troubling incidents at the facility in which residents with the deteriorating neurological condition have been seriously injured.

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

Victims’ Families File Suit in University Shooting Case

2011-03-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

In January 2010, troubled biology researcher and professor Amy Bishop opened fire on several of her colleagues at a departmental staff meeting at the University of Alabama-Huntsville. Bishop was subsequently indicted on criminal charges in the case, but several of the families of the victims who were killed in the rampage have recently filed wrongful death suits. The suits claim that the university, certain administrative officials, and even Bishop’s husband failed to intervene when Bishop’s pattern of behavior indicated that a violent outburst could be imminent. Financial details of the suits have not yet been released.

If you or a family member have been impacted by the failure of an organization or institution to take proper precautions, you may have a valid legal claim. Contact the California personal 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.

Virginia Birth Injury Case Yields $2.3 Million Settlement for Family

2011-03-22T09:27:00.000-07:00

The delivery complication known as shoulder dystocia is said to occur when an infant’s shoulder becomes lodged behind the mother’s pubic bone, making a normal delivery impossible. In many cases, this problem can be addressed, resulting in a normal and healthy delivery. However, in one Virginia family’s case, it led to permanent disability. During a 2006 delivery that was being overseen by a midwife, the male infant being delivered experienced shoulder dystocia. In order to resolve the issue, the midwife in attendance applied excessive pressure to the head and arms of the baby, causing a severe injury that resulted in a disability that doctors say will be a lifelong health condition for the boy. A jury agreed with the assertion that this treatment decision was in error, and awarded the family $2.3 million.

Has your family been impacted by the tragedy of a birth injury? Let us help you assess your legal options. Contact the California 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.

Washington Man Files Suit Over Flu Deaths of Wife, Infant Daughter

2011-03-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

As the swine flu epidemic gripped the United States in the spring and early summer of 2009, many medical personnel made questionable diagnostic and treatment decisions when encountering patients bearing signs of the then largely unknown condition. Among the casualties of this confusing period were Washington state resident Kathryn Flyte and her unborn daughter.

In June 2009, Flyte, then six months pregnant, sought treatment for flulike symptoms at the Summit View Clinic. After several months of unsuccessful treatment, Flyte, who had been subsequently diagnosed with the H1N1 virus, lapsed into a coma and passed away. Although her daughter, Abbey, was delivered prematurely, she died several months later. Physicians cited a lack of oxygen during gestation as a probable cause of the infant’s death. Kenneth Flyte, the surviving husband and father, has filed a wrongful death suit against medical personnel at the clinic.

Have you or a loved one suffered due to a medical mistake or malpractice? If so, we’re here to help. Contact the California 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.

Tennessee Woman’s Family Seeks Damages in Explosion Death

2011-03-08T09:22:00.000-08:00

In November 2010, 44-year-old Tennessee resident Yolanda Bates pulled into a locally owned convenience store called Abel’s Way. Not realizing that a potentially dangerous situation existed, Bates drove over a hose that was connected to a gas tanker truck, causing a massive explosion that lead to her death.

Bates’ son has filed a suit against the store owners, the truck driver, and the company that owns the tanker truck, claiming that the placement of the underground fuel tanks close to the store’s parking lot entrance constituted an act of deadly negligence.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a company’s carelessness or unsafe practices, we can walk you through your legal options. Contact the California wrongful death 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.

Utah Lawsuit Over Infected Spinach Settled

2011-03-01T09:19:00.000-08:00

Most people assume that eating a spinach salad would boost one’s health, rather than imperil it, but 26-year-old Orem, Utah resident Chelsey Macey had quite the opposite experience. After eating a serving of Dole brand prewashed, bagged spinach that was contaminated with E. coli, the mother of three became violently – and almost fatally – ill. Even worse, Macey’s attorneys claim that the bout of illness left her with permanent gastrointestinal damage. The trial in the case went to the jury, but the parties came to a settlement, the terms of which were undisclosed, as the jury was in deliberations.

Have you or a loved one suffered a serious injury as a result of negligence? If so, you need the advice of a skilled team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the Los Angeles personal 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.

St. Louis Father Blames Area Haunted House Attraction for Teen Daughter’s Death

2011-02-26T10:51:00.000-08:00

So-called ‘haunted houses’ are an increasingly popular attraction for teens and young adults in many parts of the United States, but a recent lawsuit claims that the quest for Halloween thrills turned deadly for one Missouri teen.

When 15-year-old Brittney Holmes made a trip to the St. Louis area establishment known as The Darkness in October 2009, her family claims that she wasn’t aware that the attraction was filled with smoke and fog that could potentially aggravate her chronic respiratory condition. She suffered a severe asthma attack after leaving the haunted house, after which she lapsed into a persistent vegetative state due to a lack of oxygen. After languishing in a coma for a year with no significant change in her condition, Brittney Holmes passed away in November 2010. The Holmes family has filed multiple lawsuits in the case.

Have you or a loved suffered injury, illness, or even death due to another’s carelessness? We can help. Contact the California premises liability 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.

NYC Deliveryman Struck by Car Receives $6 Million Jury Award

2011-02-19T10:48:00.000-08:00

June 4, 2005 started out like every other day for Brooklyn-based delivery man Jing Xue Jiang. The 26-year-old set out on his bicycle to delivery takeout food, but never made it to his destination – he was struck in an intersection by Jamaal Freeman, who was driving a rental car at the time and ran a red light. Jiang’s injuries were extensive, including fractures to his spine, leg, and forearm, as well as a severe concussion and a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Jiang was out of work for nearly six months, and claims to suffer lasting cognitive and physical impairment as a result of the accident. Recently, a jury awarded Jiang a total of $6 million in damages from the incident, covering his medical expenses and past, current, and future suffering.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury because of another’s negligence, you need the advice of a highly skilled and experienced legal team. Contact the California 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.

Minnesota Family Files Wrongful Death Suit Against Nursing Home

2011-02-12T10:47:00.000-08:00

It took a while for the adult children of 91-year-old Esther Rannow to discern a troubling pattern in the treatment their mother was receiving at the Benedictine Living Community, an assisted living facility in St. Peter, Minnesota. In fact, it wasn’t until Rannow had lapsed into an unconscious state after having been dropped by a caretaker – the second such incident in a month’s time – that the puzzle pieces started to fall into place for the family. Rannow was eventually moved to a nearby hospital, where it was determined that she was suffering from septic shock due to an undiagnosed urinary tract infection. She died several days later. The family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the facility.

Has a medical institution failed to live up to a sufficient standard of care for you or a loved one? If you have been a victim of substandard health care, we can help you evaluate your legal options. Contact theCalifornia elder abuse 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.

After Being Struck by On-Duty Oregon Police Officer, Pedestrian Receives $338,000 Settlement

2011-02-05T10:41:00.000-08:00

In November 2009, Portland police officer Ty Garrison was making the rounds in his 2007 Crown Victoria cruiser when he glanced down at his in-car computer to determine whether there were any pending dispatch calls being directed to his attention. When Garrison’s eyes were off the road, his car struck a pedestrian who was crossing the street at the time, heading toward a neighborhood grocery store. 80-year-old Alganesh Negasi suffered multiple injuries as a result of the crash, including multiple leg fractures and a fractured pelvis. Her injuries necessitated a lengthy hospital stay and months of rehabilitation, and Negasi is no longer able to walk without assistance. The City of Portland recently paid $338,477 to settle the lawsuit that Negasi brought against the municipal government.

