E. coli bacteria hit close to home striking patrons of Sam's Club in Waukesha, Wisconsin, which I shop at. Yesterday, Carneco Foods of Columbus, Nebraska (a venture between Tyson Foods and Carneco Holdings) recalled 497,000lbs of frozen ground beef and beef patties that may have the bacteria, which can cause horrible injuries, O157:H7 a strain of E. coli.
Ecoli exposure should send you to the doctor asap for treatment and testing for this strain of Ecoli. I do not recommend contacting Carneco Foods or Sam's Club. Here are the beef products in the Sams Club E. coli recall:
Northern Plains Beef Sirloin and Beef Patties 85/15 (6lb bags, code 17304, Best by 12/18/04), Northern Plains Gourmet Beef Patties (10lb boxes, cde 17304, Best by 12/18/04), Fine Ground Beef 91/09 (8 & 10lb boxes, Sell/Freeze by 7/10/04), and Seasoned Beef Patties (misformed) (7lb boxes, code 17304, Best by 12/18/04).
E. coli O157:H7 is deadly and can cause diarrhea and dehydration. Those needing more info on E Coli or Sams Club E. coli recall can see my firm site's E. coli, Food illnesses & bacteria, and Wisconsin e.coli court decision and aUSDA release, Nebraska Firm Recalls Ground Beef Products For Possible E. coli O157:H7.
Wisconsin E. coli Lawyer
1.8.04
Medical Malpractice & Hospital Errors Kill
Medical malpractice and hospital errors kill hundreds of thousands yet instead of funding programs designed to reduce medical malpractice, medication errors and other negligent acts, some in the federal government talk about limiting responsibility for these. Anyone interested in learning more should see CNN's story today on how Hospital errors cause 195,000 deaths.
Wisconsin Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Wisconsin Medical Malpractice Lawyer
13.7.04
John Edwards
John Edwards by Joshua Green is a great article showing how personal injury lawyers like John Edwards fight for the innocent against the negligent. Despite what tort reformers would like you to think, for every McDonald's coffee case there are millions of innocent victims wrongfully killed or injured who need and use personal injury lawyers to get justice. A paragraph from Green's article nicely shows us justice obtained by John Edwards:
"The defining case in Edwards' legal career wrapped up that same year. In 1993, a five-year-old girl named Valerie Lakey had been playing in a Wake County, N.C., wading pool when she became caught in an uncovered drain so forcefully that the suction pulled out most of her intestines. She survived but for the rest of her life will need to be hooked up to feeding tubes for 12 hours each night. Edwards filed suit on the Lakeys' behalf against Sta-Rite Industries, the Wisconsin corporation that manufactured the drain. Attorneys describe his handling of the case as a virtuoso example of a trial layer bringing a negligent corporation to heel. Sta-Rite offered the Lakeys $100,000 to settle the case. Edwards passed. Before trial, he discovered that 12 other children had suffered similar injuries from Sta-Rite drains. The company raised its offer to $1.25 million. Two weeks into the trial, they upped the figure to $8.5 million. Edwards declined the offer and asked for their insurance policy limit of $22.5 million. The day before the trial resumed from Christmas break, Sta-Rite countered with $17.5 million. Again, Edwards said no. On January 10, 1997, lawyers from across the state packed the courtroom to hear Edwards' closing argument, "the most impressive legal performance I have ever seen," recalls Dayton. Three days later, the jury found Sta-Rite guilty and liable for $25 million in economic damages (by state law, punitive damages could have tripled that amount). The company immediately settled for $25 million, the largest verdict in state history."
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
"The defining case in Edwards' legal career wrapped up that same year. In 1993, a five-year-old girl named Valerie Lakey had been playing in a Wake County, N.C., wading pool when she became caught in an uncovered drain so forcefully that the suction pulled out most of her intestines. She survived but for the rest of her life will need to be hooked up to feeding tubes for 12 hours each night. Edwards filed suit on the Lakeys' behalf against Sta-Rite Industries, the Wisconsin corporation that manufactured the drain. Attorneys describe his handling of the case as a virtuoso example of a trial layer bringing a negligent corporation to heel. Sta-Rite offered the Lakeys $100,000 to settle the case. Edwards passed. Before trial, he discovered that 12 other children had suffered similar injuries from Sta-Rite drains. The company raised its offer to $1.25 million. Two weeks into the trial, they upped the figure to $8.5 million. Edwards declined the offer and asked for their insurance policy limit of $22.5 million. The day before the trial resumed from Christmas break, Sta-Rite countered with $17.5 million. Again, Edwards said no. On January 10, 1997, lawyers from across the state packed the courtroom to hear Edwards' closing argument, "the most impressive legal performance I have ever seen," recalls Dayton. Three days later, the jury found Sta-Rite guilty and liable for $25 million in economic damages (by state law, punitive damages could have tripled that amount). The company immediately settled for $25 million, the largest verdict in state history."
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
6.7.04
Wisconsin Medical Malpractice Tort Reform
Wisconsin Medical Malpractice tort deform was passed a few years ago by lawmakers. Here's a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article detailing the effect on one family.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
22.6.04
Summerfest
Summerfest in Milwaukee starts in just 2 days. Unfortunately, this great Milwaukee, Wisconsin event sometimes leads to accidents and injuries. Take care at Summerfest while having a good time. Summerfest has good suggestions for safety at Summerfest. Most importantly, don't drive if you have had any alcohol and don't be a passenger with any driver who's had any alcohol. Instead, use public transportation available throughout Milwaukee for Summerfest.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
7.6.04
Mesothelioma deaths from asbestos are a national tragedy and a horrific example of this asbestos poisoning tragedy is in Libby, Montana. An Air That Kills: How the Asbestos Poisoning of Libby, Montana, Uncovered a National Scandal is an excellent resource for learning about the asbestos tragedy in Libby.
Did you know -
1,900,000 to 2,400,000 people suffer asbestos-caused illness or death in the next 20 years?
Asbestos is NOT banned in the U.S. and in 2001 the U.S. used, mined & imported 26,000,000 pounds of asbestos?
It seems to me that if the Administration valued life as much as it claims, it would seek to ban asbestos so as to end the deaths from asbestos exposure rather than to ban or limit the rights of those ill or dying. On the national level, there is one Republican, Senator Richard C. Shelby, stands up against so-called absestos litigation reform and those dying of mesothelioma.
Wisconsin Mesothelioma Attorney
Did you know -
1,900,000 to 2,400,000 people suffer asbestos-caused illness or death in the next 20 years?
Asbestos is NOT banned in the U.S. and in 2001 the U.S. used, mined & imported 26,000,000 pounds of asbestos?
It seems to me that if the Administration valued life as much as it claims, it would seek to ban asbestos so as to end the deaths from asbestos exposure rather than to ban or limit the rights of those ill or dying. On the national level, there is one Republican, Senator Richard C. Shelby, stands up against so-called absestos litigation reform and those dying of mesothelioma.
Wisconsin Mesothelioma Attorney
7.5.04
Medical Malpractice "Crisis" Claim Cannot be supported
Medical Malpractice is a hot topic made even hotter by physicians and insurers' unsubstantiated claims. Recently, the Pennsylvania Medical Society admitted to making unsubstantiated claims in its effort to convince voters and legislators there was a "medical malpractice crisis" and that patients rights should be limited. Fortunately, justice again prevailed. The medical society said medical malpractice insurance rates drove away thousands of doctors. Yet, the group's chair finally conceded that the state had not lost doctors but in fact gained nearly one thousand physicians in the last two years. Public Citizen, an outstanding pro-justice truth-seeking organization, (as opposed to the devilishly named "Common Good") helped to get this admission. Public Citizen 's most recent report also shows how medical malpractice payments have declined and there have been fewer jury verdicts in medical malpractice. See the Public Citizen site and read its report on facts about medical malpractice.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
20.4.04
World Health Organization is concerned about junk food companies aggravating global obesity vis-a-vis exports of high-fat and high-sugar food products. In a recent article, U.S. Catholic reported that restrictions on advertising junk food to kids are being fought. U.S. Catholic's article noted that opponents argue "that WHO policy should emphasize the role of personal responsibility in controlling weight." This 'personal responsibility" theme is recurring too among tort deformers and obviously there is some need for striking a balance, see e.g., overzealous personal injury lawyer.
At some point, however, we need to protect the public. For example, asbestos hazards were known for ages before the government stepped in. Asbestos manufacturers and asbestos makers fought hard to prevent this. The fact is, however, that if government did a solid job of protecting the public from dangerous products Wisconson personal injury attorneys could focus elsewhere.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
At some point, however, we need to protect the public. For example, asbestos hazards were known for ages before the government stepped in. Asbestos manufacturers and asbestos makers fought hard to prevent this. The fact is, however, that if government did a solid job of protecting the public from dangerous products Wisconson personal injury attorneys could focus elsewhere.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
16.4.04
Wisconsin car insurance & Wisconsin homeowners insurance companies aren't the only Insurers making lots of money
Wisconsin car insurance & Wisconsin homeowners insurance companies aren't only Insurers making lots of money
Insurer profits soar in 2003 according to Business Insurance, a publication aimed at corporate buyers of insurance. According to Business Insurance, U.S. car insurance, homeowners insurance and other property and casualty insurance companies made just shy of $30,000,000,000.00 in PROFITS in 2003. That amount is near TEN TIMES the $3,050,000,000.00 car insurance, homeowners insurance and property and casualty insurance companies made just a year ago. Per that article, these insane profits are related primarily to less "underwriting losses."
Car insurance, homeowners insurance and property and casualty insurance companies definitely stuck it to those of us who PAY PREMIUMS: Per the article, net premiums increased about 10%, to nearly $406,000,000,000.00. Let's see, they raised premiums about $40.6 BILLION and claim to have made $30.0 BILLION. Where do you think the other $10+ BILLION went? Perhaps this man has it: Maurice Greenberg at AIG.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
Insurer profits soar in 2003 according to Business Insurance, a publication aimed at corporate buyers of insurance. According to Business Insurance, U.S. car insurance, homeowners insurance and other property and casualty insurance companies made just shy of $30,000,000,000.00 in PROFITS in 2003. That amount is near TEN TIMES the $3,050,000,000.00 car insurance, homeowners insurance and property and casualty insurance companies made just a year ago. Per that article, these insane profits are related primarily to less "underwriting losses."
Car insurance, homeowners insurance and property and casualty insurance companies definitely stuck it to those of us who PAY PREMIUMS: Per the article, net premiums increased about 10%, to nearly $406,000,000,000.00. Let's see, they raised premiums about $40.6 BILLION and claim to have made $30.0 BILLION. Where do you think the other $10+ BILLION went? Perhaps this man has it: Maurice Greenberg at AIG.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
14.4.04
Wisconsin Ranks in Top 10 for Best Insurance Attorneys Venue
Wisconsin Ranks in Top 10 for Best Insurance Attorneys Venue
Wisconsin car insurance companies, Wisconsin homeowners insurance companies, tort deformers and personal injury lawyers defending all of them must be "proud."
