Friedman Sanchez, LLPFriedman Sanchez, LLP2026-11-09T16:23:35Zhttps://www.friedmansanchez.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1404518/2021/10/fav-75x75.pngOn Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[How dangerous is eating while driving?]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=675752026-10-09T17:16:03Z2026-10-09T17:16:03ZThere are tens of thousands of Americans on the roadways across the country right now. It is likely that a great deal of these drivers are currently distracted. It is true that a common cause of distracted driving is the use of smartphones, but some forms of distracted driving seem much more innocuous than this.A common and dangerous variety of distracted driving is eating while driving. According to Decide to Drive, drivers who eat or drink while driving increase their chances of crash or near-crash by 39%.
A list of the most dangerous foods
Some foods appear at crash sites more than others. Common foods involved with automobile crashes include coffee, soft drinks, soups, hamburgers, tacos and donuts.Many of these foods are easy to obtain from roadside eateries or convenience stores. If you choose to eat a Thanksgiving dinner while driving, this does not make the practice any safer simply because stuffing or cranberry sauce does not appear frequently at crash sites.
Reducing eating while driving
Many Americans eat behind the wheel due to a lack of time. If you frequently find yourself eating breakfast on the way to work, consider setting your alarm clock a little bit earlier in the morning. As little as 10 minutes can be the difference between enjoying breakfast at your dining room table versus trying to eat while navigating rush hour traffic. If you are planning for a long car ride, consider packing lunch. This way you can stop at a rest stop to enjoy your meal. Not only will this prevent you from operating a vehicle while eating, it will likely be less expensive and healthier than drive-thru offerings. ]]>On Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[Do you know these vital construction safety issues?]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=677682026-10-09T17:16:03Z2026-10-09T17:16:03Zexplains essential construction site safety issues. Find out whether and where your company dropped the ball.
Project comprehension
Before starting a project, all involved must comprehend the nature of the work. Construction workers must understand their responsibilities, and they should know which requirements their work must meet. Those in charge of projects must understand all government regulations that apply to the work and know the groups of construction workers on the site.
Well-educated workers
You and your coworkers deserve to understand a project's unique risks. This could mean receiving a refresher course on OHSA's "focus four": electrocution hazards, caught-between or in hazards, struck-by hazards and fall hazards. Worksite leaders must check that everyone on-site has the right skills and experience to tackle the project safely.
Hierarchy of controls
Construction site leaders must understand and apply the hierarchy of controls. Rather than relying on personal protective equipment first, safety professionals and contractors must replace or eliminate risks first. When workers don PPE, they should understand how all the components work.
Safety management systems
To keep workers safe, construction site leaders must think about the quality of training they offer employees and how they approach safety. OSHA offers safety management system elements such as communication, employee participation, program evolution and risk assessment.
Construction companies owe workers a duty of care. When they neglect to uphold that duty and workers sustain injuries, harmed employees may have a personal injury case.]]>On Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[Construction and occupational deaths by the numbers]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=682612026-10-09T17:16:03Z2026-10-09T17:16:03ZDangers in the private construction industry
According to information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in New York City the private construction sector recorded the highest number of fatalities of any sector in a recent report for 2020. Of 13 fatalities for that year, five came from the category of falls, slips and trips, The prior year, 29 deaths occurred in this sector.
All occupational deaths in New York City in 2020, the most recent report of completed data, totaled 59. Historically, this number falls in the low range, as occupational deaths in the city have ranged from as high as 191 to as low as 53. Nationwide, data showed 4,764 work fatalities, an 11 percent decrease from the previous year, and the lowest total since 2011.
Comparison between NYC and the nation
When compared with fatal injuries across the nation, New York City experienced more percentage of deaths from the following events: exposure to harmful substances and environments; violence and other injuries by persons or animals; and falls, slips and trips. The U.S. as a whole had a higher percentage of workplace fatalities in the categories of contact with objects or equipment and miscellaneous causes of death.
Statistics show that dangerous workplace incidents rise and fall. Labor statistics provide some clues as to the hazards workers face.]]>On Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[Back injuries and vehicle accidents]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=682662026-10-09T17:16:03Z2026-10-09T17:16:03ZCommon back injuries
Information from Alexander Orthopaedic Associates reveals the common nature of car accidents that result in lasting back pain. The symptoms of a back injury can include minor discomfort that goes away in just a few days to severe pain that limits daily activities.
The typically violent mechanism of an accident causes the body to stop abruptly. A seat belt, dashboard, steering wheel or even the ground can quickly stop the movement of the body, resulting in damage to the back or spinal cord. The speed and force of a collision can cause a variety of back injuries:
Vertebrae fractures
Strains and sprains
Damaged discs
Degenerative spinal disorders
Degenerative back problems can worsen in the weeks and months after an accident. This can lead to sciatica, pinched nerves, bone spurs and other problems.