Has someone else’s recklessness caused you harm? If so, we can help. Contact the California motor vehicle 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.

Massachusetts Couple Wins Nearly $2 Million in Malpractice Suit Against Hospital

2011-01-28T10:38:00.000-08:00

In 2004, Millsbury, Massachusetts resident Laura Ginsi ‘s husband Joseph called to tell her that he was going to St. Vincent Hospital in nearby Worcester, complaining of feeling lightheaded, dizzy, and generally unwell. That event set off a two-month-long downward spiral of worsening health and unclear diagnoses. Later, Ginsi was transferred to large hospital in Boston, where it was determined that he had suffered several strokes and was suffering from brain cancer. In a medical malpractice suit that the couple recently filed against St. Vincent Hospital, it was claimed that the delay in diagnosis and proper cancer treatment lead to a number of irreversible health conditions, including blindness and the loss of ability to walk by himself. A jury agreed -- and ordered the hospital to pay the couple a combined $1,894,160 in damages.

Have you or a loved one suffered because of improper medical care? If so, let our team of experts explain your legal options. Contact the California 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.

Big Rig Crash Blamed on Marijuana Yields $6.5 Million Settlement

2011-01-21T11:19:00.000-08:00

The Carroll family of Huntley, Illinois was on their way to take three-year-old Gabriel to a pumpkin patch on Halloween night 2008 when the family pickup truck was rear-ended by a big rig driven by Jeffrey Repec. Tabitha Carroll, 32, was killed in the collision; her husband Randy and son Gabriel also suffered multiple broken bones and other injuries as a result of the crash. The lawsuit filed against Repec’s employer, Geils Farms, alleged that the driver was traveling at an unsafe rate of speed and was under the influence of marijuana at the time of the crash. The Carroll family received a $6.7 million settlement in the case, and driver Jeffery Repec is currently serving a prison sentence related to the collision.

Have you or a loved one suffered as a result of unsafe driving or other questionable corporate practices? If so, we can help you understand your legal options. Contact the California big rig 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.

Ohio Cerebral Palsy Case Results in $13.9 Million Settlement

2011-01-14T11:22:00.000-08:00

When Ohio doctor Tara Shipman noticed fluctuations in the fetal monitor hooked up to laboring mother Debra Cobb, she dismissed them as normal rather than as indications that a problem was imminent. Instead of opting to perform an emergency cesarean section, Dr. Shipman allowed the birth to proceed normally. In a lawsuit, the family of the baby born that day, now-10-year old Haley Cobb, alleges that this error in judgment deprived the newborn of oxygen during the delivery process, resulting in Haley’s development of cerebral palsy, a debilitating medical condition that requires round-the-clock care. A jury agreed with the claims made by the Cobb family and issued a record-breaking $13.9 million award.

Has your family been touched by the tragedy of birth injury? We’re here to offer expert support and guidance. Contact the California 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.

New York Man Injured by Falling AC Unit Files $21 Million Lawsuit

2011-01-07T11:10:00.000-08:00

67-year-old East Village resident Anthony Franzese was taking a break while walking his dog when a 45-pound window air conditioning unit fell six stories from his own building, bounced off the awning of a neighboring restaurant, and landed on his head, causing a fractured skull, a concussion, and permanent neurological damage. Later, when Franzese was undergoing emergency surgery related to his injuries, he experienced a heart attack and lapsed into a temporary coma. In a lawsuit stemming from the incident, Franzese claims that the window AC units were improperly secured and did not use the properly rated brackets. Franzese is seeking $21 million in compensation in the case.

Have you or a family member suffered injuries as a result of shoddy workmanship, defective products, or repairs that weren’t up to code? If so, we can help you understand your legal options. Contact the Los Angeles premises liability 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.

Florida Wrongful Death Suit Blames Comcast for 81-Year-Old Woman’s Demise

2010-12-31T11:04:00.000-08:00

Boynton Beach resident Sidell Reiner was setting the table for Thanksgiving dinner in 2009 when she accidentally dropped a wine glass on her foot. The injury began to bleed heavily and Reiner, who was alone in her home at the time, dialed ‘0’ for operator assistance. However, the Comcast operator who responded to Reiner’s request was unable to provide the correct address to 911 dispatchers in the area, despite the fact that Comcast was the Reiner’s home phone service provider. Although Reiner repeatedly called back for help, a full 17 minutes elapsed before first responders arrived at the scene. Because of her injury, Reiner could not answer the door, and the rescuers left the premises without attempting to enter the residence. When Sidell Reiner’s husband arrived home with the relatives he had picked up from the airport, they found Sidell dead in a pool of her own blood.

Has your family been impacted by incompetence or improper procedures? 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.

Fatal Utah Tourist Bus Collision Results in Lawsuit

2010-12-24T11:00:00.000-08:00

A pair of Japanese tourists who were celebrating their first wedding anniversary with a road trip through the American Southwest have filed a lawsuit pertaining to the August 2009 crash that killed three and wounded several more of the 14 passengers. Mai and Kei Maeda suffered a number of serious injuries as a result of the crash, including a punctured lung and a broken neck, respectively. The suit filed in the case alleges that the driver of the bus had smoked marijuana the evening before the accident and was operating the bus on very little sleep. It is further alleged that the driver was actually seen to be falling asleep when the crash occurred.

If someone else’s negligence has resulted in injuries for you or a family member, we can help. Contact the Los Angeles bus 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.

Mother of Child Killed by Disney Vehicle Files Wrongful Death Suit

2010-12-17T12:20:00.000-08:00

The Brubaker family’s visit to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge in April 2010 turned tragic when their 9-year-old son Chase was struck and killed by a Disney bus. Chase Brubaker was riding his bike when he was side-swiped by the vehicle and was pulled under its rear wheels. Investigators have claimed that a flat bicycle tire may have contributed to the incident, but the Brubaker family produced reports indicating that Chase was adhering to safety rules when the incident occurred. The total amount of damages sought in the case has not yet been disclosed.

If a family member has been injured or killed due to another’s reckless behavior, we can help you assess your legal options. Contact the California motor vehicle 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.

Say Goodbye to Drop-sided Cribs

2010-12-16T10:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, December 15, 2010, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, voted unanimously to ban the manufacture, sale and resale of drop-sided cribs. A new standard mandating fixed sided cribs takes effect in June 2011. Hotels, daycare centers and the like have two years to bring their inventory of cribs up to date.

Since 2000, drop-side cribs have been blamed in the deaths of at least 32 infants and toddlers and are suspected in another 14 infant fatalities. In the past five years, more than 9 million drop-side cribs have been recalled.

In addition to ban, the new standard also mandates tougher safety testing for cribs, tests that more closely mimic a child in a crib, and better labeling on crib pieces to prevent the assembly problems which can create a dangerous environment for children in cribs.

If your child has been injured by a drop-sided crib, we'd like to speak with you. Please contact us at www.unsafecribs.com or call 800.992.9947. There is no cost or obligation.

Maryland Lead Paint Lawsuit Ends With $21.9 Million Award

2010-12-10T12:18:00.000-08:00

Many people born into impoverished families are able to overcome the disadvantages imposed by their socioeconomic background and break free from the cycle of poverty. Unfortunately, the tragic circumstances into which 23-year-old Marie Carter was born left her unable to strive for a more beneficial life outcome. After spending her infancy and early childhood in Baltimore housing projects that were riddled with lead paint and other environmental toxins, Carter suffered from development disabilities, including a very low I.Q. In the lawsuit she filed against the city of Baltimore, Carter’s legal team was able to establish that she had had elevated lead levels as a child and that she had frequently been witnessed eating lead paint chips. Carter received a jury award of more than $20 million in the case, although part of that award may be reduced according to provisions set forth in Maryland law.

