Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPFindLaw IM Template2024-03-18T20:00:54Zhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1404292/2020/01/cropped-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=511122024-03-11T21:58:17Z2024-03-11T21:58:17ZIgnoring minor head injuries
One common mistake is dismissing minor head injuries as insignificant. Even seemingly harmless bumps or falls can cause TBI symptoms, such as headaches or confusion. Ignoring these symptoms accidentally allows the injury to worsen over time.
Failing to recognize delayed symptoms
Another challenge is recognizing delayed symptoms of a TBI. While some symptoms appear immediately after the injury, others may show up days or even weeks later. Tiredness, memory problems and odd mood changes are symptoms that individuals often attribute to other causes.
Normalizing symptoms
Many individuals normalize TBI symptoms, believing they are just part of daily life or aging. For example, difficulty concentrating or irritability may just seem like stress. However, continuing symptoms are a red flag, as they could point to a more serious underlying condition.
Not getting educated about TBI
A lack of awareness about TBI signs and symptoms can also contribute to this problem. Without proper education, individuals may not recognize the danger of their symptoms. Increasing public awareness and education about TBIs is important for early detection.
No matter what they do or where they go, individuals should proactively protect their brain health. A TBI can seriously impact a person's ability to live and work as usual.]]>On Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=510922024-02-07T22:29:57Z2024-02-07T22:29:57ZWhat is a defective product claim?
This type of personal injury claim typically arises when a consumer sustains injuries or suffers harm due to a product's defectiveness. These defects can manifest during the design, manufacturing or labeling process of the product.
Certain key elements generally characterize these claims.
Establishing liability
Manufacturers, distributors and retailers can all potentially be responsible for injuries caused by defective products. In legal terms, these parties owe consumers a duty of care to ensure the products they offer are safe for their intended use.
Demonstrating the defect
There are three main types of defects: design defects, manufacturing defects and marketing defects (such as inadequate warnings or instructions). Evidence such as product recalls, expert testimonies and documentation of injuries can support the claim of a defective product.
Proving causation
The injured party must show that the defect directly caused their injuries or losses. This requires linking the defect to the harm suffered, which can sometimes be complex and require expert analysis.
Statute of limitations
In addition to these elements, time constraints known as statutes of limitations apply to defective product claims. In Connecticut, you typically have two years to file a lawsuit after the discovery of the defect or the occurrence of the injury.
Duty of care
Duty of care in defective product claims refers to the legal obligation that manufacturers, distributors and retailers have to ensure that the products they produce, distribute or sell are safe for their intended use. This duty extends to consumers who purchase and use these products.
Manufacturers should design products that are free from defects and pose minimal risks to consumers. This includes conducting thorough testing and quality control measures throughout production to identify and address potential hazards.
Distributors and retailers also have a duty to exercise reasonable care when handling and selling products to consumers. This duty may involve inspecting products for defects, following proper storage and handling procedures and providing accurate information and warnings about potential risks associated with the products.
Liability
To establish liability in defective product claims, plaintiffs must show that the responsible party breached their duty of care by introducing a defective product into the marketplace. They must also prove that this breach of duty directly caused their injuries or damages.
The goal
Defective product claims serve to hold manufacturers and other parties accountable for the harm caused by their products.]]>On Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=510882024-01-16T19:00:39Z2024-01-16T19:00:39ZEnsure safety first
In 2022, motor vehicle accidents took 42,795 lives and injured many more. Therefore, when you get into an accident, your safety and the safety of others involved should be your top priority.
Your first step should include moving your vehicle to a safe location. Then, turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries, and call for emergency medical assistance if you need help.
Exchange information
Exchange insurance, vehicle and contact information with the other parties involved. Obtain names, phone numbers, addresses and insurance details. Also, gather contact information and statements from any witnesses.
Document the scene
Take photos of the accident scene as a whole, property damage and individual injuries. This visual documentation can provide valuable evidence and help in determining fault.
File a police report
File a police report after a car accident. Even if it is a minor collision, having an official report can support your insurance claim and provide an unbiased account of the incident.
Notify your insurance company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with the information you collected, including the other party's details and the police report.
Seek medical attention
Even if you do not immediately feel injured, seek medical attention after a car accident. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away, and prompt medical attention can prevent complications down the line.
