Is Sliding on Black Ice and Causing a Traffic Accident Considered Negligent and Grounds for a Lawsuit?

Posted on December 16, 2014 by admin

Car Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

Motor vehicle accidents can occur for countless reasons. Most traffic accidents are caused by drivers’ carelessness or defective road signals, while most others are the consequence of accidental circumstances. This time of year, many car collisions are a result of hazardous weather conditions, like rain, fog, lightening, snow, and ice. Wearing your seat belt and driving at a safe speed are two significant ways to prevent injury and accidents from happening; however, there are some motor vehicle accidents that cannot be avoided. Sometimes, these poor weather conditions cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, spin into other lanes, collide into embankments, hit curbs, and much more.

Black ice is a common culprit behind losing control of a vehicle in bad weather. It is a frequent hazard that causes accidents just like the ones mentioned above. But to what degree are you guilty if you slide on black ice, lose control of your vehicle, and collide into another driver? Is it pure accident or should you be held liable for the other drivers’ damages? Continue reading to learn more about liability in a traffic collision caused by black ice, or other severe weather conditions.

Motor Vehicle Accidents and Liability

If you were to slide on black ice while operating a motor vehicle, and subsequently collide into another vehicle, causing that driver and their passenger’s injury or damage, would you be liable? The short answer is maybe; but there is a much longer explanation. The most important factor to consider when determining who responsible in a car accident is whether or not a driver acted carelessly, or if they acted reasonably, even in dangerous weather conditions. Did a driver act in accordance to the standard of care expected by a reasonable person? Or were they driving recklessly?

For example, if a reasonable person was driving in poor weather conditions, like snow or ice, they would “reasonably” drive at a safe and cautious speed, rather than driving at the suggested legal speed limit because their visibility and control is limited. On the other hand, a reckless driver would continue to drive normally, in poor weather, at the suggested speed limit. If it were a sunny and dry day, then driving at the recommended speeds is, of course, reasonable; however, in dangerous weather conditions, a reasonable driver would slow down and drive more cautiously. This is a huge factor in determining liability in a motor vehicle accident lawsuit, whether natural elements were supposedly the cause or not.

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Another aspect to consider is the condition of the vehicle. If the owner of the car or truck did not reasonably care for their vehicle in order for it to drive safely and function properly, then they may be at-fault for a car accident that occurs in poor weather. For example, if a person has very old, bald, and worn out tires on their vehicle, and they lost control on ice or a wet spot, then poor weather is not the sole reason why an accident happened.

Had the driver reasonably serviced their tires, they may not have slid on the ice or slick spot to begin with because they would have had better traction and stability control. Other reasonable maintenance for a car would include functional windshield wiper blades, good brake pads and rotors, functional brake lights and head lights, and much more. These, and more, are additional concerns that an insurance adjuster might look at when determining liability in a car accident case. These types of lawsuits are often tricky and complex. There are several factors and variables that determine who is at-fault in a car accident.

If you are ever an innocent victim in a traffic accident that was caused by another person’s reckless driving, contact an Indianapolis car accident attorney right away. You may be entitled to compensation for your damages, such as lost wages, medical expenses, hospital bills, vehicular damages, pain, suffering, mental anguish, prolonged rehabilitation, and much more.

Craven Blazek Law

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven Blazek Law at 317-881-2700 to speak with a car accident lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorney, Daniel Craven, is a licensed personal injury lawyer with several years of litigation and trial experience. He is happy to answer your questions about filing a car accident lawsuit, and assess your eligibility for recompense. Our law firm offers free initial consultations and never collects lawyer fees unless we win your settlement! Call 317-881-2700 for more information about recovering compensation following a motor vehicle
accident in Indianapolis, IN.

Personal Injury Guide and References

Posted on December 12, 2014 by admin

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

A personal injury can happen to anyone, children and adults alike. When someone is injured in an accident that was caused by another entity’s negligence (a person, company, organization, product, etc.), they are considered victims of tort. Tort is a civil wrong that can serve as grounds for a lawsuit in order to recover compensation for related damages. There are three different kinds of tort; intentional torts, negligent torts, and strict liability.

Examples of intentional torts can include cases of assault, harassment, trespassing, or emotional distress. Negligent torts can include cases like fraternity hazing gone bad, wrongful death, and motor vehicle accidents. Cases of strict liability can include slip and fall accidents, defective products, and more. There are several other areas of tort as well, not included in the above categories; such as defamation, harassment, nuisance tort, and more.