If you or a loved one has been forced to suffer due to another’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.

City of Philadelphia Sued by Owner of Capsized Duck Boat

2010-12-03T12:16:00.000-08:00

The squat appearance of the duck-shaped boats that give waterway tours in many American cities may be humorous, but the tragic turn of events that befell a vessel carrying 35 tourists in a Pennsylvania river in July 2010 was anything but funny. On that summer afternoon, a “duck boat” showing passengers around Philadelphia’s Delaware River lost power and stalled. After making several distress calls and warning other boats in the area that it was stranded in the middle of the waterway, the boat was struck by a 250-foot barge. The impact threw all of the duck boat’s passengers into the water; two Hungarian tourists were killed in the crash and many passengers, as well as the captain, suffered serious injuries. The City of Philadelphia has failed to issue a comment on the pending lawsuits stemming from the incident.

If you or a family member has sustained injuries due to a government agency’s failure to maintain safe conditions, 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.

Slip and Fall in Maui McDonald’s Results in $5.67 Million Award

2010-11-26T12:05:00.000-08:00

A vacation in tropical Hawaii took an unexpected twist when Texas resident Beverly Munguia stopped in at a Maui McDonald’s for a meal. Arising from the table after she finished eating, Munguia slipped on an unidentified object on the restaurant’s floor and fell, fracturing a vertebra in her lower back in the process. Since the incident, Munguia has undergone two surgeries, but she is still permanently disabled and confined to a wheelchair as a result of the fall. The court recently decided in Munguia’s favor in the lawsuit she brought in the case, awarding her a total of $5.67 million.

Have you suffered as a result of a business owner’s negligence? If so, you need the advice of a skilled team of personal injury lawyers. Contact the California 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.

Supreme Court Considers Whether Victims Can File Suits Against Vaccine Makers

2010-11-19T12:02:00.000-08:00

The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 was enacted to balance the rights of patients injured by vaccines with the needs of vaccine manufacturers. However, in attempting to reconcile these dual aims, the lawmakers who created the legislation loaded the bill with confusing and seemingly contradictory language. A case that is currently under consideration by the U.S. Supreme Court is forcing the justices to parse the legislation in order to determine whether children harmed by vaccines should have the right to sue for damages. If the Supreme Court votes to amend or reverse the law, thousands of lawsuits could be brought against vaccine manufacturers, including some by families who believe that vaccines caused their children to develop autism spectrum disorders.

Have you or a loved one been injured by a faulty medical treatment? If so, we can help. Contact the los angeles 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.

Florida Judge Sues Doctors After Medical Mistake of Massive Proportions

2010-11-12T15:02:00.000-08:00

After undergoing abdominal surgery, 67-year old Nelson Bailey expected to have to endure a painful recovery. What he did not expect was that his condition would actually worsen after the procedure had been completed – but this exactly what happened. After months of consulting with different doctors and undergoing a barrage of tests to get to the bottom of his deteriorating health, it was finally discovered that the doctors who had performed the procedure had left behind a large surgical sponge, measuring 12 inches by 12 inches in size. When it was removed, attending staff reported that the sponge had begun to rot and was saturated in pus and other bodily fluids. Bailey reported recently having reached an undisclosed settlement with the hospital.

Has someone’s careless oversight caused you pain and suffering? If so, you need the advice of a skilled team of personal injury attorneys. Contact the Los Angeles 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.

Death in Georgia Nursing Home Leads to $43.5 Million Award

2010-11-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

A jury recently ordered a lawyer and a nursering home operator in Sandy Springs, Georgia to pay a staggering $43.5 million award in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of 80-year-old Morris Ellison, who died in the company’s Rome, Georgia assisted care facility in April 2007. Before his death, Ellison had suffered several broken bones and was also severely malnourished and dehydrated. The suit alleges that one of the financial officers of the company had embezzled funds from the facility, to such an extent that the nursing home could not afford to maintain an adequate staff.

Have you or family member suffered due to inadequate or erroneous medical care? If so, we’re here to help. Contact the Los Angeles 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.

Michael Jackson’s Mother Files Wrongful Death Suit Against Concert Promoter

2010-10-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

Katherine Jackson, the mother of pop music star Michael Jackson, who passed away under unclear circumstances in June 2009, has filed papers initiating a wrongful death lawsuit against concert promoter AEG. The company was responsible for planning the “This Is It” concert tour for which Michael Jackson was preparing in the weeks before his death. Katherine Jackson’s suit alleges that the company was indirectly responsible for Michael Jackson’s death. The most damning contention in the suit is that AEG staff was responsible for hiring Dr. Conrad Murray, the physician who dispensed the prescription drugs believed to have caused Jackson’s death. The suit also claimed that AEG failed to provide adequate emergency response equipment and safety procedures. Several specific AEG employees and officers are also named in the suit.

Has corporate indifference caused harm to you or a loved one? If so, you need sound legal advice. Contact the Los Angeles wrongful death 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.

Another 40,000 Cribs Recalled

2010-10-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

On Friday, 3 U.S. companies announced recalls of more than 40,000 drop-sided cribs. Ethan Allen, Angel Line, and Victory Land Group voluntarily recalled their cribs as the drop-side can detach creating a dangerous gap between the crib and the mattress which can trap or suffocate a child.

Owners of this and other drop-sided cribs are advised to immediately contact the manufacturer for a free repair kit to immobilize the drop-side. Should a fix not be available, some companies are offering a voucher.

In the wake of more than 15 crib recalls in 2010, the CPSC is announcing a campaign promoting safe sleep and and child safety.

If you own a drop-sided crib, we'd like to speak with you. The consumer class action attorneys at The Heller Law Firm are investigating a possible class action against drop-sided crib manufacturers. Please contact us at www.unsafecribs.com or call 800.992.9947. There is no cost or obligation.

Unplanned Circumcision Prompts Lawsuit Against Florida Hospital

2010-10-21T14:49:00.000-07:00

Accidental and mistaken medical procedures are on the rise in some U.S. medical facilities, and newborn Mario Viera fell prey to this troubling trend when he was circumcised against his families express wishes in a south Florida hospital in August 2010. The family, which is strongly opposed to the practice of circumcision, has filed both criminal and civil charges against the hospital, which says that staff members misread a consent form. The personal injury suit filed by the Delgado family in the case requests unspecified damages.

If you or a family member has been a victim of a medical mistake, we can help you understand your legal options. Contact the Los Angeles 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.

Tennessee Railroad Fatality Leads to Lawsuit

2010-10-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

In August 2005, 43-year-old Jose Molina was working on a commercial cargo train car when he slipped from the car and fell to his death. Molina was employed by the Union City Grain Company at the time of his death, and was reportedly helping some coworkers move the railway cars when the incident occurred. Molina’s widow filed suit against Canadian National Railroad, the parent company of the Union City Grain Co., alleging that her husband’s death was the result of negligence on the part of the company, which had refused to furnish a locomotive engine that would have enabled the workers to move the railway cars safely. Mrs. Molina’s suit against the company requests more than $10 million in punitive and compensatory damages.

Have you or a loved one been injured by a company’s negligence? If so, we’re here to help. Contact the Los Angeles personal 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.

