Attorney Blog

Woman forgets 7-month-old Baby | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Police have charged 24-year-old Kelly Gonzales with endangering the welfare of a minor.
According to reports, she drove away from a liquor store, leaving her baby in a shopping cart outside.
A customer found the 7-month-old girl a few minutes later and called the police. The baby had been outside for about 10 minutes in chilly weather.
Reports continued to say, Gonzales went to the store with the baby, her 2 year old, and a friend. When they left the store Gonzales forgot her 7 month old.
Once she realized her mistake roughly 45 minutes later, she returned to the store, where she was arrested.
The baby did not require medical attention. Social services have taken custody of all four of Gonzales' children.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

2 children injured in snowmobile accident | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Two children ages three and fiver were passengers on a snowmobile driven by their father. The father was driving the snowmobile up a hill when it started to tip the weight of the passeners forward and up against the throttle. This caused the snowmobile to speed up. They lost control of the machine and then struck a tree.

All three were not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. One of the children has bee released from the hospital while the other is listed in good condition.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accidents, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

2-year-old killed in driveway accident | Toledo Ohio child accident attorney

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

The Sheriff's office has ruled that the death of a two-year-old boy was an accident.

The incident took place on Monday. The boy was playing in the family's yard when his father was backing his vehicle out of the garage. He did not see his son and ran over him.

the child sustained serious injuries to the head and was not breathing. CPR was administered and he was transported to a local hospital. He was pronounced dead upon arrival.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accident, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Woman Charged with Child Neglect | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

32-year-old Chandra Greene was charged with three counts of neglect of her son.
According to reports, court records say a child welfare caseworker went to Green's residence to investigate after she received a tip that the middle school-age boy had been hit with a hammer.
When she arrived at the home, she found the boy with a head injury, the home dirty and without power.
It was reported that the boy told police at a hospital, his mother had struck him with a hammer on his leg, arm, head and between his eyes.
The boy's sister was also reported telling police his brother told her "he got a whooping because he ate all of his mom's food.

37-Year-Old Crashes into A Utility Pole with Daughter in the Car | Columbus Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

37-year-old Stacie Carroll is facing charges of OVI, failure to control and child endangerment, after she crashed her car into a utility pole with her 8-year-old daughter in the car.

Reports say she was under the influence of prescription drugs when the crash occurred.

Carroll’s daughter was taken to an area hospital with minor injuries and was to be released into her father’s custody. Carroll was not seriously injured.

The law says, “Any type of drug abuse — whether it’s prescribed medication or not — taken outside of its quantity in the state of Ohio is still considered ‘operating a vehicle under the influence. A lot of individuals think they get an OVI charge just because they’re operating under the influence of alcohol, but prescription medications that you can get over the counter ... or nonprescription drugs such as marijuana ... still count.”

Toddler killed in farm accident | Ohio child accident lawyer

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

A 17-month-old boy was killed on his family's farm in a tragic accident. The little boy was in a horse pen with his mother and sister when he escaped out of the fenced area. He went to where his father was operating a front end loader. His father did not see his son and backed over him. When he realized what had just taken place, the boy was rushed to the emergency room, but his injuries were too severe.

The identity of the family has not been released.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accidents, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Car Seat, Booster Seat and Seat Belt Safety | Bowling Green Ohio child injury lawyers

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Rear-Facing Car Seats

For the best possible protection, keep your baby in a rear-facing child safety seat in a back seat for as long as possible—up to the height or weight limit of the particular seat. Recent recommendations (March 2011) by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) urge parents to keep their babies rear-facing up to the second birthday. The old rule "12-months-and-20-pounds" that many parents cite when turning their child forward in the car is actually the minimum size and age requirement.
Car seats vary in shapes and sizes, be sure to follow all safety instructions for your model of car seat
Do not use any products in the car seat that did not come from the manufacturer.Car seat fabrics meet strict fire safety codes. Add-on toys can injure your child in a crash.
Find where the frontal airbags are in your vehicle by checking the owner’s manual. Never put a rear-facing car seat in front of an active airbag. Children are always safest in a back seat.

Forward-Facing Car seats

Use a forward-facing car seat correctly and until the harness no longer fits (convertible or combo seat) in a back seat every time your toddler rides in a car. Many harnesses today serve kids to 50, 60, 80 or even 100 pounds.

Take the next step to a booster seat when you answer “yes” to any of these questions:

Does your child exceed the car seat’s height or weight limits?

Are your child’s shoulders above the car seat’s top harness slots?

Are the tops of your child’s ears above the top of the car seat?

Booster Seats

Vehicle seat belts are designed to fit an average-sized adult. Children usually need a car seat or booster seat until they are about 4 feet 9 inches tall and weigh between 80 and 100 pounds to get the best protection from a seat belt. Many children will be between 8 and 12 years of age before they meet these heights and weights.
Properly use a car seat or booster seat each time your child rides in the car
Never place the shoulder belt under the child’s arm or behind the child’s back
Make sure all other drivers properly use the booster seat if your child is riding with them

Never leave children alone in a vehicle

Seat Belts

Make sure that everyone sits upright when using seat belts. Never let them lean against windows or car doors or lie down. Never put the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back.
Inform other drivers that your child must use a seatbelt when riding with them
All children under 13 years old should ride in the back seat

All recommendations were found from www.safekids.org

Call 800.637.8170 if you or someone you know has a child that was injured in an accident to request your free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents"

Child injured in school zone | Toledo Ohio child injury lawyer

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A child was struck by a vehicle this morning while crossing at a crosswalk on his way to school. The authorities have reported that the child was in the middle lane when he was struck by a car. The driver slwoed down, but never stopped to help. Police are currently looking for the driver of the vehicle.

The unidentified child was taken to a local hospital for treatment of the injuries sustained. They are believed to be minor.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child on scooter in serious condition after car crashes | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Marcus Permenter, 28, blew past a stop sign in a residentail area on Sunday reaching a speed of nearly 100 mph. His Cutlass smashed into a Toyota Camry. Robert Glover, Jr., 6, was riding his scooter bearby at the time of the crash. he got caught in the middle of the accident and was thrown into the street.

Neighbors and family members rushed out to the accident to try and help. Little Robert was in the street surrounded by broken glass and metal. Paramedics rushed the boy to the hospital. He remains in critical condition.

The four people that were in the Camry were also taken to the hospital along with the driver of the Cutlass.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accidents, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child hit while crossing street | Toledo Ohio child accident attorney

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A woman has been accused of leaving the scene of an accident after she hot a child with her car.

Miriah Gillette, 18, was driving when a group of children returning to the Boys and Girls Club from an outing were crossing the street. Instead of waiting for them, she drove around them but hit a 6-year-old boy. She left the scene immediately.

The boy was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The driver was tracked down by police and found at her apartment. She was arrested and charged with reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident and no insurance.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accident, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Top Accidents Involving Children At Home | Swanton Ohio Child injury lawyer

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Home accidents are all tragic and all easily preventable. Once your child begins crawling preventative action such as stairway gates and plastic safety caps for all electrical outlets should be taken. In addition, all power cords should be safe, with no wires showing and unable to cut.

The top accidents involving children at home are:

-Drowning

-Fire

-Burns from pots

-Grease

-Irons

-Head injuries

-Poisoning

-Electrocution

-Shooting

-Broken bones

-Suffocation

You can never be too safe when it comes to your infant, take any precautions you deem necessary in order to prevent unfortunate accidents.

Call 800.637.8170 if you or someone you know has a child that was injured in an accident to request your free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents."

Child is injured in sledding accident | Fostoria Ohio child accident lawyer

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The Fostoria Police Department are investigating a report that over the weekend a child was injured while sledding in Portage Park. Portage Park is in Wood county and has a sledding hill and many other outdoor activities.

The accident happened on Sunday afternoon. The police report stated that a child had sustained facial and brain injuries and was transferred to Nationwode Children's Hospital in Columbus.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accidents, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Family struck while crossing the street | Fremont Ohio child injury lawyer

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Police are investigating an accident that left one child dead and two others injured.

The accident occurred Tuesday night when a mother and her sons, ages 7 and 8, were crossing the street after running some errands. As they crossed a Crown Victoria driven by Dagoberto Trevino struck the family.

They were all transported from the scene to nearby hospitals. One of the boys died shortly after arriving. The mother is being listed in serious condition.

according to the police, Trevino and two of his friends who were in the car at the time did stay at the scene of the accident and were cooperating. Trevino stated that he just did not see the family crossing.

At this time no charges have been filed.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

4-year-old Killed by Escalator | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Eric and Laura DiBona, have filed a law suit over the death of their 4-year old son Mark DiBona who was killed in an escalator accident in a Sears store.
According to reports, Mark was stepping onto the escalator when the force of the escalator handrail pulled him into a 6 1/4-inch gap between the escalator and a plexi-glass barrier. He fell one story below and suffered severe head injuries. He died from his injuries the next day.
The parents were with their son at the time of the fatal accident.
It has been said that the Defendants’ negligence is the reason for the child’s death because; the companies involved in the installation and operation of the escalator failed to follow state rules and their own construction plans in 2009.
According to reports, when new escalators were installed in the mall back in 2009, the town of Auburn, Mass., approved a building permit for the installation of barriers to close the same gap that the boy went through and fell. However, the gap had not been closed.

Man charged in causing school bus accident | Toledo Ohio child injury attorney

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A man has been arrested and charged with a DUI for causing an accident on Tuesday morning. The accident occurred when William Churchill McCarty, 50, crossed the center line while driving his pickup truck and hit a school bus at about 8 a.m.

When police arrived on the scene it was apparent the Mr. McCarty was under the influence. One witness stated that he had called 911 about the vehicle and was following him so that he could tell the authorities his location.

The driver of the scool bus and a child were both injured in the accident. They were treated for their injuries and released from the hospital.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Cadmium in jewelry poison risk for children | Toledo Ohio child accident attorneys

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Recent reports have shown that children can be exposed to as much as 100 times the recommended limit of cadmium when they either put inexpensive jewlery in their mouth or accidentally swallow it.

The safety authorities are now investigating the presence of cadmium in children's jewlery imported from China. Investigation shows that some Chinese manufacturers have been substituting cadmium for lead in inexpensive charm bracelts and pendants that are sold throughout the United States Canada.

Cadmium, which is a heavy metal, can cause kindey, lung, bone and liver disease. All exposures to cadmium should be avoided. It is a concern becuase it accumulates in the body over our lifetime and especially dangerous in the younger years because children's digestive system are more efficient at absorbing it.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a child accidents, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Girl drowns, tubing company at fault | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Allsouth Tubing Company could face criminal charges in the death of a 9-year-old girl. The company failed to warn the girl and her family of the dam's pending release and what to do in case of an emergency when they rented them the equipment.

Within minutes of the girl and her family entering the river with her two parents and three siblings, the little girl was swept downstream by the river's currents. The dam was released 2.5 miles upstream. The little girl was pulled out of the water two hours later. She had drowned.

If you have lost a loved one due to another's negligence, you need help. Call our Toledo, Ohio personal injury lawyers at 800.637.8170 today to schedule a free legal consultation.

Bus Carrying Marching Band Catches Fire in Ohio | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyers

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A bus caught fire in Northeast Ohio while carrying a high school marching band to a Martin Luther King Jr. event in Pennsylvania.

Band director Donshon Wilson of Shaw High School in East Cleveland told WEWS-TV that a tire blew out on Monday January 16, 2012 and caught fire. Students were evacuated and 911 was called.

No one was injured by the incident.

The Ohio Department of Transportation stated that eastbound lanes of the highway were closed for over two hours in Lake County.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accidents, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Parents awarded $9.85 million in daycare wrongful death | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyers

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The parents of a toddler who died on march 19, 2009 have been awarded $9.85 million in damages in their wrongful death lawsuit.

Kemi Green and Gbolohan Bankolemoh enrolled their child, Abiola, in a daycare that claimed to be state-approved. The daycare owners left the child unattended on March 19, 2009 and during this time the child fell into an unsecured pool and drowned.

Because of the negligence of the daycare owners, a small child lost her life. They must be held responsible for their actions.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accidents, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Parents urged to use car seats | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

It is estimated that 63 per cent of deaths of children under the age of 14 are caused by road accidents. The proper use of a car seat can reduce the mortality rate by 71 per cent. Out of all of the deaths recorded in the country, 83 per cent of children who used car seats did not suffer any form of injury.

Authorities have taken it upon themselves to educate the public about the importance of using children's car seats.

Types of safety seats:

Children 0-9 months, or those weighing 0-13kg, must be seated in child seats facing the rear of the car.
Children between 9 months and 3.5 years, weighing 9kg to 18kg, should be seated in car seats facing forward.
Seat boosters can be used for children between 3.5-12 years, weighing 15-36kg.
Support cushions can be used for children aged six to 11 years, who weigh 22kg to 36kg.
Child seats should be placed on the back seat, secured with seat belts.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accident, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

One-Month-Old Suffocated | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

One-month-old baby boy Michael Baldwin III died after his babysitter, 39-year-old Teresa Coffey collapsed on top of him.

According to reports, "The woman was described as extremely heavy. She was extremely large-breasted...Because of the amount of flesh it could have caused the baby to suffocate."

Michael Baldwin II, received troubled voicemail from Coffey and rushed home after calling back and not being able to get a hold of her.

He found Coffey passed out in the living room, but couldn’t find his son. He lifted Coffey and his son was underneath her, lying on his back with his hands folded on his stomach.

Examiners are still conducting autopsies and toxicology tests, but they believe this was an accident.

Father Suffocates Son | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

26-year-old Eric D. Griffin pleaded guilty to suffocating his four-week-old son with a pillow and was sentenced to 12 years in Prison
Reports said Griffin wanted to stop the newborn from crying. He removed the pillow when the infant stopped making noise.

When he saw that the baby was not breathing, he left the house. The baby was found by his grandmother and rushed to Lourdes Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.

Griffin pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter.

8-year-old girl sent to the hospital | Findlay Ohio Child Injury lawyer

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

21-year-old Ethan Bodenhorn was given a ticket for failing to maintain assured clear distance ahead after he sent 8-year-old Destiny Houck to Blanchard Valley Hospital with possible injuries.
Reports say Heather Houck, Destiny’s mother, was driving in her a Chevy PT Cruiser when she attempted to slow down for traffic. Bodenhorn hit her from behind in his Pontiac Sunfire.
Neither of the drivers was injured.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Mother admits to Throwing away Dead Child | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

India Parker was arrested and her bond set at $10,000 after she admitted to police that she threw Kaliyah Parker, her dead child's body out with the trash.

Kaliyah vanished in 2006, when she was five-years-old. She would be 11 now. Friends and relatives say the child has not been seen in years. They said in reports that India would always make excuses to explain the girl's absence.

Police are still searching for the missing childs body.

2-year-old dies in car accident | Toledo Ohio car accident attorney

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Both an adult man and a young child were killed in a car accident on Monday night. According to state police, Curtis Thompson, 35, and a 2-year-old boy were killed when the vehicle they were in crashed on Route 3.

The officials say that both the man and the child were rushed to the hospital where they died a short time later. The preliminary investigation shows that the man was not wearing a seat belt but that the child was properly restrained in a car seat.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a child accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child killed in go-kart accident | Toledo Ohio child accident attorneys

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The first day of the new year turned into a tragic day for the family of a 10-year-old girl.

Laura Carson was at a relative's house driving a go-kart whne she lost control of it and rear-ended a parked car. The kart did not have a roll cage and she was not wearing a helmet.

Firefighters responded to the scene first and she was taken to a local hospital by ambulance. She was pronounced dead by the emergency room doctors.

State troopers are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

If your child has been injured in an accident, you need help. Our Toledo Ohio child accident attorneys are expereinced at handling these cases and will work with you to get you the settlement you deserve.

Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents and set up a free consultation.

6 children among injured in 5 vehicle crash | Toledo Ohio child accident attorney

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The authorities have reported that six children and three adults have been injured in a five-vehicle crash. None of the injuries sustained in the accident appear to be life-threatening.

Police stated that a vehcile headed south on Elssworth ran a red light and collided with another vehicle. In total two cars, a pickup truck and an SUV were involved in the accident.

Officials say that the six injured children range in age from 2 to 10. Also reported is that one adult was ejected from the vehicle.

