Kelner & KelnerKelner & Kelner | NYC Personal Injury Lawyers2024-03-27T19:18:17Zhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1402116/2019/09/apple-touch-icon-75x75.pngOn Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=502222024-03-26T19:18:24Z2024-03-27T19:18:17ZMental overload
Distractions often overload the surgeon's brain. This makes it tough for them to process and apply high-level medical information.
With too much going on, making decisions becomes harder, increasing the chance of errors. From missing important details to making quick judgments, distractions can lead to mistakes that put patients' health at risk.
Teamwork problems
Clear communication is important during surgery. Doctors rely on a team working together and passing tools back and forth without delay.
However, distractions can badly hurt this line of communication and make it difficult for team members to share information. Workers may not understand instructions and miss important updates on the patient. This raises the chances of errors and accidents.
Loss of focus
Surgery requires careful attention to detail. Even small lapses in focus, caused by something like a person walking into the room, can lead to serious consequences. These distractions may make a doctor misplace instruments or damage a person's tissues or organs. Not only can this make a surgery take longer, but it can also cause major amounts of stress.
Distractions in an operating room may lead to hemorrhages and surgical items left inside an individual's body. By taking steps to manage these problems, healthcare providers can ensure patients get the care they need.]]>On Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=502202024-03-26T19:16:01Z2024-03-26T19:16:01ZRising concerns
Reports of accidents and injuries attributed to Citi Bike equipment malfunctions have raised concerns among riders and city officials alike. These incidents range from minor scrapes and bruises to more severe injuries requiring medical attention. Such occurrences underscore the importance of ensuring the safety and reliability of shared bike systems.
Mechanical failures
One common issue reported by riders involves mechanical failures of the bicycles themselves. Problems such as malfunctioning brakes, loose handlebars or faulty gears can compromise riding safety. Lapses in upkeep and a lack of routine maintenance may contribute to these equipment failures.
Impact on riders
For individuals utilizing Citi Bike as a mode of transportation, injuries resulting from equipment failures can disrupt daily routines and activities. Minor injuries may only cause discomfort and inconvenience, but more severe incidents can result in significant physical harm. The financial burden of a bicycle accident can range from medical expenses to lost wages.
Addressing safety concerns
Citi Bike, as a business, must prioritize safety measures and maintenance protocols to minimize the risk of equipment failures. Regular inspections, prompt repairs and thorough testing of bicycles can help prevent accidents and injuries attributed to mechanical issues. When the bike-sharing service fails to uphold these practices, injured riders have the right to pursue a personal injury claim.
Citi Bike provides a popular service, at times averaging as many as 124,000 rides per day. This staggering statistic only emphasizes the point that Citi Bike has a solemn duty to keep its riders safe.]]>On Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=502092024-02-22T19:48:08Z2024-02-22T19:48:08ZTypes of injuries
The injuries resulting from road construction accidents can be severe and life-altering. Traumatic brain injuries constitute some of the most catastrophic injuries that can occur. TBIs are a common result of falls, vehicle collisions and struck-by accidents. TBIs can lead to long-term cognitive impairments and disabilities, impacting a person's ability to perform daily tasks.
Spinal cord injuries are also unfortunately common in these accidents. A sudden impact or crushing injury can damage the spinal cord, causing paralysis and loss of sensation below the site of injury. Such injuries often require extensive rehabilitation and may result in permanent disability.
Prevention measures
While accidents are not always preventable, implementing safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of injuries in road construction zones. Adequate training for workers on how to operate machinery safely and follow proper protocols is essential. Work zones should also have proper markings and strong lighting to help drivers navigate safely. If these measures are not in place, construction companies or contractors may be liable for any injuries that occur.
Data shows that there were 857 deaths due to work zone crashes in 2020 alone. Road construction presents a number of unique and dangerous circumstances, making it necessary for motorists to understand their rights to compensation if a catastrophic accident does occur.]]>On Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=502072024-01-22T21:10:03Z2024-01-29T21:09:28ZUnpredictable weather conditions
Window washers are at the mercy of the elements, facing challenges posed by unpredictable weather conditions. High winds, heavy rain or even sudden storms can make the already perilous job even worse. Slippery surfaces combined with gusty winds create an environment where the risk of accidents significantly increases.
Equipment malfunctions
Malfunctions in harnesses, ropes or scaffolding can lead to catastrophic incidents. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure that the tools of the trade are in optimal condition. Window washers must trust their equipment, so any sign of wear or malfunction requires immediate attention.
Exposure to hazardous chemicals
The cleaning agents used by window washers often contain potent chemicals to dissolve dirt and grime. Prolonged exposure to these substances poses health risks, ranging from skin irritations to respiratory issues.
Lack of training and experience
Poor training and lack of experience can significantly increase the risk of accidents for window washers. Employers must ensure that their workforce undergoes thorough training in safety procedures and emergency protocols. Seasoned professionals should mentor novices to instill a culture of awareness and responsibility.