Best treatment options
Any back injury from a car accident should come under the care of a medical professional. Treatment options vary depending upon the type of injury, but physical therapy, oral pain medications, corticosteroid injections and surgery can all lessen pain and symptoms.
Waiting to see a medical professional after an accident can lead to unnecessary pain and suffering, and result in muscle spasms, tingling, numbness, headaches and dizziness. The smart course of action calls for prompt medical care either from an emergency room or a primary care provider.]]>On Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[What happens to crush injury sufferers?]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=684182026-10-09T17:16:03Z2026-10-09T17:16:03ZCrush injuries of the trunk
Up To Date takes a look at crush injuries and victims who suffer from them. First, note that all crush injuries require immediate medical attention. Even if a person thinks they are relatively minor, they could have done deeper damage than anticipated.
Next, understand the repercussions specific to the area of the body crushed. For example, injuries to the torso or trunk area of the body will usually come with a risk of organ failure. As organs struggle to get fresh blood and oxygen, they will begin to stress, shut down and fail. Other organs may also fail as they struggle to keep up with the rising demands of an ill body.
Crush injuries to the limbs
As for injuries to the extremities or limbs, the biggest risks tend to come in the form of infection. Necrosis may occur as flesh and tissue lose oxygen and blood. Through this decayed and damaged flesh, bacteria may enter, causing infection. Gangrene may lead to the possibility of an amputation, and a victim may even suffer through sepsis, which can prove fatal.
With full-body crush injuries, the victim faces all of these risks combined. They are in the most dangerous situation. However, as mentioned, all crush injuries require medical treatment as soon as possible.]]>On Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[Scaffolding safety regulations in New York]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=687292026-10-09T17:16:03Z2026-10-09T17:16:03ZScaffolding towers along many New York City construction sites. These structures help workers reach high places and perform tasks safely. However, scaffolding accidents do occur. Accidents involving scaffolding can lead to severe injuries or worse. To prevent these accidents, there are strict scaffolding safety regulations.
Current regulations
The New York State Department of Labor enforces scaffolding safety regulations. These regulations aim to ensure the safety of construction sites for workers and pedestrians and require all scaffolding to be inspected by qualified personnel. Training is also an important part of keeping worksites safe. Workers must receive training on how to use and put up scaffolding safely.Regulations also require qualified personnel to design the scaffolding. The law mandatesguardrails and toeboards to prevent falls. Additionally, proper anchoring of scaffolding is essential to ensure stability.
Recent improvements
New rules now require more frequent inspections. They also call for stricter enforcement of existing safety measures. For example, any modifications to scaffolding must be overseen by a qualified person. The updated rules also emphasize the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE includes equipment such as harnesses and helmets.These changes have significantly impacted construction site safety. There has been a noticeable decrease in scaffolding-related accidents. Workers report feeling safer and more confident while performing their duties. Contractors also benefit from fewer disruptions and delays caused by accidents.
Seeking support
Scaffolding safety regulations play a vital role in protecting construction workers. Staying updated on these rules is crucial for anyone involved in the construction industry. It is also important to know what resources are available to you, in the event that you get hurt on a construction site. ]]>On Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[Diagnostic errors in rare diseases]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=687362026-10-09T17:16:00Z2026-10-09T17:16:00ZDiagnostic errors in rare diseases often lead to serious consequences. Managing rare diseases can already be difficult to begin with. A misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can make a patient's situation significantly more difficult. Such situations may even constitute medical malpractice. This uncertainty adds more stress for patients and their families. Understanding these issues and knowing what options are available is extremely important.
Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis
Rare diseases affect just a small percentage of the population. Doctors might not be familiar with these conditions, which often leads to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. A patient with a rare disease might get treated for a more common ailment, wasting valuable time and resources.
Impact on patient outcomes
The consequences of diagnostic errors often are severe. Patients might experience unnecessary procedures, incorrect treatments, or prolonged suffering. The delay in getting the right diagnosis can mean the disease progresses unchecked. This can lead to irreversible damage or even death. Not receiving specialized care could impact long-term health and quality of life.
Medical malpractice in New York
Medical malpractice occurs when healthcare providers fail to meet the standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. Doctors are expected to recognize when they might be dealing with an unusual case and refer the patient to a specialist. It is crucial that they connect their patients with the proper care. This includes encouraging second opinions when dealing with difficult cases. Failure to do so can be grounds for a malpractice lawsuit.
Strategies to improve diagnosis
Healthcare providers can take several steps to improve the diagnosis of rare diseases. More education and training on rare diseases can help doctors recognize unusual symptoms early. Utilizing advanced diagnostic tools, such as genetic testing, can provide more accurate results. Encouraging collaboration between general practitioners and specialists ensures that patients receive comprehensive care. Implementing these strategies can help the medical community reduce diagnostic errors and improve patient outcomes.]]>On Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[The impact of in-car technology on distracted driving litigation]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=690092024-09-19T03:54:38Z2024-09-19T03:54:38ZDistracted driving accidents are becoming increasingly common. It is important to understand how in-car technology contributes to these incidents. These situations often raise complex questions in personal injury claims.