The identities of the crash victims were not immediately released.

If your child has been injured in an accident, you need help. Call our Toledo Ohio child accident attorney. We are experienced at handling all types of child injury cases and will work with you to get you the settlement you deserve.

Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents and set up a free consultation.

Toledo Father Sentenced for Shaking Baby | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyers

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A Toledo man, Johnathon Dominguez, 23, has been accused of squeezing and shaking his four-month-old son and will be going to prison for four years.
Police say that Dominguez shook his son so hard that he broke the child’s ribs and caused bleeding in the infant’s brain.
The child was listed in critical condition.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child Burned by Energized Power Line after Car Crash | Toledo Ohio child accident attorneys

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Xavier Massey, 13, was riding in the passenger seat of an SUV when the driver struck a utility pole during a rainstorm. The collision downed the power lines. After the impact, two of the three power lines shut down as they were designed to, but the third line stay active.
Massey emerged from the collision uninjured until he accidentally came into contact with the live power line. He suffered electrical burns to about 4 percent of his body, including burns to both feet. The burns on his feet resulted in the amputation of three toes on one foot and two toes on the other. He also endured electrical burns to his left hand and elbow.
Massey’s past medical expenses totaled at about $600,000 and his future medical expenses are expected to be about $3 million.
On behalf of Massey, his mother sued the power company that maintained the utility pole and lines. She alleged that the safety system failed to shut down one of the power lines after impact, as required by the National Electric Safety Code. The power company contended that the third line had an overly large fuse, which prevented it from shutting down.
The jury found the power company 100 percent liable and awarded $4.4 million. The parties eventually settled for a confidential amount.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Wal-Mart pulls formula after an infant died | Toledo Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Wal-Mart has pulled a batch of powdered infant formula from more than 3,000 of its stores nationwide after the death of 10-day-old Avery Cornett who was given the formula and became sick with a rare bacterial infection and died.
No government recall had been ordered for the cans of Enfamil Newborn powder and records showed the lot tested negative for the bacterium before it was shipped. Wal-Mart spokeswoman Dianna Gee said the company decided to pull the lot just to be safe.
Health officials are still investigating The product could go back on shelves depending on the outcome of the investigation, but customers who bought the cans have the option of returning them for a refund or exchange.
Samples of the formula given to Avery were sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for testing.
Investigators have not determined whether the illness is linked to the formula or an outside source.
Avery was taken to St. John's Hospital-Lebanon after looking tired and showing signs of a stomach ache. He was transferred St. John's Hospital-Springfield, and preliminary tests showed that he had contracted a rare bacterial infection.
He died Sunday after being removed from life support.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in an accidents you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Two children injured in unrelated accident | Toledo Ohio child injury attorney

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A toddler was riding her toy scooter on Tuesday when she went into the road and was hit by an oncoming car. The little girl was transported from the scene to a nearby hospital and is listed in serious condition. The accident happened about 5:30 p.m.

In a seperate incident on the same day, a 13-year-old was attempting to cross a street with a group of friends when he was hit by a vehicle. The teenager was tranported to a nearby hospital, but his condition is unknown.

If your child has been injured in an accident you need help. Call our Toledo Ohio child injury attorneys today.

Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents and set up a free consultation.

Build-A-Bear recalls teddy bears | Toledo Ohio child injury attorney

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Nearly 300,000 Colorful Hearts Teddy Bears sold in the United States by Build-A-Bear Workshop. The bears were sold from April to December of this year. The recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Although no injuries have been reported yet, the teddy bear's eyes can loosen and fall out. This poses a choking hazard to small children.

Owners of the recalled teddy bear should take it from children and return it to any Build-A-Bear store to receive a coupon for any available stuffed animal from Build-A-Bear.

If you have any additional questions about the recall you can call 866-236-5638.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Children and dog bites | Toledo Ohio child injury lawyer

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

We all love our family dog, but sometimes they can inflict a painful bite. The most common victim of dog bites are children between ages five and nine.

In 2006 more than 31,000 people had to undergo some type of surgery because of a dog bite. The most common complications come from unchecked infections.

Many people think that their pet is friendly and clean and so they underestimate their injuries. Animal bites should be checked out by a doctor. If the bite involves serious bleeding, urgent care is required.

If your child has been bitten by a dog, you need our help. Call our Toledo Ohio child injury lawyers today. They will work with you to ensure you get the settlement you need and deserve.

Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents and The Ohio Dog Bite Book and set up a free consultation.

Mother attacks daughter after Packers lose | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyers

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Wisconsin woman has been charged with felony child abuse, misdemeanor counts of bail jumping and disorderly conduct after choking her 11-year-old daughter because the Green Bay Packers lost.
Police believe alcohol consumption was probably the major contributing factor and It just so happened that the Packers lost which seems to have increased her anger.
Also, the woman's daughter told police her mom was drinking in their Grand Chute hotel room and after the game her mom grabbed her hair and choked her.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child in hospital after driveway accident | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A tragic accident in a driveway on Monday has left a toddler in the hospital. The little girl was in the driveway as a famiyl member attempted to back out. She was too small to be seen in the mirrors and was struck.

The little girl was taken from the scene to the hospital with life threatening injuries.

A similar accident happened in the same town a few years ago where a 2-year-old was backed over in the driveway by a painter's truck.

This is such a tragic accident and our thoughts and prayers are with the family members.

If your child has been hurt in an accident, you need help. Our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers are here for you. We have handled many child accident cases and understand that this is a difficult time for you and your family. We will work for you and with you every step of the way to ensure that you and you family get the settlement you need and deserve.

Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents" and set up a free consultation.

Car accident kills 5-year-old | Toledo Ohio child injury attorney

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A 5-year-old was killed in a car accident on Tuesday. the accident occurred at 11:10 p.m. when a Toyota Camry collided with a tractor-trailer. The accident is still under investigation, however it seems that the Camry rear-ended the tractor-trailer.

Both drivers and two children were taken from the scene of the accident to a nearby hospital.

The 5-year-old died shortly after arriving to the hospital. This accident is still under investigation.

If your child has been injured in an accident, you need help. We understand that this is a very difficult time for you and your family. The Charles E Boyk Law Office is here to help you through every step of the process. Our Toledo Ohio child injury attorneys are experienced at handling all types of personal injury cases throughout northwest Ohio.

We will handle your case with personal attention and work hard to ensure you get the settlement you need and deserve.

Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents" and set up a free consultation.

Child recovers after leg mangled by lawn mower | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A tragic home accident happened on Monday night when a riding lawn mower mangled a 6-year-old's legs. Not much information has been released on the details of the accident. Cape Coral Police say that the child is listed in fair condition right now.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, almost 17,000 children children were the victims of lawn mower accidents in 2010.

Here are some tips regarding mower safety:

* Never allow a child to operate a power mower, even supervised, or ride "double" on a mower.

* Children should never play in areas where mowers are being used. Keep children, especially children ages 4 and under, supervised indoors whenever any outdoor power equipment is being used.

* Be alert for children when operating a power mower, especially when backing up or approaching trees and shrubs.

* Clear the mowing area from rocks, twigs, toys, wires, etc. which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.

* Children must be at least 14 years old with operational training and safety education before being allowed to operate a power mower or power equipment, and must be supervised by an adult.

* Keep children away from all power equipment. Never let children operate any power equipment.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents

2-Year-Old Found After Being Left Alone Over 24 Hours | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyers

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

24-year-old Anthony Venson has been charged with reckless endangerment, leaving a child unattended and neglect of a minor after reports say he left his 2-year-old daughter alone for more than 24 hours.
The Little girl was found alone inside a Capitol Heights apartment on Tuesday night.
Police say they got a call from the girl's mother, who has been in the hospital for several days, because she was worried.
They went to the complex and a property manager let authorities in the apartment, they found the little girl who was visibly hungry, malnourished and dehydrated only wearing a heavily soiled diaper and a sweater.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

4-year-old died | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

4-year old Cullen Reese Parker died walking through a parking lot after being hit by a car trying to exit.

Reports said, the driver, 21-year-old Laura Turner didn't see the boy. She was leaving her job at the end of the day and driving through the parking lot.

The little boy was taken to Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital, where he died.

The incident is under investigation. No charges have been filed.

Call 800.637.8170 if you or someone you know has a child that was injured in an accident to request your free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents"

Mother Hits Tree and Kills Child | Toledo Ohio Car Accident Lawyers

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

35-year-old Alice Powell, lost control of her minivan, flipped over and hit a tree.

Alice Powell suffered moderate injuries; her condition is unknown at this time. Her daughter, 7-year-old Ryanna Powell, died from her injuries.

Reports show neither victim was wearing a safety belt.

Police are investigating the cause of this accident.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, call our Toledo, Ohio car accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of The Ohio Accident Book.

Man Might get the Death Penalty | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Shawn Morgan has been charged for the death of Breeann Rodriguez. Several days after Rodriguez was taken, her body was found in a drainage ditch.

The Associated Press reported in August that court records said Morgan confessed to suffocating the girl.

He might face the death penalty.

Prosecutors filed a new charge of statutory aggravating circumstances against Morgan. That charge allows the state to seek the death penalty.

The state also filed a child kidnapping charge against Morgan.

Updates can be found at:

http://www.kmov.com/news/crime/Suspect-charged-with-killing-SE-Missouri-girl-could-face-death-penalty-128711573.html

Call 800.637.8170 if you or someone you know has a child that was injured in an accident to request your free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents"

7-month-old Skull Fractured | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Christopher DeCou has been charged with first degree assault after admitting to punching a 7-month-old named Anthony in the back of his head and fracturing its skull. Reports say he did it because the baby was crying and would not go to sleep.

He was babysitting the child while the child’s mother was at work.

The baby spent six nights at Cardinal Glennon and is expected to make a full recovery.

DeCou is being held in the St. Charles County Jail on $150,000 cash-only bond.

“You never think it's going to happen to your kids and with someone you leave your kids with whom you trust,” says Alicia Skaggs, the child’s mother.

Crisis Nursery is a great resource for parents or babysitters who feel overwhelmed.

Call 800.637.8170 if you or someone you know has a child that was injured in an accident to request your free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents"

Mother Sentenced to Life for Killing two Children | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A judge sentenced Sharon Hinojosa to life in prison Wednesday for setting a fire that trapped and killed two of her children, 4-year-old Anthony and 3-year-old Alayna in a mobile home in 2009.

She said the event in Huron Township was an accident. But prosecutors accused her of setting the fire in a bid to improve her relationship with a boyfriend, the father of another child who escaped the blaze in Hinojosa's arms.

She was convicted of first-degree murder.

If you or someone you know has a child who has experienced a child accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident Lawyer at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Toy warning to holiday shoppers | Toledo Ohio child injury attorney

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Ohio Public Interest Research Group has issued their 2011 study about specific toys that are considered dangerous and tips for avoiding other potentially hazardous products. This group has compiled this report for the last 26 years.

the group said that between 19920 and 2009 over 200 children have died as a result of unsafe toys. They say that while most toys are safe, researchers still found toys on shelves that pose choking hazards as well as other toys that contain hazardous levels of toxic chemicals including lead.

The group found a number of toys containing potentially dangerous levels of lead or phthalates, including "Little Hands Love" book, a Tinkerbell watch and a Hello Kitty eye shadow chain.

Ohio PIRG found 11 toys that could pose a choking hazard, including an Oscar the Grouch stuffed toy and wooden block set.

There are several toys that the PIRG found to be too loud. The toys made noise that is loud enough that it could damage a child's hearing, including an Elmo's World talking cell phone and a Hot Wheels "super stunt" vehicle.

Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents" and set up a free consultation. Our Toledo Ohio child accident attorneys are here for you.

Button batteries pose serious risk | Toledo Ohio child injury attorney

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

We live in a world where we are using more electronic products in our households every day. With these numbers increasing, so is the number of batteries being used.

Button batteries are the shiny batteries about the size of a dime that are used in remot controls, watches, musical gretting cards and toys. They are the perfect size for a child to swallow or to push into their nose or ear.

Between 2007 and 2009 more than 3,400 cases of button battery ingestion were reported annually. This can be a problem for doctors because children who have swallowed button batteries may not show any symptoms or have very non-specific symptoms like irritability, fever, cough, poor oral intake, vomiting or those common to a viral infection.

Smaller batteries like those found in hearing aids will usually pass through your system on their own, but larger batteries can get caught, causing more significant injury. The injury to children can be quite serious, including eroding through the esophogeal wall or airway, causing damage to nerves or eroding into a major blood vessel.

If your child has been injured in an accident, you need help. Call our Toledo, Ohio child accident attorneys today. Our Toledo area personal injury attorneys are experienced and will work with you to get you the settlement you deserve.

Holiday Safety | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Between 2005 and 2009, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 240 home fires a year that started with Christmas trees. There were an average of 13 deaths, 27 injuries and $16.7 million in property damage.

Local officials staged a demonstration last Wednesday to show how a Christmas tree can burn and the dangers of it.

It is important to remember to unplug your Christmas tree before you leave the house and never leave candles unattended.

Call 800.637.8170 to request your free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents" and set up a free consultation.

Our Toledo Ohio personal injury lawyers are here for you.

TV safety tip that could save your child | Toledo Ohio child accident attorney

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you buy a TV, it is very unlikely that you will find a safety device in there that could save your child from injury or in some extreme cases, death. That safety devices is a tv anchor or strap. These straps keep the TV from tipping over onto a child.

When looking to purchase a strap, parents may even have to look around for them because many stores do not carry them.

In light of some of the recent statistics, safety experts are requesting that these straps be part of normal television use. Between 200 and 2010, nearly 70% of all tip-overs involved TVs. Tv tip-overs accounted for 169 child deaths.

Using these straps is a safety measure parents can take to ensure that this tragic accident does not happen.

If your child has been injured in an accident, you need help. Our Toledo, Ohio child accident attorneys are here for you. Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents and set up a free consultation.

Students Vote Autistic Classmate out of Class | Toledo Ohio personal injury lawyers

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Doe, is a 6-year-old with autism who attended kindergarten at Morningside Elementary School. After he became disruptive and inattentive on day in class, Wendy Portillo made him stand in front of the class as they told him why they disliked him. Some students said that he was “disgusting” and “annoying”.

Portillo then took a class vote as to whether Doe should be allowed to remain in class. With a 14-2 vote, he was voted out of the class. Doe now attends a private school in another county. This incident caused him to have emotional distress and posttraumatic stress.

Does and his mother sued the teachers’ union and the school board alleging violations of 42 U.S.C. 1983, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

The defendants argued that Portillo had done nothing wrong.

The parties reached a settlement with a value of $350,000 and an expected payout of $427,000. The teachers union paid out $30,000 and the school board paid the rest.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Crash sends mother and three children to the hospital | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Attorney

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Cesar Anacleto veered into oncoming traffic hitting a van driven by Amy Welling around 5 p.m. Monday evening.

Welling had her three children in the van with her. They were all taken to a local hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries.

The impact caused major damage to both vehicles, and they had to be towed from the scene.

Anacleto was cited for not having a valid driver's license and not having proof of insurance.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents

In Memory for 3-year-old Hit and Run Victim | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyers

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Thursday morning a prayer candle and a vase of flowers was left at the intersection of Fifth Street at the North Bewley Street in memorial of a 3-year-old boy who was struck and killed by a intoxicated and unlicensed man. The driver fled the scene but was later arrested at his home by Santa Ana police.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents

3 Students injured in a school bus crash | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

An Austin school bus collided with a truck at the intersection of U.S. Highway 183 and Bolm Road Monday Morning sending three students to the hospital with minor injuries.

The 18 students on the bus were on their way to Austin High School. One of the drivers reportedly ran a red light, though police are still trying to figure out who was at fault.

The truck smashed into the bus in the back right wheel area.

There were no major injuries. Emergency crews took the bus driver and three students to University Medical Center Brackenridge to get checked out.

The bus was heading west on Bolm Road, while the Dodge pickup was heading south on Ed Bluestein Boulevard when the crash happened.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a child accident and you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

3 year old victim murdered and malnourished | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Andrisela Marie Ng, could face up to life in prison if jurors find her guilty of murdering her 3 year old daughter Gianna Espinoza back in December 2008.