Overall, the window-washing industry chugs along at a rate of total wages paid of $803.6 million as of 2024. As people admire the gleaming windows of towering structures, they should also appreciate the bravery and skill required to keep them spotless.]]>On Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=502052024-01-22T21:08:12Z2024-01-24T21:07:23ZDriver status
A rideshare driver's status directly impacts liability in an accident. When actively engaged in rideshare services, the company's insurance typically covers damages. Rideshare companies usually provide insurance during trips, but if the driver is awaiting a ride, there may not be full coverage.
If the driver's personal insurance is unaware of their rideshare involvement, coverage gaps may arise. Rideshare drivers should inform their insurance company about these activities and consider purchasing additional coverage.
Responsibility of rideshare companies
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have a duty to ensure passenger safety. They are responsible for conducting background checks on drivers, maintaining vehicle safety standards and implementing safety measures within their platforms.
Driver liability
Drivers play a significant role in passenger safety. If a rideshare driver is negligent, reckless or in violation of traffic laws, they may be responsible for injuries sustained by passengers. This includes situations where the driver causes the accident or fails to uphold their duty of care.
Third-party negligence
Liability may extend beyond the rideshare driver to third parties. If another motorist's negligence contributes to the accident and causes harm to the rideshare passenger, that third party may be liable.
Vicarious liability
Rideshare companies can be vicariously liable for their drivers' actions while operating within the scope of employment. If a rideshare driver causes an accident during a trip, the company may share liability based on the driver's relationship as an agent of the company.
Passenger's role
Passengers injured in rideshare accidents also bear a responsibility to ensure their safety. Following safety guidelines, wearing seat belts and alerting the driver to any concerns during the ride contribute to a safer transportation experience.
Documentation and evidence
Injured passengers should document the scene, gather witness statements, take photographs and seek medical attention promptly. This evidence can play a vital role in establishing liability.
There may be multiple liable parties
Every accident is different, and an investigation will determine fault. The responsible party or parties are liable for paying compensation.]]>On Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=502032024-01-22T21:06:29Z2024-01-22T21:06:29ZCirculatory impairment
Severe burns can damage blood vessels, leading to circulatory issues. Reduced blood flow to the affected area may result in poor wound healing and an increased risk of infections. Age can matter since people over the age of 65 typically have a harder time with the outcome of any burn injuries.
Deep tissue damage
Burns on a construction site can vary in severity, from superficial burns affecting the outer layer of the skin to deep tissue damage that extends into the underlying muscles and bones. The depth of the burn determines the extent of complications and the required medical intervention.
Cardiac arrhythmias
Electric shock can disrupt the normal rhythm of the heart, leading to arrhythmias. This disturbance in the heart's electrical activity may show up as irregular heartbeats or more severe conditions like ventricular fibrillation, which can be life-threatening.
Neurological damage
Electric shock can negatively affect the nervous system. Individuals may experience neurological complications such as seizures, loss of consciousness, memory issues or difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, permanent brain damage may happen.
Muscle and tissue problems
The electric current flowing through the body can cause damage to muscles and tissues. This may result in muscle pain, swelling and, in extreme cases, compartment syndrome. This is a condition where increased pressure within the muscles can lead to impaired blood flow and nerve damage.
Understanding burns and electrocution injuries is important for fostering a safer work environment in the construction industry. By prioritizing safety through awareness, those in charge can ensure that construction sites remain spaces of progress without compromising the well-being of the individuals who build the future.]]>On Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=502002023-12-22T19:18:09Z2023-12-22T19:18:09ZFaulty brakes
When brakes fail to function, drivers are unable to stop their vehicles in time to avoid collisions. This defect becomes particularly hazardous on the crowded streets of New York, where sudden stops and rapid maneuvers are common.
About 8,335,897 people call New York City home, and the inability to halt a vehicle promptly can result in severe accidents. They may cause significant injuries to drivers, passengers and pedestrians alike.
Defective airbags
Another concern is the malfunction of airbags. While airbags aim to cushion the impact during a collision, defects can turn them into potential hazards. In a crash, defective airbags may fail to deploy or deploy with excessive force, causing more harm than protection. Such malfunctions can lead to a higher incidence of head, neck and chest injuries, magnifying the already substantial risks of automobile accidents.
Tire blowouts
Tire blowouts, often due to manufacturing defects, pose yet another danger. A sudden blowout can cause a driver to lose control, leading to a potentially devastating collision. The densely populated and fast-paced nature of New York traffic amplifies the risks, as drivers may struggle to navigate their vehicles safely amid the chaos.
In the city that never sleeps, the stakes are high regarding road safety. Automotive defects are not just inconveniences. They are potential catalysts for accidents that can result in life-altering injuries.]]>On Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=501982023-12-07T19:17:31Z2023-12-07T19:17:31ZFederal standards require careful practices
The possibility that bricks, plates of glass or heavy tools could tumble down from multiple stories above is a major safety issue at any construction site. The risk is so significant that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces a regulation related to this risk.