Wisconsin ranks in the "Top 10" as one of the best anti-justice states. Thanks to lies told by the anti-justice proponents, only nine states do better than Wisconsin at achieving goals like:
~ Deterring valid lawsuits
~ Taking Wisconsin residents legal rights
~ Accepting insurance premiums to pay fewer and smaller insurance claims
~ Filling the media with lies about frivolous lawsuits
~ Making Wisconsin jury verdicts smaller than is fair by claiming true justice is "lottery," "jackpot" or "windfall"
~ Gaining Anti-Justice political support from government officials
~ Enacting unfair damage caps in wrongful death and medical malpractice lawsuits
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Wisconsin car insurance companies, Wisconsin homeowners insurance companies, tort deformers and personal injury lawyers defending all of them must be "proud."
Wisconsin ranks in the "Top 10" as one of the best anti-justice states. Thanks to lies told by the anti-justice proponents, only nine states do better than Wisconsin at achieving goals like:
~ Deterring valid lawsuits
~ Taking Wisconsin residents legal rights
~ Accepting insurance premiums to pay fewer and smaller insurance claims
~ Filling the media with lies about frivolous lawsuits
~ Making Wisconsin jury verdicts smaller than is fair by claiming true justice is "lottery," "jackpot" or "windfall"
~ Gaining Anti-Justice political support from government officials
~ Enacting unfair damage caps in wrongful death and medical malpractice lawsuits
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
17.3.04
Senator Richard C. Shelby - Alabama Republican
U.S. Senator Richard Shelby is a Republican Senator from Alabama who understands and values Americans right to seek justice and redress in a court of law. Though I have never met him, I know he is up for re-election (Shelby for Senate) and importantly, voted against unjust class action and medical malpractice bills that had been in the U.S. Senate. Senator Shelby's also has solid statements on Asbestos Litigation Reform and Medical Malpractice Liability.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyers Blog readers know that I detest Anti-Justice propaganda. In addition, it is often easier to find Anti-Justice Democrats rather than Pro-Justice Republicans like Shelby. Thank Senator Shelby for standing up for your rights and civil justice by contributing online to his campaign.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyers Blog readers know that I detest Anti-Justice propaganda. In addition, it is often easier to find Anti-Justice Democrats rather than Pro-Justice Republicans like Shelby. Thank Senator Shelby for standing up for your rights and civil justice by contributing online to his campaign.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
16.3.04
Runaway Lawsuits? Lawsuit Abuse?
Treasury secretary warns of runaway lawsuits was the headline, but look at the facts and you will see that this is not true:
-- Tort claims do not clog our courts are only 5% of all civil claims filed in state courts per the nonpartisan National Center for State Courts (NCSC).
-- Tort filings in state courts declined from '89-'98 per NCSC and 95%+ of tort cases are filed in state courts and states' populations increased from '89-'98.
-- The American Bar says the rate of federal lawsuits per capita have not changed since 1790 and the size of awards increased just with inflation.
-- 6,000 deaths and millions of injuries are prevented each year because of the deterrent effect of products liability, according to the Consumer Federation of America. For example, after jurors held them responsible companies curbed problems with defective baby cribs that strangled, flammable children's pajamas that burned easily, harmful medical devices, weak car fuel systems, cancer causing asbestos and hazardous farm machinery.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
-- Tort claims do not clog our courts are only 5% of all civil claims filed in state courts per the nonpartisan National Center for State Courts (NCSC).
-- Tort filings in state courts declined from '89-'98 per NCSC and 95%+ of tort cases are filed in state courts and states' populations increased from '89-'98.
-- The American Bar says the rate of federal lawsuits per capita have not changed since 1790 and the size of awards increased just with inflation.
-- 6,000 deaths and millions of injuries are prevented each year because of the deterrent effect of products liability, according to the Consumer Federation of America. For example, after jurors held them responsible companies curbed problems with defective baby cribs that strangled, flammable children's pajamas that burned easily, harmful medical devices, weak car fuel systems, cancer causing asbestos and hazardous farm machinery.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
13.3.04
Personal Injury Lawyers, Politicians & Justice
Personal injury lawyers don't often have solid Pro-Justice Republicans to support like Alabama Senator Richard Shelby, who stand up for truth. Unfortunately, people like Arizona Senator John Kyl get in the way with things like the double tax he proposed in mid-night Thursday session seeking to twice tax (three times "C" corporations) fees earned on contingency by attorneys.
Why? The contingent fee levels the playing field for Joe Average. With it, you can hire the best lawyers available paying only after winning. Insurance companies don't like that because they can pay expensive attorneys fees, but could you? The National Law Journal just showed corporate lawyers hourly rates for ONE HOUR up to $675 here in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and elsewhere: Chicago $730; Boston $735; L.A. $725; San Francisco $675; Houston $590; Miami $850; D.C. $650; Philadelphia $645; Pittsburgh $705; New York $750. Most people can't afford that or even lower lawyers fees so to render justice we have contingent fees.
Insurance companies however don't want you to have great attorneys. They want:
- Public opinion filled with other mistruths about our legal system;
- Valid lawsuits against them never be pursued;
- Your premiums but not your claims;
- Voters to think they constantly fight bogus lawsuits;
- Everyone to hate lawyers so they never hire one to get justice;
- You to think you're in good hands when you're told what your claim is worth;
- People to feel guilty for making legitimate claims;
- You to have so much guilt that you tell your lawyer "I'm not the kind of person who files a lawsuit";
- Jurors to think "the person who files a lawsuit" is a sham, dishonest and insincere;
- Minds made up before evidence is ever heard;
- Your legal rights minimized or removed;
- Their legal rights maximized and preserved;
- Wrongdoing on their part to go unchecked;
- People to feel juries give money away in a lottery jackpot justice system;
- Juries to doubt themselves so they find "No" to negligence or "No" to cause questions;
- Verdicts for damages to be far less then what is fair;
- Caps on damages to minimize how much justice a person may collect; and
- Judges who will avoid holding them accountable.
What do you want after you have been negligently injured?
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
Why? The contingent fee levels the playing field for Joe Average. With it, you can hire the best lawyers available paying only after winning. Insurance companies don't like that because they can pay expensive attorneys fees, but could you? The National Law Journal just showed corporate lawyers hourly rates for ONE HOUR up to $675 here in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and elsewhere: Chicago $730; Boston $735; L.A. $725; San Francisco $675; Houston $590; Miami $850; D.C. $650; Philadelphia $645; Pittsburgh $705; New York $750. Most people can't afford that or even lower lawyers fees so to render justice we have contingent fees.
Insurance companies however don't want you to have great attorneys. They want:
- Public opinion filled with other mistruths about our legal system;
- Valid lawsuits against them never be pursued;
- Your premiums but not your claims;
- Voters to think they constantly fight bogus lawsuits;
- Everyone to hate lawyers so they never hire one to get justice;
- You to think you're in good hands when you're told what your claim is worth;
- People to feel guilty for making legitimate claims;
- You to have so much guilt that you tell your lawyer "I'm not the kind of person who files a lawsuit";
- Jurors to think "the person who files a lawsuit" is a sham, dishonest and insincere;
- Minds made up before evidence is ever heard;
- Your legal rights minimized or removed;
- Their legal rights maximized and preserved;
- Wrongdoing on their part to go unchecked;
- People to feel juries give money away in a lottery jackpot justice system;
- Juries to doubt themselves so they find "No" to negligence or "No" to cause questions;
- Verdicts for damages to be far less then what is fair;
- Caps on damages to minimize how much justice a person may collect; and
- Judges who will avoid holding them accountable.
What do you want after you have been negligently injured?
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
10.3.04
Manganese welding rods used by Wisconsin welders cause Parkinson's disease-like symptoms
Manganese welding rods
Manganese welding rods used in welding by Wisconsin welders and others are likely to blame for horrible nervous system injuries suffered by many ironworkers, manufacturing employees, workers in ironworks and others. Welders especially, however, are known to have suffered extreme Parkinson's disease-like symptoms. The following are some of the symptoms associated with manganese welding rods:
Moving slower
Shaking/tremors
Loss of balance
Physical stiffness
Leg cramps at night
Less coordination
Slurring speech
Face muscles tightening
Poor handwriting
Walking difficulties
Anxiousness & irritability
Impotence
Emotional changes
Short term loss of memory
Welders with manganese should be pathologically tested and those diagnosed with Parkinson's may want to revisit their physician, neurologist or other doctor. At my site, you can see Welders supply companies in Illinois and Wisconsin and a large list of links to Welding equipment manufacturers & sellers. Most important is a new study just out and that discusses Parkinson's disease-like symptoms relation to Manganese welding rods.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
Manganese welding rods used in welding by Wisconsin welders and others are likely to blame for horrible nervous system injuries suffered by many ironworkers, manufacturing employees, workers in ironworks and others. Welders especially, however, are known to have suffered extreme Parkinson's disease-like symptoms. The following are some of the symptoms associated with manganese welding rods:
Moving slower
Shaking/tremors
Loss of balance
Physical stiffness
Leg cramps at night
Less coordination
Slurring speech
Face muscles tightening
Poor handwriting
Walking difficulties
Anxiousness & irritability
Impotence
Emotional changes
Short term loss of memory
Welders with manganese should be pathologically tested and those diagnosed with Parkinson's may want to revisit their physician, neurologist or other doctor. At my site, you can see Welders supply companies in Illinois and Wisconsin and a large list of links to Welding equipment manufacturers & sellers. Most important is a new study just out and that discusses Parkinson's disease-like symptoms relation to Manganese welding rods.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
4.3.04
Wrongful death lawsuits against gun sellers
Wrongful death lawsuits against gun sellers are rare notwithstanding John Grisham's good (albeit unrealistic) book The Runaway Jury, which puts gun sellers on trial after a father dies in a workplace mass murder. In fact, I know of no such lawsuits for personal injury or wrongful death in Wisconsin. Nevertheless, some want to regulate tort law to give gun sellers immunity, The New Bill to Protect the Gun Industry From Lawsuits. The proposal did not win though as those valuing justice and human life won, like the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence and Brady Campaign (Jim Brady was shot in an assassination attempt on President Reagan).
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
29.2.04
Lawyers critical of AIG Chairman's speech
Lawyers demand apology for 'terrorists' remark refers to AIG Chairman Maurice Greenberg, who I discussed here before. The American Bar Association was critical of the comment Greenberg made while speaking at Boston College (one of many schools with a law school) when he foolishly labeled as "terrorists" trial lawyers.
