South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog

We like to keep parents up to date with the most recent child product recalls from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Every day, there are thousands of products on the federal recall list. A surprising amount of these products are items that can be found in your household, posing risks of injury in Greenacres and elsewhere.

Our Palm Beach County child injury lawyers will be going over some of the latest product recalls involving child products, toys and clothing. Oftentimes, our kids' products wind up on these lists because of a defect discovered well after the item has been on the retailers' shelves. These defects are oftentimes dangerous and can seriously injure your child. It's important for parents to stay in tune with this recall list to help keep children safe.

Arch Swing Sets Recalled by BCI Burke Co. LLC

There were nearly 300 of the 2-3/8 Arch Swing Sets sold throughout the U.S. from January 2004 to December 2011. These items have problems with the welding connection. What can happen is the top swing beam can collapse. With this collapse, children can fall and can be seriously injured. There have already been seven incident reports filed. There have also been a number of injuries reported. Swing sets with 2-3/8-inch steel tubing are covered under this recall. All of the swings have a 2-7/8-inch diameter sleeve that is welded to the middle or end support. If you have one of these sets, contact the company for information regarding a refund or a replacement. Call 1-800-356-2070 or e-mail the company.

Children's Play Theaters Recalled by Guidecraft

Nearly 2,000 of the 4-in-1 Dramatic Play Theater Toys have been recalled in the United States. The items were sold from July 2010 through April 2011. These items have been recalled because they can tip over while a child's playing on them. This poses a serious entrapment hazard to small children. The Guidecraft Company has received both incident and injury reports, including injuries of abrasions and contusions. The model number G51062 falls under this recall. If you have this product, call the company at (888) 824-1308 to get either a refund or a replacement product.

Papa Bear Loungeabouts Pajamas Recalled by Papa Bear Loungeabouts, LLC

Roughly 10,000 pajamas and sleepwear items were sold nationwide from 2004 to 2011. These pajamas don't meet the federal flammability standard, poising serious burn risks to children. They were sold for both boys and girls. A garment label with the name "Papa Bear Loungeabouts" and a picture of a bear can be found sewn into the center back neckline on the outside of the garments. If your child has any of these products, you should return them to the product retailer for a store credit, an exchange or a full refund.

Continue reading "Child Injury in Palm Beach County Possible with Recently Discovered Child Product Defects" »

With the holidays right around the corner, residents throughout the state are out and about combing store shelves for the perfect gifts for family, friends, business associates and others. With the purchase of these presents, however, comes the risk of potentially buying a defective product in Oakland Park. That's why consumers are urged to take a look at the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) latest recall lists to make sure no faulty items sneak their way into your house this holiday season. Many household items are on the recall list and you may not even know it.

Our Oakland Park defective product attorneys understand that many common household items are found faulty every day. Residents should keep an eye on the latest recalls to avoid injury that could result from one of these items. Household cleaning items, children's toys, clothing, electronic devices and many other items that are deemed dangerous have been recalled by the CPSC. Do you know which ones they are?

Golf Cars recalled by Club Car LLC:

Nearly 1,000 Golf Cars have been recalled by the golf car manufacturer because the fuel tank seal is known to separate and cause a fuel leak that poses a fire hazard. All 2011 Precedent golf cars fall under the latest recall. The serial numbers are as follows:

CF1139-233925 - CF1147-250173
PR1139-233918 - PR1147-249956
PY1144-244648

The golf cars were sold at authorized dealerships across the country from April to May of 2011. If you own one of these cars, call Club Car at (800) 227-0739, extension 3580, to schedule a free inspection.

Schwinn Elliptical Exercise Equipment Recalled by Nautilus:

Nautilus Inc. has recalled approximately 10,000 Elliptical Exercise Trainers because the foot plates on the machine can fall off, posing a fall hazard to users. Nine incident reports have already been submitted to the company and one injury has been reported. The model name "Schwinn 460" is the item that is being recalled. They were sold at various sports stores from July 2008 through May 2011. If you have one of these elliptical machines, contact Nautilus at 800-259-9019 to receive a free repair kit.

Family Dollar Stores Recalls Kidgets Animal Sock Top Slippers:

Nearly 200,000 pairs of these children's slippers have been recalled by Family Dollar Services Inc. because the animal's eyes can come off the slippers and pose a choking hazard. Incidents have been reported. Item number "FD9619108020690611" is the style that's been recalled. They were sold at Family Dollar stores across the country from September 2011 until October 2011. If your child has a pair of these slippers, bring them to a Family Dollar store for a full refund.