An example of a common tort would be if a drunk driver hits you and causes you serious injury. In this case, they have committed a negligent tort, and you have grounds to pursue lawsuit to obtain recompense for vehicular damages, personal injuries, trauma, lost wages, and much more. Assault is another example of tort that can lead to a personal injury lawsuit. Some forms of tort, mostly intentional ones, are not only grounds for a personal injury lawsuit, they are also punishable by imprisonment. Other forms of personal injury include wrongful death. Property damage, however, does not fall under personal injury law.

Personal Injury Terms

We have covered what tort is, and what a personal injury is, but there are other related terms that might be helpful to know before pursuing your own personal injury lawsuit. There are nine principle participants in a general personal injury claim. The first is the victim, or person filing for the victim. This is called the claimant. The rest are listed and defined below. Continue reading for more helpful legal terms related to personal injury lawsuits.

Claimant – This is the person that files the claim with an insurance company, or the person that actually suffered the personal injury. In the case of a wrongful death, the claimant would usually be a relative or spouse.

Party – A participant in a lawsuit.

Plaintiff – Also called the “claimant”, or the person that files the lawsuit.

Defendant – This is the opposing party (either a company or individual), or the party being sued.

Lawyer – This is the licensed legal party (usually one person, or sometimes a small team) that represents the claimant in a personal injury lawsuit.

Adjuster – This is the individual appointed by an insurance company to settle a claim. Their purpose is to coordinate a settlement that doesn’t require the insurance company to pay out, or pay-out as little as possible.

First Party Insurance – This is the insurance company of the victim, or person filing the claim.

Third Party Insurance – This is the opposing party’s insurance, or the party being sued.

You can speak with a licensed Indianapolis accident attorney about your personal injury questions and concerns by simply scheduling a free initial consultation. They can listen to your story and assess whether or not you were an actual victim of tort. If they find that you or your loved one was wrongfully injured or killed as a result of another entity’s negligence, they will represent your claim. Many law firms do not collect upfront lawyer fees, and only do so if they recover full and fair compensation for their clients.

Craven Blazek Law

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven Blazek Law at 317-881-2700 to speak with a licensed Indianapolis personal injury attorney regarding a recent tort or accident. Seasoned lawyer, Daniel Craven, and the panel of personal injury attorneys alongside him, are eager and waiting to recover the full and fair compensation you rightfully deserve after being negligently injured in an accident. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we settle your claim. Call 317-881-2700 for more information about filing a personal injury lawsuit in Indianapolis, Indiana, today.

What To Do After Sustaining a Serious Head Injury

Posted on December 8, 2014 by admin

Head Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Traumatic head injuries can be extremely dangerous, and in serious cases, fatal. Serious head traumas can easily cause trauma to the brain, leading to an even more serious injury, brain damage. If you or a loved one was recently injured and suffering harm to the head or brain, it is vital to seek immediate medical attention, even if you think you are fine. Head injuries can turn fatal hours, and even days, later. At times, symptoms for head and brain trauma can start to appear long after an accident. This is why they are so dangerous and so confusing.

In the case that someone you loved, or yourself, suffered a head injury as a result of another’s negligence, carelessness, or intent, it is equally vital to seek out legal counsel to learn your rights. You may be eligible for compensation to cover your damages; like medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, prolonged rehabilitation, mental trauma, brain damage, wrongful death, and so much more. Continue reading to learn what your next steps should be after sustaining a serious head injury caused by a product, company, person, or other entity’s negligence.

Major Head Trauma or Injuries

Head injuries should NEVER be taken lightly. Even if a person is laughing and walking around after an accident in which they hit or fell on their head, it doesn’t mean they are okay. They may have a blood filling in their skull, spinal damages, or worse. This means fatalities or irrevocable damages, like brain damage and blindness, can occur later on, after being hurt. If you or someone you know has just hurt their heads, don’t wait another minute to call the ambulance or EMT’s. Calling for emergency medical assistance should be the very first thing you do after someone has sustained a head injury. As you are waiting for EMT’s to arrive, start to evaluate the damage. Look for dizziness, changes in emotional or physical behavior, loss of vision, confusion, or vomiting. All of these are signs of having a concussion or worse.

Head Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Also while receiving on-site medical care from an ambulance or EMT, it is important to call the police and file a police report regarding the events of the accident as well. If you or your loved one wishes to pursue compensation for damages suffered as a result of another’s negligence, it is critical for a police report to be on file so it can be used as evidence, if need be.