How technology causes distractions
In-car technology, while designed for convenience, often creates significant distractions for drivers with roughly 3,000 people dying annually from distracted driving. Adjusting the GPS, changing music, or taking hands-free calls diverts attention from the road. This split-second distraction can result in serious accidents. This distraction serves as the basis for many personal injury claims. Traffic laws strictly prohibit cell phone use while driving, so proving that technology contributed to an accident can affect the outcome of a case.
Proving distracted driving in court
Proving distracted driving caused by in-car technology presents challenges in personal injury cases. Lawyers gather evidence from various sources, including phone records, vehicle data logs, and eyewitness testimony. Courts often consider the driver’s negligence a key factor when awarding damages to the injured party.
Legal implications for drivers
New York’s strict distracted driving laws impose serious legal consequences on drivers who cause accidents while using in-car technology. These consequences can include both criminal charges and civil liability. In personal injury claims, an at-fault driver may have to compensate the injured party for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. These can easily total in the thousands of dollars.
Navigating the legal landscape
Adapting to technological advancements while maintaining road safety is a shared responsibility. Collaborative efforts among drivers, manufacturers, and legislators can lead to solutions that minimize distractions. They may also bring clarity to legal processes in personal injury cases.]]>On Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[Inadequate safety training in construction accident liability]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=690112024-09-19T03:54:35Z2024-09-19T03:54:35ZConstruction sites are full of potential hazards, and accidents can happen quickly. When they do, questions about liability arise. It is important to understand how inadequate safety training can lead to accidents and expose employers to significant legal risks.
Proper safety training
Proper safety training is important in construction work. The law requires employers to train workers on how to handle equipment, navigate the site, and follow safety protocols. Some training comes with certifications. Workers may have to recertify every year or so to stay current on the newest protocols.
Lack of training and accidents
Inadequate safety training increases the likelihood of accidents, and statistics showed 1 in 5 workplace deaths happened in the construction industry in 2022. For example, when a worker does not know how to secure scaffolding properly, it can collapse and cause severe injuries. Workers who operate heavy machinery without proper training can cause severe accidents. This can result in serious injuries, equipment damage, and potential legal liability for the employer. These scenarios often prompt investigations where authorities view the employer’s failure to provide necessary training as negligence.
Liability and legal consequences
Accidents due to inadequate training can lead to serious legal and financial consequences for employers. Under New York Labor Law § 200 and § 241(6), employers must provide a safe work environment, which includes comprehensive safety training and adherence to safety standards outlined in the New York Industrial Code. When an injured worker proves that a lack of proper training directly contributed to the accident, courts may find the employer liable for damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
Construction Safety
A strong focus on preventing construction accidents helps create a safer environment for all workers. Emphasizing preventative measures and safety practices ensures that potential hazards are addressed before they lead to incidents, fostering a more secure work site.
]]>On Behalf of Friedman Sanchez, LLP<![CDATA[The role of improper fetal monitoring in birth injury claims]]>https://www.friedmansanchez.com/?p=690072024-09-19T03:54:33Z2024-09-19T03:54:33ZBirth injuries can result in serious, long-term consequences for both the child and the family. One common factor in medical malpractice claims for these injuries is improper fetal monitoring during labor and delivery. Understanding how this negligence can lead to birth injuries is important for examining these cases.
Why fetal monitoring matters
Fetal monitoring is important during labor, as it tracks the baby’s heart rate and detects signs of distress, such as a lack of oxygen. Doctors and nurses rely on this information to make timely decisions, like whether a C-section is necessary. Proper monitoring helps prevent complications that can lead to conditions such as cerebral palsy, brain damage, or other long-term health issues.Healthcare providers have a legal duty to monitor the baby’s condition and act promptly when signs of distress arise. They must follow a standard of care, which includes the proper use and interpretation of fetal monitoring. Failure to meet this standard can result in claims of negligence and birth injury suits.
The harm of improper monitoring
Improper fetal monitoring occurs when medical professionals fail to correctly interpret or respond to warning signs. Sometimes, they overlook signs of fetal distress or do not act quickly enough. For example, a delayed response to an abnormal heart rate can lead to oxygen deprivation, resulting in permanent brain damage. Families can use medical records, expert testimony, and monitoring data to prove that inadequate monitoring caused the injury. These situations often form the basis of medical malpractice claims related to birth injuries.
Birth injury claims
Recognizing the impact of improper fetal monitoring highlights the importance of accountability in medical care. Families affected by medical malpractice deserve a thorough investigation into the care provided, ensuring that the courts properly address and prevent any negligence in the future.
]]>