Residents should always keep an eye on the CPSC's recalled item website. It's especially important to do so before heading out to pick up those holiday presents this year. Have a safe and Happy Holiday!

Continue reading "Consumers: Check CPSC's Recall List to Prevent Defective Products Injury in Oakland Park" »

As we head into the holiday shopping season, parents must be concerned about the thousands of dangerous toys and child products on the market these days. Our Coral Springs child injury lawyers know that holiday shopping can be stressful because of the inherent dangers in some products. Just think about all the toys recalled for choking hazards, fall accidents, burn injuries, strangulation dangers and other threats. Determining which toys are defective or harmful can help reduce child toy-related injuries in Broward County and throughout South Florida.

Safe Kids USA reported that from 2000-2005, no fewer than 11 children under the age of 15 lost their life each year in a toy-related death. In 2005, 75,000 toy-related injuries occurred for children under 14 years old, in addition to the 20 toy-related deaths that occurred for that age group that year. Each year there are roughly 217,000 emergency room visits for children injured in a toy-related accident. On average 15 children ages 13 and under die annually from a toy-related accident. Most deaths caused by toys are related to choking, strangulation, or motorized accidents. Balloons and balls cause a severe choking hazard. Riding toys cause severe risk for falls or other injuries in motorized toy accidents. Strangulation incidents are often caused by cords and strings on toys.

Approximately 3 billion toys are sold annually in the United States, many of which are considered dangerous to our children for one reason or another. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission keeps consumers updated on defective products, as well as past and present toy hazard recalls placed on manufacturers.

U.S. PIRG offers these six common toy hazards and tips for injury and death prevention caused by these hazards:

-Choking Hazards: 41 children died between 2005-2009 from choking on balloons, toys or toy parts. Children under 3 years old should never be left with small toys or toy parts that can fit in the mouth. A helpful test is if it fits through a toilet paper tube it isn't fit for your child. Keep children away from small balls or balloons and always read warning labels for choking hazards.

-Magnetic Toys: Magnets are typically found in toy darts, magnetic building toys or jewelry, and can look like candy when they fall out or become separated. Strong magnets if swallowed can adhere in the stomach or intestine and cause life-threatening injuries. Resist buying toys with magnets and get medical care immediately if a magnet is swallowed.

-Button Batteries used for Watches: Keep button batteries away from small children to avoid potentially fatal injuries caused by choking or internal complications.

-Noise: Toys that make loud sounds can damage a child's sensitive ears. Remove batteries of noise-making toys or cover speakers with tape to deafen the sound.

-Strangulation Hazards: Mobiles, drawstrings or cords left within reach of infants or small children cause a high risk for strangulation. Remove knobs or beads and keep out of reach, especially as an infant grows and can start to raise themselves to reach for dangling objects.

-Lead and Toxic Chemicals: Many toys are painted with lead or toxic materials. Lead poisoning can affect intellectual and physical development among other things. Read warning labels and resist buying toys with PVC plastic that may contain toxic phthalates. Avoid hazardous products that contain xylene, dibutyl phthalate, or toluene.

Florida PIRG wants to remind parents of the annual publication Trouble in Toyland Toy Safety Report that osreleased each November. This resource can help consumers make informed decisions about which toys are dangerous and what to look for you as begin your holiday shopping.

Continue reading "Toy-Related Injuries and Defective Products a Holiday Concern for Parents in Coral Springs, Nationwide" »

Most of us use small heating and cooling appliances to make our homes more comfortable during dry and rainy seasons. Defective product lawyers in Weston, Tamarac, Sunrise and Hallandale Beach want to remind consumers to check for recalls on your home appliances periodically to reduce the risk of a fire hazard in your home.

With fall weather approaching soon, Florida residents can decrease the chances of a fire-related residential accident in Coral Springs or Margate if you check your appliances for mechanical problems or malfunctions. Don't assume after months of not using them that appliances will work properly and not cause a fire hazard which can lead to serious burn injuries or smoke inhalation while you sleep.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recently re-announced a recall of LG Electronics Tianjin Appliance Company's Goldstar and Comfort-Aire dehumidifiers. There have been approximately 98,000 units sold that could pose a fire or burn hazard when the power connector for the compressor short circuits.