In most serious head or brain injury claims, insurance companies are good about settling out of court. A case is only brought to trial if compensation cannot be negotiated among both parties. Once you have a police report on file, the next step is to contact an Indianapolis brain injury lawyer for professional legal counsel. They retain the proper licenses, knowledge, resources, connections, and experience to represent your claim and recover the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Craven Blazek Law

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven Blazek Law at 317-881-2700 to speak with a licensed head injury lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorney, Daniel Craven, has decades of trial and litigation experience, and can represent you and your family in your time of need. Our law firm offers free initial consultations, so there is never any out of pocket fees just to have your case assessed by a professional personal injury lawyer. We also never collect attorney fees unless we settle your claim and recover compensation for your damages. Call 317-881-2700 for more information about
head injury lawsuits in Indianapolis, IN.

State Regulations for Truck Drivers Regarding Drugs and Alcohol

Posted on December 3, 2014 by admin

Truck Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

The trucking industry must follow several federal and state protocols and procedures, including licensing, equipment regulations, loading regulations, safety regulations, and much more. Not only do these rules and codes of practice have to be obeyed by all U.S. truckers, they must also be followed by any Canadian or Mexican trucking companies driving on U.S. soil. Truck accidents are all too common, which is why truck safety is so vital to the industry, and why these regulations exist.

One of the most common causes behind truck accidents is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Continue reading to learn what is expected of our country’s truck drivers, and which state regulations relate to drug and alcohol consumption.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

In the United States, anyone driving over the alcohol level of 0.08 is considered an intoxicated driver. In the trucking industry, this alcohol level is much less. The legal limit for an on-duty truck driver is 0.04 or less. Because truckers are performing, “safety-sensitive functions” while on the job, they must be free of drugs and alcohol. This is why truck drivers are tested for drugs and alcohol before they are hired, and further on during periods of their employment.

Truck Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

When a new truck driver is in the process of being hired, they are required to take a drug and alcohol test. If they refuse these tests, they cannot be eligible for employment. For those who move forward with the hiring process, they can expect a urinary or blood test, depending on the clinic used and the company’s policy. They must pass both tests by rendering negative results on both drugs and alcohol. Drugs like cocaine and marijuana can stay in a person’s blood and urinary systems for weeks at a time; so a person can take a drug test sober, but still fail if drug-use was in recent weeks. Because alcohol doesn’t stay in your system long, a person who fails an alcohol test is likely to be suspected of consuming alcoholic beverages on the same day of the test. And anyone applying for a driving position while
under the influence of alcohol is not an
appropriate candidate for a truck driver.

State regulations also mandate that when a truck driver is involved in an accident or collision while on-duty, he or she is tested for controlled substances and alcohol once again. If they refuse these tests at the scene of the crime, or sometime following the incident, they are not only subjected to termination, they might also face legal ramifications. Even when accidents are not happening and truckers are not being hired, random drug testing among employees is required in the trucking industry. Each year, trucking and freight companies are legally mandated to randomly test ten percent of their drivers for alcohol use, and 50 percent of their drivers for controlled substances.

If you or someone you loved was recently injured in a truck accident as a result of a negligent truck driver, contact a licensed Indianapolis truck accident lawyer right away. Don’t wait another minute to recover the full and fair compensation you and your family deserve after suffering damages in a truck-related accident.

Indianapolis Truck Accident Lawyers

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven Blazek Law at 317-881-2700 to speak with licensed and experienced Indianapolis truck accident lawyers about recovering compensation for your damages following a wreck. Seasoned personal injury attorney, Daniel Craven, retains years of litigation and trial experience. He can settle out of court, or take your case to trial if need be. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we win your settlement! Call 317-881-2700 for more information about filing a truck accident lawsuit in Indianapolis, IN today.

Road Trips and Tips for Safe Holiday Passages

Posted on November 25, 2014 by admin

Car Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

This Thanksgiving holiday, let us be thankful for our health, safety, friends, and family. Thanksgiving is a popular travel holiday, when families tend to come together from all parts of the country to celebrate love and be thankful for one another. One of the most common practices that take place on or around this holiday are lengthy road trips. If not by plane or boat, families usually choose to pack up the mini-van and drive the few hundred, or few thousand, miles it takes to reach their central family headquarters.

Along with holiday traffic flow comes risks, crowds, stop-and-go driving, frustration, fatigue, and more. This is why it is important to remember and understand safety guidelines for taking long road trips. Continue reading to learn how to safely navigate the road for extended periods of time, as well as, a few tricks to making the journey easier.