Attorneys with the Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA), a lawyers group in which I am a sustaining member, called for an apology from Greenberg. The irony of this comment is that more than 1,100 of ATLA's lawyers helped hundreds of individuals and surviving families file claims with the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund without charging any fees whatsoever.
Lawyers are hated by billionaire Greenberg, see Friday, July 25, 2003 and Friday, February 07, 2003 describing Greenberg's insanity and obnoxious wealth. Even more ironic is the fact that Greenberg, AIG, and many other insurers have profited to the tune of billions of dollars as they used the 9-11 tragedy and subsequent stock market crash - see Wartime Profiteering - as an excuse to hike insurance rates while at the same time calling for "tort reform" and blaming it all on "evil" "terrorist" lawyers.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Attorneys with the Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA), a lawyers group in which I am a sustaining member, called for an apology from Greenberg. The irony of this comment is that more than 1,100 of ATLA's lawyers helped hundreds of individuals and surviving families file claims with the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund without charging any fees whatsoever.
Lawyers are hated by billionaire Greenberg, see Friday, July 25, 2003 and Friday, February 07, 2003 describing Greenberg's insanity and obnoxious wealth. Even more ironic is the fact that Greenberg, AIG, and many other insurers have profited to the tune of billions of dollars as they used the 9-11 tragedy and subsequent stock market crash - see Wartime Profiteering - as an excuse to hike insurance rates while at the same time calling for "tort reform" and blaming it all on "evil" "terrorist" lawyers.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
21.2.04
Wisconsin car accident insurance
Wisconsin car accident insurance is a necessity and the Wisconsin Commissioner of Insurance has a helpful publication called Consumer's Guide to Auto Insurance. Here are some of the best rates for Brookfield, Wisconsin in Waukesha County:
Example 1
Car: 1998 Plymouth Neon, 4 Cyl, 2 Door
Limits: BI/PD Liability 50/100/50
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist 50/100
Driver: age 21, female, single
7,500 mls annually
No traffic violations or car accidents 3 yrs
Progressive Northern Ins. Co. $450
State Farm Mutual Automobile Ins. Co. $474
Example 2
Car: 1997 Chevrolet S-10, 6 Cyl, 4 Wheel
Limits: same
Driver: age 21, male, single
20,000 mls per yr
No traffic accidents or driving violations 3 yrs
Progressive Northern Ins. Co. $541
State Farm Mutual Automobile Ins. Co. $603
1999 Dodge Caravan SE, 6 Cyl
1998 Pontiac Grand AM, SE, 6 Cyl, 4 Door
Limits: BI/PD Liability 100/300/100
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist 100/300
Drivers: Family, no traffic violations or car crashes last 3 yrs
Husband, 45, 7,000 mls annually
Wife, 44, 20,000 mls annually
Son, 17, single, C+ GPA
MSI $718
Badger Mutual Ins. Co. $820
Milwaukee Casualty Ins. Co. $826
Car accidents in Milwaukee Wisconsin is a link from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that I recently found helpful for info on area traffic congestion and Milwaukee car accidents.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Example 1
Car: 1998 Plymouth Neon, 4 Cyl, 2 Door
Limits: BI/PD Liability 50/100/50
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist 50/100
Driver: age 21, female, single
7,500 mls annually
No traffic violations or car accidents 3 yrs
Progressive Northern Ins. Co. $450
State Farm Mutual Automobile Ins. Co. $474
Example 2
Car: 1997 Chevrolet S-10, 6 Cyl, 4 Wheel
Limits: same
Driver: age 21, male, single
20,000 mls per yr
No traffic accidents or driving violations 3 yrs
Progressive Northern Ins. Co. $541
State Farm Mutual Automobile Ins. Co. $603
1999 Dodge Caravan SE, 6 Cyl
1998 Pontiac Grand AM, SE, 6 Cyl, 4 Door
Limits: BI/PD Liability 100/300/100
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist 100/300
Drivers: Family, no traffic violations or car crashes last 3 yrs
Husband, 45, 7,000 mls annually
Wife, 44, 20,000 mls annually
Son, 17, single, C+ GPA
MSI $718
Badger Mutual Ins. Co. $820
Milwaukee Casualty Ins. Co. $826
Car accidents in Milwaukee Wisconsin is a link from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that I recently found helpful for info on area traffic congestion and Milwaukee car accidents.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
7.2.04
Wisconsin Medical Malpractice Reform
Wisconsin medical malpractice law needs reform. Wrongful death cases ordinarily allow an adult child to recover $350,000 for the loss of society and companionship of a parent who died due to negligence. However, when a doctor, hospital or nurse causes a wrongful death by medical malpractice an adult child to cannot recover ANYTHING. Wisconsin law further provides that in wrongful death medical malpractice cases a parent does not recovery ANYTHING for the loss of their adult child.
Wisconsin S.B. 187 tries to change this law but has not passed due to opposition. The law is stuck in the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Judiciary, Corrections and Privacy and Senators controlling the Committee are Republicans David Zien, Chair, Scott Fitzgerald and Cathy Stepp. The Committee minority members are Senators Tim Carpenter and Spencer Coggs.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Wisconsin S.B. 187 tries to change this law but has not passed due to opposition. The law is stuck in the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Judiciary, Corrections and Privacy and Senators controlling the Committee are Republicans David Zien, Chair, Scott Fitzgerald and Cathy Stepp. The Committee minority members are Senators Tim Carpenter and Spencer Coggs.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
2.2.04
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyers site feeding
I'm working on this whole site feed thing. I believe I have it up. Here's the link: Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyers Blog RSS
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
14.1.04
Medical Malpractice Insurance & Health Insurers
Personal injury lawyers in Wisconsin and elsewhere have long known that caps on damages do not stop insurance companies from increasing premiums. In addition to those authorities referred to below, a recent Insurance Journal study proves this with respect to medical malpractice. Where damage caps limiting a person's right to recovery existed, insurance premiums still went up "even though insurers enjoyed a slowdown in their payouts." So why do we have such caps in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
7.1.04
Tort Reform or Health Insurance Reform?
Wisconsin business groups apparently want health insurance reform too since Wisconsin insurers keep raising premiums. See Business groups push health reform plan. Though I generally prefer a "free market", since insurance companies are so high on "tort reform" and "caps on damages" perhaps we should consider:
~ a moratorium on building or adding on hospitals;
~ limiting healthcare provider charges; or
~ capping insurance company profits.
At least this Wisconsin group did not try to assert the fictious cause-effect relationship between medical expenses and medical malpractice. Wisconsin medical malpractice insurance rates are some of the lowest in the U.S. yet it has very high health insurance costs as noted by Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce. Wisconsin doctors, per a 2003 study by the American Medical Society, have the 6th lowest medical malpractice insurance premiums in the U.S.A. See Wisconsin's Business Climate from Wisconsin Dept. of Commerce. Thus, despite claims of "tort reformers" medical malpractice has nothing to do with spiraling health care costs. This fact was also proven in the Des Moines Register article Don't blame malpractice suits: Reforming health care takes a lot more than caps on liability awards showing what has always been known by Wisconsin personal injury attorneys.
The article explains how it is false to claim rising medical expenses and insurance have a relationship to such personal injury cases. The article shows:
~ 1998-2001 the number of medical malpractice claims dropped
~ 1988-1998 U.S. health care costs were UP 74.4% but medical malpractice insurance increased only 5.7%
~ Medical malpractice insurance premiums for doctors were 8.8% of their salaries of $164,300 in 1990 and were DOWN by 1997 to just 7.1% of doctors' salaries of $199,600
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
~ a moratorium on building or adding on hospitals;
~ limiting healthcare provider charges; or
~ capping insurance company profits.
At least this Wisconsin group did not try to assert the fictious cause-effect relationship between medical expenses and medical malpractice. Wisconsin medical malpractice insurance rates are some of the lowest in the U.S. yet it has very high health insurance costs as noted by Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce. Wisconsin doctors, per a 2003 study by the American Medical Society, have the 6th lowest medical malpractice insurance premiums in the U.S.A. See Wisconsin's Business Climate from Wisconsin Dept. of Commerce. Thus, despite claims of "tort reformers" medical malpractice has nothing to do with spiraling health care costs. This fact was also proven in the Des Moines Register article Don't blame malpractice suits: Reforming health care takes a lot more than caps on liability awards showing what has always been known by Wisconsin personal injury attorneys.
The article explains how it is false to claim rising medical expenses and insurance have a relationship to such personal injury cases. The article shows:
~ 1998-2001 the number of medical malpractice claims dropped
~ 1988-1998 U.S. health care costs were UP 74.4% but medical malpractice insurance increased only 5.7%
~ Medical malpractice insurance premiums for doctors were 8.8% of their salaries of $164,300 in 1990 and were DOWN by 1997 to just 7.1% of doctors' salaries of $199,600
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
31.12.03
Personal injury lawyers clients caught in political games
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorneys have known for sometime that political game-playing has been a major reason for the claim that there is some "medical malpractice insurance crisis." However, the author of Malpractice Makes Perfect in Washington Monthly takes specific aim at the Republican Party. Personally, I don't like one party being the "enemy" as it seems the battle lines in the "tort reform" war have blurred and I take issue with certain Democrat too. Notwithstanding the politics of medical malpractice, this article makes for interesting reading.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
23.12.03
Wisconsin residents are not lawsuit happy
Wisconsin personal injury lawyers are constantly telling me how people who have been seriously injured through the negligence of another say "I'm not the kind of person to file a lawsuit." I have heard this myself at least 50 times. Yet, despite the fact that Wisconsin residents do not like filing lawsuits. Wisconsin Public Radio recently interviewed Philip Howard of "Common Good" (his outfit's name makes it clear they are trying to manipulate people by using a name similar to a longstanding reform group Ralph Nader's Common Cause). Anyway, referring to a ridiculous piece he helped Newsweek fabricate, this man asserts that "Americans like to sue each other at the slightest provocation." It's a totally false and stupid statement but it is one that so-called "tort reform" groups like to say even though all evidence shows that lawsuits by individuals are down and lawsuit-growth is in Corporate America - Business vs. Business lawsuits.
Center for Justice & Democracy released a very good rebuttal to Newsweek's story on lawsuits.
Lawyers nationally have also proved that the facts have been manipulated in Look behind the lawsuit spin.
Lastly, Newsweek did eventually publish a rebuttal.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
Center for Justice & Democracy released a very good rebuttal to Newsweek's story on lawsuits.
Lawyers nationally have also proved that the facts have been manipulated in Look behind the lawsuit spin.
Lastly, Newsweek did eventually publish a rebuttal.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
2.12.03
Car accidents in Wisconsin are a common occurrence from Thanksgiving through New Year's Day. As your families prepare to drive our Wisconsin highways and roads, be sure to take steps to avoid a Wisconsin car accident. Drive your car, truck, SUV or minivan the legal speed limit, drive through intersections carefully, wear seatbelts and be sure all passengers are properly secured this holiday season. Whether it is driver distraction, speeding, or drunk driving car accidents in Wisconsin and related injuries are preventable.