Instead of calling 911 when her bruise-covered daughter had become unresponsive. She put the also malnourished child on the couch and called her husband at work.

Her husband Englebert Ng rushed home about fourteen minutes later and called authorities. But by that time, the child had died

Andrisela said that her child was upstairs playing with a sibling and she fell off the bed. Investigators later measured the bed the child was alleged by her mother to have fallen from and determined it was too low to have caused the head trauma she received.

The detective on the case stated to the jury this past Wednesday when the case went to trial, that the medical examiner said this child had blunt force injuries to the head. This was no accident. It is clear this death is a homicide.

6-year-old killed in school bus accident | Toledo Ohio Child Injury Lawyer

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Anthony Scott Jr. was walking home from Oakshire Elementary School on Monday when he was struck by a day care bus in the parking lot and killed.

His 10-year-old sister, Salina Webb, also is a student at the school told The Commercial Appeal her brother was hit as he turned around to pick up a book he had dropped. He fell down and hit the back of his head after the bus hit him.

He died later at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital.

Police have not filed any charges against the driver, Victor Hardy, 67.

Stefani Everson, a spokeswoman for Memphis City Schools, said the proper dismissal protocols were met at the school Monday. Schools have been told to review dismissal procedures for student walkers, car riders and bus riders.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

3 –year-old hit and killed by car | Toledo Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A 3-year-old girl died Tuesday after she was hit while crossing the road. She ran into the path of traffic and was struck by a Hyundai traveling westbound.

According to the Shelby County Sheriff's Office the driver attempted to stop, but was unable to avoid the child.

She was taken to Wilson Memorial Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Infant Wakes Up Inside Coffin | Toledo Ohio Child Neglect Attorney

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A newborn girl declared dead by doctors in Mexico came back to life inside her coffin at her wake.

Hidalgo State Attorney General Jose Rodriguez says the parents heard a strange noise coming from the casket. When they opened the coffin, they found the infant crying and very much alive.

The baby was born prematurely on Monday and was pronounced dead by a doctor at a hospital in the town of Tulancingo.

The doctor is now being investigated for possible negligence. The baby is in stable condition at a different hospital.

If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence of another party you need help. Our Toledo, Ohio wrongful death attorneys are here to help you through every part of your case. They are experienced in handling all kinds of wrongful deaths and many other lawsuits.

Call 800.637.8170 to request your free copy of The Ohio Wrongful Death Book and schedule your free consultation. You need an experienced Ohio wrongful death attorney in order to get the compensation you deserve.

Child dies when a tunnel collapses | Toledo Ohio Wrongful Death Lawyer

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Hannah Marie Todd suffocated while digging in the sand underneath a piece of playground equipment.

The tunnel, which witnesses say several children had been working on for days, collapsed on Hannah.

As a way to honor Hanah’s memory, they plan to petition the city to rename Penney Park as "Hannah Memorial Park."

People gathered Tuesday for the funeral at Opportunity Baptist ChurchThe crowd overflowed the church sanctuary and an adjacent room, with others standing outside.

Renaming the park would help the community, as well as the family, heal from the tragic loss of a promising young life.

Child endangerment - Drunk Driving | Toledo Ohio Car Accident Lawyers

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

On Sunday afternoon, Wendy Lynne Trongo was driving drunk when her SUV landed in a ditch.

Macomb County Sherriff deputies say her 1-year-old and 3-year-old children where inside when the accident happened at the intersection of South River Road and Hazel.

Deputies reported they could smell the alcohol from her Dodge Durango and that the 33-year-old mother was slurring her speech. She blew a .33 on her breathalyzer test, which is four times the legal limit.

Sheriff Anthony Wickersham says Trongo was still behind the steering wheel and the engine of the vehicle was running. Her two small kids were in the back seat of the vehicle. Fortunately no one was hurt.

The children were turned over to their father. The mother was placed under arrest for Operating While intoxicated and two counts of Child Endangerment.

She was taken to the Macomb County Jail where she stayed overnight. She posted bond Monday and is now home with her family.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been placed in a life threatening situation you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents

Toddler hit by SUV | Sandusky Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A 19-month-old baby boy was flown to a Cleveland hospital after an SUV struck him in the driveway of an East Bogart Road home.
Michael Kusser Jr. suffered serious injuries - including a head injury - when a 1997 Chevy Tahoe driven by Perkins police Sgt. Mark Kusser backed into him.
Sgt. Kusser, was off duty when he backed the vehicle down his driveway and accidentally ran into his grandson.
Perkins police Chief Ken Klamar asked the sheriff's office to investigate the incident because it involved an officer who works for the township.
Kusser had been babysitting the boy Tuesday afternoon. There was no indication he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the incident, and he voluntarily submitted a blood sample for testing.
"He's a good family man, and he would never intentionally hurt anyone," Klamar said. "This was a very, very horrific accident.
"I'm sure in his career he's seen things similar, and I'm sure you never think those things can happen to you," Klamar said. "But in the blink of an eye, it can."
The boy was conscious and breathing shortly after the crash.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Clyde High School girl flown to Toledo Hospital after crash | Toledo Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

An accident on Monday evening on one of the rural roads near Clyde sent a teenager to the Toledo Hospital with serious injuries. Taylor Hughes was flown from the sene to the University of Toledo Medical Center where as of late Monday she was in serious condition.
She was the sole passenger in a 2006 Pontiac G6 driven by her mother Cassie McCowan. The vehicle was headed northeast on County Road 185 at a high rate of speed when about 7p.m. just past Township Road 228, the Pontiac went off the left side of the road after failing to negotiate a turn.
The Pontiac was then stuck in a group of trees before overturning and coming to rest on its side. EMS crews arrived quickly and pulled McCowan from the vehicle, but they had to extricate Taylor. McCowan was taken by ambulance to Bellevue Hospital where she is being treated for what seems to be non-life-threatening injuries.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, call our Toledo, Ohio car accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of The Ohio Accident Book.

Authorities looking to promote attentive drivers | Toledo Ohio child accident attorneys

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

This month the Ohio Highway Patrol is advocating driver awareness during the National Bus Safety Week. Failure to abide by these traffic laws could result in fines up to $500. Troopers are going to follow schoole buses to keep a watch for anyone who fails to stop for a bus when the lights are flashing.
One Ohio Highway Patrol Sergeant stopped his marked cruiser behind Sylvania school bus No. 9, which was coming to a stop in front of a home on Corey Road.
The bus driver, Don Haase, switched the yellow flashing lights to red, making it illegal for anyone to pass.
Just a moment later, as a young boy carrying his bookbag boarded the bus, a silver Honda blew by in the opposite direction, heading toward Central Avenue.
"Got one on the first stop," the sergeant, a 13-year veteran of the patrol, said.
The woman driving the Honda was cited for failure to yield for a school bus, the sergeant said.
Sergeant Foltz, who has worked the bus-safety detail nearly every year since joining the patrol, said Tuesday was the first time he's caught someone during the project.
The woman behind the wheel in the Honda told the sergeant she was rushing to get her daughter to school.
The sergeant said that so many times people are distracted with other things instead of paying attention to the road.
Joe Kahl, transportation director for Sylvania schools, said bus drivers record someone passing a bus nearly every day, either by noting the license plate and jotting it down, or capturing it on a camera installed on the exterior of some school buses.
Mr. Kahl declined to comment on how many of the district's buses have such cameras.
The issue becomes the safety of the drivers and the school children getting on or off the bus, said Highway Patrol Lt. John Altman, who was riding on bus No. 9 as an extra set of eyes for Mr. Haase - when kindergarten students weren't trying to win the lieutenant's attention.
"It's a matter of safety," Lieutenant Altman said. "We don't want to deal with a situation where a child has been injured.
"Put the cell phone down, put the cup of coffee down and pay attention," Lieutenant Altman added. "It's about making the public aware to be safe around buses."
School buses are the safest mode of transportation in Ohio, according to the Highway Patrol, but in 2010, 1,695 crashes across the state involved school buses.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Two teens involved in an accident near the Bono curve on Route 2 | Toledo Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices is saddened to report that one teen has passed away after an accident on Route 2 near the Bono curve early this morning. The accident occurred in Jerusalem Township.

A pickup truck slammed into a guard rail right by the Bono curve. The passenger in the pickup truck, Erik Parks of Saline Michigan, was killed on impact. The driver of the pickup, Andrew Roberts also from Saline Michigan, was transported to Mercy St. Vincent's Medical Center in what the report said was stable condition. Andrew told police that he was falling asleep at the wheel.

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to remind you that if you do feel tired or fatigue to pull over in a safe or designated rest area and rest for awhile. There is no need to rush to where you are headed if you are tired or not feeling well. If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Road rage incident leads to two children hurt | Toledo Ohio child accident attorney

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many people have road rage these days. Road rage can be not only dangerous but deadly. Thankfully in this case no one was seriously injured.
One man was arrested and a 12-year-old boy was taken to the hospital after an apparent road rage incident in Wood County Friday evening. The series of events began on State Route 51 near Bradner Road. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Jeremy Jackson of Millbury was driving southbound when he attempted to pass a car being driven by James Gallagher of Genoa. Jackson swerved back into the southbound lane to avoid colliding with an oncoming car, and this action forced Gallagher's vehicle off the road.
Gallagher's passengers included his wife Jessica, and their two children, ages 9 and 12. According to the report the two vehicles continued driving and then Jackson intentionally struck the Gallagher vehicle in the rear and then fled. Gallagher pursued Jackson and caught up with him outside his residence. At this point police say, Jackson brandished a knife and approached Gallagher's car. As Gallagher tried to drive away, but Jackson punctured a tire on Gallagher's vehicle.
12-year-old Damien Gallagher was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries and 9-year-old Gage Gallagher suffered minor injuries. James and Jessica Gallagher also sustained minor injuries. Jackson was unhurt.
Jeremy Jackson was arrested and charged with felonious assault, aggravated menacing, OVI, driving on a suspended license, leaving the scene of an injury crash, criminal damaging and reckless operation. He was booked into the Wood County Justice Center.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in an accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Household medications and children | Toledo Ohio child accident attorney

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many parents don't believe that the tragic accident of their child being poisoned will happen to them, the reality of it though is that every year a half a million children under the age of 5 will get into household medications and be poisoned.
Dr. Randall Bond, who is an advocate for better prescription drug safety in the home says he is convinced that this can happen to anyone. He shared his own story about the close cal in his own home. He and his wife kept a bottle of Sudafed in the top shelf of the cabinet in their bedroom. One day when they had guests over his daughter, who was 3 at the time, opened all the drawers, climbed up on the counter and opened the medicine cabinet and started to take it. Thankfully, him and his wife got to their daughter before they needed an emergency visit.
To prevent this from happening parents should lock up their medication and get rid of the extra meds as well. It is important to practice the proper safety cautions so that your child will not be harmed from accidental poisoning.

If your child has been involved in an accident call 800.637.8170 to set up a free consultation with our Toledo Ohio child injury attorney.

Children's toys recalled | Toledo Ohio child injury lawyer

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are many different reasons as to why children's toys get recalled. It is not very uncommon for a toy to be found in violation of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's standards. There have been many injuries and dozens of deaths caused by violations of the CPSC.
According to the annual report by CPSC, there were 68 deaths associated with nursery equipment, 13 deaths associated with toys, and 664 with sports equipment between 2006 and 2007.
It is crucial for parents to know about the products that have been recalled and deemed unsafe. Parents should be educated as to which products they bring into their homes. One things parents can do to is to read online reviews. Although this may be a cumbersome task, reading reviews before you purchase a toy can prove to be very helpful. They tell you how the product is made, other parents who own it and also if it breaks when used.
Another thing parents can do is to read the labels. Make sure the product is labeled non-toxic. This is extra important for parents with children who are at the age where they put things in their mouth. Paint, colors, and lead lace decorations can be a danger to children, even if they do not put it in their mouths.

If your child has been injured because of an accident or recall, call our Toledo child injury lawyers at 800.637.8170 to schedule a free consultation.

Boyk Bulletin features Child Accident Book | Toledo Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Check out our September 2011 Boyk Bulletin for information about our Child Accident Book! This book provides parents and guardians on what to do and who to contact if your child has been injured in an accident.

The Boyk Bulletin also has information on our Good News, Good People winner Sharon Rosencrance, introduces our new employees Maria and Tammy, Race for the Cure information, Charles E. Boyk Accident App and so much more!

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Six-year-old boy dies from injuries from a Strub Road crash | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices is saddened to report that a 6-year-old boy injured in a crash on Strub Road on Wednesday has died.
Christopher Nichols was a passenger in a 1998 Volkswagen Jetta when it collided with a 2007 Toyota Corolla near the Milan Road intersection on Strub Road. According to the report the young boy was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.
According to the reports a Chevy Colorado stopped to let the driver of the Jetta, 26-year-old Kathyrn Nichols, pull out from the driveway by Executive Cleaners.
Nichols began to turn left onto Strub Road, but crashed into the Toyota, which was traveling in the second eastbound lane.
Christopher suffered serious injuries from the collision. Perkins Township EMS rushed him to Firelands Regional Medical Center. A medical helicopter later transferred him to Rainbow Children's Hospital. He did not survive.
His sister, Susan Nichols, 5, and Olivia Ford, age unknown, were also passengers in the Jetta, but suffered no injuries.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a chemical spill you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170. Also ask about our child accident book, to Little Kids, Big Accidents, and ask for your free copy!

Hazmat is called for Mercury Spill at Toledo day care |Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

We wanted to inform our readers that a Hazmat team was called to a Toledo day care on Thursday for exposure to mercury. More than one dozen children and 5 adults were treated outside the day care center.
The incident happened off of Ryan Road, in South Toledo, when a blood pressure cuff being used in a "show and tell" demonstration broke, releasing a tablespoon of mercury into the building.
Mercury is a toxic chemical if inhaled or ingested. Although it was not a large amount it was enough to cause concern especially around children. Prolonged exposure can cause nausea, migraines, and dizziness with more serious side effects being nervous system damage, memory loss, and kidney failure.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a chemical spill you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170. Also ask about our child accident book, to Little Kids, Big Accidents, and ask for your free copy!

Monroe County teen killed in crash | Toledo Ohio child accident lawyer

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices are saddened to report that a Monroe County, Michigan teenager is dead after a head-on crash.
According to the report Jakup MacMullen, crossed the center line and hit a semi head on. Jakup was pronounced dead at the scene. His passenger Jordan MacMullen was taken to the hospital along with the driver of the semi. Both were in stable condition.
If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a chemical spill you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170. Also ask about our child accident book, to Little Kids, Big Accidents, and ask for your free copy!

How bicyclists can reduce risk of accident Part 4 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Bicyclists must use turn signals!
Legally, cyclists must signal when they are going to turn unless signaling would make them fall off the bike. But do not take for granted the fact that all drivers will signal a right hand turn
To signal a left:
o Point your left arm straight to the left
To signal a right:
o Point your right arm straight to the right
To stop:
o Point your left arm bent at a right angle with your hand pointing down. Signal about 100 feet before turning

If your child or a child you know has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Student Safety and Liability | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyer

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

The concern for student safety and liability is brought up as children are going back to school. The question raised is: Who is responsible for student safety? The answer to this question is an entire network of product manufactuers, transportation providers, teachers, administrators, security guards, outside vendors and parents. If your child has been hurt during a school incident du to the negligence of another, you need help.

Our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys are here to help you. They will work with you to get you the settlement your child deserves.

Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of our book about child accident cases in Ohio and schedule your free consultation.