JC Penny Announces a Recall of more than 11,000 Cribs

2010-10-07T14:19:00.000-07:00

Yet another crib recall was announced today, this time by JCPenny. The "Alexander Designs" Brand drop-sided crib manufactured by Jardine Enterprises and sold exclusively by JCPenny was recalled for repair due to entrapment, suffocation and fall hazards. The CPSC reports 2 incidents of drop-side failures of this crib which was manufactured between 2003 and 2007.

Owners of this and other drop-sided cribs are advised to immediately contact the manufacturer for a free repair kit to immobilize the drop-side. Should a fix not be available, some companies are offering a voucher.

If you own a drop-sided crib, we,d like to speak with you. The consumer class action attorneys at The Heller Law Firm are investigating a possible class action against drop-sided crib manufacturers. Please contact us at www.unsafecribs.com or call 800.992.9947. There is no cost or obligation.

Wrongful Death Suit Over Concert Shooting Settled

2010-10-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

Thomas Holmes wasn’t expecting to get involved in a gunfight when he settled in to enjoy a live musical performance at the Granby Theater in Norfolk, Virginia in March 2007 – but that’s exactly what happened. After a dispute with a fellow concertgoer, Holmes was shot several times, sustained major injuries, and soon fell into a persistent vegetative state from which he never recovered. He died two years later. The wrongful death suit brought against the club owners by Holmes’ surviving family members resulted in a settlement of more than $1 million, some of which will be placed into a trust fund for Holmes’ young son, Dominic.

If a loved one or family member has been injured or killed, we can help you weigh your legal options. Contact the wrongful death 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.

Fall at Salt Lake City Airport Prompts Lawsuit

2010-09-30T11:24:00.000-07:00

Returning home for the holidays should be a joyous affair, but the trip turned painful for flight attendant Natalie Maxwell. After completing her work duties and leaving the Salt Lake City airport on the day before Christmas Eve, 2008, Maxwell took a spill on an icy sidewalk outside the terminal. The fall resulted in severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury that has rendered it impossible for Maxwell to carry on with her professional and personal life in the manner she was accustomed to before the fall. At the current juncture, the dollar amount being sought in the case has not been named.

If you or a family member has been injured in a fall, let us help you determine the best course of action. Contact the premises liability 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.

Deaths prompt CPSC, FDA warning on infant sleep positioners

2010-09-29T17:12:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today warned consumers to stop using infant sleep positioners due to suffocation risk.

The two main types of infant sleep positioners are flat mats with side bolsters or inclined wedge mats with side bolsters, both types claim to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by helping to keep sleeping infants on their backs.

Most sleep positioners claim to aid in food digestion to ease colic or the symptoms of reflux and to prevent flat head syndrome. In light of the new safety data, FDA believes any benefit from using these devices is greatly outweighed by the risk of suffocation.

Parents are encouraged to stop using the sleep positioners immediately and simply put their children "back to sleep."

At The Heller Law Firm, our attorneys and professional staff care deeply about our clients, their families and their futures. Together, our goal is to help our clients obtain the resources they need to recover and rebuild their lives. For a FREE CONSULTATION with a lawyer at The Heller Law Firm, call (866) 461-5791 or use the form below to contact us online at www.seriousinjury.org.

Birth Injury Lawsuit Against New York Hospital Moves to Appeal Phase

2010-09-23T11:21:00.000-07:00

In the process of giving birth in a New York hospital in 2003, Mary Swanson experienced a setback when the infant become stuck in the birth canal. The condition, known as shoulder dystocia, occurs when an infant’s shoulder becomes lodged behind a pelvic bone. Shoulder dystocia can delay the birth process, increasing the risk for brain damage, cerebral palsy and other birth defects. The jury in the case found that hospital personnel did not respond to the incident in an efficacious manner, and thus was in part to blame for the complications. The $56 million award is being challenged on appeal by the facility named in the suit, Northern Westchester Hospital.

If your family has been impacted by the tragedy of birth injury, we can help. Contact the california 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.

Lawsuit Filed Over Fall from Palo Alto Shuttle Bus Settled

2010-09-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

On a school field trip in 2007, Palo Alto, California teen Rodolfo Flores boarded a city shuttle bus and congregated with several friends near the back of the vehicle. However, when the bus turned a corner, Flores fell through the rear door of the vehicle, sustaining several significant injuries in the process. Months later, Flores began experiencing neurological symptoms, including difficulty concentrating. The suit filed in the case claimed that the city was negligent in allowing the bus, which had recently had a wheelchair station removed from its rear seating area, continue to serve passengers. Ultimately, the Flores family received a $125,000 settlement in the case.

If you or a loved one has sustained harm due to the negligence of a business or a government agency, we can help. Contact the bus accident attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Residents of Gulf Coast Region Challenge Use of Oil Dispersant in a Lawsuit

2010-09-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

In the immediate aftermath of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill disaster, BP and its agents began using a chemical compound known as Corexit 9500 to disperse and dilute the accumulated oil. Now, several residents of Alabama communities on the Gulf Coast have filed lawsuits against the petroleum giant, claiming that residents have developed an array of troubling symptoms and health conditions as a result of exposure to the chemical, including headaches, respiratory disorders and digestive difficulties. Specifically, the suits claim that the practice of spraying the chemical dispersant from the air has had negative consequences for public health in the region. The manufacturer of the chemical compound, Nalco Co., is also named in the lawsuit.

Have you or a family member suffered illness or injury because of improper actions on the part of a business or corporation? If so, we’re here to help you evaluate your legal options. Contact the toxic tort 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.

Beloved Baseball Mascot at Center of Injury Lawsuit

2010-09-02T17:40:00.000-07:00

Although watching the zany antics of team mascots is often regarded as a highlight of attending a sporting event in person, the shenanigans of the Phillie Phanatic at a 2008 minor league game crossed the line, according to spectator Grace Crass. Crass says that the person donning the bird-like creature’s costume climbed atop her as she sat in the stands at an event in Reading, Pennsylvania, causing a knee injury that later required surgery to treat. The lawsuit filed against Tom Burgoyne (the man behind the mascot), the Phillies, and their minor-league affiliate seeks more than $50,000 in damages.

Has someone else’s reckless behavior caused you to suffer? We can help you understand your legal options. Contact the california personal injury attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Louisiana Slip-and-Fall Incident Leads to Lawsuit

2010-08-26T17:38:00.000-07:00

New Orleans resident Nery Freire’s July 2009 grocery shopping trip had an unforeseen conclusion. At a local Winn-Dixie, the shopper says she slipped on a puddle inside the store and fell, sustaining injuries to her knee, ankle, shoulder and spine. Freire’s suit against the store and its cleaning contractor claims that the wet patch was negligently left behind after the floors were cleaned. The area was not marked by safety cones or any other type of warning. Freire is seeking compensation for injuries, medical costs, and other damages she sustained as a result of the injuries.

Have you suffered injuries as a result of a retail establishment’s careless practices? If so, we’re here to help. Contact the california 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.

San Jose Utility Truck Crash Results in $5 Million Settlement

2010-08-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

It wasn’t alcohol, illegal drugs, or even distraction that was behind the crash that killed 20-year-old San Jose, Ca. resident Mary Bernstein. The driver of the PG&E utility truck that killed Bernstein and her long-time boyfriend Robert Conway blacked out temporarily due to a sharp drop in blood sugar that was related to his diabetes. Driver John Mayfield failed to test his blood sugar as directed by his doctors and subsequently passed out while operating the vehicle, causing the fatal crash. Bernstein’s mother plans to use the award to help fund her efforts to require fleet drivers to test their blood sugar level before clocking in if diabetic.