Road Trip Safety

Driving in general has its risks. You cannot control how other people drive, nor can you control road and weather conditions; however, when it comes to taking a long road trip, there are a few more safety measures and precautions to make for safe travel. Long trips that require extensive periods of driving can be more hazardous than standard car trips. This is because drivers tend to become desensitized to their surroundings and “zone-out” while driving on the road. This diminishes a driver’s alertness and hinders their ability to react or respond to other drivers around them, road signs, traffic signals, and more. Also, road trips can cause drivers to become fatigued, and many still refuse to stop for rest when this happens. This causes more accidents than you can imagine.

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Another reason why long road trips can be dangerous if not careful is that people have new technology that can distract them from the road. For example, many newer model vehicles, especially ones marketed toward families, now come with optional upgrades like flat screens, DVD players, head phones, and more. This allows passengers to stay entertained on a long trip, but these devices can also distract a driver if they aren’t careful.

Adjusting screen settings, loud music, tangled headphone wires, and more are reasons for parents to take their eyes off the road for one second to assist their child, even though that one second could result in an accident. Another form of driver-distraction to avoid includes fussing with the GPS, adjusting the navigation screen, text messaging, and even eating. These reasons are why long holiday road trips can be a bit more dangerous than regular day-to-day driving.

Tips for Safe Holiday Travels:

• Pre-Set All Screens and GPS

• Pull Over to an Exit to Adjust Settings, Text Message, Clean Up a Spill, Eat, Etc.

• Keep Your Eyes on the Road at All Times

• Never Pull Over on the Highway Shoulder Unless a Medical or Vehicle Emergency (Always Find the Nearest Exit and Pull Off There)

• Use Hands-Free Calling for Phone Calls

• Avoid Driving Long Distances Alone if You Can

• Always Try to Drive with At Least One Another Person

• Get a Full Night’s Rest Before Driving Long Distances

• Map Out Your Coordinates Before Starting the Car

If you or a loved one is injured in a traffic accident this Holiday season, or anytime ever, contact a licensed car accident lawyer to fight for your rights to compensation. The can assess your case and determine if you or your family has a valid claim. Injured victims of negligent motor vehicle accidents deserve to recover compensation for their damages. Damages include pain, suffering, lost wages, medical expenses, hospital bills, loss of companionship, prolonged rehabilitation, mental anguish, trauma, and much more.

Craven Blazek Law

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven Blazek Law at 317-881-2700 for accurate information about filing a car accident injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorney, Daniel Craven, has extensive trial and litigation experience in motor vehicle accident law. He is ready to discuss your recent injury and determine your eligibility for remuneration, today. We offer free initial consultations so there is no out-of-pocket cost to have your case assessed. And we never collect lawyer fees unless we recover full and fair compensation for you! Call 317-881-2700 and speak with a licensed and experienced
car accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN.

Defensive Driving Tips to Avoid Aggressive or Careless Drivers and Traffic Accidents

Posted on November 18, 2014 by admin

Car Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700

Motor vehicle accidents are terrible occurrences; whether they are a simple fender-bender, or a serious traffic collision. They disrupt our daily lives, cause emotionally stress, put a heavy load of financial obligations on our shoulders, re-arrange our planned agendas, and in worse-case-scenarios, cause serious physical and mental injuries, trauma, and fatalities.

The best way to avoid being a victim of a traffic accident or car wreck, is to learn how to drive defensively and safely at all times. You cannot control what others do, or the decisions they make behind the wheel of a car, but you can control your own behaviors and habits while on the road. Practicing defensive and alert driving can better prepare you for negligent and reckless drivers around you.

Continue reading to learn how to navigate safely on the road with other vehicles, and what to do in the case of a serious motor vehicle accident.

Driving Safety

Of course, the most important reminders for safe driving is always wear your seat-belt and obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws. Making sure you and your passengers are legally and securely strapped in their seat is the most important rule to driving. Without proper safety harnesses and belts, passengers and drivers can be ejected from their vehicles in a serious motor vehicle accident. This usually causes immediate fatalities. Wearing a seat-belt can prevent serious complications from whiplash, prevent injuries to the head, and much more.

Always wear your seat-belt no matter how good of a driver you claim to be. It is not always yourself that can cause an accident, it is others on the road. This is why defensive driving practice is so important. Of course you can trust your own decisions, but you cannot control how others drive around you. What you can control is how you react to reckless or careless drivers. Here are some safety tips and reminders for safer driving, and navigating around other seemingly negligent drivers on the road:

Concentrate and Focus

Always remain alert behind the wheel of your vehicle and constantly scan the road for reckless or aggressive drivers. Staying focused allows you to stay on track with road signs, signals, construction zones, and more. It will also allow you to see other drivers making reckless decisions before you approach their vicinity, and react ahead of time; which then allows you to better navigate around them and avoid a traffic accident. When you are in your car and driving, this shouldn’t just be your top priority, it should be your only priority. This means no multi-tasking behind the wheel.