How bicyclists can reduce risk of accident Part 3 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

4. Be visible
o There is evidence to suggest that riding your bike at night without a light is a factor in almost half of all cycling deaths. To reduce your risk only ride during daylight hours and wear bright or fluorescent colors, it will increase the distance that drivers can see you from. You should use white lights in the front of your bike and red lights in the back of your bike and use reflectors and reflective clothing too. By law, you must ride with a light at night; if you disobey this law, you could be legally responsible for your injuries

o Safety tips: Buy lights and reflectors at your local bike shop where you can test the different types and models they have. The light on the back of your bike doubles as a reflector in case the battery drains while you are riding
5. Assume drivers are blind
o And assume that car drivers are drunk or multitasking these are usually the case when a car hits a cyclist. Colorful clothing can increase your visibility to drivers, but don't let it lead you to a false sense of security. Drivers usually don't see cyclists because they are not looking for them. Getting more cyclists on the road could help this problem

o Safety tip: If you travel into the sun at dawn or sunset, wear a red or deep orange shirt. Don't wear white because sun-blinded drivers will not see you on your bike
6. Dodge the door
o Ride outside the door zone this means keep a distance of 3 to 5 feet between the handlebars on your bike and the parked vehicle. To do this you might have to "take the lane," which is a right cyclist's have in most states

o Safety tip: Look for silhouettes or movement inside the car. Look for taillights that have just gone out that usually means a driver is just about to get out of their car. Watch mirrors and listen for a doors opening
7. Anticipate accidents
o You should assume that the car coming in the opposite direction will turn left in front of you and you need to be prepared to slow down to avoid it. Know where the car behind you is, so when you move out to avoid the pothole, rain grate or a parked car opening its door, you have plenty of room to move smoothly in front of the car or behind the car to take up the lane, don't get yourself pinned in

o Safety tip: If you see a car turning into your path, go with the flow and turn into the lane with the vehicle, even if you were not planning on going that way. The most dangerous sections of the road for cyclists are intersections and that includes driveways
If your child or a child you know has been injured in a Toledo child injury case call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

How bicyclists can reduce risk of accident Part 2 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Here are some ways to reduce your risk of an accident:
1. Don't go on the road without a helmet
o Head injuries are responsible for around three-quarters of the deaths among bicyclists that are involved in accidents. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a head or brain injury by roughly two-thirds or more

o Safety tip: Make sure your helmet is not on backward! The helmet should cover your forehead, when you look up you should see the helmet's front edge. Wearing a baseball cap or hair clips can interfere with fitting; but the steel ball at the top of the baseball cap could concentrate the force of the impact in one spot
2. Replace your helmet every three to five years
o The sun's rays weaken the glue, resins and other materials that are used to make helmets. Sweat and hair products can also reduce a helmet's effectiveness. If you are in an accident or the outside of your helmet is foam or cloth and not plastic you need to get a new one. If you feel like your helmet has gotten big over time and you have added pads that is a sign the helmet is losing its protective ability and dropping your helmet shouldn't hurt it, but don't spike it

o Safety tip: The helmet should be approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the ASTM (in the past it was the American Society for Testing and Materials) or the Snell Foundation
3. Be predictable
o Ride in a straight line and hold it while checking over your shoulder. Do not weave in and out of traffic. If there are potholes, the street is not wide enough to share safely it or you see a row of parked cars, it may be safer for you to "take the lane" temporarily, in other words ride in the middle of the street until you can safely ride on the side of the road

o Safety tip: Taking the lane works in urban areas where the traffic is not moving to fast. But if you can't keep pace with the cars, you need to get out of the way as soon as you can and expect for people to beep their car horns at you
If your child or a child you know has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

How bicyclists can reduce risk of accident Part 1 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Biking in traffic is not as bad as it seems; cyclists hardly ever get run down by drivers in fact most of the accidents don't involve cars at all. The most common issues are usually found where you would least expect to find them; they are on car-free paths that are filled with distracted pedestrians, dog walkers, in-line skaters and cyclists with different skill levels. But when bike riders do get in an accident with a car it is usually serious. In 2009 there were 630 U.S. cyclists that were killed in accidents involving motor vehicles. But every year there are more than 500,000 cycling accidents that end up in a visit to the emergency room.
When riding on the road common sense is your best defense:
o Don't ride drunk: One-third of all cycling deaths involve a legally drunk cyclist
o Ride with traffic: Never ride against traffic and stay as close as possible to the side of the road that is furthest from the traffic
o Don't ride with headphones: Hearing the "click" of a car door could save your life
If your child or a child you know has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Keeping Your Kids Safe Part 5 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Heat Stroke Deaths Due To A Child Being Left In A Car

Here are some tips to keep kids safe in and around vehicles:

o   Walk around and behind the vehicle before you move it
o   Know where your kids are; make your children move away from the vehicle to a place where they are in full view or you can have another adult watch your children while you move your car
o   Teach your children that "parked" vehicles may move, and let your children know that even though they can see the vehicle the driver might not be able to see them
o   Think about installing cross view mirrors, a rear view video camera, audible collision detectors, or some type of backup detection device
o   Measure the size of your blind zone area behind the vehicles you drive
o   Be aware that steep inclines, large SUVs, vans and trucks also add to the complexity of being able to seeing behind a vehicle
o   Teach your children to never ever play in, around, or behind a vehicle and also always set your emergency brake and keep your vehicle locked even if it is in the garage
o   Keep toys and other sports equipment off of the driveway
o   Homeowners should keep the landscaping around the driveway trimmed to make sure they can see the sidewalk
o   Keys or remote openers should never ever be left in the reach of children
o   Never leave your children alone in or around cars, not even for a minute
o   Have a visual reminder, for example you can keep a teddy bear in the car seat when it's empty, but put it upfront when your child is riding in their car seat
o   Make it a routine to put your handbag, wallet, cell phone or laptop on the floor of the backseat
o   Make it a habit to look in the backseat by opening the back door of your vehicle before locking the car and walking away
o   Arrange to have your daycare provider call you if your child has not been dropped off within 30 minutes of your usual drop off time
o   If you normally bring your child to daycare and your spouse takes the child instead, have them call you to confirm the child was safely dropped off at daycare
o   If you see a child alone inside a vehicle, call 911 right away! Do not wait; a few minutes can be the difference between life and death
o   When a child is missing immediately check all vehicles and car trunks
o   Be particularly careful about keeping children safe in and around cars during busy times, schedule changes and times of crisis or during holidays
o   Use drive-thru services when they are available at restaurants, banks, pharmacies, drycleaners or anywhere else
o   Use your debit or credit card to pay for your gas at the pump

If your child or a child you know has been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio car accident lawyer at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request a free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases In Ohio.

Findlay teen dies in 2-vehicle accident | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

On Thursday afternoon Alicia Tuttle was killed; she pulled out in front of a truck.
The truck slammed into Alicia's car and emergency crews had to cut her out of the vehicle. Emergency crews pronounced her dead at the scene. The crash is still under investigation.

If your child or a child you know has been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request a free copy of Little kids, Big Accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Kids hit by car at north Toledo football practice | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

At Joe E Brown Park on Thursday three kids were run over by a car. The Mid-City Bears were just getting done with football practice. Kenya Modisett was parked in the grass; she pulled out not knowing that the children were sitting right in front of her car. The three kids were Akayla Burt, Akyia Burt and Neil Goodlow. The kids conditions are that Akyia was treated and released, Akayla is in serious condition and Neil is in fair condition. The driver was cited for the accident.

If your child or a child you know has been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request a free copy of Little kids, Big Accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Keeping Your Kids Safe Part 4 | Toledo, Ohio Car Accident Lawyer

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Heat Stroke Deaths Due To A Child Being Left In A Car:

Underage Driver Fatalities Underage driver occurrences are happening more and more. Most people would consider an underage driver to be 13 to 15 years old; some would be shocked to know that some of the kids are as young as 10 years old. This accounts for 7% of the non-traffic deaths of children. A theory on why this has become such a big problem is the commonness that the young children are simulating driving vehicles in different video games.

If your child or a child you know has been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio car accident lawyer at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request a free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases In Ohio.

Keeping Your Kids Safe Part 3 | Toledo, Ohio Car Accident Lawyer

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Heat Stroke Deaths Due To A Child Being Left In A Car:

Kids Playing in Cars 30% of heatstroke deaths include children who have been playing in or around cars/trucks and then become trapped in the car. Some children are not capable of using the lock system or door releases to open the doors of the vehicle and some children get themselves trapped because they hide inside the vehicle or the trunk of the vehicle. Children are so attracted to the vehicles because they like to play pretend and act like they are driving like mom or dad. Parents have to make it clear that children should never be left alone in a vehicle and they need to keep all the vehicles locked and keep the keys out of the children's reach. Now this does not mean it is safe for your child to sit in the front seat, if the airbag gets deployed that could also have horrible results for the child. There is a plan in works that would require that seatbelt sensors be installed in all rear-seating positions. Over 50% of backseat passengers killed in crashes were not wearing their seat belts. Once the sensors are installed in the car they could be programmed to alert the driver that someone is still in the backseat, it would be comparable to the warning that people get when they have left their headlights on or the keys in the ignition.

If your child or a child you know has been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio car accident lawyer at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request a free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases In Ohio.

No charges filed in the death of a 7 year old Norwalk girl| Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

No charges are being filed in the unfortunate death of a 7-year-old pedestrian that happened about two weeks ago. The little girl Iris L. Radcliffe stepped in front of a van being driven by Richard S. Puzder. For an accident to be deemed a felony there has to be evidence that the driver was driving recklessly, was intoxicated or did not obey one of the motor vehicle laws. In this case it does not look like Richard did any of those three things. Jay Price saw the accident happen; he was sitting on his porch relaxing. He watched as two older girls crossed the street just before the little girl did. The two older girls told the little girl to wait because there was traffic and she responded I know. The driver never even had a chance to stop; the little girl's body ended up around 30 or 40 feet away. Another neighbor Karen Miller was the one who called 911 and then she went over to the little girl's side. She said her pulse was so weak it took her some time to find it but thought the little girl would be okay because she had taken two big deep breathes. The captain of the Norwalk Police said there were trees along the side of the road that could have blocked the driver from seeing her and he also said we don't exactly know where she stepped into the road.
The crash investigator Dave Lichoff calculated the driver's speed using two different methods. One way he used the skid marks, using a formula of when the little girl hit the van, it was determined that the driver was going 33 and the posted speed limit is 35. The Police Chief explains that when someone is driving 35 your vehicle goes a little more than 50 feet a second and your response time could be as quick as ¾ of a second. Using this that means the driver could have gone more than 38 feet by the time he saw that the little girl was in the road.
If your child or a child you know has been injured in an accident, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request a free copy of Little kids, Big Accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Strokes rise among pregnant women & new moms | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Strokes among U.S. pregnant women and new mothers have escalated; this is probably because more of these women are obese and suffer from high blood pressure and heart disease. Hospitalizations for pregnancy-related strokes and mini strokes has increased 54%, from 1994 to 95 when it was around 4,100 women that were hospitalized to around 6,300 women that were hospitalized from 2006 to 2007. A neurologist at Columbia University and Harlem Hospital and who is also a spokesperson for the American Stroke Association, Olajide Williams said "That is a very, very alarm-raising statistic that we need to take extremely seriously," and that "We need to be more aggressive in screening these women for these risk factors." Even though the number of strokes is small when you compare it to the fact that almost 4 million babies are born every year in the United States. Pregnancy raises the risk of having a stroke because it is when all the hormones and blood changes start to happen. If a pregnant woman starts her pregnancy out being unhealthy with problems like diabetes or high blood pressure, she doubles her risk of having a stroke either during the pregnancy or right after she has the baby.
This study used records from different hospitals in virtually all of the states; it covered up to 8 million hospitalizations every year. The research focused on the number of women who had strokes, transient ischemic attacks (TIA's), or mini strokes, when they were pregnant or in the three months following the birth of the baby. The study found that the rate of strokes, transient ischemic attacks (TIA's), or mini strokes were the highest in the Southern U.S. and the rates were the lowest in the Northeastern part of the United States. One of the things that was looked at was the frequency of high blood pressure, heart disease and other health problems that are associated with obesity; it was found that this reason accounted for almost the entire 54% rise in pregnancy related strokes, the other factor that was found was that women are waiting longer to have kids and the older you are as a pregnant woman the higher at risk you are. Often pregnant women and new mom's are more focused on the baby and the baby's health and they forget to think about their own health. If you are trying to get pregnant you should go see your doctor and be evaluated for different ricks like that of a stroke and if you are already pregnant start your prenatal care as soon as possible and live a healthy life like a healthy diet, stop smoking if you smoke, keep a healthy weight and exercise. The key to preventing long term damage from a stroke are getting help fast, once the symptoms appear. The warning signs of a stroke are a rapid appearance of any of these factors: numbness or weakness on one side, a severe headache without a known cause, confusion, trouble walking, speaking or seeing.
If your child or a child you know has been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request a free copy of Little kids, Big Accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Keeping Your Kids Safe Part 2 | Toledo, Ohio Car Accident Lawyer

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Heat Stroke Deaths Due To A Child Being Left In A Car:

Heat stroke accounts for 16% of non-traffic deaths among children. 2010 was the worst year ever for this type of accident, 49 children died in hot cars. Each year on average 38 children die from a heat stroke because they were left in the car. The most dangerous mistake a parent or caregiver can make is to think it cannot or won't happen to their family; most of the cases of heat stroke usually involve a loving but busy parent who is rushing off to work. Change of routine combined with a lack of sleep and an overloaded schedule can be factors that lead you to forget your child in the car. Researchers believe that stressed and sleep-deprived brains are more likely to run on auto pilot, which results in the diminished ability to multi-task and when you combine that with a change in the normal routine it can have a deadly result. The simplest change can be deadly, for example if a parent is in the habit of dropping off one child off at daycare and then going to work in the morning. When they have a second child and the parent is ready to go back to work, having a second drop off creates a potential problem. The sleep deprived parent drops off the first child and then heads to work because that has been the normal routine and the new baby is in their rear-facing car seat sleeping and the parent doesn't realize that they forgot to drop the second baby off. Some factors that contribute to heat stroke deaths are young children, especially babies; many times they fall asleep during the car ride and become silent. Many parents don't realize the baby is still in the car because a rear-facing car seat looks the same from the front seat whether a baby is in it or not. A child's body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult's body temperature. Even if the windows in your car are open some, in just minutes the temperature inside a parked car can reach 125 degrees; leaving the windows opened a little bit does not drastically slow the heat down or even decrease the maximum temperature that the inside of the car can get. It doesn't matter what the temperature is outside, the inside of your car still get really hot really fast.

If your child or a child you know has been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio car accident lawyer at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request a free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases In Ohio.

Keeping Your Kids Safe Part 1 | Toledo, Ohio Car Accident Lawyer

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Motor vehicle accidents are still the leading cause of accidental death in the U.S. These fatal accidents are happening more and more close to home, many times in their own driveways. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that every year in non-traffic accidents there are 262 fatalities and 115,000 injuries to children ages 14 and younger. Non-traffic accidents refer to actions that happen off public roads or highways, usually in parking lots or driveways.

Non-traffic Fatalities Involving Children 15 Years Old and Younger: o   The most common non-traffic accidents that involve children include back-over's, front-over's, and vehicle heat stroke deaths. Back-over's account for 34% of the fatalities, Front-over's account for 30%, Heat Stroke from a child being left in a car is 16%, a Fall from a vehicle accounts for 2%, a vehicle in motion accident accounts for 5%, an Underage driver accounts for 7%, Drowning accounts for 2%, and then there is 4% that includes other accidents
Front-over's and Back-over's: o   In 2010 there were 70 deaths due to a front-over accident and 66 deaths due to a back-over accident and there were thousands of injuries. This happens because small children cannot be seen around vehicles. At least 70% of the children that were hit were hit by a driver that was related to them and it was usually a parent. Toddlers 12- to 23 months old represent 70% of the victims in a roll-over accident. Children often don't want to be left behind when a loved relative is leaving so they impulsively follow them out and in return put themselves in a very dangerous position near the vehicle where they often can't be seen. This same thing happens when parents or other loved ones come home; the child runs out to greet the loved one. The kids usually run right into the vehicles blind zones that are in the front, back, and corners; in these areas the driver cannot see anything even when you properly use mirrors. The rear blind zone averages 7 or 8 feet wide and 20 to 50 feet long. A pickup's rear blind zone can be up to 50 feet behind the bumper. The front blind zone averages 6 to 8 feet in front of the vehicle. Most drivers just assume that you have full visibility when your car is moving forward but because so many vehicles are high off of the ground you cannot see a small child who is directly in front of the vehicle
What can be done to reduce the problem of blind zones: o   You can buy a car that already has the safety devices or if you have an older car you can buy backup warning devises for your car. A rearview camera system shows the driver what is behind them using an in-car monitor and a rear sensor system that alerts the driver to any obstacles or people that may be in the blind zones, using an audio warning to do so. Because of the Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act the federal government is developing a standard rear visibility system equipped with backup cameras that will be mandatory for all cars leased or sold in the U.S.; this is a mandatory requirement to be implemented by 2014.