Wisconsin car accidents are an especially serious risk of injury to our youth, according to a recent study by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Wisconsin's study shows that "more than 22,000 young people under the age of 15 are at risk of injury or death as occupants in vehicles involved in crashes." See Thousands of Wisconsin children at risk in crashes. Per that DOT study, in Wisconsin car accidents as many as 10% of the "children still riding in passenger vehicles with no safety protection whatsoever." See also Wisconsin car accidents: protect children
Wisconsin car crash deaths are also too frequent in 2003, according to a previous report from the Wisconsin DOT, Traffic fatality pace sustained in October. That study revealed that in October 2003, there had been 71 deaths in Wisconsin car crashes. Further, the same Wisconsin report shows that "[t[hrough the first 10 months of 2003, crashes in Wisconsin killed 711 people." Such deaths involved Wisconsin bus crash and truck accidents as well as Wisconsin rollover accidents. Please take extra so that neither you nor a family member cause a wrongful death in Wisconsin this 2003 holiday season.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
Wisconsin car accidents are an especially serious risk of injury to our youth, according to a recent study by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Wisconsin's study shows that "more than 22,000 young people under the age of 15 are at risk of injury or death as occupants in vehicles involved in crashes." See Thousands of Wisconsin children at risk in crashes. Per that DOT study, in Wisconsin car accidents as many as 10% of the "children still riding in passenger vehicles with no safety protection whatsoever." See also Wisconsin car accidents: protect children
Wisconsin car crash deaths are also too frequent in 2003, according to a previous report from the Wisconsin DOT, Traffic fatality pace sustained in October. That study revealed that in October 2003, there had been 71 deaths in Wisconsin car crashes. Further, the same Wisconsin report shows that "[t[hrough the first 10 months of 2003, crashes in Wisconsin killed 711 people." Such deaths involved Wisconsin bus crash and truck accidents as well as Wisconsin rollover accidents. Please take extra so that neither you nor a family member cause a wrongful death in Wisconsin this 2003 holiday season.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney
22.11.03
Asbestos in Milwaukee
W.R. Grace Zonolite asbestos interview aired in Milwaukee this week on WTMJ 4.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
11.11.03
Wisconsin personal injury lawyers and those who are truly "Free Market" capitalists should find themselves on the same side argues Michael Collins of CBS Marketwatch in his article The free market versus tort reform.
Collins reasonably points out how there are no good reasons for government to regulate damages in personal injury and medical malpractice cases. Collins asks several excellent questions: "If it's wrong for government to limit the prices pharmaceutical companies can charge for drugs, and the amount doctors charge for treatment, why would it be right to limit the amount of damages a harmed patient can be awarded in a lawsuit? If you believe it's too hard for doctors to get malpractice insurance, why is it the consumer's fault, rather than the insurance industry or the medical system? If you believe the government shouldn't tell a company how to do its business, or how much it can pay its executives, why would you support a limit on how much lawyers can make suing those businesses on behalf of defrauded consumers or investors?"
But this Wisconsin personal injury lawyer doesn't want to steal Collins' thunder. It's a great article. Go read it.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Collins reasonably points out how there are no good reasons for government to regulate damages in personal injury and medical malpractice cases. Collins asks several excellent questions: "If it's wrong for government to limit the prices pharmaceutical companies can charge for drugs, and the amount doctors charge for treatment, why would it be right to limit the amount of damages a harmed patient can be awarded in a lawsuit? If you believe it's too hard for doctors to get malpractice insurance, why is it the consumer's fault, rather than the insurance industry or the medical system? If you believe the government shouldn't tell a company how to do its business, or how much it can pay its executives, why would you support a limit on how much lawyers can make suing those businesses on behalf of defrauded consumers or investors?"
But this Wisconsin personal injury lawyer doesn't want to steal Collins' thunder. It's a great article. Go read it.
Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
4.11.03
Abbyland Meats in Wisconsin is recalling beef effective October 31, 2003, which is apparently contaiminated with the ecoli bacteria. Abbyland Meats is recalling the beef because E.coli can cause extremely serious injuries and even death especially in small children and senior citizens. If you think you may have received E. coli contaminated beef from Abbyland Meats in Wisconsin see my web page at Ecoli recall of meat in Wisconsin.
30.10.03
It's almost Halloween and that means children will be trick-or-treating in your neighborhood. Because kids tend to focus on the excitement of Halloween and forget about safety, it's up to us parents, care givers and motorists to take special care so that these little boys and girls have a safe and happy holiday, and aren't "haunted" by unnecessary injuries. The following traffic safety tips will help to ensure that your kids' Halloween is the best ever.
Wisconsin Drivers
- Stay alert. Neighborhoods that don't normally have a lot of pedestrian and bicycle traffic may experience an increase on Halloween night.
- Remember that kids will be excited, and may be trying to visit as many houses as possible within a specific time frame. Trick-or-treaters may suddenly dart into traffic from between parked cars.
- Be particularly cautious in areas where cars are parked along the side of the street.
- Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks in the neighborhood.
- Be patient and SLOW DOWN. Give children lots of time to cross the street. Their costumes may impair their ability to see and hear you, and to get out of your way quickly.
- Remember that kids will be excited and may forget to "stop, look, and listen" before they cross the street.
Wisconsin Parents and Caregivers
- Purchase or make costumes that are light colored and clearly visible to motorists.
- Decorate (and get the kids to help!) or trim costumes, "goody bags," and other containers with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car's headlights.
- Reflective tape can be purchased at bicycle, hardware, and sporting goods stores.
- Make sure costumes are short enough so they don't cause children to trip or fall.
- Children should wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes.
- Masks should not impair a child's hearing or field of vision. If necessary, enlarge ear and eye holes, or use makeup to create special effects. Tie hats and scarves securely to prevent them from slipping over children's eyes.
Wisconsin Drivers
- Stay alert. Neighborhoods that don't normally have a lot of pedestrian and bicycle traffic may experience an increase on Halloween night.
- Remember that kids will be excited, and may be trying to visit as many houses as possible within a specific time frame. Trick-or-treaters may suddenly dart into traffic from between parked cars.
- Be particularly cautious in areas where cars are parked along the side of the street.
- Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks in the neighborhood.
- Be patient and SLOW DOWN. Give children lots of time to cross the street. Their costumes may impair their ability to see and hear you, and to get out of your way quickly.
- Remember that kids will be excited and may forget to "stop, look, and listen" before they cross the street.
Wisconsin Parents and Caregivers
- Purchase or make costumes that are light colored and clearly visible to motorists.
- Decorate (and get the kids to help!) or trim costumes, "goody bags," and other containers with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car's headlights.
- Reflective tape can be purchased at bicycle, hardware, and sporting goods stores.
- Make sure costumes are short enough so they don't cause children to trip or fall.
- Children should wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes.
- Masks should not impair a child's hearing or field of vision. If necessary, enlarge ear and eye holes, or use makeup to create special effects. Tie hats and scarves securely to prevent them from slipping over children's eyes.
14.10.03
Personal injury lawyers are sometimes their own worst enemies. Unfortunately, some attorneys' zealousness appears to be foolishness, which reflects poorly on other personal injury lawyers unfairly punishing their clients.
Google News Search "NFL lawsuit" and you should see what I mean. The lawyer filing the case apparently likes publicity because in my humble opinion that's all that stands to likely be gained by a recent lawsuit the attorney filed. Sadly, the case involves a tragedy in which a girl was paralyzed in a car accident caused by a drunk driver who had been at a N.Y. Giants NFL football game. The lawsuit claims that the NFL should be held responsible for the girl's injuries. Newsday's article on the lawsuit states that the lawyer filing the case (for the second time) contends the NFL promotes the type of behavior that led the drunk driver to drink 14 beers at the game in 1999 and then drive home. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I would think that a lawsuit against the beer brewer might make more sense then this one.
Under the logic of the case filed, defendants to the suit should also include every television and radio station, magazine, newspaper and other media outlet that ever showed a beer drinking ad. And perhaps all the advertising agencies that created such ads. Maybe even the municipalities licensing the sale of alcohol, and the United States itself for repealing prohibition. In my opinion, personal injury attorneys should not file this type of case. This lawyer should have just done what was done in December 2002 when this same attorney did not file suit in the infamous Barney's X-Rated Surprise: Children Find Porn In Book incident.
Google News Search "NFL lawsuit" and you should see what I mean. The lawyer filing the case apparently likes publicity because in my humble opinion that's all that stands to likely be gained by a recent lawsuit the attorney filed. Sadly, the case involves a tragedy in which a girl was paralyzed in a car accident caused by a drunk driver who had been at a N.Y. Giants NFL football game. The lawsuit claims that the NFL should be held responsible for the girl's injuries. Newsday's article on the lawsuit states that the lawyer filing the case (for the second time) contends the NFL promotes the type of behavior that led the drunk driver to drink 14 beers at the game in 1999 and then drive home. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I would think that a lawsuit against the beer brewer might make more sense then this one.
Under the logic of the case filed, defendants to the suit should also include every television and radio station, magazine, newspaper and other media outlet that ever showed a beer drinking ad. And perhaps all the advertising agencies that created such ads. Maybe even the municipalities licensing the sale of alcohol, and the United States itself for repealing prohibition. In my opinion, personal injury attorneys should not file this type of case. This lawyer should have just done what was done in December 2002 when this same attorney did not file suit in the infamous Barney's X-Rated Surprise: Children Find Porn In Book incident.
9.10.03
Wisconsin Law Journal recently interviewed me for a story on lawyers Blogs and Blogging. I'll let you know when in comes out. Personally, I don't think most attorneys in Wisconsin care about Blogging or want to Blog, which is understandable. I was curious though as to what inspired the article so I googled my site and found an Internet marketing and networking firm for lawyers talking about Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyers Blog in Why Do Search Engines Like Blogs?. Strangely, I next found three blogs strikingly similar to mine all by the same lawyer, Robert Unterberger. Those were Pennsylvania Personal Injury Lawyers Blog, Delaware Personal Injury Lawyers Blog, and New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyers Blog. Certainly, imitation is the highest form of flattery, but I guess Blogging wasn't for him since it only lasted a month.
1.10.03
Wisconsin Workers Compensation claims often involve Wisconsin personal injury claims and vice versa. Thus, I frequently refer clients to Wisconsin worker's compensation lawyers and Wisconsin attorneys handling such employee injury claims. For that reason, I created a Wisconsin Workers Compensation page at my web site.