Distracted driving is one of the top causes of fatal car crashes each year. Texting, phone calls, applying makeup, handing items to children in the back, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and more are all common reasons why drivers wreck their vehicles, and kill either themselves, their passengers, or other innocent bystanders and drivers. Stop this behavior if you are guilty! You do not have the right to put other innocent people in jeopardy because you believe you can multi-task behind the wheel of a car.

Never Tailgate

Road rage is quite common among people with anger control issues, or those who are consistently in a hurry to get from point A to point B, without regard for other drivers. And sometimes, people just like to drive fast and erratically. You cannot always predict what the driver in front of you is going to do, and you cannot always see what’s in front of the driver in front of you. For this reason, it is important to never tailgate or drive closely to someone’s tail-end. If they suddenly brake for a flock of geese crossing the road, you might not have enough time to react and stop; subsequently slamming into the person’s bumper. This can cause several injuries to the passengers and drivers in both vehicle, and result in costly insurance claims and automotive repairs.

Obey Speed Limits

This is a no-brainer. Speeding causes accidents that could have otherwise been avoided. Speed limits are set for a reason, and should always be obeyed no matter what. When a driver is speeding, they are putting themselves and others in a dangerous situation. High speeds reduces a driver’s ability to control the vehicle, and the slightest over-correction or move can send a speeding vehicle out of control. Speeding is almost always a variable in a motor vehicle accident or collision. It might not always be the cause of an accident, but it most certainly plays a part in many cases.

Be Well-Mannered

Being a courteous driver means you are not being an aggressive one. When another vehicle signals that they need into your lane, just let them in. Don’t be stingy about letting cars in front of you, or giving other vehicles a chance to pull out. And if another driver doesn’t let you in for some reason, let it go and move on. Failing to remain well-mannered on the road can cause other drivers to become aggressive and hostile.

Avoid Aggressive Drivers

Being cut off on the way home from a long day at work, or on your way to pick up an ill child from daycare, is quite frustrating, understandably. But these aggressive drivers should not be allowed to influence your mood for the rest of the day! When you see drivers navigating aggressively through traffic, or are noticeably in a hurry, keep your distance. Drivers like these are more likely to cause or be involved in an accident. Steering clear of dangerous drivers can reduce your chances of experiencing an auto accident.

If you or a loved one has been recently injured or killed as a result of a negligent driver or motor vehicle accident, contact an Indianapolis car accident attorney right away. Learn your rights after being injured in a motor vehicle accident, and have a professional assess your case to determine if you have a valid claim. You may be entitled to compensation for your damages.

Craven Blazek Law

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call 317-881-2700 to speak with a seasoned car accident attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. You can schedule a free initial consultation with licensed personal injury lawyer, Daniel Craven, to review your case and determine your eligibility for compensation. We never collect lawyer fees unless we win your case! Call Craven Blazek Law at 317-881-2700 for information about car accident injury claims in Indianapolis, IN today.

Who is At-Fault in a Slip and Fall Accident?

Posted on November 12, 2014 by admin

Slip and Fall Lawyers 317-881-2700

Slip, trip, and fall accidents happen every single day. Whether it’s a torn rug, puddle of water, or unforeseen obstacle that causes the fall, someone is liable for the injuries that follow. The at-fault party could be the victim themselves, or it can be another person, company, property owner, or manager. In the case that the at-fault party is something or someone other than the fallen victim, a legal claim can be placed against them for liability for damages caused by the accident. In order to determine who at-fault for a slip is and fall accident, certain questions must be asked, and the circumstance must be investigated.

Continue reading to learn some more about how to determine who is at-fault for a slip, trip, and fall accident.

Liability and Reasonable Action

Who is liable for a victims’ injuries if they slip and fall on another’s premises? In order for the property owner to be liable, it must be true that:

• The owner, manager, or employee caused the obstacle that resulted in a person’s fall.

• The owner, manager, or employee know about the obstacle and neglected to eliminate it.

• The owner, manager, or employee should have known about the obstacle because a reasonable person in charge of the property would have found the obstacle and removed it before anyone was hurt.

Other considerations regarding a property owner’s possible liability includes:

• Was the obstacle there long enough that the owner, manager, or employee should have known about it and fixed it?

• Does the property owner have a routine agenda or procedure for inspecting the property for safety hazards? Do they have evidence or proof of regular property maintenance and upkeep?

• Was the obstacle that caused the slip and fall intentionally placed there for a good reason?