If your child or a child you know has been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio car accident lawyer at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request a free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases In Ohio.

Tip #10 Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tip 10 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:

Tune in to your kids - Do not leave your kids to fend for themselves while you go and ride your favorite rides. If your kids are old enough to go on their own, stay in constant contact with them using cell phones or by meeting at designated place.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tip #9 Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tip 9 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:

Know your limits - If you get car sick when sitting in the back seat of a car, do not sit in the back seat of a ride, sit in the front or wait until you can sit in the front of the ride. If you have eaten a large meal or drank alcohol, you should think about waiting an hour before riding any rides with lots of twists or turns.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Be Prepared: Understand Pool Safety to Ensure More Fun in the Sun | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

On hot summer days kids love to swim in the pool, it can be lots of fun but can also be very dangerous. Some of those dangers can include the risk of drowning, receiving injuries from diving the wrong way, and from slips or falls around the pool. The second- leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths for children ages 1 to 14 in the U. S. is drowning. For every one child that drowns, there are another four children that receive some type of medical treatment in an emergency department for submersion-related injuries. The most shocking part is that a lot of these deaths and injuries occur when children are under the supervision of an adult.

Diving into a pool can also be very dangerous and if you don't dive right you could end up with some very serious injuries like paralysis. There are around 16,000 people under the age of 16 hospitalized every year because of a diving injury; one in five of those teens end up suffering a severe spinal cord injury as a result. According to the American Institutes for Research, 30.8% of all aquatic-related accidents take place in a pool rather than a natural body of water. Many diving injuries are not linked to dives from a diving board; they are linked to someone who dives into shallow water. Another danger related to pools is the risk of entrapment or evisceration in pool drains. The risks associated with entrapment or evisceration prompted the passage of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act in 2007. This act, which mandates that certain types of pool drain covers, be installed in order to eliminate or reduce the risk of entrapment.
Some safety guidelines to follow are:
oWhen it comes to diving: get rid of diving boards and don't dive in shallow water
oHave a multi-layered system of protection in place: Make sure all doors leading from the home to the pool have alerts or alarms that sound when the door is opened
oHave appropriate fencing: The pool should have a fence at least 4 feet tall surrounding it
oAdd an alarm: The alarm system goes off when a person enters the water. Some different examples of pool alarms can be found at www.poolalarms.com
oHave a motorized cover for you pool: Some motorized pool covers can hold the weight of someone if they step on it

If your child or a child you know has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tip #1; Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

For the next 10 days there will be a different tip, be sure and check back to get all ten.

Tip 1 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:
Be Aware of the Safety Equipment Limitations - Ride manufacturers provide seat belts, lap bars, and other safety equipment to reduce the risk of injury. Many safety devices used on children's amusement rides aren't designed to keep young children in their seats. Do not rely on lap bars and seat belts to restrain children. Solid metal lap bars only fit closely against the largest person in the car, many times leaving young children with room to slide around

If your child or a child you know has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tip #2; Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tip 2 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:

Before getting on the ride talk to your child about the ride If there are any warnings read them out loud to your child and then talk about each warning. Tell your child that even though the ride may stop, do not attempt to get off the ride until the ride attendant says it is safe to do so; explain to them that if the ride gets scary, they should not try to get off the ride no matter what; explain that amusement rides might seem scary, but they are safe as long as they stay seated, keep their hands and feet inside the ride, and hold on tight with both hands.

If you or someone you know has a child that has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tip #3 Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tip 3 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:

Always follow the minimum height, age, weight, and health restrictions - If your child does not meet the necessary requirements, do not try and sneak them on the ride, the requirements are there for a reason. Ride manufacturers' restrictions are supposed to take into account the forces put forth by the ride and the intellectual maturity required to safely ride. If the child does not meet the ride requirements they may not be physically or developmentally able to stay safely seated on the ride. Ride manufacturers base their guidelines on developmental time lines and height/weight ratios of children in the 50th percentile. Basically the bottom line is if you can't count on your child to stay seated with hands and feet inside the ride then don't let your child on the ride

If you or someone you know has a child that has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tip #4 Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tip 4 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:

Don't put children on rides that can scare them Most children who get scared try to run away. A class of 20 preschoolers were asked what they should do if they get scared while a ride is moving they answered "get off the ride"

If you or someone you know has a child that has been injured in an accident call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tip #5 Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tip 5 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:

Follow any special instructions about the seating order or loading Spinning rides sometimes want that smaller riders to sit on the inside, which would be closest to the center pole, this is to avoid being squished by the bigger rider as the centrifugal force increases. For this reason amusement ride attendant should place small children away from the open sides, for safety reasons

If you or someone you know has a child that has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tip #6 Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tip 6 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:

Never put your child on your lap on a ride that has restraints or a ride that has twists

If your child is on your lap and the safety bar is above the child's lap, that position could cause the bar or belt to put too much pressure on your child's small body. If the ride doesn't have restraints and the ride takes an unexpected twist or turn, your child could slip out of your hands and out of the ride.

If you or someone you know has a child that has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tip #7 Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tip 7 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:

Stay cool, and don't get burned Visitors to amusement parks suffer from more sunburns, rashes, heat exhaustion and heatstroke than all other injuries put together. Stay hydrated and drink lots of water, remember that alcohol dehydrates you. Put on some waterproof sun block before you even go in, and remember to keep reapplying it throughout the day. Also wear some comfortable shoes and a hat.

If you or someone you know has a child that has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tip #8 Staying Safe on Amusement Rides | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tip 8 for making your day at the amusement park a little bit safer:

Teach your kids what to do if they get separated from you - Have your child wear a physical ID at all times like an ID bracelet, a Velcro shoe tag or a personalized dog tag that has your cell number on it so that a security officer or park employee can call you and tell you where your child is. Play the "What if ..." game with your children so they know to stop a security guard or park employee if they get lost or separated from you. Carry a photo ID of each of your children in your wallet. In case you get separated from your children, you will have a photo and description to help those who are looking for your child. Teach your child to drop to the ground and scream loudly, "He is not my daddy/mommy. HELP!" incase someone tries to take him or her. If you can afford it, think about a child locator or tracking device; these devices are getting cheaper every year and you can find them on the Internet by searching "child locator GPS"

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request you free copy of Little Kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Machine Guarding Is Essential To Avoid Injury | Workers Compensation Lawyer Toledo, OH

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Machine guarding has been on OSHA's list of top cited regulations and has been since the inception of OSHA. There are four basic approaches to machine guarding they are barrier guards, guarding devices, guarding by location and warnings. The barrier guard is a physical guard between the hazard and anyone by it. These are not always used because they slow down production. Guarding devices are light screens, two palm antilock push buttons, interlocks and pullbacks.

If you or someone you know has been hurt while on the job in Ohio, call our Toledo, Workers Compensation Claim attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of The Ohio Work Injury Book.

Playground Safety Is A Summertime Problem | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

School is out for the summer; all kids are going to want to go to the playground. The most common playground hazard is the surface of the playground. You should avoid playgrounds that have concrete, asphalt, or dirt surfaces. Instead you should choose playgrounds that have shock absorbing materials like rubber mats, rubber tile or engineered wood fibers. As a parent you should check the playground area and equipment before letting your kids play on them, just as a safety precaution. Here are some recommendations to follow:
o Playgrounds should be designed to allow parents or caregivers to be able to have an unobstructed view of the kids so they can keep track of them as they play on the different equipment
o Other areas that should be inspected are openings that your child could get trapped in, guardrails that are on elevated platforms, exposed hardware, and any electrical poles or outlets
o The children should not wear any clothes with hoods or drawstrings while they play on the different playground equipment

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call out Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Jury Awards $10 Million To Teenager In Motrin Lawsuit | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

When Brianna Maya was three and a half years old she was given the over-the-counter version of Children's Motrin. In the days after she took the medicine she developed a fine rash on her body and a mild redness around her eyes. Then it turned into something dangerous; it was a rare, painful and potentially fatal skin reaction that burned and blistered her body on both the inside and outside, it blinded her in one eye and landed her in a burn unit at Galveston, Texas at Shriners Burn Hospital. Brianna was diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis syndrome (TENS). These two diseases effect between one in a million and eight in a million. When her mother read the warning label on the Children's Motrin it didn't say anything about SJS or TENS but on the prescription version there is a warning that this could happen. SJS blisters and breaks down the mucus membranes of the cornea, mouth, rectum, vagina and urethra. TENS is a more severe form; it affects a greater percentage of the skin and mucus membranes. Since 2000 she has had repeated eye surgeries, had repeated eye and lung infections; she developed seizures when she was deprived from oxygen at the worst part of her illness last year. Her seizures are difficult to control because anti-seizure medicine can trigger SJS. She has lost 84% of her skin, is blinded, suffered from brain damage, and now only has 50% lung capacity.

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Family Files Suit Over Escalator Death | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

At a mall in Auburn, Mass., four-year-old Mark DiBona was stepping onto an escalator at Sears and the momentum of the handrail pulled him into a 6-¼ inch hole between the escalator and the plexiglass barrier and he fell a story and as a result had severe head injuries. The little boy died the next day. Mark's parents Eric and Laura are suing everyone involved in the making and installing of the escalator, the store, mall and town
where it happened. If the escalator would have been installed according to the state's regulations and even the blue prints or even the many times the escalator should have been fixed and this tragic accident would not of even happened. Since Mark's death the Governor has conducted a statewide escalator inspection, two thirds of the escalators inspected were cited for violations like the one that killed Mark.

Tips For Storing Medications | Poisoning Injury Attorney Toledo, OH

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Keep any medications out of your children's sight and reach.
o Do not leave any medicines in your purse, in an unlocked kitchen or bathroom cabinet, on a kitchen or bedside table
o Read all labels to find out what can be potentially poisonous. Keep those things separate from things you use on an everyday basis like toothpaste and soap
o Never leave any medicines or potentially poisonous household products alone while you are using them
o Do not leave loose pills lying around
o Buy child-resistant packages when you can and keep products in their original packages to avoid any confusion
When giving medications to children you should:
o Always read the labels, follow the directions and give the medicines based on the children's weights and ages. Only use the dispensers that are packaged with children's medicine
o Avoid any confusion by keeping all medicines and any potentially poisonous household products in their original packaging
o Do not take any medicine or vitamins in front of kids, involve them as helpers with your medicine or call any medicines candy
If you believe your child has been poisoned, take the product to the phone and immediately call the toll free nationwide poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If your child has collapsed or is not breathing immediately call 911. Poison control centers offer fast, free, and confidential help in English and Spanish. Most poisonings can be resolved over the phone. The toll free number works anywhere in the United States and is open round the clock, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Follow the operator's instructions and don't force the child throw up or give them anything unless you're told to do so.

If you or someone you know has been poisoned, call our Toledo, Ohio poison injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio

Protect your kids against lead poisoning | Poisoning Injury Lawyer Toledo, OH

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

o Test any homes that were built before 1978 for any lead-based paint. Then if any lead has been found you should have your children tested for lead exposure and then hire a professional to control and remove all lead sources safely
o Make sure your children do not have any access to any peeling paint or any chewable surfaces that are painted with any lead-based paints
o Regularly wash your children's hands, face, toys and pacifiers to lessen the risk that your child will come into contact with any lead or any lead-contaminated dust
o Take any recommended steps to eliminate any of the sources of the lead in any recalled consumer product like toys or cookware
o Also check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Web site for information on any of the product recalls

If you or someone you know has been poisoned, call our Toledo, Ohio poison injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Six Steps for Healthy Swimming without RWI's | Child Accident Lawyer Toledo, OH

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Steps that all swimmers can take:
o Don't swim if you have diarrhea, you can spread germs in the water and make other people sick
o Don't swallow any of the pool water and really try to avoid getting any of the water in your mouth
o Practice good hygiene like, showering with soap before going swimming and washing your hands after you use the toilet or change a diaper. The germs on your body will then end up in the water
Steps that Parents of Young Kids can take:
o If your kids are potty trained take them on bathroom breaks often or if they are still in diapers, check them often. Waiting for them to tell you they have to go may be too late
o Change your kids diapers in a bathroom or in a diaper-changing area, not the poolside
o Wash your kid completely, particularly their butt with soap and water before they go swimming

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 for a Toledo free consultation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Prevent Your Child From Drowning | Child Accident Attorney Toledo, OH

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

o At all times actively watch your children when they are around water and have a phone nearby to call for help if there is an emergency
o Make sure your pool has four-sided fencing and a self-closing, self-latching gate to help prevent a child from wandering into the pool area unsupervised; hot tubs should also be covered and locked when not in use
o Install a door alarm, a window alarm or both to alert you when a child wanders into the pool area
o Teach children to never go near or in water without an adult's permission
o Enroll your child in swimming lessons after they turn 4, this is usually the earliest age they are likely to practice and retain the information. Also teach your children how to tread water, float and stay by the shore
o Learn CPR and know how to respond if a water emergencies occurs

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury lawyers at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Preventing Entrapment in Pools | Child Injury Lawyer Toledo, OH

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Pools that create the greatest risk of entrapment are children's public wading pools, in-ground hot tubs or any others pools that have flat drain grates and/or a single main drain system.
o Tell your children about the dangers of drain entrapment and teach them to never play or swim by drains or suction outlets
o Never swim in a pool or hot tub that has a broken, loose or missing drain cover
o If you are the owner of a pool or hot tub you should install protection that prevents entrapment
o For new pools or hot tubs, install multiple drains or use a no-drain circulation system
o If you do have drains, protective measures can include anti-entrapment drain covers and a safety vacuum release system that automatically releases suction and shuts down the pump should an entrapment happen

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio

Tips for children and open water | Child Accident Lawyer Toledo, OH

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Actively watch children when they are in or around open bodies of water give them your undivided attention. Take turns with other adults and appoint a designated "water watcher"
Sign up your child in swimming lessons after age 4 this is usually the earliest they are likely to practice and retain the information. Teach children how to tread water, float and stay up by the shore
Make sure kids swim only in the areas designated for swimming
Teach your children that swimming in open water is not the same as swimming in a pool; they need to be aware of the uneven surfaces, river currents, ocean undertow and changing weather
Do not let kids operate personal watercrafts like jet skis. These are to be used by adults and require special training
Teach your children not to dive into oceans, lakes or rivers because you never know how deep the water is or what might be hidden under the surface of the water
You should learn infant and child CPR and also keep a phone nearby in case of an emergency

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Following these steps and protect your kids while boating | Child Accident Lawyer Toledo, OH

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

o While on a boat, around open bodies of water, or when doing water sports always have your children wear a life jacket that is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. The life jacket should fit snugly and not allow the child's chin or ears to slip through the neck opening
o Take a boating education course that teaches safe boating practices
o Get a safety check for your boat every year for free from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons
o Never drink alcoholic beverages while boating
If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free consulation in Toledo or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Prevent Trunk Entrapment | Child Injury Lawyers Toledo, OH

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

o Always lock a vehicle's doors and trunk particularly when the vehicle is parked in the driveway or near the home and keep keys out of children's sight and reach
o If a child is missing, first check vehicles and trunks
o If you see a child alone in a car dial 911 right away
o Be aware of child-resistant locks. Teach older children how to unlock the driver's door incase they become accidentally locked in a motor vehicle. A toddler will not know they should climb to the front seat to be able to climb out of the vehicle
o If you find your child in a locked car get them out and call 911 or your local emergency number right away to check for signs of heat stroke
o Teach children that trunks are only used for carrying goods and are not safe places for them to play
o Show older children how to find and use the emergency trunk release should they need it
o Keep the rear fold-down seats up right in order to help keep the kids from getting into the trunk from the backseat of the car

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Tips on preventing drowning at home | Child Accident Lawyer Toledo, OH

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

o Always stay within an arm's reach of your child when they are in or near the bathtub, toilet, pools, spas or buckets. Never ever leave your child alone or in the care of older children during bath time
o Immediately drain the tub once bath time is over
o Immediately empty all buckets, containers and wading pools after you are done using them and store them upside-down and out of their reach
o Keep the toilet lids closed and also use toilet seat locks
o Never leave your child alone in a tub or around any other body of water, even if they know how to swim
o Keep the doors to bathrooms and laundry rooms closed
o Watch children in baby bath seats and rings every second

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury lawyers at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Top Five Causes Of Unintentional Injury | Child Injury Attorney Toledo, OH

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

1. Road crashes
   They kill 260,000 children a year and injure around 10 million. They are the leading cause of death of kids ages 10 to 19, and also a leading cause of child disability
2. Drowning
    It kills more than 175,000 children each year and 3 million children each year survive a drowning incident. In some survivors there is brain damage, and because of that nonfatal drowning has the highest average lifetime health and economic impact of any other type of injury
3. Burns
Fire-related burns kill around 96,000 children per year; the death rate is 11 times higher in low and/or middle-income countries than it is in high-income countries
4. Falls
Almost 47,000 children fall to their death every year. There are hundreds of thousands more that sustain less serious injuries from the fall
5. Poisoning
   There are more than 45,000 children that die each year from an accidental poisoning

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Heat-Related Accidents | Child Injury Attorney Toledo, OH

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Between 1998 and 2010 there were more than 494 deaths caused by hyperthermia when a child has been reported as being left in a hot vehicle. On average every year 36 children die from hyperthermia after being left unattended in a vehicle. A child's body does not have the same internal temperature control as an adult's, and can warm three to five times faster. Heatstroke occurs when the body's core temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and a body core temperature of 107 degrees Fahrenheit is usually fatal. In the daytime, within 10 minutes of the vehicle being the closed the inside temperature will be almost 20 degrees hotter than the outside temperature, and after 30 minutes the inside temperature will be 34 degrees hotter.