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of another’s negligence or carelessness, you need the advice of a team of skilled personal injury attorneys. Contact the motor vehicle accident attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

10 MANUFACTURERS ANNOUNCE RECALLS OF MORE THAN 2 MILLION CRIBS

2010-08-18T12:26:00.000-07:00

Cribs should be the safest place in the home for your baby, but after multiple reports of injuries and death, the Consumer Products Safety Commission recommended recalls of approximately 2 million drop-sided cribs as the drop-side can detach, creating a gap which can strangle or suffocate your baby.

Do you own a recalled drop-sided crib? Recalls have been announced by the following manufacturers:
Graco
Child Craft
C&T International/Sorelle
Simmons
Million Dollar Baby
LaJobi
Jardine
Evenflo
Delta
Pottery Barn Kids

The Heller Law Firm is investigating possible class actions against each of these manufacturers and is looking for class representatives. If you own one of the recalled cribs and are interested in participating in a class action or would like more information please call 800.992.9947 or visit unsafecribs.com. There is no cost or obligation.

Connecticut Malpractice Suit Overlaps With Same-Sex Marriage Debate

2010-08-12T17:27:00.000-07:00

In a case that some analysts say may impact the ongoing debate over same-sex marriage, a Connecticut jury has awarded more than $1 million to the partner of a woman whose substandard cancer treatment led to a loss of consortium. For several years, Margaret Mueller’s cancer was misdiagnosed, leading to surgery that unnecessarily removed part of her colon and intestines. She died in 2009. Although Mueller’s partner’s claim was initially denied, it was later validated with a $1.3 million jury award on appeal.

Have you or a family member suffered due to a medical misdiagnosis? We can help you sort out your legal options. Contact the california medical malpractice attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Contraceptive Device Blamed for Nebraska Woman’s Death

2010-08-05T17:25:00.000-07:00

Approximately five months after beginning to use a contraceptive device known as the NuvaRing, Ann Tompkins, an otherwise healthy 43-year-old Omaha resident, developed a blood clot in her lung that physicians say led to her death. This is the latest in a string of similar instances involving the NuvaRing device, a flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina and then releases hormones that prevent pregnancy. Tompkins’ estate has filed suit against several pharmaceutical companies. The claims set forth in the case allege that the manufacturers of the device failed to adequately warn users of the risk of certain types of blood clots.

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

$2.4 Million Settlement Awarded in San Jose Bicycling Fatality

2010-07-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

54-year-old Deborah Johnson was enjoying a pleasant bicycle ride with a friend when tragedy struck. Johnson collided with a raised lane divider that had become separated from its top section and fell from her bike, striking her head. Despite being rushed to the trauma center at Stanford University, Johnson never recovered from the injury and died two days later.

According to Johnson’s husband, the divider had been left behind after workers had completed construction on the road where the accident occurred. However, the divider is named as a safety hazard to bicyclists in the federal Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, and a similar warning is posted in California’s state version of the same document. Gerrity recently received a $2.4 million settlement in the case, and has spent much of the time since his wife’s death speaking out on issues of bicyclist safety.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a similar incident, 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.

9/11 First Responders Set to Receive $712.5 Million Settlement

2010-07-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

In one of the largest settlements of its kind on record, the attorneys representing more than 10,000 first responders and laborers who worked at the World Trade Center site in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks have negotiated an award of more than $700 million. The funds will be distributed to workers who have developed conditions believed to be linked to potential toxins in the environment after the attacks and subsequent structure collapses, ranging in severity from asthma to terminal cancer. The judge in the case has approved the agreement, but the final approval must come from the claimants in the case, of whom at least 95% must agree to the settlement before the funds can begin to be disbursed.

Have you or a loved one experienced an injury or illness due to environmental factors? If so, we can help you understand your legal recourse. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Fatal Ohio Big-Rig Crash Results in Wrongful Death Lawsuit

2010-07-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

Vijayi Emani, a leading activist, spokesperson, and organizer in Cleveland’s rapidly growing Indian- American community, was involved in a car wreck on the Ohio Turnpike in January 2009. As she was walking near the guardrail to inspect the damage to the vehicles, she was struck and killed by a big-rig truck owned by regional freight company Con-Way Trucking. The driver of the truck, Matthew Smith, divulged to police that the windshield of his truck had been obscured by road salt and debris for approximately five miles before he struck and killed Emani. Speculation has been intense over why Smith continued to operate the vehicle with an obscured view after learning that he was out of windshield wiper fluid, but some industry experts say that commercial truck drivers are often under severe pressure to log as many miles as possible each day, to the point that some are loathe to stop to perform routine maintenance tasks. Matthew Smith is facing criminal charges in the case, and both Smith and Con-Way Trucking are named in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Emani’s surviving family members.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by another’s malfeasance, you need the advice of a team of skilled personal injury attorneys. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Oregon Hospital’s Medical Mistake Prompts Patient’s Lawsuit

2010-07-05T12:46:00.000-07:00

Waldport, Oregon resident Ben Sebastiani was admitted to the Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center for heart surgery in December 2007. Although the procedure was completed successfully, Sebastiani left the hospital with an unwanted souvenir of the surgery – namely, a ten-inch piece of copper wire that he claims was negligently left behind by the team of medical personnel who worked on him. The artifact was discovered a year later by another doctor to whom Sebastiani was referred when he developed a bacterial infection in the area that proved resistant to standard treatments. Sebastiani filed a lawsuit against the hospital and two staff members, seeking a combined total of more than $300,000 in damages.

Have you or a family member been harmed by someone else’s negligence? If so, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Accused Shoplifter’s Strangulation Leads to Wrongful Death Claim Against CVS

2010-06-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

An attempted shoplifting ended in tragedy in Chicago, according to a wrongful death claim filed by the victim’s father. Antony Kyser, 34, was believed to be attempting to steal an unnamed item or items from a CVS drugstore when he was apprehended by a store manager in a nearby alleyway. The manager tackled Kyser and applied a chokehold, apparently in an attempt to subdue the suspect. Bystanders said that Kyser repeatedly yelled out that he couldn’t breathe, and an off-duty representative of the county sheriff’s office watched with her gun drawn as the struggle played out, but failed to intervene. Kyser was pronounced dead on arrival at a local hospital later that morning.

The suit filed by Kyser’s father seeks more than $400,000 in damages from the CVS store and the manager who carried out the attack.

If your family has suffered as a result of another’s reckless behavior, 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.

IS YOUR CHILD SLEEPING IN A DEFECTIVE CRIB?

2010-06-25T13:21:00.000-07:00

The CPSC just recalled approximately 2 million cribs made by SIMMONS, MILLION DOLLAR BABY, LAJOBI, JARDINE, EVENFLO, DELTA, CHILDCRAFT, GRACO and C&T INT'L/SORELLE as the drop-side can detach, creating a gap which can strangle or suffocate your baby. The Heller Law Firm (http://www.seriousinjury.org/) is investigating possible class actions against these manufacturers.

If you own a crib involved in any of the recalls, we’re here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours. No cost/obligation.

(Product Recall Notice/Advertisement provided by The Heller Law Firm)

Fall in Louisiana Wal-Mart Leads to Lawsuit

2010-06-25T13:06:00.000-07:00

Opal Lennix was perusing the shoe section in her local Wal-Mart store in Laplace, Louisiana when she unwittingly stepped into a puddle of water that had accumulated on the floor. The slippery surface caused Lennix to lose her balance and fall, sustaining a number of injuries in the process. Her case against the discount behemoth claims that she experienced hip, knee, and back injuries from the fall, and that the impact caused her to develop a chronic joint disorder that continues to plague her. No word yet on the possibility of a settlement in the case, although Wal-Mart’s request to have the suit removed to federal court was granted.