Specifically, construction companies have an obligation to properly secure everything from tools to building materials when not in active use. The failure to do so may open a construction firm up to liability if people end up hurt. Sometimes, building owners can also be liable for such incidents under New York's unique labor laws.
Injured construction workers typically pursue workers' compensation benefits if they get hurt by falling materials on the job. However, in some cases, they may have a claim against a third party, such as when scaffolding or tethers used on a construction site fail due to design or material defects.
Additionally, passers-by hurt by falling items may have the right to hold a construction company or building owner responsible for injuries caused by unsecured tools or materials. Recognizing what factors contribute to construction site injuries may help both professionals and members of the general public limit personal risk.]]>On Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=501962023-11-20T19:42:07Z2023-11-20T19:42:07ZBrain injuries
Traumatic brain injuries often result from a sudden impact or jolt to the head. Even a mild TBI, such as a concussion, can have lasting effects on cognitive function and mental well-being. Symptoms may include confusion, memory loss, headaches and mood changes.
Chest injuries
Chest injuries can occur when the body hits the steering wheel or dashboard. These injuries can range from bruising and contusions to broken ribs or internal organ damage. The force of the collision determines the extent of the damage.
Broken bones
Fractures and broken bones can affect various parts of the body, including arms, legs and ribs. The severity of fractures depends on factors like speed, point of impact and the use of safety devices, such as seat belts.
Back injuries
Back injuries may include sprains, strains and herniated discs. The force of the collision can cause the spine to twist or hyperextend, resulting in back pain and limited mobility. The damage may be severe enough to cause a lasting negative impact on nerves, or, if the spinal cord suffers damage, it can lead to paralysis.
Soft tissue injuries
Soft tissue injuries encompass a range of injuries to muscles, ligaments and tendons. These injuries often cause pain, swelling and limited range of motion. A prevalent soft tissue injury is whiplash, which occurs when the head forcefully jerks backward and then forward. It is a strain on the neck's muscles and ligaments. Symptoms of such injuries may not immediately manifest.
Psychological effects
Psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, are also prevalent after car accidents. The emotional trauma of a collision can have lasting effects on an individual's mental health, impacting their ability to drive or even ride in a vehicle without heightened anxiety.
With any injury after a car accident, it is imperative to seek medical attention. Since some conditions may not be immediately recognizable, it is a good idea for anyone in a crash to at least get a check-up from a healthcare professional.]]>On Behalf of Kelner & Kelnerhttps://www.kelnerlaw.com/?p=501932023-11-20T14:45:56Z2023-11-20T14:45:56ZIdentifying hazards: Faulty wiring and fire safety gaps
One of the key contributors to burn injuries is faulty wiring. Landlords must ensure that electrical systems are up to code. They must address issues promptly to prevent electrical fires. Additionally, adequate fire safety measures are essential to mitigate the risk of burn injuries in an emergency. This includes the installation of functioning smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
Burn injuries resulting from faulty wiring and fire safety gaps can manifest in various ways. Here are some types of burn injuries associated with these hazards:
Electrical burns: Caused by faulty wiring or malfunctioning electrical appliances, these burns occur when an electric current passes through the body. The severity can range from mild to severe, depending on factors like voltage and duration of contact.
Thermal burns: Often linked to fire safety gaps, thermal burns occur when there is exposure to flames or hot surfaces. Inadequate fire safety measures, such as lack of fire extinguishers or malfunctioning smoke detectors, can contribute to the severity of thermal burns.
Scald burns: Resulting from contact with hot liquids or steam, scald burns may occur if there are issues with water heaters, plumbing or other appliances that involve hot water. Inadequate temperature controls can lead to scalding incidents.
Smoke inhalation injuries: While not a direct burn, inhaling smoke during a fire can cause respiratory injuries. In properties with fire safety gaps, occupants may be at a higher risk of smoke inhalation due to delayed detection and response.
Flash burns: Rapid exposure to intense heat, often associated with electrical malfunctions, can result in flash burns. These burns are characterized by their sudden onset and can affect the skin and eyes.
Understanding these types of burn injuries underscores the importance of addressing issues related to faulty wiring and fire safety gaps in rental properties.
Landlord liability for burn injuries
When landlords neglect their duty to maintain a safe property, they may be held liable for burn injuries suffered by tenants. Legal avenues exist for those harmed due to a landlord's negligence. These paths offer a means to seek compensation. This may cover medical expenses, pain and suffering and other damages resulting from burn injuries.
From a legal standpoint, tenants have the right to expect a reasonably safe living environment. Landlords failing in this duty may face legal consequences for the injuries sustained by their tenants. If you believe your landlord’s negligence caused your injury, it would be wise to consult with a lawyer to protect your rights and receive compensation if it applies to your case.]]>