Tips on Preventing Hyperthermia | Child Accident Lawyer Toledo, OH

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

o Call 911 immediately if you see a child in a car alone. EMS professionals are trained in determining if the child is in trouble
o Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, even if the window slightly open
o Place whatever is to be carried from the car like a cell phone, PDA, purse, briefcase, gym bag ect, on the floor in front of a child in the backseat. This causes adults to see and remember that the children are in the vehicle when they open the rear door and reach for whatever they are carrying in from the vehicle
o Set a reminder on your cell phone or Blackberry to make sure you dropped your child off at the day care
o Set your computer calendar program, for example Outlook, to ask, "Did you drop off at daycare today?"
o Have a plan in place so that if your child is late for daycare that you will be called within a few minutes. Be especially careful if you change your routine when you drop off your little kids at day care
o Teach your children not to play in any vehicles
o Lock all vehicle doors and trunk after everyone has exited the vehicle, especially at home. Keep the keys out of children's reach. Cars are not playgrounds or babysitters!
o If your child goes missing first check vehicles and trunks

Back over Injuries | Child Accident Lawyers Toledo, OH

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

During 2001 through 2003 about 7,475 children, that's 2,492 per year, of kids ages 1 to14 were treated for non-fatal motor vehicle back over injuries in the ER. Almost half of the children injured in those accidents were 1 to 4 years old and half of those kids were little boys. Most back over accidents happened either at home, in driveways or in parking lots.

If your child or a child you know had been injured, call our Toledo, Ohio child injury attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little kids, Big accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Teenager In Serious Condition After Explosion | Toledo, Ohio personal injury attorney

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

14 year-old Michael Hubbard is fighting for his life after a tragic accident a few weeks ago.

On May 28th Michael was helping to set up for his Aunt's wedding when a ceramic fire pot blew up and splattered him with flaming fuel gel. Now Michael has third-degree burns on his face and his organs are threatening to shut down.

In Michael's case as well as two others, the victims say the flame seemed to be out on the FireBurners ceramic pot and so they added more fire gel fuel. This causes an explosion with the flaming gel sticking to the bodies of the victims.

If your child has been involved in an accident like this one, you need help. Our Toledo, Ohio personal injury lawyers are experienced at handling all kinds of cases and will work with you to get you the settlement you deserve.

Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio and set up a free consultation.

Trial Team Shows Reality of Brain Injury – Part Three – Toledo, Ohio child accident attorney

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

On behalf of the 20 workers and three of their spouses William Murphy and his co-counsel sued the hotel and the lessor of the property. The plaintiffs alleged nuisance along with battery by intentionally disabling the safety interlock system, knowing it would cause a dangerous carbon monoxide leak if the exhaust fan stopped working.

They had evidence to support their allegations but they had the huge obstacle of proving damages for mild to moderate brain damage; mild to moderate is a medical characterization that describes only the type of damage and not its impact on the injured. It is less obvious than severe brain damage but still has devastating effects. If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Trial Team Shows Reality of Brain Injury – Part Two – Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyer

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Follow up neurological evaluations were done and they showed differing levels of brain damage with injuries ranging from short term memory loss to headaches to depression to personality changes. Murphy is quoted as saying "The effects of carbon monoxide poisoning are horrific and not widely known" "All the public knows about carbon monoxide is that its and odorless gas that can kill you, But short of death or unconsciousness, people don't realize that it can cause brain damage."

An inspection of the premises confirmed that it was a carbon monoxide leak in the hotel mechanical room, which shares a wall with the restaurant. The hotel had dismantled the safety interlock system that was supposed to shut down the boilers in the event of mechanical failure. The hotel also failed to fill holes that were drilled in the common wall. The odorless gas had been leaking into the restaurant for weeks but the restaurant did not have any carbon monoxide detectors, so there was no where to warn anyone that the gas had intensified on that February day. Read tomorrow's blog to find out what happens next!

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Trial Team Shows Reality of Brain Injury – Part One – Toledo, Ohio child accident attorney

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Cases involving brain damage are notoriously hard to win, especially when the injuries are caused by a misunderstood toxin like carbon monoxide and are medically classified as mild or moderate. But Baltimore lawyers William "Billy" Murphy, Mary Koch, and Richard Falcon were able to successfully able to convince a jury that carbon monoxide induced brain injuries their clients claimed were as extensive as they claimed. The lawyers used a combo of knowledgeable experts, brain scans, and testimony of their client's friends and family.

On a busy February night in 2008 several servers and kitchen staff at Ruth's Chris Steak House adjacent to a hotel in Baltimore started to feel nauseated and developed severe headaches, some had trouble reading order lists correctly or forgot the order all together. The staff at the restaurant immediately called emergency services. It was found that the carbon monoxide levels in the restaurant were 670 parts per million, 30 parts per million is when evacuation is needed. The building was immediately evacuated. The employees were treated at the scene and 14 were treated at the hospital for carbon monoxide poisoning. Tomorrow's blog will say what happened to the people as a result of the carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

A Half-Million Baby Bassinets Recalled | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyer

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Baby Bassinets made by Burlington Basket Company have been recalled surrounded by concerns that they could collapse if not assembled properly. The recall involves 500,000 bassinets made before June of last year. The CPSC says that the support rails of the bassinet can collapse if they are not fully locked into place. Burlington is offering free repair kits to show exactly how to install the support rails.

There have been ten reports of incidents where the folding legs have collapsed when not fully locked in place. Two infants received minor injuries from the fall.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, call our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyer at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Customer Agency Warns Of SafetyCraft Crib Dangers | Toledo, Ohio Personal Injury Attorney

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

A federal consumer agency has warned that SafetyCraft brand full size and portable drop-side cribs manufactured and/or distributed by Generation 2 Worldwide contains drop-side hardware that may be dangerous to toddlers and infants. The CPSC said last month that the hardware on the SafetyCraft drop-side cribs could fail and cause infants and toddlers to be suffocated and strangled.

The CPSC encourages parents to immediately stop using the crib and find another safe sleeping environment for the child. The Commission says parents should not try and fix the crib, seeing as the Generation 2 Worldwide has not been in business since 2005.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, call our Toledo, Ohio child accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Summer Infant Recalls Video Baby Monitors With Cords Part Two | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Summer Infant Inc. is now providing new product labels and instructions for around 1.7 million video baby monitors with electrical cords. These cords can present a strangulation hazard to infants and toddlers if they are placed to close to the crib. Because of this serious strangulation risk parents and caregivers should place these and other corded cameras at least three feet away from the crib.

Last October CPSC issued a safety alert warning customers since 2004 there have been six deaths related to baby monitor cords. Since that alert the number of strangulation deaths has gone to seven. The alert now reads "Infants Can Strangle in Baby Monitor Cords" The CPSC is still interested in any reports of Infants dying due to monitor cord strangulation or any other hazards the Summer Infant Monitors may cause.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, call our Toledo, Ohio car accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of The Ohio Accident Book.

Summer Infant Recalls Video Baby Monitors With Cords Part One | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

In the last year CPSC has received two reports of strangulation and one report of a near strangulation. In March of last year there was a ten-month-old girl strangled in her crib, the Summer Infant monitor crib had been placed on top of the crib rail. Then in November of last year there was a six-month-old boy strangled in his crib, the Summer Infant monitor camera was placed on the changing table attached to the crib. As for the report of the near strangulation, it involved a twenty-month-old boy; he was found with the camera cord wrapped around his neck. The Summer Infant monitor camera was mounted on the wall but he could still reach the cord.

Summer Infant has recalled video monitors distributed between January 2003 and February 2011, they have also started their campaign to provide new on-product labels for electric cords and instructions to the consumers. These baby monitors were sold at major retailers nationwide for between $ 60 and $ 300 and sold in 40 different models. Summer Infant and CPSC strongly encourage parents to go and check the location of the video monitors, which includes any cameras that are mounted and all electrical cords to make sure they are out of the child's reach. If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, call our Toledo, Ohio car accident attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of The Ohio Accident Book.

Bike Safety Tips for Kids | Toledo, Ohio child injury attorney

Mon, 09 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

As the weather warms up and kids start riding their bikes again, there are a few safety tips to remember to help your kids stay safe while riding.

1. The Right Bike

Putting a child on a bike that is too big for them is a big risk for injuries. Many safety sites reccomend that children under five should still be riding tricycles and that children 3rd grade and under should have coaster brakes.

To make sure that the bike fits the child have your child stand over the bike with feet firmly on the ground. There should be at least a 1-2 ince gap between your child and the top bar.

The seat should be adjusted so that there is still a slight bend at the knee to reach the pedal at its farthest point. Another tip is that both training wheels should never touch the ground at the same time. The wheel wil not get enough traction for the brakes to work properly.

2. Helmets

Helmets are very important. They can reduce the risk of head injury by 85% and severe brain injury by 88%. A good way to encourage your children to wear a helmet while riding is to be the role model and wear one yourself!

The helmet should sit level on the head. There should be two fingers' width between the eyebrows and the helmet, and it should fit snugly all around. The y straps should be just under the ears. Make sure these are not twisted up.

When purchasing a helmet look for the CPSC sticker and also look for bright colored ones. The bright color will help motorists see your child.

3. Riding

Always supervise your child while they are riding. Make sure they do not have loose fitting clothing that could get caught in the chain or spokes. Never wear flip-flops. Always have your child wear a sturdy pair of shoes.

Put the bike away at dark.

Teach your kids to ride with traffic, stop at corners and pay attention to cars pulling out of driveways.

If your child has been injured in an accident, you need help. Call 800.637.8170 to request a free copy of Little Kids Big Accident: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Our Toledo, Ohio child injury lawyers are experienced at handling these kinds of cases and will work with you to get you the settlement you deserve.

Summer infant recalls video baby monitors with cords | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, LLC would like to inform you about a recent recall of the video baby monitors. Summer Infant Inc., of Woonsocket, Rhode Island is providing new on-product label and instructions for about 1.7 million video baby monitors with electrical cords. The cords can present a strangulation hazard to infants and toddlers if placed too close to a crib. Because of this serious strangulation risk, parents and caregivers should never place these and other corded cameras within three feet of a crib.

Over the past year the CPSC has received reports of two strangulation deaths of infants with the electrical cords of Summer Infant video baby monitors. In March 2010, a ten-month old girl from Washington, D.C. strangled in her crib in the electrical cord of a Summer Infant video monitor. The monitor camera had been placed on top of the crib rail. In November 2010, the CPSC received a report of a six-month old boy from Conway, S.C., who strangled in the electrical cord of a baby monitor placed on the changing table attached to the crib. In January 2011, the CPSC learned the product involved was a Summer Infant video baby monitor.

Summer Infant has initiated a campaign to provide new on-product labels for electric cords and instructions to consumers with the recalled video monitors distributed between January 2003 and February 2011.

The baby monitors were sold at major retailers, mass merchandisers, and juvenile products stores nationwide for between $60 and $300. They were sold in more than 40 different models, including handheld, digital, and color video monitors. All video monitors include both the camera (placed in the baby's room) and the hand held device (some models have two hand-held devices) that enable the caregiver to see and/or hear the baby from a specific distance. The brand "Summer" is found on the product.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Teen runs over 6-year-old bicyclist, drags him 90 feet | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

A female teenage motorist struck a 6-year-old bicyclist and dragged him under her car for 90 feet, leaving the lad with serious injuries.

Shayna E. Elloway, was driving a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica, exiting a corner drive-through and carry-out store on Broadway Street near Euclid Street, when she struck and ran over 6-year-old Tye Warwick.

Elloway continued north on Broadway, dragging Warwick and his bike under her car for approximately 90 feet before stopping. People in the area, whom troopers referred to as "Good Samaritans," lifted the car off the boy and pulled him out from under it.

Warwick suffered serious injuries and was flown by LifeFlight helicopter to Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Willard girl, 12, injured in wreck | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Willard girl was injured after a three-vehicle accident on East U.S. 224 near Attica.

The 2001 Chevrolet Venture driven by Larry J. Welter was hit in the rear by the 2006 Hyundai Sonata driven by Erin Flanagan. Flanagan was westbound when she failed to maintain assured clear distance and hit Welter's minivan.

After that collision, Welter hit the car in front of him, a 2007 Chevrolet Impala.

The collision happened on Friday near Township Road 197. Welter and the unspecified driver of the Impala were slowing at the time to allow a motorcycle to turn.

Welter's passenger, Hannah E. Welter, 12, was transported by relatives to Fisher-Titus Medical Center with minor injuries. Willard EMS transported Flanagan, who was charged with failure to maintain assured clear distance, to Willard Mercy Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in an accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Texter gets probation in wreck that killed his 3-year-old girl | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

A judge did not take away a man's phone who was texting when he crashed his car, killing one of his daughters; the phone now serves as a reminder of the crime.

"I was going to order that you have no use of a cell phone for a year. I'm not going to do that. Every time you pick up that cell phone let that be a reminder," Judge Richard Warren told Jonathon Harp.

Judge Warren sentenced the Jonathon Harp to two years' probation Tuesday on the charge of attempted vehicular homicide, a fifth-degree felony that carried a maximum one-year prison sentence. The judge also suspended his license for two years but granted driving privileges to and from work.

The judge asked Harp what the lesson was from this case."The biggest lesson to be learned is never take any life for granted," he said as he choked back tears. Warren responded, "No, the lesson is turn off your cell phone when you're driving."

Harp was driving his car west on state Route 309 on Dec. 20, 2009, when he ran into the back of a truck that was stopped to turn onto Phillips Road. Harp's car bounced into the other lane and was struck by an eastbound car. Harp's 3-year-old daughter, Macy Harp, was taken to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Harp declined further comment but Warren read his statements into the record that were taken during a pre-sentencing interview.

The problem continues to grow as texting gains popularity and nearly everyone has cell phones. AAA Ohio supports a statewide ban on texting while driving. Hopefully many will learn from this case and really see the dangers of texting and driving. Not only could you harm your life, but the lives of others.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Average of 26 children hurt by cribs every day | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to inform you of a recent study done about baby cribs. A baby's crib is often one of the few places where parents can place their child and feel OK leaving the baby unattended. It's the focal point of most nurseries, a must-have item on many baby registries. Yet an average of 26 children suffer a crib-related injury every day.

About 9,500 children a year were treated in the emergency room for crib-related injuries. The study showed that from 1990 to 2008 there were more than 181,000 children under the age of two were taken to an emergency room around the country for injuries related to at least one of the nursery products. Falling was the most common cause for injury. 83% of the total injuries were from cribs.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a crib, you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Nursery Safety Part 4 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to share with you some general nursery safety tips:

Cover all electrical outlets with safety covers.
Place cribs and other nursery furniture away from windows.
Keep cords from blinds and draperies out of reach. If possible, use cordless window treatments.
Never place a baby to sleep on a soft surface, such as a water bed, sofa, soft mattresss or pillow. Babies should sleep on the backs on a firm mattress.
Keep powders and other products out of the baby's reach.
Use caution when using secondhand nursery furniture. It may have been recalled or may be missing parts or instructions. See some of our past blogs for baby product recalls!