Have you sustained an injury due to another’s negligence? If so, we can help you assess your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Toyota Lawsuits Advance to Next Stage

2010-06-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

A federal judge in Santa Ana, California recently announced a significant development in what promises to be one of the most wide-ranging defective products cases ever undertaken. In recent months, nearly 350 personal injury claims have been filed against Japanese automaker Toyota, many of which claim that the company’s cars were based on faulty designs and defective parts that led to collisions, malfunctions, and other problems.

In the most recent announcement, the judge overseeing the case has said that he plans to form several committees to oversee the various cases against Toyota. Specifically, the judge has said that he will likely divide the cases according to category, such as economic loss, injuries, and other claims. This approach is relatively common in large class action suits.

Have you or a loved one suffered as a result of a defective product? If so, you need the advice of a skilled 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.

Alleged Nursing Home Negligence Prompts Wrongful Death Claim

2010-06-14T13:06:00.000-07:00

Betty Blanton, an elderly Kentucky resident who passed away in 2008, was one of the thousands of men and women who fall prey to fatal abuse and neglect at the hands of nursing home personnel, according to a suit filed by her daughter, Nadine Murakawa.

In August of 2008, Blanton had been residing at the Britthaven nursing home for only two days when she fell from her bed, incurring a severe leg fracture. Although the nurse on duty reported hearing the bed alarm in Blanton’s room, she said she was “too busy” to respond immediately.

After undergoing reparative surgery, Blanton was moved to another area nursing home, the Christopher East Health Care Center in Louisville. Within weeks, her health began visibly to deteriorate, and Murakawa’s claim alleges a litany of mistakes and errors on the part of the center’s staff, including prescription drug mix-ups. Only a few weeks later, Blanton died.

Have you or a loved one suffered as a result of medical mistakes or negligence? Let us 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.

New Mexico Man’s Death at Hands of Police Leads to Lawsuit

2010-06-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

When it comes to deciding whether to inflict injury on a suspect, police officers often walk a very fine line. Although most police departments allow officers to use force when they feel their own safety is threatened, they have an ethical obligation to inflict as little harm as possible in the process of subduing the suspect.

An even more complex situation exists when a suspect may be suicidal and may be goading the police into inflicting deadly harm. This is exactly the situation that witnesses say transpired when members of the Las Cruces, New Mexico municipal police force arrived at the home of 25-year-old Antonio Medrano in January 2010. Medrano was wielding a baseball bat and an 8-inch knife and ignored repeated requests to drop the weapon. Eventually, the police shot Medrano five times, inflicting a fatal wound in the process.

Although internal police department documents classify the shooting as justified, the wrongful death suit filed by Medrano’s family claims that they had been warned that the suspect may have been trying to commit “suicide by cop.” As such, the suit claims, the officers should have taken additional care to subdue Medrano using non-lethal methods.

If you or a family member has been harmed due to another’s negligence, 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.

Photographer Files Personal Injury Lawsuit Against Wilson Brothers

2010-05-31T12:46:00.000-07:00

Being rich and famous doesn’t mean you’re exempt from legal standards of good behavior, as proven by the personal injury suit that a celebrity photographer recently filed against movie star Owen Wilson and his older brother, Andrew. Clint Brewer, the plaintiff, claims that he sustained injuries and damages to his photographic equipment when the pair pushed him down a flight of stairs in a 2008 incident. Brewer is asking for $3,251 in reimbursement for medical expenses and an additional $500,000 in general damages.

Have you or a loved one fallen prey to another party’s bad behavior? We can guide 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.

Taser Brain Injury Case on Tap in California

2010-05-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

Having been the target of many defective product claims in the past, the Taser stun gun is being challenged again in a California case which alleges that the weapon caused cardiac arrest and, indirectly, brain damage. Police officers used Tasers to subdue Steven Butler, a 48-year-old Santa Cruz resident with a history of mental illness, when he refused to exit a city bus. After being hit, Butler experienced cardiac arrest; the case claims that problems with the resuscitation process led to brain damage and permanent disability. Butler’s lawsuit against Taser International claims that the firm does not adequately warn users about the potential for cardiac problems.

Has an unsafe consumer product harmed you or a family member? 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.

First Wrongful Death Suits Filed in Gulf Explosion

2010-05-19T13:13:00.000-07:00

As the world begins to come to terms with the unprecedented size and scope of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, another incident that highlights safety issues in the oil industry has resulted in several wrongful death claims. On April 20, 2010, an explosion on a Deepwater Horizon oil rig in the Gulf left more than a dozen workers missing and presumed dead.

The first wave of suits, filed by the families of several missing workers, alleges that the rig was unsafe and not maintained to proper industry standards. In addition, at least one suit claims that the managers of the rig failed to comply with a number of federal and state regulations designed to ensure employee safety.

Have you or a family member fallen victim to unsafe conditions? 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.

New Jersey Family Awarded $18.5 Million in Birth Injury Lawsuit

2010-05-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

The life of young Darius Morgan, now 12, has been beset by tragedy. During his birth, complications arose that caused the newborn to be deprived of oxygen, resulting in cerebral palsy. Then, in 2004, Darius’ mother died of an unrelated terminal illness. After a transfer of legal guardianship process that took more than three years to complete, Darius was adopted by an aunt, Darlene Kim, who also chose to move forward with litigation the boy’s mother had initiated against the Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, New Jersey, which had overseen the C-section delivery procedure.

The suit claimed that the emergency C-section was unnecessarily delayed, and that this prolonged process was likely the direct cause of the brain damage that resulted in Darius later being diagnosed with cerebral palsy. After hearing arguments from both sides, the jury returned with a verdict for the plaintiff and an award of $18.5 million for the family, most of which will be dedicated to paying for Darius’ round-the-clock medical care.

Has your family been impacted by the tragedy of a birth injury? 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.

Fatal St. Louis Crash Results in $2.25 Million Settlement

2010-05-17T12:39:00.000-07:00

In 2009, off-duty police officer Christine Miller went out for a night of entertainment but wound up making an error in judgment that would change her life – and end the lives of four others. After drinking what witnesses described as a large quantity of alcoholic beverages at local eatery O’Leary’s Restaurant, Miller took to the road, driving her vehicle on the wrong side of the highway. Soon afterward, she was involved in a collision with a car carrying a group of Indian graduate students, four of whom did not survive the wreck.

In addition to the civil charges filed against Miller, the wrongful death suits filed by the victims’ families blamed the restaurant for continuing to serve Miller despite her obvious intoxication and for failing to intervene when she expressed her intention to leave. A total of $2.255 million was awarded to the victims’ families in the case.

Have you or a loved one suffered as a result of another’s negligence? 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. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Skydiving Injury Leads to Negligence Suit

2010-05-10T16:01:00.000-07:00

Although it can certainly provide a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, skydiving can be dangerous if it is carried out improperly or with unsuitable or defective equipment. Christian Barton, 33, experienced this first hand in a 2006 jump that resulted in massive injuries. After jumping from a twin-engine Beechcraft airplane at 3,000 feet, Barton collided with the plane’s tail, suffering paralysis as a result of the impact. His lawsuit against the Acampo, California-based Parachute Center claimed that the pilot of the plane was flying in a manner inconsistent with industry safety standards, and further, that the Center’s instructors failed to offer adequate warnings about the possibility of striking the airplane’s tail after participants leap from the craft.