The first recall was announced 22 months ago, but only 2 percent of the units recalled have been sent a repair kit to the consumer who purchased it. The original recall was made after 11 reported incidents, but since then another 16 complaints have been voiced resulting in over $1 million in property damage in residents throughout the U.S. including Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Ohio.

Some of the retailers selling the units include Home Depot, Walmart and Ace Hardware which were sold for $140 to $150 between January 2007 and June 2008. Consumers are urged to stop using the units and contact LG Electronics for a free repair kit or authorized service center that will repair the unit for you.

Dehumidifiers are not the only small home appliance consumers need to worry about when it comes to fire hazards leading to burn injuries or smoke inhalation. The Home Safety Council warns consumers to use caution around stoves, space heaters, furnaces, grills and generators to name a few. Homeowners can either take a seasonal approach to safety or a room-by-room approach but appliances should be checked routinely to prevent the risk of a fire taking place in your home.

Home Safety Council provides these general fire prevention tips to homeowners:

-Never leave a stove unattended, especially when fueled by gas. Items such as dishtowels, paper or plastic can catch fire quickly and cause severe damage before putting the fire out.
-Keep grills a minimum of 10 feet away from the house or other objects and never allow children or pets near them when they are lit.
-Store lighters or matches in a secure cabinet which is out of reach from small children.
-Always turn off space heaters while you are sleeping or when you leave the room.
-Furnaces, stoves used for heating (wood or coal) and central air units should be inspected annually. Chimney maintenance and inspection is also important to do annually.
-Never store open gasoline containers inside a garage or basement. Vapors can cause an explosion with just a tiny spark.
-Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Check them monthly to ensure they are working and replace the batteries annually.

Continue reading "Defective Home Appliances Lead to Fire Hazards in Coral Springs with Changing of Seasons" »

Our West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys would like to ask that all residents check out the latest list of recalls from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Products on this list have been found to be extremely dangerous to consumers.

The CPSC aims to protect the public from unreasonable risks of death or injury in Fort Lauderdale and elsewhere from dangers accompanying a number of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Products on the CPSC recall list typically pose threats of fire, electrical, chemical, ingestion hazards and mechanical hazards.

Recently added items to the CPSC recall list:

-Electric log splitters: Changzhou Globe Tool Group is recalling this product because of a laceration or amputation hazard. These items were sold exclusively at Lowe's Stores. About 20,000 are on the recall list. The log splitters have a hydraulic arm that can slide under the handle used to move the machine. Those who place their hands on that handle while the splitter is in operation face a serious risk of injury.

-Women’s Multivitamins from GNC: The bottles of these multivitamins fail to meet child-restraint resistance closure requirements. GNC Women’s Ultra Mega®, Ultra Mega Active, Ultra Mega Energy and Metabolism and GNC Prenatal Formula with Iron multivitamins are all a part of the recall. About 2,500 bottles fall under this recall. If these vitamins are ingested by a child, serious injury or death could result. These items were sold exclusively at: GNC retail stores nationwide and on the GNC website from March 2011 through May 2011.

-Rugby Children's Pain & Fever Concentrated Drops: Nearly 900,000 have been recalled because, even though the original bottle has child-resistant packaging, a separate dropper unit provided for dispensing the drug does not. Children face serious risks of injury or death if more than the recommended dosage is consumed. These items were sold at drug stores, grocery stores and other retailers nationwide between January 2009 and June 2011.

-Hamilton Beach Classic Chrome 2-Slice Toasters: These items are being recalled because of a potential fire hazard. About 300,000 toasters are being recalled because the heating element in these toasters can remain energized when an item is placed in the toaster. This could potentially ignite the contents, posing a fire hazard if the toaster is near flammable items. The toasters were sold at mass merchandisers and department, grocery and home center stores nationwide and various online retailers from February 2008 through June 2011.

-Sage Creek Organics Children’s Sleepwear: About 600 items have been recalled because they violate the Federal Flammability Standard. These items pose a risk of burn injury to children. They do not meet the tight-fitting sizing requirements. The children's clothing was sold at small boutiques nationwide and online at the company’s website from August 2010 to February 2011.

The CPSC currently has a jurisdiction over about 15,000 types of consumer products, including coffee makers, toys, lawn mowers, bicycles, drug packaging and fireworks. You are encouraged to contact the toll-free Hotline to report an injury, file a product safety complaint or to check out the most recent list of recalls. You can call 1-800-638-CPSC between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Eastern time, Monday through Friday.