16.9.03
Washington Post has a medical malpractice article: What Crisis? GAO: Malpractice Premium Spikes Don't Force Out Docs . The last two paragraphs state:
"Nationally, studies have found that doctors and hospitals win about 70 percent of cases that make it to a courtroom. Multimillion-dollar awards by juries are often bigger than the amount actually paid by an insurance company or doctor; these awards can be reduced by a judge, overturned on appeal or, more commonly, are the subject of negotiations between lawyers for both sides that dramatically reduce the amount a victim receives.
"What's often lost in this discussion is that there is much more malpractice than there are malpractice suits," Napoli noted. A 1991 study by Harvard University researchers, still regarded as the most influential of its kind, found that acts of medical negligence are eight to 10 times more common than malpractice lawsuits."
"Nationally, studies have found that doctors and hospitals win about 70 percent of cases that make it to a courtroom. Multimillion-dollar awards by juries are often bigger than the amount actually paid by an insurance company or doctor; these awards can be reduced by a judge, overturned on appeal or, more commonly, are the subject of negotiations between lawyers for both sides that dramatically reduce the amount a victim receives.
"What's often lost in this discussion is that there is much more malpractice than there are malpractice suits," Napoli noted. A 1991 study by Harvard University researchers, still regarded as the most influential of its kind, found that acts of medical negligence are eight to 10 times more common than malpractice lawsuits."
14.9.03
Wisconsin Insurers Keep Jacking Up Premiums
Health costs slam firms again: Area companies to pay 23% more in premiums, try to share increase. Only 12 days ago, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel printed Is he overpaid? about Aurora Health Care’s three executives making $4,5000,000. And, insurance companies, like Humana Insurance (see July 28th), continue reporting sharply higher earnings due to double digit premium increases.
Wisconsin has some of the lowest medical malpractice insurance rates in America, but still has high health insurance costs. A 2003 study by the American Medical Society reports Wisconsin has the 6th lowest medical malpractice insurance premiums for physicians in the U.S. Wisconsin's Business Climate from Wisconsin Dept. of Commerce. Thus, despite claims of "tort reformers" spiraling health care costs have nothing to do with malpractice premiums. See the Des Moines Register article Don't blame malpractice suits: Reforming health care takes a lot more than caps on liability awards.
All evidence is there is no correlation between jury verdicts and health care insurance. Yet, insurers want to talk about "trial lawyers" and "tort reform" to defer the truth and by helping these insurers, certain politicians get paid off with donations from the industries profiting, Insurance, Health Care Professionals and Pharmaceutical & Health Products.
Health costs slam firms again: Area companies to pay 23% more in premiums, try to share increase. Only 12 days ago, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel printed Is he overpaid? about Aurora Health Care’s three executives making $4,5000,000. And, insurance companies, like Humana Insurance (see July 28th), continue reporting sharply higher earnings due to double digit premium increases.
Wisconsin has some of the lowest medical malpractice insurance rates in America, but still has high health insurance costs. A 2003 study by the American Medical Society reports Wisconsin has the 6th lowest medical malpractice insurance premiums for physicians in the U.S. Wisconsin's Business Climate from Wisconsin Dept. of Commerce. Thus, despite claims of "tort reformers" spiraling health care costs have nothing to do with malpractice premiums. See the Des Moines Register article Don't blame malpractice suits: Reforming health care takes a lot more than caps on liability awards.
All evidence is there is no correlation between jury verdicts and health care insurance. Yet, insurers want to talk about "trial lawyers" and "tort reform" to defer the truth and by helping these insurers, certain politicians get paid off with donations from the industries profiting, Insurance, Health Care Professionals and Pharmaceutical & Health Products.
12.9.03
Walgreens pharmacies misfilled prescriptions are mentioned 8-15-03 and discussed at my firm site Walgreens misfills prescriptions. I was contacted recently by an investigator in Albuquerque, New Mexico investigating Walgreens methods for pharmacists tracking and filling prescriptions. Curious, I googled and found this article Injured Boy's Family Blames Walgreens: Associated Press, discussing the lawsuit of a brain-damaged boy who negligently received methadone instead of the anti-hyperactivity drug Ritalin a/k/a Methylphenidate.
See how the error happened - methadone, methylphenidate - its pharmacist or technician royally screwed up. And it isn't the first time for Walgreens. One of the cases I had was very similar!
See how the error happened - methadone, methylphenidate - its pharmacist or technician royally screwed up. And it isn't the first time for Walgreens. One of the cases I had was very similar!
1.9.03
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sunday printed Is he overpaid?
Perhaps, rather than focusing on “tort reform” to reduce health care costs, politicians should focus on “capping” the compensation paid to CEOs and executives at corporations selling insurance and health care.
Perhaps, rather than focusing on “tort reform” to reduce health care costs, politicians should focus on “capping” the compensation paid to CEOs and executives at corporations selling insurance and health care.
27.8.03
15.8.03
Walgreens misfills prescriptions and this not only causes problems for Walgreens but for individuals injured as a result of prescription filling errors. Pharmacies and pharmacists elsewhere have had some similar problems, but as far as I am aware they don't try to cover up the extent of the problem. Yesterday, I was called by a personal injury lawyer helping someone who badly harmed as a result of Walgreens pharmacy errors and I could not help much because a court order prevents me from releasing what I learned.
4.8.03
Lawyers make all the money - at least according to a family friend of ours. Since I believe that too many people think this way, I thought I would share some statistics.
Attorneys are not even in the Top 10 for annual income earned according to the Complete list of "Best Jobs Lists" from the Best Jobs for the 21st Century, Third Edition. Who are the TOP 10 wage earners?
"1. Anesthesiologists greater than $145,600
2. Internists, General greater than $145,600
3. Obstetricians and Gynecologists greater than $145,600
4. Surgeons greater than $145,600
5. Psychiatrists $126,460
6. Pediatricians, General $126,430
7. Chief Executives $120,450
8. Government Service Executives $120,450
9. Private Sector Executives $120,450
10. Family and General Practitioners $118,390"
From The 100 Best-Paying Jobs.
Attorneys earn $88,760, nationally. Wisconsin Lawyer magazine's December 2001 survey of Wisconsin attorneys revealed that Wisconsin lawyers average income was $79,000.
If you need more proof, check out Forbes 20th annual ranking of the 400 richest Americans. I didn't have time to review all of the 400 people listed, but here are Forbes categories:
Hotel & Casino Operators
Food & Agricultural Barons
Technology Tycoons
Venture Capitalists & Investors
Money Managers & Bankers
Real Estate Moguls
Entertainers And Media Moguls
Health Care Providers
Satellites, Cell Phones And Fiber Bosses
Retailers
Fashion Designers
Manufacturers and
Oil Executives
Lawyers notably are not listed.
Attorneys are not even in the Top 10 for annual income earned according to the Complete list of "Best Jobs Lists" from the Best Jobs for the 21st Century, Third Edition. Who are the TOP 10 wage earners?
"1. Anesthesiologists greater than $145,600
2. Internists, General greater than $145,600
3. Obstetricians and Gynecologists greater than $145,600
4. Surgeons greater than $145,600
5. Psychiatrists $126,460
6. Pediatricians, General $126,430
7. Chief Executives $120,450
8. Government Service Executives $120,450
9. Private Sector Executives $120,450
10. Family and General Practitioners $118,390"
From The 100 Best-Paying Jobs.
Attorneys earn $88,760, nationally. Wisconsin Lawyer magazine's December 2001 survey of Wisconsin attorneys revealed that Wisconsin lawyers average income was $79,000.
If you need more proof, check out Forbes 20th annual ranking of the 400 richest Americans. I didn't have time to review all of the 400 people listed, but here are Forbes categories:
Hotel & Casino Operators
Food & Agricultural Barons
Technology Tycoons
Venture Capitalists & Investors
Money Managers & Bankers
Real Estate Moguls
Entertainers And Media Moguls
Health Care Providers
Satellites, Cell Phones And Fiber Bosses
Retailers
Fashion Designers
Manufacturers and
Oil Executives
Lawyers notably are not listed.
28.7.03
Humana Inc. isn't a liability insurer like Allstate and AIG (see below), but it too is making great profits on the back of Americans, including all taxpayers, who pay government employees' health insurance, and businesses, including sole proprietor's, partnerships and corporations, who pay for their employees' health insurance. Humana reported sharply higher earnings today thanks to double digit premium increases and gains in its commercial businesses. In fact, income was "up 53 percent." Remember, whether you are an employer or an employee, Republican or Democrat, outrageous health insurance premiums effect all of us.
Again, I wonder how it is that lawyers are so often presented as the scourge of the American entrepreneur. INSURANCE REFORM would certainly save American businesses a lot more than tort deform.
Again, I wonder how it is that lawyers are so often presented as the scourge of the American entrepreneur. INSURANCE REFORM would certainly save American businesses a lot more than tort deform.
25.7.03
Insurance companies NEVER cease to amaze me. Last week Allstate showed how it's making boatloads on your backs by raising those insurance premiums.
And today's insurer of the day is AIG. I complained previously about AIG CEO Maurice "Hank" Greenberg because he tries to blame evil "trial lawyers" for every problem AIG has while he makes insane amounts of money. In Hank Greenberg on The Forbes Four Hundred Richest in America, the article describes Greenberg's obscene wealth of $4,400,000,000.00 - that's FOUR-BILLION-FOUR-HUNDRED-MILLION-DOLLARS.
Don't worry, things are getting even better for Hank Greenberg at the American entrepreneur's expense, Rising business insurance costs boost AIG profits.
Greenberg calls for "tort reform" (taking your legal rights & limiting what you can recover - so he can make more money) while telling sole proprietor's, partnerships and corporations how he's going to raise business insurance rates even more. See AIG Chairman Sees Rates Rising Into 2004. Forget tort reform, call for insurance reform. "Earnings were fueled by price hikes in insurance premiums to businesses."
Interestingly, Maurice Greenberg - WHILE SUING HIS SON's COMPANY - has brought to light one of many insurance company abuses. In "Ace in the Hole," Forbes explains how AIG accuses: Ace Insurance "and a predecessor company of trying to dodge billions of dollars in asbestos claims by moving thousands of insurance policies out of its Insurance Co. of North America subsidiary into a tiny, underfunded rump company called Century Indemnity. AIG calls this 'a shell game.'"
So let's see, an insurer tried to shortchange asbestos and mesothelioma victims...
...never happens?
And today's insurer of the day is AIG. I complained previously about AIG CEO Maurice "Hank" Greenberg because he tries to blame evil "trial lawyers" for every problem AIG has while he makes insane amounts of money. In Hank Greenberg on The Forbes Four Hundred Richest in America, the article describes Greenberg's obscene wealth of $4,400,000,000.00 - that's FOUR-BILLION-FOUR-HUNDRED-MILLION-DOLLARS.
Don't worry, things are getting even better for Hank Greenberg at the American entrepreneur's expense, Rising business insurance costs boost AIG profits.