Barton, who later partially recovered from his paralysis, is asking for $8 million in damages in the case.

If you or a loved one has suffered harm as a result of another’s negligence, we can explain 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.

Undiagnosed Blood Clot Leads to $2 Million Settlement for Pennsylvania Woman

2010-05-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

71-year-old Pauline Raffaele of Phillipsburg, Pennsylvania entered a local hospital in 2005 to undergo knee replacement surgery after advancing arthritis had limited her mobility and caused her years of chronic pain. However, soon after surgery, Raffaele began experiencing numbness in her lower left leg and reported to doctors that she couldn't feel or use the limb. Soon afterwards, it was found that an existing blood clot had been exacerbated by the knee-replacement surgery and was beyond repair. Raffaele underwent an emergency amputation procedure soon afterwards, losing most of her lower left leg.

The doctor, an attending nurse, and the facility were all named in the resulting suit. After a jury trial, Raffaele was awarded $2 million.

Has medical malpractice impacted your family? 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.

New Development in Toyota Case May Impact Future Lawsuits

2010-04-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

Still reeling from the first wave of personal injury lawsuits filed in response to revelations of defective design issues in several of its vehicles, Toyota is now facing yet another legal challenge. According to recent reports, the office of the Orange County District Attorney in California has filed charges against the company, claiming that the automaker negligently sold defective products and knowingly engaged in deceptive business practices.

Although some have claimed that the Orange County charges may be premature, legal experts are watching developments in the case closely. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the ever-expanding number of personal injury lawsuits that are being filed against the company.

Have you or a loved one been harmed by a defective product? If so, 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.

Maryland Mining Fatalities Result in Lawsuit

2010-04-22T13:02:00.000-07:00

In a month that has delivered several of the most severe mining safety breaches on record, the families of several miners killed in a 2007 incident have filed wrongful death suits. Dale Jones and Michael Wilt were working in a surface mine in western Maryland when a rock retaining wall at the site collapsed. The men were crushed by thousands of tons of rubble and killed instantly. The suit claims that insufficient site studies and poor design practices contributed to the collapse. Each of the families is asking for $4 million in the case.

Has a corporation’s unsafe practices put you or a loved one in harm’s way? 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.

$657 Million Settlement Offered to World Trade Center Workers

2010-04-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

The first responders, laborers, and work crews who contributed to rescue efforts and clean-up details at the World Trade Center compound in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks have been widely – and rightly – lauded as heroes. Unfortunately, many of these selfless workers got much more than they bargained for when answering the call to serve – a large proportion of them have developed serious illnesses and health problems that are believed to be linked to the toxic conditions that existed at the site in the days and weeks following the attacks.

It was recently announced that a package settlement of $657 million had been offered to the workers involved in a class-action lawsuit against the insurance group set up by Congress to handle such claims. However, unless at least 95% of the more than 10,000 plaintiffs agree to the settlement, the proffered sum will be rescinded. If the settlement is disbursed, most of the funds awarded in the case will be drawn from a $1 billion grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

If you or a family member has been harmed in a crisis or catastrophic incident, 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.

Injury Lawsuit Stemming from Vaccine Controversy to Reach Supreme Court

2010-04-12T15:45:00.000-07:00

The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 was instituted to protect vaccine manufacturers from the threat of lawsuits that could make it financially unfeasible for the companies to continue manufacturing the treatments. However, critics of the law argue that it goes too far in shielding the manufacturers and offers little in the way of protections to children who have been adversely impacted by vaccines.

A case debating the merits of the law is currently on its way to the U.S. Supreme Court. It is based on a challenge brought by the parents of a young girl who developed a rare seizure disorder after receiving a standard diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) vaccine at six months of age. The girl, who is now an adolescent, requires round-the-clock care and has been rendered unable to care for herself due to profound developmental delays.

The case, which will likely be heard by the Supreme Court later this year, could have significant implications for the ongoing debate over the safety of childhood vaccines.

Have you or a loved one developed problems after receiving medical treatment? 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.

Boston’s “Big Dig” at Center of Another Lawsuit

2010-04-08T16:06:00.000-07:00

The “Big Dig” is a massive public works project in Boston that rerouted one of the city’s major traffic arteries to a 3.5-mile underground tunnel. Since its inception, the project has been plagued by quality concerns and safety issues. The latest round of claims centers on the handrails that line an above-ground thoroughfare that is part of the project. In recent years, seven motorists have died in fatal crashes that have involved the pedestrian railings, including an on-duty motorcycle cop, State Trooper Vincent Cila.

In many of the incidents, the guardrails have been linked to disproportionately severe injuries, including dismemberment. Now, a lawsuit filed by Cila’s widow claims that the design of the rails is defective and may pose an inherent risk to drivers. A final determination is still pending in the case.

Has a defective design issue harmed you or a loved one? If so, we can help you assess 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.

First Wave of Lawsuits Filed in Toyota Recall Incident

2010-04-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

In a massive recall that has shaken the global automotive market to its core, carmaker Toyota recently stopped selling eight of its most popular North American models, and has also recalled more than 8 million existing vehicles for repairs. The issue at hand is a problem with the vehicles’ pedals and/or floor mats that can potentially lead to unintended acceleration.

Across the United States, lawsuits are already being filed linking Toyota’s defective components to recent deaths, injuries, and damages. According to some industry experts, the dollar amount of Toyota’s liability in the matter could run into the billions. Affected consumers have already begun to petition for class-action status in the case, allowing groups of Toyota owners to band together to file a lawsuit.

Have you or a loved one been harmed by a defective product? 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.

Settlement Reached in Defective Crib Suit Against Wal-Mart

2010-03-24T15:39:00.000-07:00

In 2007, West Boca, Florida resident Constance Bergey found her two-year-old daughter, Serenity, dead in her crib. The toddler’s head had become stuck between a crib railing and the mattress of the crib, which was produced by the manufacturer Simplicity Inc. and marketed domestically by retail giant Wal-Mart.

Following the incident, Bergey filed suit against both Wal-Mart and the crib manufacturer. The suit claimed that a dangerous defect in the product’s design had contributed to the incident. Although it was recently announced that a settlement between the parties had been reached, some of the specific details of the agreement were not provided.

Have you or a loved one been harmed by a defective product design? 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.

Ohio Woman’s Swine Flu Death Resulted from Substandard Care, Suit Claims

2010-03-18T15:59:00.000-07:00

The swine flu epidemic that first reached the United States in the spring of 2009 has claimed more than 11,000 lives to date. However, in one case in Ohio, a recent lawsuit asserts that it was shoddy medical treatment, not the illness itself, that was responsible for the death of 20-year-old Kelsey Young, who was pregnant at the time that she contracted the H1N1 virus.

The patient was treated for the symptoms of swine flu at Dublin Methodist Hospital, where medical personnel failed to follow the protocols for treatment set forth by the Centers for Disease Control. After being sent home and experiencing worsening symptoms, Young sought treatment at a different area hospital, where her baby was delivered shortly before Young passed away from the virus.

Has your family been impacted by substandard medical care? If so, you need the assistance 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.

Popular Acne Drug at Center of Injury Lawsuit

2010-03-11T15:56:00.000-08:00

Accutane is one of the most widely used prescription drugs for skin problems such as acne. However, in recent years, lawsuits have linked the popular drug with a number of serious side effects, including depression, digestive problems, bowel damage, and birth defects.