The agency has operated for more than 30 years exercising their agency's mission to ". . . protect the public against unreasonable risks of injuries and deaths associated with consumer products."

Continue reading "Consumer Product Safety Commission Releases New Product Recalls to Reduce Risk of Injury in Fort Lauderdale and Elsewhere" »

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recently announced several recalls of products due to fall hazards.

Our Palm Beach personal injury lawyers know that property damage, deaths and injuries from defective consumer product occurrences cost the country in excess of $900 billion yearly.

A few of the fall hazard recalls are listed below.

Target step stool recall:

Over 200,000 step stools sold between January 2007 and October 2010 were recalled because they were either collapsing or falling apart while the users were on them. To date Target has gotten 27 complaints of the step stools collapsing or breaking. There have been fourteen incidents involving children, eight incidents involved adults and the ages were unknown in five other incidents. Injuries to adults included broken wrists, and one adult also broke her pelvis and hip. Six of the injured children suffered bruises and scrapes along with one adult.

Phil & Teds clip-on table top chair recall:

Approximately 54,000 clip-on chairs sold between May 2006 and May 2011 are being recalled due to worn or missing clamp pads which are causing the chair to detach from tables. Additionally, during a detachment incident an amputation condition arose because children's fingers could be trapped between a bar and the table clamp. User instructions are poorly written causing possible consumer misuse. There have been 19 incidents reported, five with severe injuries. Two children had their finger's seriously cut, pinched amputated or crushed. Three children sustained bruises when the chairs fell from the table. Chairs that have black spacers between the clamps and the cross bar are not included in the recall.

Radio Flyer Scoot 'n Zoom recall:

Roughly 165,000 Scoot 'n Zoom ride on toys sold between August 2010 and August 2011 that are a potential fall hazard are being recalled. The Radio Flyer Company has gotten ten reports of children falling from the toy. Of the ten falls six children sustained injuries including knocked out or loosening teeth and chin cuts needing stitches. Model #711B with a UPC sticker that is yellow is not included in the recall.

Bravo Sports Disney-branded pogo stick recall:

Nearly 160,000 pogo sticks sold between February 2009 and June 2011 causing lacerations and falls are being recalled. The issue occurring is the rubber tip on the bottom of the stick can wear out too early causing a potential fall hazard. The handlebar end caps are not attached firmly enough causing them to loosen and come off. The sharp edges of the handlebars are a laceration hazard to users. There have been 82 incidents of the bottom rubber tip getting worn out causing five injuries. The most severe injury was a skull fracture to a 9-year-old girl. Other reported injuries included chipped teeth, chin and lip cuts requiring stitches, bumps to the head and pushed in teeth. The Disney-branded sticks are the Hannah Montana model, Pixar Toy Story Cruising Cool model, Pixar Cars model, the Disney Princess model and the Disney Fairies Cruising Cool model.

Purchasing a defective product is a common concern for parents because products that malfunction can cause serious injury to children. When someone is injured by a defective product, an experienced law firm should be contacted to determine their rights to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering and other costs.

Continue reading "Fall Hazards from Defective Products Can Lead to Serious Injuries for Families in Palm Beach, Elsewhere" »

There have been a number of products recalled recently by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to help prevent child injury in Port St. Lucie and elsewhere throughout the United States. The CPSC continues to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death from a number of faulty consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction.

Our Miami personal injury attorneys recognize how many dangerous products there are on the market nowadays. Thanks to the CPSC and its dangerous product recalls, we have witnessed a 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years. These products pose can pose threats of fire, electrical, chemical, mechanical hazards or can injure children.

Some of the CPSC's latest child product recalls:

-Little People Builders’ Load ‘n Go Wagon. Roughly 208,000 of these wagons were sold in the United States and another 2,800 in Canada. The back of the wagon’s plastic handle has molded-in reinforcement. The handle poses a laceration hazard if a child falls on it. The wagons were sold at mass merchandise retail stores nationwide from June 2009 through July 2011.

-B. FunKeys. These toy keys with remote were made by Battat Inc., of Plattsburgh, N.Y. Roughly 1,080,000 were sold in the United States and another 3,600 in Canada. The metal toy keys and the plastic key ring can break. Children can potentially chose on these broken toys. Retailers nationwide and online sites sold this product from April 2010 to May 2011 for B. FunKeys and from January 2006 to December 2009 for Parents Magazine.