Greenberg calls for "tort reform" (taking your legal rights & limiting what you can recover - so he can make more money) while telling sole proprietor's, partnerships and corporations how he's going to raise business insurance rates even more. See AIG Chairman Sees Rates Rising Into 2004. Forget tort reform, call for insurance reform. "Earnings were fueled by price hikes in insurance premiums to businesses."
Interestingly, Maurice Greenberg - WHILE SUING HIS SON's COMPANY - has brought to light one of many insurance company abuses. In "Ace in the Hole," Forbes explains how AIG accuses: Ace Insurance "and a predecessor company of trying to dodge billions of dollars in asbestos claims by moving thousands of insurance policies out of its Insurance Co. of North America subsidiary into a tiny, underfunded rump company called Century Indemnity. AIG calls this 'a shell game.'"
So let's see, an insurer tried to shortchange asbestos and mesothelioma victims...
...never happens?
21.7.03
Personal injury cases typically involved insurance companies. One insurer I have always disliked is Allstate. Here's another reason to dislike Allstate. ALLSTATE PROFIT SOARS ON RATE INCREASES.
Allstate's profits were up 71%! Isn't it interesting how when these insurers announce profits they never cite "reduced tort costs" or "reduced personal injury claims" or "lower lawsuit filings"? See my February 7, 2003 post.
Whether it's homeowners insurance, medical malpractice insurance, car insurance or whatever, the fact is insurers try stick it to the people who pay the premiums, to those who get hurt, and those who help them, like me, in order to make more money. This is exactly why these companies constantly call on lawmakers to limit recoverable damages, fees, etc. Whatever happened to the "FREE MARKET"? And, if we must legislate in this area, then I propose lawmakers pass accross the board INSURANCE RATE CUTS?
If lawmakers really want to help accident victims, then they should pass a law prohibiting subrogation in all personal injury actions. This is where your health insurer, car insurer, disability insurer or worker's compensation insurer takes money from your personal injury settlement. This results often in the insurer taking 30%-50% of a personal injury settlement from the injured party. In other words, you pay your premium for health insurance, car insurance or whatever, and that same insurer gets to be paid again, but this time from the injurying party's insurance company taking a portion of the injured person's settlement proceeds.
Allstate's profits were up 71%! Isn't it interesting how when these insurers announce profits they never cite "reduced tort costs" or "reduced personal injury claims" or "lower lawsuit filings"? See my February 7, 2003 post.
Whether it's homeowners insurance, medical malpractice insurance, car insurance or whatever, the fact is insurers try stick it to the people who pay the premiums, to those who get hurt, and those who help them, like me, in order to make more money. This is exactly why these companies constantly call on lawmakers to limit recoverable damages, fees, etc. Whatever happened to the "FREE MARKET"? And, if we must legislate in this area, then I propose lawmakers pass accross the board INSURANCE RATE CUTS?
If lawmakers really want to help accident victims, then they should pass a law prohibiting subrogation in all personal injury actions. This is where your health insurer, car insurer, disability insurer or worker's compensation insurer takes money from your personal injury settlement. This results often in the insurer taking 30%-50% of a personal injury settlement from the injured party. In other words, you pay your premium for health insurance, car insurance or whatever, and that same insurer gets to be paid again, but this time from the injurying party's insurance company taking a portion of the injured person's settlement proceeds.
18.7.03
NHTSA, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, recently released data regarding car accident deaths in 2002. The information shows a very serious safety problem that needs attention. Deaths on our highways have reached the highest level in a dozen years and tragically, rollover car accidents and crashes caused 82% of this increase. Car manufactures must protect car drivers and passengers from death and serious injuries in rollover accidents by making cars crashworthy.
A recent press release from Public Citizen discusses this, NHTSA’s 2002 Highway Fatality Statistics Confirm Pressing Need for Safety Improvements Contained in Senate Legislation.
A recent press release from Public Citizen discusses this, NHTSA’s 2002 Highway Fatality Statistics Confirm Pressing Need for Safety Improvements Contained in Senate Legislation.
16.7.03
Wisconsin personal injury lawyers and other personal injury attorneys were recently encouraged by the following news Yahoo News: Senate Kills Malpractice Limit Proposal.
Two Republicans along with the Democrats were instrumental in this - encouraging news for an Independent, like me. The two courageous and wise Republican Senators were Senator Richard C. Shelby of Alabama and Senator Lindsey O. Graham of South Carolina.
For those who need proof that these Senators did the right thing, look no further than the American Academy of Family Physicians recent publication Seven Reasons Family Doctors Get Sued and How to Reduce Your Risk. The physicians' publication has table entitled "MYTHS ABOUT MALPRACTICE," which states in part:
"This is a new problem.
The first malpractice case recorded in the United States was Cross v Guthery, a 1794 Connecticut case in which a man sued his doctor over his wife's death following surgery. Since only appeals court decisions are usually recorded, the first malpractice case may well have occurred before the founding of the country. Historical accounts from the Civil War era document instances of surgeons refusing to do certain procedures because of concerns about being sued."
"It's about money.
Many doctors believe that patients sue primarily because of money, but for the vast majority of patients, money is not the primary motivation. Instead, patients often sue because they want to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future, want an honest and clear explanation as to how and why the injury occurred and want the staff or organization to be accountable for their actions."
"The number of lawyers is the root of the problem.
The number of lawyers in an area does not predict the number of medical malpractice lawsuits. It is the number of doctors that predicts the number of suits."
"Lawyers decide the standard of care.
In every jurisdiction, a lawyer is able to file a medical malpractice suit only with a statement from an expert that negligence occurred. That expert has to be a physician."
"Frivolous suits are the root of the problem.
A General Accounting Office report showed that less than 10 percent of the time does the plaintiff have an injury that would be regarded as "insignificant."3 In the majority of cases, plaintiffs have serious problems that no one would want for themselves or their loved ones. Whether the bad outcome was the result of doctors' negligence may be debatable, but medical malpractice suits for frivolous reasons are uncommon."
"There is nothing one doctor can do.
Perhaps the most powerful predictor of the likelihood of being sued is how well the doctor relates to patients. The more honest and empathetic a doctor is, the lower the likelihood of suit."
"Judges and juries favor plaintiffs.
In fact, judges and juries generally favor doctors. In 2000, defendants won 62 percent of all medical malpractice cases brought before a jury."
"All tort reform is good.
Some kinds of tort reform have proven effective, such as California's 1975 Medical Injury Compensation Reform Act (MICRA); others have not and, in fact, may make things worse."
Two Republicans along with the Democrats were instrumental in this - encouraging news for an Independent, like me. The two courageous and wise Republican Senators were Senator Richard C. Shelby of Alabama and Senator Lindsey O. Graham of South Carolina.
For those who need proof that these Senators did the right thing, look no further than the American Academy of Family Physicians recent publication Seven Reasons Family Doctors Get Sued and How to Reduce Your Risk. The physicians' publication has table entitled "MYTHS ABOUT MALPRACTICE," which states in part:
"This is a new problem.
The first malpractice case recorded in the United States was Cross v Guthery, a 1794 Connecticut case in which a man sued his doctor over his wife's death following surgery. Since only appeals court decisions are usually recorded, the first malpractice case may well have occurred before the founding of the country. Historical accounts from the Civil War era document instances of surgeons refusing to do certain procedures because of concerns about being sued."
"It's about money.
Many doctors believe that patients sue primarily because of money, but for the vast majority of patients, money is not the primary motivation. Instead, patients often sue because they want to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future, want an honest and clear explanation as to how and why the injury occurred and want the staff or organization to be accountable for their actions."
"The number of lawyers is the root of the problem.
The number of lawyers in an area does not predict the number of medical malpractice lawsuits. It is the number of doctors that predicts the number of suits."
"Lawyers decide the standard of care.
In every jurisdiction, a lawyer is able to file a medical malpractice suit only with a statement from an expert that negligence occurred. That expert has to be a physician."
"Frivolous suits are the root of the problem.
A General Accounting Office report showed that less than 10 percent of the time does the plaintiff have an injury that would be regarded as "insignificant."3 In the majority of cases, plaintiffs have serious problems that no one would want for themselves or their loved ones. Whether the bad outcome was the result of doctors' negligence may be debatable, but medical malpractice suits for frivolous reasons are uncommon."
"There is nothing one doctor can do.
Perhaps the most powerful predictor of the likelihood of being sued is how well the doctor relates to patients. The more honest and empathetic a doctor is, the lower the likelihood of suit."
"Judges and juries favor plaintiffs.
In fact, judges and juries generally favor doctors. In 2000, defendants won 62 percent of all medical malpractice cases brought before a jury."
"All tort reform is good.
Some kinds of tort reform have proven effective, such as California's 1975 Medical Injury Compensation Reform Act (MICRA); others have not and, in fact, may make things worse."
28.6.03
The New England Journal of Medicine has published a study, The Quality of Health Care Delivered to Adults in the United States, looking at the quality of health care delivered in the United States. The RAND study revealed that only about 50% of the time did patients receive the level of properly recommended care. Further, the negligent level of care was found to pose serious threats to the health of the American public.
24.6.03
The lies about frivolous lawsuits are detailed in Washington Post's A Little Snag in Those Frivolous Suits: U.S. News's Examples Were 'Myths'. Bravo to Howard Kurtz, a Washington Post Staff Writer.
13.6.03
More CPSC Recalls:
Trisonic/Eastern America Trio Products, of Flushing, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 12,000 Nightlights. The nightlight poses a serious electrocution, electric shock, burn and fire hazard to consumers.
Weather Works Inc., of Miami, Fla., is voluntarily recalling about 2,400 Electric Heaters. The electric heater can overheat internal plastic components and damage the wiring, posing a fire and electrocution hazard to consumers.
Trivett Industries, Inc. of Deland, Fla., is voluntarily recalling about 590 Pancake Express Pancake Makers. The handles on the pancake makers are unable to withstand the heat of the device, causing the handle to fail to provide support because of melting or breaking.
Creative Kids Inc. of Monsey, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 1,400 Children's Art Supply Sets. The sets contain mini-cutters with razor blades which pose a laceration hazard to young children.
Babi Italia, a division of LaJobi Industries Inc., of Edison, N.J., is voluntarily recalling to replace crib drop-side rails for about 2,000 "Tiffany" and "Josephine" model cribs. The slats on the drop-side rails can come loose or detach. A child's head can get caught in the space left by loose or missing slats, presenting an entrapment hazard. In addition, children can fall through the slat opening.
Trisonic/Eastern America Trio Products, of Flushing, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 12,000 Nightlights. The nightlight poses a serious electrocution, electric shock, burn and fire hazard to consumers.
Weather Works Inc., of Miami, Fla., is voluntarily recalling about 2,400 Electric Heaters. The electric heater can overheat internal plastic components and damage the wiring, posing a fire and electrocution hazard to consumers.