• Was the obstacle that caused the slip and fall intentionally placed there for a good reason at first, but the reason no longer exists and could have been removed?

• Could the obstacle in question been placed in a different area, out of the way of foot traffic, without further inconveniencing the property owner?

• Could a warning sign or barricade have prevented the obstacle from causing the accident?

Considerations to assess a victim’s own liability includes:

• Did a person’s behavior contribute to their own accident? Were they running, jumping, rough-housing, or horse playing?

• Did the victim fail to acknowledge warning signs or requests?

• Could the victim have acted more carefully?

• Would a reasonable or careful person have noticed the hazard and navigated more cautiously around or through it?

• Did the victim have a legitimate reason for being in the hazardous area? Was the reason one that the property owner should have anticipated?

The term, “should have” is very blurry one to use. This is why slip and fall accident claims are frequently examined by a jury and judge, and at-fault parties are determined by using common sense. There are several more details, laws, methods, and information not listed in this blog that are important to know and understand before moving forward with a slip and fall injury lawsuit. It is strongly encouraged to consult an Indianapolis slip and fall attorney for professional and accurate information and counsel. They retain the proper resources, knowledge, and experience to assess your case and determine if you have a valid claim. If a personal injury lawyer does in fact believe you have a valid case, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages.

Craven Blazek Law

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven Blazek Law at 317-881-2700 for slip and fall accident claims and information in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed slip and fall lawyers and legal teams are eager and ready to represent you after sustaining injuries from a slip, trip, or fall. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we reach a fair settlement for you. Call 317-881-2700 to schedule an appointment with Daniel Craven, or another licensed personal injury attorney in Indianapolis, IN today.

Tips for Childproofing Dangerous Areas of a Home

Posted on November 5, 2014 by admin

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Whether you are new to parenting, or you are interested in taking on some babysitting jobs from within your own house, it is important to know which areas of a home to childproof. Common sense will tell anyone to put up baby gates and install electrical outlet covers for curious fingers; but what about the other danger-zones of a home? There are a few areas of a home that can be extremely dangerous to children and toddlers, and should be properly child-proofed for security and safety.

Continue reading to learn the most important areas of a home to childproof, and who to call if your child was recently injured as a result of a negligent care-giver or babysitter.

Living Room

In order to properly childproof a living room or family space, it is important to consider all the areas within that space that are potentially dangerous to toddlers and young children. For example, babies are often intrigued by anything that dangles. This includes pulleys for curtains and blinds. Several toddlers are injured or killed each year from strangulation of blind cords and curtain strings. To prevent this from happening, install a cord-shortener or wind-up tab for strings like these. Here are some more tips that many parents overlook:

• Bolt, Strap, or Secure Top-Heavy Furniture to the Ground or Wall (i.e. bookcases, television sets, etc.)
• Avoid Pressure-Mounted Baby Gates; Use Hardware-Mounted gates for Tops and Bottoms of Stairwells
• Install Rubber Pads on Sharp Corners of Tables, Furniture, and Counters
• Install Electrical Outlet Covers
• Keep Carpets and Floors Vacuumed and Swept at All Times

Kitchen

More than 10 million children each year are admitted to emergency rooms for kitchen related injuries and accidents. When it comes to childproofing kitchens, the same precautions and preventative maintenance apply, but in different areas. Like the living room and family areas, it is wise to bolt or secure top-heavy furniture and appliances so they do not tip over and fall on top of a small child. Baby gates are also a responsible solution for kitchen safety for babies. Use them to shut off access to certain parts of a kitchen, like stairs, railings, and china cabinets. Here are some additional danger-zones to childproof in a kitchen:

• Install Childproof Locks to Stove, Refrigerator, Dishwasher, and Other Kitchen Appliances
• Install Childproof Locks on Kitchen Cabinets
• Lock Up All Cleaning Solutions, Chemicals, and Detergents
• Keep Medicine, Batteries, and Other Hazardous Items in Upper Cabinets
• Install Stove Shields to Prevent Boiling Water Run-Off and Hot Food Splatter
• Install Rubber Corners on Countertops and Sharp Baseboards
• Keep Kitchen Floors Swept and Sanitized at All Times

Bathroom

Just like the living areas and kitchen, the bathroom should be childproofed as well. There are several dangerous items and areas that can cause fatalities and serious injuries to children. Of course electrical outlets should be covered and protected, but there is more to childproofing a bathroom than this. Be sure to dot your “i’s” and cross your “t’s” when it comes to these additional childproofing tips for bathrooms:

• Install GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) Outlets Near Sinks and Other Plumbing Fixtures
• Install a Childproof Lock or Latch on Toilet Seats
• Decrease your Home’s Hot Water Temperature Capacity to Below 120 Degrees to Prevent Scalds and Burn Accidents
• Lock Up All Cleaning Solutions, Chemicals, and Detergents
• Install Childproof Locks on Bathroom Cabinets
• Keep Floors Swept and Free of Debris
• Remove All Bathtub Accessories that Could Be Choking or Health Hazards (i.e. loofas, bath salts, razors, towels, etc.)