-Disney Pogo Sticks. Nearly 200,000 pogo sticks were sold in the United States at Burlington Coat Factory, Kmart, Kohls.com, Target and Toys R Us from February 2009 through June 2011. Disney licensed its brand name to Bravo Sports, the maker of the pogo sticks. The bottom rubber tip attached to the pogo stick frame can wear out prematurely. The wearing of this tip can pose a fall hazard to consumers. The end caps on the handlebars can come off as well, which exposes sharp edges.This poses a laceration hazard to consumers.

-Love.Hugs.Peace. Lapel Pins. These pins are from the Build-A-Bear Workshop®, of St. Louis, Missouri. About 26,500 of them were sold in the United States and another 2,200 in Canada. The surface paints on the lapel pin contain excessive levels of lead which is prohibited under federal law. The label pin is about 1.5 inch and features graphics of a heart, bear head and peace sign all positioned in front of a globe. The words “Love.Hugs.Peace.” are at the bottom of the pin. The pins were also sold on the Build-A-Bear website from July 2009 through October 2010.

The CPSC offers complete information regarding recalls and product safety news. You are urged to check out their recall database periodically to see if you have any products in your household that can potentially injury you or your family.

Continue reading "New Recalls Issued by CPSC to Prevent Child Injury in Fort Lauderdale and Elsewhere" »

Child product recalls are a dime a dozen these days so parents need to stay informed if they want to protect their children from severe injuries caused by defective products in Palm Beach or elsewhere in South Florida.

Macy's Incorporated recently agreed to pay a $750,000 civil penalty for failure to report selling children's outwear containing drawstrings according to news from U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The CPSC has issued a drawstring safety rule for manufacturers of children's outerwear clothing. Jackets, sweatshirts, sweaters and vest containing drawstrings in the neck or waist are considered a high risk for strangulation and hazardous to small children. Macy's Inc. knowingly sold children's outerwear garments with drawstrings from 2006-2010 and failed to report it to the CPSC within 24 hours.

Retailers, distributors and manufacturers are required by law to report products that are considered defective or hazardous, products that fail to comply with federal rules and standards or banned by the CPSC, or products known to present a risk of serious injury or death.

We frequently use our South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog as a method of updating parents and consumers about the most recent child product recalls. Fort Lauderdale child injury lawyers know that crib safety has been in the news a lot recently with over 11 million cribs being recalled since 2007.

The CPSC recently announced new federal requirements for A Safer Generation of Cribs. Starting in December 2012, compliance of new crib standards will be required by all Head Start centers and family child care homes, as well as hotels, motels and rental companies.

The CPSC has established the following new mandatory rules for crib safety, effective immediately:
-Improve safety testing by making it more laborious on products.
-Hardware affixed to the crib will be required to be more durable.
-Crib slats and mattress supports need to be strengthened.
-Drop-side cribs will soon be obsolete by not allowing them to be sold by retailers or produced by manufacturers.

"A safe crib is the safest place for a baby to sleep. It is for this reason that I am so pleased that parents, grandparents and caregivers now can shop with confidence and purchase cribs that meet the most stringent crib standards in the world," said Chairman Inez Tenenbaum.

"From the start, our goal has been to prevent deaths and injuries to babies in cribs, and now the day has come where only stronger and safer cribs are available for consumers to purchase."
Whether you are purchasing a new toy for your child or a new item of clothing, consumers are reminded to check the CPSC Recall List before you purchase any child product.

Continue reading "Defective Cribs, Among Other Recalled Products Can Cause Serious Harm to Children in Palm Beach" »

Driving on our roadways may now be more dangerous than ever with a number of recent vehicle-related safety recalls. Defective vehicle products can greatly increase your risk of being involved in a car accident in West Palm Beach and elsewhere throughout the United States, especially if you never hear about these recalls.

Luckily, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers consumers with a list of recalls. These recalls can be independently conducted by a manufacturer or ordered by the Administration. On their website, you can access public reports describing a number of safety-related defects of vehicle records or noncompliance with federal motor vehicle safety standards.

Our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys urge that all residents sign up, through the agency's website, for government alerts regarding major events that result in a recall determination, a description of the remedy and a schedule for the recall. Vehicle recalls can occur because of defective manufacturing of vehicles, tire, car seats, etc.