Trivett Industries, Inc. of Deland, Fla., is voluntarily recalling about 590 Pancake Express Pancake Makers. The handles on the pancake makers are unable to withstand the heat of the device, causing the handle to fail to provide support because of melting or breaking.
Creative Kids Inc. of Monsey, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 1,400 Children's Art Supply Sets. The sets contain mini-cutters with razor blades which pose a laceration hazard to young children.
Babi Italia, a division of LaJobi Industries Inc., of Edison, N.J., is voluntarily recalling to replace crib drop-side rails for about 2,000 "Tiffany" and "Josephine" model cribs. The slats on the drop-side rails can come loose or detach. A child's head can get caught in the space left by loose or missing slats, presenting an entrapment hazard. In addition, children can fall through the slat opening.
24.5.03
Wisconsin Memorial Day Weekend Roadtrips
Wisconsin lawyers and Wisconsin families often take summertime vacations and the tires on our cars are absolutely critical to a safe trip especially in warm weather because long trips, heavy loads, higher speeds and higher temperatures all put additional stress on tires. Here is what you should do:
- Check your tires regularly to be sure there are no visible signs of wear, damage, bulges, or tread separation.
- Be sure your tires are properly inflated. Check your tire pressure often--with an accurate gauge - for routine driving and before and during any long trips. Measure the tire when the tires are cold, before you drive on them. The recommended inflation pressure can be found in your owner's manual or on a label frequently found in the glove box, near the door latch on the driver's side, or other locations on your vehicle. The recommended inflation pressure is not to be confused with the maximum inflation pressure that is shown on the side of the tire. At the recommended inflation pressure, tires will last longer and be less likely to fail, and the car will use less fuel. Serious injury can result from tire failure because of under inflation or overloading.
- Never overload your vehicle. Your car and tires are designed to operate safely only up to their load limits. These limits are shown in your owner's manual and on the certification plate on the edge of the driver's door.
- Make sure there is enough tread on the tire to operate safely and the tires are wearing normally. All grooves should be visible and deep enough to at least touch the top of Lincoln's head on a penny inserted head first in the tread. Low tread or bald tires are unsafe and need to be replaced.
- If some spots on the tire seem to be wearing faster than others, see your tire dealer, service station or mechanic. You could have misaligned wheels, worn shock absorbers, or other potential problems. Make sure your tires are aligned and balanced properly.
- Don't drive at a high rate of speed for a long time, particularly in hot weather. Obey posted speed limits. Lower speeds also mean better gas mileage.
- Make sure that every person in every vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child safety seat on every trip - before you turn the key in the ignition.
Wisconsin lawyers and Wisconsin families often take summertime vacations and the tires on our cars are absolutely critical to a safe trip especially in warm weather because long trips, heavy loads, higher speeds and higher temperatures all put additional stress on tires. Here is what you should do:
- Check your tires regularly to be sure there are no visible signs of wear, damage, bulges, or tread separation.
- Be sure your tires are properly inflated. Check your tire pressure often--with an accurate gauge - for routine driving and before and during any long trips. Measure the tire when the tires are cold, before you drive on them. The recommended inflation pressure can be found in your owner's manual or on a label frequently found in the glove box, near the door latch on the driver's side, or other locations on your vehicle. The recommended inflation pressure is not to be confused with the maximum inflation pressure that is shown on the side of the tire. At the recommended inflation pressure, tires will last longer and be less likely to fail, and the car will use less fuel. Serious injury can result from tire failure because of under inflation or overloading.
- Never overload your vehicle. Your car and tires are designed to operate safely only up to their load limits. These limits are shown in your owner's manual and on the certification plate on the edge of the driver's door.
- Make sure there is enough tread on the tire to operate safely and the tires are wearing normally. All grooves should be visible and deep enough to at least touch the top of Lincoln's head on a penny inserted head first in the tread. Low tread or bald tires are unsafe and need to be replaced.
- If some spots on the tire seem to be wearing faster than others, see your tire dealer, service station or mechanic. You could have misaligned wheels, worn shock absorbers, or other potential problems. Make sure your tires are aligned and balanced properly.
- Don't drive at a high rate of speed for a long time, particularly in hot weather. Obey posted speed limits. Lower speeds also mean better gas mileage.
- Make sure that every person in every vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child safety seat on every trip - before you turn the key in the ignition.
19.5.03
Recent recalls:
Swimways Corp. Announce Recall of Pool Dive Sticks
Swimways Corp., of Virginia Beach, Va., is voluntarily recalling about 25,000 packages of dive sticks (each package contains four dive sticks), which fail to meet the commission’s safety requirements. Children can fall or land on these dive sticks in shallow water and may suffer impalement injuries.
Weil-McLain Announce Recall of Ultra 155 & 230 Gas Boilers
Weil-McLain Company of Michigan City, Ind. is voluntarily recalling about 1,700 Gas Boilers. The gas valve mounting screws on the recalled boilers may have not been fully tightened during the assembly process and may have come loose in transportation. Weil-McLain is concerned that loose gas fittings could result in leaking gas, fire and/or explosions that could cause bodily injuries or property damage.
Homelite Announce Recall of Chainsaws
Homelite Consumer Products, Inc., of Anderson, S.C. is voluntarily recalling about 6,900 chainsaws. These saws can operate while the engine is at the "idle" setting, posing a risk of serious lacerations to the operator and bystanders.
Wal-Mart Announce Recall of Fabric Lanterns
Wal-Mart Stores Inc., of Bentonville, Ark. is voluntarily recalling about 64,000 fabric lanterns. The fabric is not flame retardant and can be ignited by the lantern's votive candle, posing a fire hazard.
Amen Wardy Home Announce Recall of Multi-purpose Lighters Shaped Like Matchsticks
Amen Wardy Home, of Las Vegas, Nev., is voluntarily recalling about 2,400 multi-purpose lighters shaped like matchsticks. The lighters lack child-resistant mechanisms that meet federal safety standards. Young children could operate these lighters, which poses a fire hazard.
Baby's Dream Furniture Inc. Announce Recall to Repair Cribs
Baby's Dream Furniture Inc., of Buena Vista, Ga., is voluntarily recalling about 4,600 wooden convertible cribs manufactured from January to August 2001 to repair hinges on the drop gate. The three hinges along the fold-down drop gate can crack or break and allow babies to have their fingers pinched. Baby's Dream has received 38 reports of broken or cracked hinges, but there have been no injuries reported.
DCD Incorporated Announce Recall of Exercisers
DCD Incorporated of Malibu, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 9,500 Ab Swing exercise units. The Ab Swing is a manual exercise unit, primarily intended for abdominal exercise. It is gray steel, with red seat and handlebars with black grips. The Ab Swing weighs approximately 18 pounds, and sits about 2 feet off the ground. The word "abswing" is printed on the front of the seat and the phrase "Made in Malaysia" is printed on a tag on the back of the seat. Units that contain the phrase "Made in China" are not included in this recall. Home Shopping Network (HSN) sold the exercise units in September 2002 for about $89.
Swimways Corp. Announce Recall of Pool Dive Sticks
Swimways Corp., of Virginia Beach, Va., is voluntarily recalling about 25,000 packages of dive sticks (each package contains four dive sticks), which fail to meet the commission’s safety requirements. Children can fall or land on these dive sticks in shallow water and may suffer impalement injuries.
Weil-McLain Announce Recall of Ultra 155 & 230 Gas Boilers
Weil-McLain Company of Michigan City, Ind. is voluntarily recalling about 1,700 Gas Boilers. The gas valve mounting screws on the recalled boilers may have not been fully tightened during the assembly process and may have come loose in transportation. Weil-McLain is concerned that loose gas fittings could result in leaking gas, fire and/or explosions that could cause bodily injuries or property damage.
Homelite Announce Recall of Chainsaws
Homelite Consumer Products, Inc., of Anderson, S.C. is voluntarily recalling about 6,900 chainsaws. These saws can operate while the engine is at the "idle" setting, posing a risk of serious lacerations to the operator and bystanders.
Wal-Mart Announce Recall of Fabric Lanterns
Wal-Mart Stores Inc., of Bentonville, Ark. is voluntarily recalling about 64,000 fabric lanterns. The fabric is not flame retardant and can be ignited by the lantern's votive candle, posing a fire hazard.
Amen Wardy Home Announce Recall of Multi-purpose Lighters Shaped Like Matchsticks
Amen Wardy Home, of Las Vegas, Nev., is voluntarily recalling about 2,400 multi-purpose lighters shaped like matchsticks. The lighters lack child-resistant mechanisms that meet federal safety standards. Young children could operate these lighters, which poses a fire hazard.
Baby's Dream Furniture Inc. Announce Recall to Repair Cribs
Baby's Dream Furniture Inc., of Buena Vista, Ga., is voluntarily recalling about 4,600 wooden convertible cribs manufactured from January to August 2001 to repair hinges on the drop gate. The three hinges along the fold-down drop gate can crack or break and allow babies to have their fingers pinched. Baby's Dream has received 38 reports of broken or cracked hinges, but there have been no injuries reported.
DCD Incorporated Announce Recall of Exercisers
DCD Incorporated of Malibu, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 9,500 Ab Swing exercise units. The Ab Swing is a manual exercise unit, primarily intended for abdominal exercise. It is gray steel, with red seat and handlebars with black grips. The Ab Swing weighs approximately 18 pounds, and sits about 2 feet off the ground. The word "abswing" is printed on the front of the seat and the phrase "Made in Malaysia" is printed on a tag on the back of the seat. Units that contain the phrase "Made in China" are not included in this recall. Home Shopping Network (HSN) sold the exercise units in September 2002 for about $89.
13.5.03
Oreo lawsuit
Lawyers wonder why we are the fodder for talk radio hosts? Well wonder no longer, now there is an Oreo lawsuit claiming that Orea cookies are fatening. Now before you "too many lawsuits" people go nuts, remember Civics where you learned that anyone can file a lawsuit for any reason just like anyone can vote and it is up to the courts to sort things out, which they typically do well. Also of note, the so-called McDonald's lawsuit regarding burgers and fries causing obesity was thrown out this year.
Lawyers wonder why we are the fodder for talk radio hosts? Well wonder no longer, now there is an Oreo lawsuit claiming that Orea cookies are fatening. Now before you "too many lawsuits" people go nuts, remember Civics where you learned that anyone can file a lawsuit for any reason just like anyone can vote and it is up to the courts to sort things out, which they typically do well. Also of note, the so-called McDonald's lawsuit regarding burgers and fries causing obesity was thrown out this year.