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in an accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Nursery Safety Part 3 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to share with you some nursery safety tips about changing tables:

Always use the changing table's safety belt to help prevent your baby from falling.
Keep at least one hand on the baby at all times, even when using the safety belt.
Never leave a baby on the changing table unsupervised.

Nursery Safety Part 2 |Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to share with you some nursery safety tips. Here are some tips about portable cribs and playpens:

Never leave the side of a mesh playpen down. A baby could become trapped and suffocate in the mesh.
Once a baby can pull himself up standing, keep large toys out of the playpen. He might try to use these items as steps.
Remove all toys and stuffed animals before putting a baby down to sleep.

Nursery Safety Part 1 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to provide to you some nursery safety tips. Here are some tips about cribs:

Use a firm mattress that is the correct size for the crib. There should be no gaps.
If you can fit 2 fingers between the mattress and the side of the crib, it is too loose.
Cover the mattress with a snug fitting crib sheet.
The slats of the crib should be no more than 2 and 3/8 inches apart. A baby's head could get trapped between widely spaced slats.
Do not place pillows, blankets, bumper pads or stuffed toys in the crib with the baby. Use sleepers or sacks instead of blankets
Remove any hanging toys or mobiles when the baby is able to get up on all fours (usually around 5 months of age).
Never use a crib with loose or missing pieces.

Recall on Infant Teethers/Rattles Due to an Ingestion Hazard | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to keep you informed about the recall of infant teethers and rattles. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product. Here is some information on the product:

Name of product: Refreshing Rings Infant Teethers/Rattles

Units: About 37,000

Importer: Sassy Inc., of Kentwood, Mich.

Hazard: Small pieces of the plastic ball can detach as a result of children chewing on the teether/rattle, posing an ingestion hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received one report of pieces of the black plastic from the polka dot ball detaching while being chewed. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves Refreshing Rings infant teethers/rattles intended for babies ages three months and older. The product has a red, water-filled ring on one end and a black and white polka dot ball on the other end. The two ends of the rattles/teethers are connected by a black and white, flexible plastic rod with three floating rings. Style number 80026 is printed on the packaging.

Sold at: Mass merchandise and baby specialty stores nationwide between July 2009 and January 2011 for about $5.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the teethers/rattles from children and contact Sassy Inc. for instructions on how to return the product for a free replacement toy.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Nurses Choice Recalls Holiday Keepsake Newborn Mittens Due to Choking Hazard | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to keep you informed about the recent newborn mittens. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product. Here is some information on the product:

Name of Product: Newborn Keepsake Mittens

Units: About 4,700

Manufacturer: Nurses Choice Corp. of Wilmington, N.C.

Hazard: Decorations on the mittens can be pulled off, posing a choking hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: The company has received one report of a decoration falling off a mitten. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The infant mittens are made of white cotton. They have candy cane, teddy bear and "2011" decorations glued on one side.

Sold at: The recalled products were distributed by hospitals nationwide for free to newborns from October 2010 to January 2011.

Manufactured in: U.S.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the mittens and contact Nurses Choice for a free replacement.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by this recent recall you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

3 hit by car, injured while sledding in southeastern Michigan | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Authorities say three teenagers were hit by a car while sledding on a road in southeast Michigan during a major snowstorm.

Michigan State Police Sgt. Daniel Drake tells The Macomb Daily of Mount Clemens that the trio ages 15, 16 and 17 was sledding on Big Hand Road in St. Clair County's Columbus Township.

Drake says one was trapped under the car. He says the two boys and a girl were taken to an area hospital with minor injuries.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Crib Safety Tips Part 3| Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to provide you with some crib safety tips.

Use safe sleepwear. Infant sleepwear should fit snuggly and be made of flame-resistant fabric. There should be no drawstrings, ribbons or anything else that might catch on something. Buttons and snaps should be firmly attached to avoid becoming a choking hazard.

Remove the bottle. As your child gets older you may feel tempted to let him fall asleep with a bottle or sippy cup. Don't do this! Bottle nipples suffer from wear and tear over time and a small piece can break off and get caught in a baby's throat. Sleeping with a bottle or cup can also cause tooth decay and lead to ear infections.

Use the proper sheets. Use ones made to fit the mattress in your crib, bassinet or play yard. If a sheet isn't the correct fit, your baby may pull it up and become entangled. Test the sheet by pulling up on each corner to make sure it doesn't pop off the mattress corner.

Skip the crib gym. The safest crib is one that is free of gyms and other toys that stretch across the crib using strings, cords or ribbons. They can be dangerous for older or more active babies, and you have no way of knowing what your baby is doing in the middle of the night.

If you think you must use crib gyms or other crib toys, you can reduce the risks by following recommendations from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Items should be free of points that your child's clothing could get caught on; they should be securely installed at both ends; they should be out of your child's reach; and they should be removed when your child is 5 months old or begins to push up on his hands and knees. Remove strings and cords from all toys and be sure there aren't any hanging into the crib or within reach of your baby.

Skip the bumpers, too. Crib bumpers are cute, but it's best not to use them. They need to be tied down with string, which is a potential hazard if not properly secured. If you do use a bumper, choose one that is thin, firm, and made of mesh, not one that is puffy or padded. It should fit around the entire crib and it should be secured in several places by ties or snaps. At a minimum, there should be a tie or strap at the top and bottom edges of each corner and in the middle of each long side. After tying the bumper to the crib, trim off excess string to prevent your baby from becoming entangled. The tie should be no longer than 8 inches.

Don't use a sleep positioner. Those wedge-shaped pieces of foam are designed to help babies sleep on their back. But the American Academy of Pediatrics says that none of these devices have been tested sufficiently to show that they are effective or safe.

Use the crib correctly. Don't lift your baby over the side of the crib without dropping the side first, or you'll be showing her how to escape. Also get in the habit of raising and locking the sides as soon as your baby is in the crib and check that all latches are locked.

Always put your baby to sleep on his back, not his stomach, to minimize the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and rebreathing, a sometimes fatal circumstance that can occur when a baby is sleeping on his stomach or trapped in soft bedding. As a result the child "rebreathes" his own carbon dioxide rather than breathing in oxygen-rich fresh air. The lack of oxygen can cause death.

Crib mobiles are for looking at, not for touching. They often have string or small attached pieces. Make sure your little one cannot reach the mobile so he can't become entangled or pull anything off. When he is able to push himself up on his hands and knees, the mobile should be removed from the crib.

Check back for more blogs on crib safety! If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a crib you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Crib Safety Tips Part 2| Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to provide you with some crib safety tips.

Inspect hotel cribs. When reserving a crib or a play yard at a hotel, try to find out the make and model number so you can check whether it has been recalled. Before you use either item, check thoroughly for loose screws or missing parts, and be sure the slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart. Make sure the sheet is designed for the crib or the play yard, and is not a bed sheet that has been tucked underneath. Best bet: Bring your own crib sheet or play-yard sheet.

Check the hardware. Make it a habit to check the screws and bolts in your baby's crib to ensure nothing is loose, missing or damaged. Crib hardware can loosen over time and may need occasional tightening. If anything is missing or broken, contact the manufacturer for replacement parts.

Check mattress supports. Make sure that the system that supports the crib mattress isn't bent, broken or coming apart. Be sure it's secure and isn't in danger of falling. If the mattress is suspended on hangers attached to hooks on the end panels, check regularly to see that these are still connected. A handy time to look is when you are changing the crib sheet.

Make sure the mattress fits. Put your baby to sleep on her back on a firm mattress that fits tightly into the crib. There shouldn't be any cracks or openings between the crib and the mattress because a baby can get trapped in the smallest of spaces. A full-size crib has an interior surface of 28 inches by 52 inches. The mattress for a full-size crib should be 27 1/4 inches by 51 5/8 inches, and no more than 6 inches thick. If you can place more than two fingers between the mattress and the crib frame, the fit isn't snug enough and there's a risk of head entrapment.

Adjust the mattress to the right height. Most cribs have this feature, some with only three levels and some with several levels. The higher levels make it easier to take your infant out of the crib but become dangerous when your child is able to pull herself to a standing position. Before your child reaches that stage-at around 6 months-the mattress should be at its lowest setting. Bumper pads and large toys help your little escape artist climb out, which is another reason they don't belong in the crib.

Let your baby sleep unencumbered. Don't wrap your bundle of joy in blankets or comforters when he's in the crib. He can quickly become entangled and might not be able to free himself. Pillows, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, stuffed animals or dolls don't belong in the bassinet or crib. And remember that babies can quickly overheat. Put yours to sleep in lightweight clothes and set the thermostat at a comfortable 70 degrees.

Check back for more blogs on crib safety! If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a crib you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Crib Safety Tips Part 1 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to provide you with some crib safety tips.

Never purchase an antique or used crib or bassinet. It may be missing hardware that prevents it from collapsing or failing in some other way. Some older cribs have cutouts in the headboard or footboard. Whether your crib is old or new it shouldn't have any cutouts or openings that could entrap your child's head, neck, arms, or legs.

Even if an old crib is in good shape, safety standards have improved over the years, so it's best to buy a new one if you can. A crib should be the one place you feel comfortable leaving your child alone.

Check the condition of the crib's paint. If your crib is painted, make sure the paint isn't chipped or peeling. This is especially important with older cribs that may have been coated with paint that contains lead-another reason not to use old cribs.

Check the crib for splinters. If you use an older crib, be sure to check it over thoroughly for cracks, splinters and rough edges, which could harm your baby.

Remove ribbons. If your bassinet has ribbons or bows make sure your child can't pull them off or become entangled. It's best to remove them or cut them shorter than 8 inches. If you decide to keep these decorative features, you need to be sure they are tightly fastened.

Check slat spacing. The slats in a crib or bassinet should be no farther apart than 2 3/8 inches. If you can fit a can of soda through them, the opening is too large. You are more likely to find this problem in an older crib, but you can't be too safe when it comes to your baby, so check any crib you put him in. If you find you have purchased a crib that is unsafe, you should return it and report it to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Check corner posts. If your crib has corner posts or finial knobs they should stand at least 16 inches above the crib's end panels so that a child can't reach the top and get her pajamas caught. If the corner posts or finials are shorter than this, unscrew or saw them off so that the corners are no more than 1/16 of an inch higher than the crib ends or side panels. After sawing them off, you will need to sand the crib to eliminate splinters and sharp corners.

Check back for more blogs on crib safety! If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a crib you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

New safety regulations for portable and full size cribs | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Last week, the Consumer Product Safety Commission approved new regulations for full-size and portable cribs. No more will new parents need to worry about all the durability problems that have plagued the safety of cribs, leading to recalls approaching 10 million units over the past few years.

The new regulations will require:

The elimination of drop-side designs that have been related to at least 32 deaths over the past few years.
Tougher testing that should make sure slats, spindles and mattress supports don't break during use.
Labels to prevent misassemble and alert parents to the developmental signs as to when to stop using a crib.
Shoddy portable cribs often found in hotels will need to be replaced, as well as those in daycare centers that don't meet the new regulations. However, daycare centers and public accommodations like hotels have two years to comply.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Valco Baby recalls jogging strollers | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, would like to warn parents about a recent jogging stroller. About 12,000 Valco Baby Tri Mode Single and Twin Jogging Strollers have been recalled by Unique Baby Products USA LLC, of Brooklyn, New York. The opening between the grab bar and seat bottom of the stroller can allow an infant's body to pass through and become entrapped at the neck by the grab bar, posing a strangulation hazard to young children when a child is not harnessed. When using a stroller, parents and caregivers are encouraged always to secure children by using the safety harness and never to leave them unattended.

This recall involves the grab bar on Tri Mode Single and Twin strollers. "Valco Baby" is printed on the head rest and the padding on the footboard. The grab bar is optional and can be removed from the stroller. The stroller's model numbers are located on a white sticker on the left hand side of brake bar. The recalled strollers with the affected grab bars are listed in the chart below. The strollers were sold at juvenile product stores and websites including www.amazon.com between November 2007 and March 2010 for between $480 to $700. Consumers should immediately remove the grab bar from the stroller and contact Valco Baby to receive a free replacement grab bar.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Don't let a hospital kill your child | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices would like to warn you about potential dangers to your children in hospitals. Here's what Katie Roche expected when she went into the hospital for spine surgery: two titanium rods, a bone graft, 17 screws in her vertebrae, eight hours in the operating room, and a week's stay in the hospital to recover.

Here's what she didn't expect on top of all that: sharing a hospital room with a feverish 6-year-old and contracting a nasty bacterial infection her mother says nearly killed her.

"She got so weak she couldn't even get out of bed to go to the bathroom -- I had to carry her," says her mother, Kathleen Roche. "For about 48 hours, I didn't think we'd have Katie with us much longer."

Because of the infection she picked up at the hospital, Katie, who was 19 at the time, dropped from 120 to 90 pounds.

The bacterium that made her so sick is called Clostridium diffcile and according to a study out this week, it's more common than ever among hospitalized children in the United States, and children who get it are more likely to die or require surgery.

The study found Clostridium difficile infections in hospitalized children went up 15% per year from 1997, when there were 3,565 infections, to 2006, when there were 7,779 infections.

The study looked at 10.5 million pediatric patients from 1997 to 2006, of whom 21,274, or 0.2%, had C. diff, as the bacteria are commonly called. The study was published this week in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine.

"This is huge, and really concerning," says Dr. Peter Pronovost, director of the Quality and Safety research group at Johns Hopkins University. What's really disturbing, he says, is that these children didn't have to get sick.

"Most of these infections are preventable," he added.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Reasons for child safety seats to expire | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyer

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a continuation of our previous blogs on child safety and the expiration of child safety seats here are some reason why the seats expire.

Technology changes

Car seat technology is always evolving, as are vehicles' ability to secure seats properly and consistently. Before 2002, Lower Anchor & Tethers for Children (LATCH) did not exist. Now it's a common system by which car seats are installed. The same is true of top tethers on car seats and tether anchors in cars. A skilled technician would never think to bypass tether usage if it is an option. This technology exists to make our children safer.

Materials wear out

Plastic stresses and warps. Straps and fabrics fray and rip. Instruction manuals get lost or destroyed. Important instructional labels fade, tear or fall off completely.

Manufacturing landscapes change

Your manufacturer may no longer stock replacement manuals and parts. Maybe the company has gone out of business entirely.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child car seats have expiration date | Toledo, Ohio child injury attorney

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may have heard that car seats have expiration dates. It's true, they do. There are concrete and important reasons why we must retire our trusty seats after a certain time. One of the Charles E. Boyk Law Office staff is expecting and was checking to see if she could use the car seat that she had when her son was born a couple years ago.

You need to check the manufactures label which is normally on the side of the car seat itself. These labels also may include model, serial and batch numbers. The companies don't always make this process easy. This is especially true when the date is found molded into the plastic. We did our best to help you find the appropriate information for certain child seats. If you need more guidance finding this information on your particular model, contact your manufacturer or post your question and we'll try and assist you.

If you've looked at the photos, you understand that there are indeed manufacturer expiration dates. We found that dates can be as many as 8 years and in some cases as little as 5. Parents should know that NHTSA instructs its techs and both Safe Kids and the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association agree that no seat should be used for more than a period of 6 years from its date of manufacture.

What should the public take from this? They should note both experts and seat manufacturers agree that seats do have a finite lifespan. Best practice would be to retire that seat after 6 years. That is of course unless your car seat manufacturer states that its lifespan is 5 years. Always consult your seat markings, labels and manual for this information. Check out some of the following blogs on reasons why the child safety seats expire.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Mother recovers $7 Million for child's death by dog mauling | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

A mother of a child who was mauled to death by two dogs received more than $7 million from a Texas jury. Justin Clinton was 10-+years-old when he was attacked and killed by a pit bull and an American bull mix that belonged to his friend's family.