The NHTSA's job isn't done after they've informed the consumer about these recalls. They follow-up to ensure that the manufacturers provide owners safe, free, and effective remedies according to the Safety Act and Federal regulations.

An NTSHA recall notification letter contains the following information:

-A description of the defect or noncompliance.

-A description of the potential risks or hazards posed by the problem. This includes any warning signs of the problem.

-A description of the free remedy, including when the remedy will be available and how long the repair will take.

-A description of what the vehicle's owner can do if they're unable to have the problem fixed within a reasonable time and without charge.
Safety Defect/Noncompliance Notices Received in June:

-Volvo is recalling 2010 S60 models because the fuel pump may not be compatible with all fuel pumps and components. The result is an insufficient fuel transfer in the pump unit.

-Porsche is recalling 2010-2011 911 Turbo, Turbo S, GT3, GT3 RS and GT2 RS because the center locking hub and wheel assemblies can wear prematurely.

-Affinia is recalling their aftermarket front suspension lower ball joints.

-BMW has recalled certain models of their 2011 X3's because the control module in the electric power steering unit could malfunction. This malfunction could result in a sudden loss of power steering.

-Kawasaki is recalling their 2009-2010 KLX250 motorcycles because the fuel tank could leak from cracks at the spot welds on the side mount tabs.

-Ducati is recalling 2011 Diavel motorcycles because the brass inserts installed in the chain can deform over time.

-Mazda has recalled the 2008-2009 models of the Mazda3 and the Mazdaspeed3 because the ground terminal of the windshield wiper could have been inadvertently bent when it was initially assembled.

-GMC is recalling 2011 Cadillac Escalades,Chevrolet Silverado HD, Silverado LD, Suburban and the Tahoe because the immediate steering shaft attaching bolts may not have been tightened correctly.

-Toyota has recalled its 2011 Siennas and Venzas because of the possibility that the front drive shaft could break because of insufficient heat treatment.

Luckily, there were no tire or car seat recalls in June. For more updates, please register with the NHTSA. Staying updated with recent vehicle recalls can help to keep you and your family safe on our roadways.

Continue reading "Get Vehicle Recall Information to Decrease Your Risks of a Serious Car Accident in Fort Lauderdale and Elsewhere" »

If you think bottle rockets, sparklers and small firecrackers are without risk because of their size you would be wrong according to new data recently released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Our Fort Lauderdale injury lawyers know that the Fourth of July has passed, but understand people will still be using fireworks throughout the summer. Please use these celebrate responsibly by not drinking and driving, engage in safe boating activities, and stay away from handling fireworks.

Data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission indicates that last year, during the 30 days surrounding July 4th, these small fireworks were responsible for sending roughly 1,900 consumers to emergency rooms. For the year, legal and illegal fireworks sent nearly 8,600 consumers to the hospital. Sadly, three people were killed in firework-related accidents. Of those injured by fireworks, about 40 percent were children under the age of 15.

"From purchase to ignition, know how you and your family can stay safe and which fireworks are allowed in your state if fireworks are part of your July 4th celebration," said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. "Never assume that a fireworks device is safe based on its size and never allow young children to play with or light fireworks. By knowing the dangers of all types of fireworks, consumers can prevent tragedies."

CPSC recently hosted its annual fireworks safety press conference, demonstrating the dangers related to legal and illegal fireworks. During the 30 days surrounding last year’s Fourth of July holiday, nearly 6,300 people were injured by all types of fireworks. Sparklers, firecrackers and bottle rockets accounted for about 40 percent of those injuries.

The hands, face and head are the common areas most injured by lacerations or burns. A joint effort by the CPSC, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) along with permanent staffing at the Import Safety Commercial Targeting and Analysis Center (CTAC) in Washington, D.C. was established to put into service new enforcement measures meant to stop the manufacturing and sales of illegal fireworks.

New procedures for selecting and identifying fireworks at ports began in 2010. CPSC staff would test selected fireworks to see if they complied with the Federal Hazardous Substance Act (FHSA). Nearly 45 percent of the fireworks that were tested did not comply with the FHSA.

Working closely with their federal partners, CPSC is enforcing fireworks regulations, prosecuting manufacturers of illegal fireworks, and trying to educate the public about the dangers associated with non-compliant fireworks. Recently the CPSC sent a letter to the industry about "adult snapper" devices. The letter cautions that an "adult snapper" is not manufactured in the same manner as a traditional "snapper." The "adult snapper" contains several milligrams of pyrotechnic composition, which CPSC considers equal to the regulatory definition of a firecracker.