5.5.03
Wisconsin Products Liability
Wisconsin personal injury lawyers often tragically discover that Wisconsin families are unaware of the hazardous nature of products in their homes. The following is a list of such products that Wisconsin residents should remove or fix immediately:
Old Power Tools that present an electrocution hazard. In a recent year, there were approximately 15 electrocution deaths associated with old power tools. Old electric power tools (made before the 1980s) may not have modern safety features to prevent electrocution. For example, old power tools were made with metal housings, while newer tools are made with plastic housings to provide double-insulation against electric shock. Old power tools also may not have proper grounding or may have frayed wires or other hazards. Discard old power tools. Do not give them to thrift stores or sell them at a yard sale.
Old Extension Cords that present a fire or shock hazard. Old extension cords, power strips and surge protectors may have undersized wires, loose connections, faulty components or improper grounding. Old extension cords may fail to meet current safety standards and can be overloaded easily. In a recent year, electrical cords and plugs were involved in about 5,200 fires resulting in 40 deaths. Look for cords with the label from an independent testing lab such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL. Use cords that have polarized plugs or grounded three-pronged plugs to reduce the risk of shock. Don't overload cords with too many appliances.
Window blind cords with loops loops that can strangle children. Window blinds may have pull cords that end in a loop or inner cords that can form a loop if pulled by children. Both can cause strangulation. CPSC knows of about 160 strangulation deaths to children in looped window covering cords since 1991. In 1994, CPSC worked with industry to provide a repair for old window blinds to eliminate the loops on the end of pull cords and to eliminate that looped cord on new blinds. In 2000, CPSC worked with industry to repair old blinds so that the inner cord can't form a loop if pulled by a young child. The industry also redesigned new blinds to address this hazard. Old window blinds with looped pull cords and inner cords that can be pulled to form a loop must be repaired. There are about 85 million units sold each year. The Window Covering Safety Council offers free repair kits that include small plastic attachments to prevent the inner cords from being pulled loose, and safety tassels for pre-1995 window blinds with outer pull cords ending in loops. Consumers should cut the loops and install a safety tassel at the end of each pull cord. Consumers who have vertical blinds, draperies or pleated shades with continuous loop cords should request special tie-downs to prevent strangulation in those window coverings. Call the Council at (800) 506-4636 or go to their web site: www.windowcoverings.org
Halogen torchiere floor lamps that can cause fires when combustibles such as drapes come too close to the bulb. These lamps need a wire or glass guard and a bulb that is 300 watts or less to help reduce the fire risk. More than 40 million halogen floor lamps made before 1997 by numerous firms were recalled because they have no guard to protect against fire. CPSC knows of 290 fires and 25 deaths since 1992 related to halogen torchiere floor lamps. People can get the free wire guards by sending a postcard to Catalina Lighting Consumer Services, 18191 NW 68th Avenue, Miami, FL 33015.
Old cribs made before CPSC and industry safety standards can entrap, strangle, or suffocate children. Old cribs with more than 2-3/8 inches between crib slats; corner posts; or cut-outs on the headboard or footboard present suffocation and strangulation hazards. Cribs with missing or broken parts or cornerposts higher than 1/16 inch also present a risk of death. CPSC estimates there are about 30 deaths per year in cribs, many of which are older, used models. Destroy old cribs and those with missing or broken parts or cornerposts higher than 1/16 inch. Use only those cribs that meet current safety standards.
Cadet Heaters that could cause a fire. CPSC is aware of more than 320 reports of Cadet and Encore heaters (models FW, FX, LX, TK, Z, ZA, RA, RK, RLX, RX, RW, and ZC) that smoked, sparked, caught fire, emitted flames, or ejected burning particles or molten materials. These incidents have allegedly resulted in four deaths, two serious burn injuries and property damage claims exceeding $4.3 million. Due to Cadet's bankruptcy, the opportunity to obtain discounted heaters expired on February 17, 2002. CPSC strongly urges consumers to stop using these 1.9 million recalled Cadet and Encore heaters and replace them. In addition, some RM and ZM model heaters sold separately or provided as replacements for some of the previously recalled heaters can overheat and cause a fire. Cadet will arrange for a free service call for affected RM and ZM heaters. The Cadet recall hotline is 800-567-2613 and the Web site is Cadetco Cadet Heaters Recall
Hairdryers without immersion protection devices to prevent electrocution. Since the early 1990s, hairdryers have had built-in shock protection devices to prevent electrocution if they fall into water. However, electrocutions from old hairdryers are still occasionally reported. Replace the old hairdryer with a new one with a large rectangular plug and the mark of a recognized testing laboratory.
Disposable and novelty lighters that are not child-resistant. CPSC set a standard (effective in 1994) requiring disposable and novelty lighters to be child-resistant. Since the standard took effect, there has been a 58 percent reduction in fires caused by children under age 5, representing the prevention of hundreds of deaths and injuries and thousands of fires. However, in a recent year there were still 2,400 fires resulting in 70 deaths and 480 injuries because of children under age 5 playing with lighters. Keep all cigarette lighters away from children and make sure all of your lighters are child-resistant.
Drawstrings around the neck on children's jackets and sweatshirts can catch and strangle children. In 1995, CPSC worked with industry to eliminate hood and neck drawstrings on kids' jackets and sweatshirts. CPSC knows of 23 deaths and 56 non-fatal incidents from January 1985 through November 2000. Pull out or cut all neck drawstrings on children's jackets and sweatshirts. Do not sell them at garage sales or give them to thrift stores. In 1998, CPSC found that many thrift stores were selling recalled, hazardous products, including children's jackets with drawstrings.
Wisconsin personal injury lawyers often tragically discover that Wisconsin families are unaware of the hazardous nature of products in their homes. The following is a list of such products that Wisconsin residents should remove or fix immediately:
Old Power Tools that present an electrocution hazard. In a recent year, there were approximately 15 electrocution deaths associated with old power tools. Old electric power tools (made before the 1980s) may not have modern safety features to prevent electrocution. For example, old power tools were made with metal housings, while newer tools are made with plastic housings to provide double-insulation against electric shock. Old power tools also may not have proper grounding or may have frayed wires or other hazards. Discard old power tools. Do not give them to thrift stores or sell them at a yard sale.
Old Extension Cords that present a fire or shock hazard. Old extension cords, power strips and surge protectors may have undersized wires, loose connections, faulty components or improper grounding. Old extension cords may fail to meet current safety standards and can be overloaded easily. In a recent year, electrical cords and plugs were involved in about 5,200 fires resulting in 40 deaths. Look for cords with the label from an independent testing lab such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL. Use cords that have polarized plugs or grounded three-pronged plugs to reduce the risk of shock. Don't overload cords with too many appliances.
Window blind cords with loops loops that can strangle children. Window blinds may have pull cords that end in a loop or inner cords that can form a loop if pulled by children. Both can cause strangulation. CPSC knows of about 160 strangulation deaths to children in looped window covering cords since 1991. In 1994, CPSC worked with industry to provide a repair for old window blinds to eliminate the loops on the end of pull cords and to eliminate that looped cord on new blinds. In 2000, CPSC worked with industry to repair old blinds so that the inner cord can't form a loop if pulled by a young child. The industry also redesigned new blinds to address this hazard. Old window blinds with looped pull cords and inner cords that can be pulled to form a loop must be repaired. There are about 85 million units sold each year. The Window Covering Safety Council offers free repair kits that include small plastic attachments to prevent the inner cords from being pulled loose, and safety tassels for pre-1995 window blinds with outer pull cords ending in loops. Consumers should cut the loops and install a safety tassel at the end of each pull cord. Consumers who have vertical blinds, draperies or pleated shades with continuous loop cords should request special tie-downs to prevent strangulation in those window coverings. Call the Council at (800) 506-4636 or go to their web site: www.windowcoverings.org
Halogen torchiere floor lamps that can cause fires when combustibles such as drapes come too close to the bulb. These lamps need a wire or glass guard and a bulb that is 300 watts or less to help reduce the fire risk. More than 40 million halogen floor lamps made before 1997 by numerous firms were recalled because they have no guard to protect against fire. CPSC knows of 290 fires and 25 deaths since 1992 related to halogen torchiere floor lamps. People can get the free wire guards by sending a postcard to Catalina Lighting Consumer Services, 18191 NW 68th Avenue, Miami, FL 33015.
Old cribs made before CPSC and industry safety standards can entrap, strangle, or suffocate children. Old cribs with more than 2-3/8 inches between crib slats; corner posts; or cut-outs on the headboard or footboard present suffocation and strangulation hazards. Cribs with missing or broken parts or cornerposts higher than 1/16 inch also present a risk of death. CPSC estimates there are about 30 deaths per year in cribs, many of which are older, used models. Destroy old cribs and those with missing or broken parts or cornerposts higher than 1/16 inch. Use only those cribs that meet current safety standards.
Cadet Heaters that could cause a fire. CPSC is aware of more than 320 reports of Cadet and Encore heaters (models FW, FX, LX, TK, Z, ZA, RA, RK, RLX, RX, RW, and ZC) that smoked, sparked, caught fire, emitted flames, or ejected burning particles or molten materials. These incidents have allegedly resulted in four deaths, two serious burn injuries and property damage claims exceeding $4.3 million. Due to Cadet's bankruptcy, the opportunity to obtain discounted heaters expired on February 17, 2002. CPSC strongly urges consumers to stop using these 1.9 million recalled Cadet and Encore heaters and replace them. In addition, some RM and ZM model heaters sold separately or provided as replacements for some of the previously recalled heaters can overheat and cause a fire. Cadet will arrange for a free service call for affected RM and ZM heaters. The Cadet recall hotline is 800-567-2613 and the Web site is Cadetco Cadet Heaters Recall
Hairdryers without immersion protection devices to prevent electrocution. Since the early 1990s, hairdryers have had built-in shock protection devices to prevent electrocution if they fall into water. However, electrocutions from old hairdryers are still occasionally reported. Replace the old hairdryer with a new one with a large rectangular plug and the mark of a recognized testing laboratory.
Disposable and novelty lighters that are not child-resistant. CPSC set a standard (effective in 1994) requiring disposable and novelty lighters to be child-resistant. Since the standard took effect, there has been a 58 percent reduction in fires caused by children under age 5, representing the prevention of hundreds of deaths and injuries and thousands of fires. However, in a recent year there were still 2,400 fires resulting in 70 deaths and 480 injuries because of children under age 5 playing with lighters. Keep all cigarette lighters away from children and make sure all of your lighters are child-resistant.
Drawstrings around the neck on children's jackets and sweatshirts can catch and strangle children. In 1995, CPSC worked with industry to eliminate hood and neck drawstrings on kids' jackets and sweatshirts. CPSC knows of 23 deaths and 56 non-fatal incidents from January 1985 through November 2000. Pull out or cut all neck drawstrings on children's jackets and sweatshirts. Do not sell them at garage sales or give them to thrift stores. In 1998, CPSC found that many thrift stores were selling recalled, hazardous products, including children's jackets with drawstrings.
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