In one recent case, plaintiff Andrew McCarrell of Birmingham, Alabama was awarded more than $25 million in damages by a New Jersey jury. McCarrell claimed that his long-term use of Accutane resulted in the development of inflammatory bowel disease, a painful digestive condition that had significantly diminished his quality of life. McCarrell underwent five different bouts of surgery to try to improve his condition, and eventually had his entire colon removed.

Roche, the parent company that manufactures Accutane, is facing close to 1,000 lawsuits related to the potentially harmful side effects of the drug.

Have you or a loved one been injured by an unsafe product or 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.

Apple Hit with Defective Product Lawsuit that Targets iPod's Earbud Design

2010-03-04T11:42:00.000-08:00

Those ubiquitous white earphones that seem to be everywhere you look these days are the focus of a defective product lawsuit that was recently filed against computer industry giant Apple. A class-action case claims that the unique "pod" design of the earphones could be linked to possible hearing loss, because they place the source of the sound much closer to the ear's delicate inner workings than other headphone designs do. In addition, the lack of a safe maximum volume control has been cited in the case as possible negligence in the design. At the current juncture, it is unclear whether and when the case will move forward.

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

Pole-Dancing Injury Prompts Lawsuit against New York Gym

2010-02-25T11:38:00.000-08:00

Manhattan resident, Sue Ann Wee, was eager to try out aerobic striptease, a hot new form of exercise that is sweeping the nation's trendy gyms and fitness centers. However, her first experience in a pole-dancing class left the would-be dancer seriously injured. While learning a routine at a class in a New York-area Crunch fitness center, Wee slid off a pole and seriously injured her upper torso and shoulders. In the personal injury lawsuit she subsequently filed against the gym, Wee levels a number of charges against the owners and operators of the facility, including a lack of proper safety equipment and inadequate supervision and instruction.

If you or a loved one has sustained injury due to another's negligence or lack of supervision, we're here to help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us within 24 hours.

Illinois Immunization Injury at Center of Recently Filed Lawsuit

2010-02-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

The introduction of immunizations represented a great stride forward in terms of public health, but some recipients have questioned the safety of the procedures used to perform immunizations. In one recent example, when Tanisha Thurman visited a Chicago public health center for her booster shots in 2007, the young girl sustained a serious eye injury when punctured by an errant needle. The girl's mother filed a lawsuit seeking over $500,000 in damages in the case, noting that since the incident, Tanisha has suffered from pain and visual impairment.

Have you suffered as the result of medical malpractice? If so, you need the help of a qualified team of personal injury lawyers. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Parents File Wrongful Death Suit against Fraternity in Kansas Alcohol Poisoning Case

2010-02-11T11:28:00.000-08:00

Binge drinking on American college campuses has long been recognized as a rampant public safety issue, but some schools and student organizations still seem to have failed to implement appropriate prevention measures. In one recent tragedy, 19-year-old Kansas University student, Jason Wren, was found dead in his room at the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity house. In the wrongful death suit filed by Wren's parents, it was claimed that the fraternity, several fraternity members, and university officials negligently failed to incorporate stringent rules and oversight measures designed to prevent underage drinking and encourage responsible alcohol consumption. The Wren family is seeking more than $75,000 in damages in the case.

If you or a family member has suffered as a result of the negligence of a company, institution or organization, we can help. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Chocolate Plant Death Leads to Lawsuit

2010-02-04T10:57:00.000-08:00

The surviving family members of a New Jersey plant worker who died after falling into an industrial-sized vat of cocoa have filed suit against the companies that operate the facility, Lyons & Sons Inc. and Cocoa Services. Vincent Smith, who was a temporary worker at the plant, died on July 8, 2009. While feeding ingredients into the vat, Smith fell into the 8-foot container and was struck on the head by a large rotating blade that is used to mix the cocoa. Smith's family claims that the lack of guardrails and other safety equipment in the area around the vat created unsafe working conditions.

Have you or a loved one sustained an injury due to another's negligence? If so, we can help guide you through your legal options. Contact the attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us directly at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.

Settlement Reached in North Carolina Woman’s Death

2010-01-26T15:46:00.000-08:00

Moments before jury selection was set to begin, the parties involved in a wrongful death suit surrounding the demise of Charlotte, North Carolina resident Kay Plyer announced that a settlement had been reached.

In March 2008, Plyer was driving her personal vehicle home from a shopping trip with her teen daughter when a tree fell on the car. Plyer was crushed and killed in the incident, while her daughter sustained serious but non-fatal injuries.

The lawsuit that was brought in the case charged that city authorities had documented the tree’s decaying root system in the past and were aware of the potential danger to passing motorists.

Although the dollar amount of the settlement will remain confidential, attorneys for Plyer’s survivors say that the amount should be sufficient to help the victim’s daughter defray most of her college expenses.

Have unsafe conditions caused you or a loved one to experience pain and suffering? 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.

State of Maryland Target of Suit in Baltimore Bridge Crash

2010-01-19T15:43:00.000-08:00

On August 10, 2008, truck driver John Short was forced to act quickly after a car veered into his lane from oncoming traffic. Unfortunately, Short over-corrected his tractor-trailer and crashed through the barrier of the bridge upon which he was driving at the time. Short and his vehicle plunged into the Chesapeake Bay below, where he ultimately drowned.

The lawsuit filed in the case claims that the State of Maryland bears the blame for several design flaws that created unsafe driving conditions on the bridge, including the permeability of the barrier that allowed Short’s truck to crash through. The driver of the car that veered into Short’s lane and caused the crash is also named in the lawsuit.

Have unsafe conditions put you or a loved one into harm’s way? 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.

Des Moines Strip Club Death Case Goes to Jury

2010-01-12T13:22:00.000-08:00

A wrongful death case brought against Midwest Hospitality Investments, a conglomerate that controls the Des Moines, Iowa exotic dance establishment, The Lumberyard, has moved into the jury selection phase. In 2006, 27-year-old Luca Pasa was stabbed to death in the club.

A subsequent wrongful death case brought by his girlfriend (also the mother of his 4-year-old son) contends that club personnel bore some of the responsibility for the attack, as they failed to confiscate a knife from Erik Gilge, the patron who murdered Pasa. Once the jury has been seated, lawyers expect for the presentation of the case to be concluded within several weeks’ time.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an attack, 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.

Florida Court Affirms $5.75 Million Settlement in Drowning Case

2010-01-05T13:21:00.000-08:00

Several families vacationing in Florida on February 20, 1997, were struck by tragedy when powerful winds generated deadly rip currents, resulting in the drowning deaths of jazz guitarist and father Zachary Breaux and the 66-year-old woman he tried to rescue, Eugenie Poleyeff.

The wrongful death suits filed by both families after the incident contended that the area’s city-managed beaches should have been staffed with lifeguards who could have posted warning flags when water conditions grew dangerous. In a recent phase of the ten-year-long legal proceedings, a previously awarded verdict of $5.75 million was upheld in federal court. The case also impacted Florida’s beach safety procedures in a separate Supreme Court ruling.

Have you or your family been impacted by negligence on the part of a municipality or government agency? 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.

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

2009-12-28T15:47:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-28T12:57:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-21T12:54:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-14T12:51:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T12:49:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-30T12:52:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-23T13:26:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-16T13:25:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-09T13:23:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-02T13:20:00.000-08:00

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

2009-10-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-27T13:18:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-20T15:43:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-13T15:49:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-06T15:39:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

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.