Backyard

Pool and patio safety should be your number one concern when it comes to childproofing a backyard. Too many drowning and falling accidents occur to young children as a result of poor childproofing. Here are the most important considerations for a childproof backyard:

• Install a Fence Around Pool Decks that Locks
• Install a Durable Pool Cover Along With Drain Covers to Prevent Entrapment
• Empty Kiddie Pools When Not in Use and Always Use Fresh Water for Each Use
• Install Netting in Between Patio Railings and Siding to Prevent Falls
• Know the Plants in Your Yard and Remove Anything Poisonous

If you child was recently injured as a result of poor childproofing in another’s care, contact an Indianapolis Child Injury Lawyer for information about filing a claim. You may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Exemplary damages include lost wages, medical expenses, hospital bills, wrongful death, pain, suffering, loss of love or companionship, mental anguish, prolonged rehabilitation, funeral expenses, and much more.

Craven Blazek Law

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven Blazek Law at 317-881-2700 to learn more about filing a child injury lawsuit in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorney, Daniel Craven, is a seasoned personal injury lawyer with decades of litigation and trial experience. He and our professional legal teams are eager to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve after your child was injured or taken in an accident. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we win your settlement. Call 317-881-2700 and schedule an appointment with an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer you can trust, today.

Product Recalls that Have Gone Down in History

Posted on October 28, 2014 by admin

Indianapolis Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

Product recalls happen when manufacturers introduce a new product or commodity to the market for resale, but the product is defective and dangerous in some way. Manufacturers these days are in high competition and always in a rush when it comes to getting their products out on the market to start making fast cash; the subsequent problem that arises from this situation is that some products are not properly tested before they are released to the public. When a person is injured as a result of a defective product, it falls under product liability law, and victims may be entitled to compensation for their damages.

Continue reading to learn about some dangerous and life-threatening product recalls that have occurred in the past few decades, and who to call if someone you know has been recently injured by a defective product.

Manufacturer Re-Calls

The worst part about manufacturer product recalls is that they usually go unnoticed until someone is injured or killed by them. Fatalities and injuries from defective products is the number one reason for recalls. Improper testing, inadequate research, and even tampering are causes of defective products. And tampering can is a criminal offense. Look below at some astonishing and dangerous product recalls that have taken place over the past several years in the United States.

2010- Toyota

The world’s largest auto maker was forced to recall twice in 2010. Faulty pedals and ill-fitting floor mats were to blame. More than 40 million vehicles were recalled in March, while 53 million more were recalled later in November.

2009 – Simplicity Drop Side Cribs

These Chinese-manufactured cribs came with a detachable side that could break easily. Once broken, it created an opening between the side and the mattress, leaving a space that could trap or suffocate children. Unfortunately, an 8 month old infant died in Texas caused by this product defect.

2008 – Ground Beef

The Department of Agriculture ordered the Hallmark-Westland Meat Company to recall more than 140 pounds of ground beef because it may have been contaminated with a bovine disease. The mean was thought to be contaminated with a disease call Downer Cattle. The company had to pay more than 60 million dollars in restitution and fines related to this recall. Fortunately, no fatalities or injuries were reported.

2007 – Mattel Toys

Lead contamination was the culprit behind this 2007 recall. More than 18 million toys, manufactured in China, were recalled.

2006 – Renu MoistureLoc Contact Lens Solution

Bausch & Lomb paid the piper when their contact lens solution was recalled for potentially being linked to a blinding eye infection called Fusarium Fungus. Their company losses were reported to be over 100 million dollars.

2004 – Vioxx

Meant to treat arthritis, this drug was recalled, worldwide, after a study linked it to strokes and heart attacks. The company paid nearly five billion dollars in restitution for over 25,000 lawsuits filed against them for consumer injuries and wrongful deaths.

2000 – Fire Stone Tires

Over six million tires were recalled after faulty manufacturing on Ford Explorer vehicles caused countless motor vehicle accidents resulting in 175 deaths and nearly 700 injuries. Their company losses were reported to be over 100 million dollars.

1994 – General Mills Cheerios

A grower uses the wrong pesticide to produce the grains made for Cheerios cereal. This contamination led to over 75 million dollars in company losses.