Keep these safety tips in mind if you decide to purchase legal fireworks:
-Never let young children play with fireworks.
-Before buying or using fireworks, make sure they are legal in your area.
-Don't buy fireworks that are wrapped in brown paper. This usually indicates that the fireworks were meant for professional displays and are extremely dangerous.
-Adult supervision is always needed during firework activities. Even using sparklers need supervision, their temperatures can reach up to 2,000 degrees!
-Never lean over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse or light more than one at a time. Move quickly away immediately after lighting any fireworks.
-Never re-light or pick up fireworks that haven't gone off.
-Never point or throw fireworks at anyone and never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them out of metal or glass containers.
-Keep water close by in case there is a fire or other mishap. Douse all fireworks with water before throwing them in the trash.

Continue reading "Fireworks, Big and Small, Can Pose Risks to Users in Fort Lauderdale and Elsewhere" »

Recently the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) went live with SaferProducts.gov, a database ordered by Congress, as part of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. Consumers are urged to visit www.SaferProducts.gov to report an unsafe product.

Consumers can also search the database for products they are thinking about buying to gather safety information.

Our Palm Beach personal injury lawyers think that this user friendly site will assist CPSC in discovering hazardous products faster and get important safety information to consumers quicker.

"CPSC stayed on time and on budget in building this new database," said Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. "Through SaferProducts.gov consumers will have open access to product safety information that they have never seen before and the information will empower them to make safer choices."

Information requested in a Report includes:

-Description of the product or substance.

-Manufacturer name or private labeler.

-Describe the illness, injury, death, or risk of injury, illness, or death related to the use of a product or substance within the control of the CPSC.

-When did the incident occur?

-Who is reporting the incident - consumer, public safety entity, government agency, health care professional or child service provider?

-Name, telephone, mailing address, and email address of submitter of the Report.

-Victim's contact info and name.

-Documents and photos which identifies the product or manufacturer.

-What were the injuries and what medical treatment was received?

-Does the submitter want the Report in the Database?

-Will the submitter provide their contact info and name to the manufacturer or private labeler
identified in the Report?

-Verify the truth and accuracy of the info in the Report.

CPSC will then evaluate the Report, have up to 5 business days to communicate legitimate Reports to the manufacturer, allow the manufacturers up to 10 business days to respond and then post the Report and the manufacturer’s response on SaferProducts.gov.

Consumers must provide factual and accurate information to CPSC. Incomplete or inaccurate Reports can not be published. And confidential information in a Report will be removed prior to it being posted.

"I believe that an informed consumer is an empowered consumer," added Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. "The ability for parents and consumers to search this database for incidents involving a product they already own or are thinking of purchasing will enable them to make independent decisions aimed at keeping their family safe."

Since the end of January, CPSC started to register businesses online, and to test the system began accepting Reports through SaferProducts.gov. To date, nearly 1,500 reports have been filed online by consumers. Approximately 1,400 manufacturers have registered on the Business Portal. This allows them to promptly get a copy of a Report about their product via e-mail. Reports accepted prior to the "go live" date were processed internally by CPSC and could not be seen by the public.

"We will continue to accept written, phone and fax Reports, as we have for decades," said Chairman Tenenbaum. "What is new and significant today is that we are launching an up-to-date system for letting consumers review safety reports alongside manufacturer comments about those Reports."

Continue reading "Faulty consumer products a high risk of personal injuries in West Palm Beach" »

The Florida Legislature recently started the process of passing two bills that could put part of the blame on the victim in cases where accidents involve a defective vehicle, Automotive Discovery. Currently, Florida law deems the manufacturer to be completely responsible for serious or fatal injuries that result from a Palm Beach car accident caused by a defective product.

Our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers urge you to stand against these bills as manufacturers need to take full responsibility when a defective automobile results in serious or fatal injury to a consumer.

“What they decided was the jury would not be able to hear all the evidence in these types of cases. And that’s wrong. That’s absolutely wrong,” said Sen. John Thrasher.

The bills come after the Florida Supreme Court sided with Ford Motor Co. and other automobile manufacturers when a trial neglected to allow jurors to consider the cause of an accident, according to The Palm Beach Post. This is was D’Amario vs. Ford Motor Co. case.