Keep all documents related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates and communication with insurance companies. This documentation will be important in building your case and ensuring a fair resolution.]]>On Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=510852023-12-13T21:30:04Z2023-12-13T21:30:04ZHead injuries
When people lose their footing on icy surfaces, it can lead to falls forward, backward or to the side. If there is nothing to cushion the fall, an injury to the head is a real possibility and a collision of the head and hard ground can result in a traumatic brain injury. Severe injuries can be life-altering but even minor trauma requires immediate medical attention.
Back injuries
Back injuries are not uncommon in the aftermath of slips and falls. The sudden twisting or bending motions during a fall can strain the muscles and ligaments in the back. Many times, a back injury will continue to plague a person long after the initial incident.
Fractures
Fractured bones, particularly in the wrist and forearm, are frequent outcomes of winter falls. It is a natural instinct to extend the arms to break a fall, but doing this often results in the transmission of impact to the bones. This can easily lead to broken bones in the wrists and arms.
Mitigating the risks of winter falls requires everyone to do their part, but property owners have an obligation to provide safe walkways for the public. They must practice routine snow and ice removal, especially during the early and late hours or during storms. They also need to utilize salt or sand and stay on top of developing weather conditions.]]>On Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=510832023-11-10T20:14:36Z2023-11-10T20:14:36ZSuperficial wounds
One of the most common injuries from dog bites is superficial skin wounds, often manifesting as scratches or minor cuts. These wounds can still lead to infections if not properly cleaned and treated. Even though they may not seem severe, seek medical attention to prevent complications.
Puncture wounds
Puncture wounds occur when a dog's teeth penetrate the skin and underlying tissues. These injuries can be deceptive, as the external wound may appear small, but significant damage can occur beneath the surface. Puncture wounds are prone to infection. Assessment by a healthcare professional helps to reduce the risks.
Tendon and ligament damage
Dog bites can harm the tendons and ligaments in the affected area, leading to pain, decreased range of motion and long-term disability. Prompt medical evaluation and, in some cases, surgical repair are necessary to address these injuries properly.
Nerve damage
Nerve damage can occur if the dog's bite impacts the nerves in the bitten area. This can result in temporary or permanent loss of sensation, weakness or paralysis.
While some dog bites result in minimal complications or injuries, others are quite serious. An average of 337,103 dog bite injuries lead to emergency room trips every year. Recognizing the risks from even minor injuries will help you seek the care that you need to reduce your risk of long-term complications.]]>On Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=510812023-10-10T15:57:53Z2023-10-10T15:57:53ZStrained connections
One of the most palpable changes post-TBI is the strain it places on relationships. Whether familial, romantic or platonic, the fabric of these connections often undergoes significant transformation.
Communication, once fluid and effortless, may become challenging. Family members and friends could find themselves navigating uncharted waters, adjusting to a new normal that demands patience and understanding.
Extreme emotions
Emotions, previously familiar and predictable, can become a rollercoaster ride after a TBI. Mood swings may be a daily challenge.
The individual with a TBI could grapple with frustration, anger or even depression as they confront the changes in their cognitive and physical abilities. Loved ones, in turn, must adapt to these emotional fluctuations, requiring empathy to weather the storm.
Lack of independence
TBI often disrupts the established roles within relationships. The person who was once the caregiver may find themselves in need of care, introducing a complex dynamic shift. Independence becomes a battleground as both parties navigate the delicate balance between offering assistance and preserving the dignity of the individual with a TBI.
When you realize that traumatic brain injuries created 214,110 hospital stays in 2020, you should take into account that a TBI can greatly increase your stress levels. Understanding the profound impact of a TBI on human connections is the first step toward fostering empathy.]]>On Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=510782023-09-22T22:31:46Z2023-09-22T22:31:46ZWhiplash
Whiplash is perhaps the most well-known soft tissue injury associated with car accidents. It typically occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jerked forward and then backward. This may cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches and even shoulder or upper back discomfort.
Strains and sprains
Strains and sprains can affect various parts of the body, including the back, shoulders and limbs. These injuries happen when the muscles or ligaments stretch or tear during the accident.
Contusions
Contusions, or bruises, can occur when the body impacts parts of the car's interior during an accident. While not always serious, they can be painful and may take some time to heal.
Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. It can develop in the shoulders, elbows or hips following an accident. Symptoms include pain, swelling and tenderness around the affected joint.