1993 – Pepsi

Although a few years later Coca-Cola will experience a product recall in Europe, Pepsi had to recall in 1993 due to alleged product tampering using needles! Pepsi lost over 35 million dollars.

1982 – Tylenol

Surprisingly, Tylenol was recalled in 1982 for alleged cyanide tampering. As a result of product extortion, this suspicion led to more than 30 million bottles to be recalled.

1978 – Ford Pinto

Everyone seems to remember this product recall very well. Back in 1978, the popular Ford Pinto was finally recalled for explosive reasons. Rear-end collisions caused the car to essentially blowup, because the fuel tank was positioned improperly inside the vehicle. Although there were several suspicions of this before it was released to the public, Ford chose to deal with any potential lawsuits rather than solving the problem. The result was countless fatalities and injuries among consumers. Criminal charges and lawsuits were brought before the company, who was eventually found not guilty, but Ford still recalled their vehicles and stopped making them in 1981.

Get a Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been recently injured as a result of a defective product, contact an Indianapolis product Liability lawyer immediately. You may be entitled to legal compensation for your damages. Be sure to act fast, before the statute of limitations runs out, and your chance for remuneration is gone.

Craven. Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven. Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for information about defective product injuries and product liability lawsuits in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorney, Daniel Craven, can get you the compensation you and your family deserves after being injured or killed by a defective product, medication, drug, foodstuff, and more. We offer free initial consultations, and we never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you! Call 317-881-2700 and speak with a seasoned and well-versed product liability lawyer in Indianapolis, IN today.

E-Cigarettes and Nicotine Poisoning

Posted on October 20, 2014 by admin

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

This year alone, Poison Control has received more than 2,500 reports of nicotine poisoning. The worst part is that more than 50% of those reports were children under the age of six! This is an evident increase in nicotine poisoning, largely related to the introduction of electronic cigarettes to the market. This means several people are switching to the liquid nicotine options, and bringing them into their homes with small children.

Liquid nicotine can be quickly absorbed through the skin, putting children and other innocent stand-byers at a higher risk of poisoning. Continue reading to learn more about the dangers of e-cigarette and nicotine poisoning, and who to call for questions about filing a product liability lawsuit in your state.

E-Cigarette Poisoning

The first problem with E-cigarettes is that the warning label is insufficient. It is heavily overshadowed by all the publicized benefits of liquid nicotine. Liquid nicotine manufacturers generally operate with little to no federal oversight. This is another reason that has led to the undeniable increase of unintentional nicotine poisoning in kids. Keep in mind that any product that is improperly labeled, or whose labels are misleading and deceptive, may be grounds for a lawsuit; especially if someone were injured or killed as a result of the product. This is a situation that calls for a licensed Indianapolis product liability attorney or personal injury lawyer. Over-exposure to liquid nicotine, or nicotine poisoning, can cause several health complications, injury, and even death.

Common Signs of Nicotine Poisoning Include:

• Vomiting
• Accelerated Heartbeat
• Mental Confusion
• Heightened Agitation
• Convulsions
• Seizures
• Irregular Heartbeat
• Rapidly Changing Blood Pressure
• Death
• And More

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Another danger associated with nicotine poisoning and E-cigarettes involves the flavorful tastes and scents intended to attract more adult smokers. This, unfortunately, can trigger a child’s curiosity and evoke them to try a puff or two, or more, to see what it tastes like. The smells, scents, and flavors of electronic cigarettes poses a real threat to children, enticing them to smoke and believing it is healthier or okay. It also entices children to want to smell the smoke and be around it more, putting them at higher risk for overexposure and poisoning.

Although it may seem like electronic cigarette smoking is the answer to a healthy alternative to regular cigarettes, the truth is that they still contain nicotine, which is a dangerous chemical; especially to young children. Keep this in mind next time you or someone you love puffs on an e-cigarette in the presence of a child or baby. If your child, or another child you know, has been over-exposed to nicotine from e-cigarettes, please contact a local personal injury attorney right away. You, or they, may be entitled to legal compensation for damages resulting from a product defect or liability.

Craven Blazek Law

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call 317-881-2700 to learn more about product liability injuries and lawsuits in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorney, Daniel Craven, is eager to answer your questions about filing a personal injury claim, product liability lawsuits, and more. He is a seasoned personal injury lawyer with decades of trial and litigation experience. Call and schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your personal injury accident and determine your eligibility for remuneration. We never collect lawyer fees unless we win your case. Call 317-881-2700 for personal injury legal services in Indianapolis, IN today.