“We Floridians buy these vehicles and we are led to believe that they will be safe, and safe from inherent defects that will cause secondary issues that can cause even more damage, injuries to people,” said Sen. Maria Sachs, R-Delray Beach. “Those manufacturers should be held accountable whether it’s a tractor, a motor vehicle.”

The bill “changes Florida law to permit juries in a Florida courtroom to hear all of the facts leading up to a products liability case, thereby allowing that jury to apportion fault,” said Sen. Garrett Richter, R-Naples, sponsor of SB 142. “It’s an opportunity to put all the facts on the table.”

We urge you to contact your Florida House of Representative to express your opposition to these bills. Because of these new bills, it is now more important than ever to contact an experienced attorney if you've been involved in a car accident you believe may be the result of a defective product.

Continue reading "Florida measures would force victims to share fault in Fort Lauderdale accidents caused by vehicle defects" »

The risk of defective product injury in Fort Lauderdale and throughout South Florida increases through the holidays, particularly when it comes to small children.

Our injury lawyers in Coral Gables, Hollywood, and throughout the region, wish each of you an enjoyable holiday season. But we also urge you to take special care when it comes to reducing the risk of serious or fatal injuries caused by defective products.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that toy recalls are declining even as the number of injuries has increased. Yet, even by its own admission, an average of one popular toy a week is recalled in this country because of its risk for serious or fatal injuries. And the government is not counting items made for children, such as strollers and cribs, of which more than 100 different products have already been recalled thus far in 2010.

The government is working to establish better safeguards after a rash of toy recalls involving lead paint and other hazards in 2008. The results are a decline in the number of recalled toys. So far this year, 44 toys have been recalled, compared to 50 recalls last year and 172 in 2008.

Still, 12 children died last year as a result of injuries involving toys and 24 children died in 2007 and 2008. Thousands of other kids were injured. In fact, the government reports the number of toy injuries continues to increase. Last year, nearly 200,000 emergency room visits involved toy injuries to children under the age of 15, compared to about 150,000 in 2005.

“By limiting metals and chemicals in toys and making the voluntary standard mandatory, CPSC has put safeguards in place for toys to better protect children,” said Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. “The increase in injuries is a concern, and we want parents to make safe purchases and for children to be safe at play. To help keep what has been called the most wonderful time of the year happy and incident-free, CPSC is encouraging consumers to adopt a three-pronged safety approach.”

A list of recalled children's products in Florida is available here.

Continue reading "Defective product injuries in South Florida a holiday risk" »

After being discovered unconscious by their son, a North Miami Beach couple was airlifted to Mercy Hospital where they are being treated in a hyperbaric chamber for carbon monoxide poisoning, CBS-4 reports. A spokesman said the home was equipped with multiple gas appliances and high levels of the odorless, colorless – often deadly – gas was detected in the home.

South Florida premises liability lawyers and defective product attorneys know that with cooler weather approaching, South Florida residents will be starting heating units, relying on gas-burning warming units and using fireplaces that have sat dormant for months. Now is the time for homeowners, property managers, landlords and residential home facility managers to test fire alarms, sprinklers and CO detectors as well as perform annual safety and maintenance checks on gas-burning equipment.

More than 30,000 Americans are injured and more than 4,500 are killed in fire-related accidents each year. Carbon monoxide poisoning – also known as the “silent killer” – sickens more than 10,000 Americans each year, claiming the lives of 1,500 due to accidental exposure. The Environmental Protection Agency identifies the following safety tips and CO poisoning indicators:

CO Poisoning Symptoms:

~ headaches

~ confusion

~ nausea

~ dizziness

~ unconsciousness and death

~ in milder cases of exposure, victim may complain of flu-like symptoms

To mitigate effects of carbon monoxide exposure:

~ leave the environment immediately and seek fresh air – DO NOT remain indoors if you think you may be suffering from carbon monoxide intoxication

~ seek medical attention

To prevent carbon monoxide exposure:

~ have all fuel-burning appliances inspected by a professional on a regular basis

~ make sure ventilation systems are properly maintained and open

~ never leave a car running in an enclosed space for any period of time

~ never use gas-burning lawn equipment in an enclosed space

~ don’t use a charcoal grill indoors or sleep in a room with a fuel-burning space heater

Continue reading "North Miami Beach couple poisoned by CO exposure from gas leak spotlights South Florida premises liability and defective product issues" »