Herniated discs
In more severe accidents, herniated discs can occur. This happens when the soft inner core of a spinal disc protrudes through the tough outer layer, putting pressure on nearby nerves.
Rotator cuff injuries
The shoulder's rotator cuff can sustain injuries during a car accident, leading to pain and limited range of motion. Physical therapy and sometimes surgery may be necessary for severe cases.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that car crashes lead to 4 million emergency room visits each year. Many of the resulting hospitalizations are due to soft tissue injuries that can easily occur during a motor vehicle accident.]]>On Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=510762023-08-24T14:55:35Z2023-08-24T14:55:35ZPhysical repercussions
Burn injuries can range from minor first-degree burns to severe third-degree burns. The latter can damage deeper layers of the skin and even the tissues underneath. You might face prolonged periods of pain, require skin grafting or have other surgical interventions. The healing process can be extensive, leading to potential infections, scarring or even loss of function in the affected area.
Emotional and psychological impact
Beyond the physical pain and damage, burns can leave emotional scars. You might grapple with trauma from the accident itself, coupled with the distress of the visible reminders of the crash. This emotional turmoil can lead to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, depression or anxiety. Adjusting to scars or disfigurement can take a toll on your self-esteem and body image.
Financial strain
Treatments might include surgeries, specialized care, medications and physical therapy. These medical care costs can accumulate and strain your financial resources, especially if the burns prevent you from returning to work promptly.
Social challenges
Social interactions can become more challenging after a traumatic event and resulting burns. You might feel self-conscious about visible scars, leading to potential withdrawal from social situations or avoidance of certain activities. The journey to reclaim your confidence and navigate social settings might be a long one.
Impact on daily activities
Depending on the severity of the burns, daily tasks can become daunting. Doing simple activities like dressing, cooking or even bathing might require help or adaptation.
While any injury from a car accident can be life-altering, burns carry a unique set of challenges. However, with the right support system and medical care, you can navigate the challenges and rebuild your life.]]>On Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=510292023-07-24T18:06:42Z2023-07-24T18:06:42ZOdd growling noises
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, dogs who feel threatened may bark louder in order to make people near them leave them alone. In some cases, this kind of barking may not seem dangerous at first.
If you notice a dog making low growling noises or guttural barking once in a while, this could be a sign of an angry animal.
Sudden movements
When a dog tries to lunge near you and does not touch you, you could assume it is a playful gesture. However, these kinds of movements may showcase just how a dog can later bite you and also serve as a warning.
Play biting
Before a dog bites and clamps down, it may try to approach you in order to give you a quick bite that does not leave you bleeding or with injuries. This kind of play bite is a sign that it is becoming more bold and aggressive as time goes on.
No matter what happens before a dog bites you, learning more about the signs of anger in an animal is important.]]>On Behalf of Sheffy, DeNigris, Grey & Bedard, LLPhttps://www.sheffylaw.com/?p=510272023-06-30T00:39:38Z2023-06-30T00:39:38ZThunderstorms make driving harder
One of the main ways summer thunderstorms contribute to car accidents is through decreased visibility. Heavy rain can obscure the view of the road, making it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, traffic signals or road signs. Reduced visibility often leads to increased braking distances, making accidents more likely if drivers do not adjust their speed accordingly.
Thunderstorms can also lead to hydroplaning, a hazardous condition where a vehicle loses traction due to water on the roadway. When tires cannot displace water fast enough, a thin layer of water forms between the tires and the road surface, leading to a loss of control of the vehicle. Drivers are at a higher risk of hydroplaning when they are driving at higher speeds.
Furthermore, thunderstorms often come with high winds. These winds can make it difficult to control a vehicle, particularly larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs. High winds can also blow debris onto the road, creating additional hazards for drivers.
How to stay safe
When driving in a thunderstorm, drivers should reduce their speed to account for the decreased visibility and increased braking distances. Turning on headlights and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles can also improve safety.
For hydroplaning, the best prevention is ensuring tires have proper tread depth and are correctly inflated. If a driver feels their vehicle beginning to hydroplane, it is essential to stay calm, ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction they want to go. Making any sudden turns or slamming on the brakes will cause the vehicle to spin out of control.
Summer is a time to get out and enjoy the warm weather with friends and family. However, drivers should not ignore the potential car accident risks of thunderstorms. By understanding these risks and taking appropriate safety measures, drivers can navigate through these storms with increased confidence and safety.]]>