Roughly 85 percent of the jury panel was "well aware" of the incident - which occurred in the small community of Leverett's Chapel, Texas. Once the jury was impaneled, the challenge continued, with friends and neighbors taking sides in an emotionally charged trial where the topic was the life of a young boy cut short.

Five days and 46 witnesses later, jurors awarded the mother $5 million for her pain and suffering, $2 million for Justin's pain and suffering and additional compensatory damages for the cost of his burial and medical services prior to death. The $7 million verdict - which does not include punitive - is believed to be the larges ever in a case involving a child killed by dogs.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by a dog bite or accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Amusement park ride case; settlement finally reached | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Some amusement park rides are safe but others can be "dangerous". There is a recent case where a 13-year-old Florida girl who was seriously injured when she fell about 100 feet to the ground from an amusement park ride. The settlement was reached with Extreme World in Wisconsin Dells and it still must have court approval. The park was subject to a foreclosure sale which was held on October 19, 2010. The sale was to satisfy a more than $2.47 million judgment in favor of the bank against Anderson Amusements LLC and Extreme World Inc. The bank filed the foreclosure action in December.

The teenager, who was visiting the Wisconsin from Parkland, Florida, on July 30^th, hit the ground in the free-fall ride after nets and air bags that were suppose to catch riders were not raised. She suffered swelling in her brain, multiple sever fractures of her spine and pelvis and lacerations to her liver, spleen and intestines. At press time she was still in the hospital in Florida. The ride was called Terminal velocity and it was made by a German manufacturer Montic.

Vehicles' Bigger Bind Zones Are Big Trouble For Little Ones | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, would like to inform you on a recent study done on vehicles and their blind spots. Here are some scary stats on child accidents:

Every week, fifty children are backed over by motor vehicles in the United States.
Forty-eight children end up in emergency rooms and two die as a result of these tragedies, which are referred to as backovers.
More than seventy percent of those children are struck by a driver who is related to them, often a parent. That equates to 41% of the non-traffic vehicular deaths for kids aged fourteen and younger. It's preventable. And with the pervasiveness of larger vehicles, it is essential people understand the hazards and enact measures to prevent this growing phenomenon.

There are two major contributing factors: young children, who have virtually no concept of danger, and vehicle blind zones. Fortunately, there are numerous precautions that can be taken to prevent these accidents.

Children are at risk for a number of reasons, including their height and inability to comprehend the dangers vehicles present. Toddlers 12-23 months-old represent 70% of the victims. They don't anticipate the movement of the car and are not cognizant of pseudo-boundaries like sidewalks, steps, and blind zones.

All vehicles have blind zones in the front, back, sides and corners. These areas are not visible to drivers, even with the proper use of their mirrors and when they turn around to look. As vehicles have grown longer, higher and larger, the blind zones have grown as well, but drivers underestimate the size of these zones.

Most vehicles have a blind zone behind them seven to eight feet wide, and 20-30 feet long; but a pickup's blind zone can be up to 50' behind it.
The shorter the driver is, the larger the blind zone.
Steep inclines also extend blind zones.
In front of a vehicle, the average blind zone is smaller, but unexpectedly dangerous, typically extending six to eight feet.

From 2004 to 2008, frontovers represented 22.5% of non-traffic vehicular fatalities for children younger than 14 years-old, and over the past two years, frontovers have increased dramatically. Astonishingly, as of July, backovers and frontovers are taking place at an equal pace so far in 2010.

Backover accidents are preventable | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Backovers are preventable accidents. Awareness is key. And fortunately, there are many ways to reduce blind zones and avert these accidents. Vehicles can be purchased or retrofit with backup warning devises to reduce or eliminate their blind zones. Rear sensor systems can alert drivers to obstacles or people in their blind zones with an audio warning. Rear view camera systems show drivers what's behind them via an in-car monitor. As a result of the Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act, the Federal government is in the process of developing and implementing a rear visibility standard for all motor vehicles.

The following are some safety tips to prevent frontovers and backovers accidents:

Walk around and behind a vehicle prior to moving it.
Know where your kids are. Make children move away from your vehicle to a place where they are in full view before moving the car, and ensure that another adult is properly supervising children before moving your vehicle.
Teach children that parked vehicles might move. Let them know that they can see the vehicle, but the driver might not be able to see them.
Consider installing cross view mirrors, audible collision detectors, a rear-view video camera and/or some type of back up detection device.
Measure the size of your blind zone (area) behind the vehicle(s) you drive.
Be aware that steep inclines and large SUV's, vans and trucks add to the difficulty of seeing behind a vehicle.
Consider retrofitting your vehicle(s) with rear sensor system safety technology if you do not have it. There are cost-effective and simple-to-install kits available. When you purchase a new car, be sure to ask for rear sensor system safety technology.
Always set the emergency brake, and teach your children to never play in, around or behind a vehicle.
Keep toys and other sports equipment off the driveway.
Homeowners should trim landscaping around the driveway to ensure they can see the sidewalk, street and pedestrians clearly when backing out of their driveways. Pedestrians also need to be able to see a vehicle pulling out of the driveway.
Never leave children alone in or around cars; not even for a minute.
Keep vehicles locked at all times; even in the garage or driveway.
Keys and/or remote openers should never be left within reach of children.
Make sure all child passengers have left the car after it is parked, and be sure to hold children's hands when leaving the vehicle.
Be especially careful about keeping children safe in and around cars during busy times, schedule changes and periods of crisis or holidays.
Advise children of the 10' blind zone around bus perimeters and that they should not play or push in line at the bus stop especially as a bus approaches. They should never retrieve an article dropped in front of a bus without getting a signal from the driver that it is okay to do so.

Valco Baby recalls jogging strollers | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices wanted to inform you about a recent stroller recall. About 12,000 Valco Baby Tri Mode Single and Twin Jogging Strollers have been recalled by Unique Baby Products USA LLC, of Brooklyn, New York. The opening between the grab bar and seat bottom of the stroller can allow an infant's body to pass through and become entrapped at the neck by the grab bar, posing a strangulation hazard to young children when a child is not harnessed. When using a stroller, parents and caregivers are encouraged always to secure children by using the safety harness and never to leave them unattended.

This recall involves the grab bar on Tri Mode Single and Twin strollers. "Valco Baby" is printed on the head rest and the padding on the footboard. The grab bar is optional and can be removed from the stroller. The stroller's model numbers are located on a white sticker on the left hand side of brake bar.

The recalled strollers with the affected grab bars are listed in the chart below. The strollers were sold at juvenile product stores and websites including www.amazon.com between November 2007 and March 2010, and they were being sold for $480 to $700. Consumers should immediately remove the grab bar from the stroller and contact Valco Baby to receive a free replacement grab bar.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of strollers listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

U.S. to ban drop side cribs | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, LLC would like to warn the parents out there about a unanimous vote Wednesday, product safety regulators agreed to ban the production and sale of drop side cribs in the United States.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission voted 5 to 0 to implement a new federal crib safety standard that does away with the traditional drop side crib design.

The ban goes into effect in about six months, or by June, said CPSC spokeswoman Patty Davis.

Davis said the new regulation also enforces stronger crib mattress and sturdier hardware and more rigorous safety testing of cribs.

Dozens of infant deaths over the past decade have resulted in recalls of millions of drop side cribs in the United States.

The agency said between November 2007 and April of this year, there were 36 deaths associated with crib structural problems after babies became entrapped and suffocated.

Retailers and manufacturers have already been phasing out the traditional drop side cribs, Davis said.

When the new rules go into effect, they will no longer be allowed to make or sell this style of cribs, she said.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to a drop side crib you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Holiday Travel Tips | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Jeff Rasansky, a Dallas, Texas personal injury lawyer, recently wrote an article in his newsletter about holiday travel tips. The following are a couple of his suggestions.

When traveling with your children:

Have a designated spot to meet up in case you get separated (in the back left corner of the store, in the cereal aisle, at the cash registers, etc.)
Teach your children how to recognize which people to look for help (salesperson, uniformed office, etc.)
When making arrangements for your child to travel alone, make sure that the airline knows and try to book a direct or non-stop route
In the case of a delay, remain at the gate or stop until the plane or train departs

Here are a few extra tips for the travel season:

Some airlines have restrictions on baggage during the holidays so it is always a good idea to send your gifts ahead of time
Give your house a "lived-in" look while you're gone by having a neighbor pick up your mail, setting timers for your light, and by not leaving details of your trip on your answering machine. This will discourage any burglars from attempting to rob your house while you're away

For more information on how to protect your child not only on the holidays but every day check out our Ohio Child Accident Book website.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Use the Correct Child Restraint System for Your Child's Age and Size | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Keep your child in a rear-facing seat until your child is at least 1 year old and at least 20 pounds.
Use a forward-facing seat with a harness after your child has outgrown their rear-facing seat. Your child should stay in this seat until they weigh approximately 40 pounds or their ears reach the top of the seat.
Use a booster seat when your child has outgrown the forward-facing seat. Be sure to check the height and weight limits for the seat you own. Your child needs to use a booster seat from about 4 to 8 years old or until your child reaches about 4 feet, 9 inches.
Keep your child in a booster seat until the adult lap-and-shoulder belt fits properly. The seat belt should lie across the chest between the neck and arm and the lap belt must be across the upper thighs, not the soft stomach.
An adult lap-and-shoulder belt can be used when your child is tall enough (usually about 4 feet, 9 inches) to sit against the back of the car's seat with their legs bent at the knees with their feet hanging down.

Protecting Your Children the Right Way | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Although 96 percent of parents who use child safety seats, booster seats and safety belts to protect their children think they are doing it correctly, check ups continually show that 4 out of 5 unintentionally make mistakes that could result in their child being injured or killed in a crash.

The National Transportation Safety Board has called upon automakers and others to establish permanent child safety seat fitting stations so that every parent may have every opportunity to be sure that every child is riding safely in every vehicle. To find a child safety seat fitting station in your area visit www.seatcheck.org or call 1-866-SEAT CHECK.

The National Transportation Safety Board has also called upon the 50 States to enact laws to require that all children up to 8 years old use child restraint systems and booster seats and that all children age 12 and younger ride in the rear seat.

Today, all 50 States and the District of Columbia have child restraint laws. However, only 29 States, DC and three territories require children up to 8 years old to use child restraint systems and boosters seats as recommended.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child Passenger Safety | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Child deaths in motor vehicle crashes have gone down since 1975, but crashes still cause about 1 of every 3 injury deaths among children younger than 13. Among those 2-12 years old, motor vehicle crash injuries are the leading cause of death. Most of these deaths occur among children traveling as passenger vehicle occupants, and proper restraint use can reduce these fatalities. Children riding in the front seat can be seriously injured or killed when an air bag comes out in a crash.

An air bag is not a soft, billowy pillow. To do its important job, an air bag comes out of the dashboard at up to 200 miles per hour - faster than the blink of an eye. The force of an air bag can hurt those who are too close to it. Placing children in rear seats instead of front seats reduces fatal injury risk by about a third among those 12 and younger.

Each year approximately 1,800 children ages 14 and under are killed as occupants in motor vehicles, and more than 280,000 are injured. Our firm handles child accident cases. If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

School Bus Passenger Safety | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Most people believe that school children are not protected during a crash because school buses do not have seat belts. In fact, school buses are designed with a clever occupant protection system that fits both a kindergarten student and a high school senior, without the need for seat belts.

This occupant protection system is called compartmentalization: the seats are strong, closely spaced together, high backed, well padded, and are designed to absorb energy during a crash. Compartmentalization works best in frontal and rear impact scenarios.

School buses are surprisingly one of the safest forms of transportation on the road today. An average of only 7 passengers are fatally injured each year as school buses carry over 23.5 million children daily. The Safety Board continues to investigate school bus crashes to ensure that this safety record

The Safety Board conducted a study on Bus Crashworthiness Issues. The conclusions of this study focus on several main issues:

Occupants in the seating compartment but not in the area of intrusion were less likely to be seriously injured.
Seatbelts do not prevent injuries in all crash situations and can actually increase injuries with the current school bus seat design.
An occupant crash protection system should be developed that would protect school bus passengers in most accident scenarios.

8 children injured when truck hits school bus near Detroit | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

A truck has hit a school bus on Interstate 696 in southern Oakland County's Madison Heights, injuring eight of the 34 children on board. News reports showed that the bus was one of two from the Port Huron school district and was struck from behind as its driver was turning north onto I-75.

According to reports both buses slowed about 9 a.m. then stopped while waiting to exit I-696. The driver of the semi-trailer could not stop in time and struck the rear of the second bus. Thankfully all of the injuries were considered minor. The students were being treated at an area hospital and the two adult chaperones and the bus driver were not hurt.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in an accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Preventing Child Accidents | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

In addition to teaching children how to grow and become responsible adults, it is essential to protect them from harm and teach them how to prevent causing or getting into accidents. By reading this article, you will develop child safety tips and learn how to prevent accidents while having children in the house.

·One important precaution you can take is to keep matches out of the reach of your children. It is also an intelligent idea to teach your kids to not play with matches or handle them dangerously.

·Another thing you have to teach your children is how to avoid being harmed by fire. Teach them to not touch the fire on a stove. Instruct them to watch out for sparks while food is being fried on the stove.

·Toy safety is something you have to include in your household. Whenever you shop for toys, read the labels and safety instructions on their packages to see if the toys are designed for children who are as old as yours.

·Teach your children how to safely handle electrical outlets.

·Keep your kids from climbing objects that can easily cause them harm. Tell them to not hang onto ceiling fans.

·Teach your children how to handle sharp objects.

·If you have a gun at home, never let your kids have access to it. Keep it securely locked up.

·Take precaution with paint and other chemicals. Keep them out of the reach of kids who are very young. Teach your children to never drink chemicals or paint.

Follow these tips to prevent accidents with kids in the house!

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Appliances in the home that can tip over are dangerous | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Many people don't realize there are certain appliances in their homes that can create real hazards. This is because appliances, such as ovens that are unsecure, can tip over. At least 34 people have been killed in tip-over accidents in homes across the country since 1980. The accidents are frustrating for safety advocates, who have tried for years to get both the manufacturers ad consumers to recognize the risk.

For example, the installation of a simple bracket can secure an appliance to a wall and that will solve the problem. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission counted 107 incidents resulting in injury or death from 1980 through 2006. Those included 33 fatalities - nearly half involving children under age two - and 84 injuries. Regardless of age, most injuries were burns from hot liquids spilled from pots or pans when a range tipped. Of course, the real danger is when a stove or other appliance tips over and falls on a person.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Government warns parents not to use baby sleep positioners | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Baby sleep positioners, a popular product for safety-conscious parents, were suppose to save lives by keeping infants from rolling onto their stomachs. Instead, these products are now being added to the growing list of dangerous nursery products.

While the products haven't been banned, the government is warning parents and caregivers to stop using infant sleep positioners. These are the soft fabric products that parents put in cribs to keep babies safely sleeping on their backs.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Food and Drug Administration say they know of 12 infants in the last 13 years who died when they suffocated in a positioned or became trapped and suffocated between the positioned and the side of the crib.

This is a significant safety problem that must be addressed. Hopefully it will soon be resolved. If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of child accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Are there children living in your household? | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

40,000 cribs recalled for safety risks | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Three U.S. companies recalled more than 40,000 cribs on due to safety concerns raised by six child injuries.

The recalled Ethan Allen, Angel Line and Victory Land Heritage Collection 3-in-1 cribs have drop-sides that can detach due to faulty hardware or wear and tear, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. This can create a gap where young children can be trapped or suffocated.

A detached drop-side can also allow a child to fall out of the crib.

Drop-sides have been blamed in the deaths of at least 32 infants and toddlers since 2000, and are suspected in another 14 infant fatalities. In the past five years, more than 9 million drop-side cribs have been recalled.

In July the CPSC proposed new rules that would ban the manufacture, sale and resale of drop-side cribs. The new crib standard is likely to take effect next year and would also outlaw drop-sides at motels, hotels and childcare facilities.

The recall affects a total of about 40,650 cribs.

Danbury, Conn.-based Ethan Allen has received five reports of incidents related to its Chinese- and American-made cribs, resulting in three minor injuries. These cribs were sold at Ethan Allen stores from 2002 to 2008.

Pennsville, N.J.-based Angel Line has received one report of a detached drop-side on a Chinese-made crib. No injuries were reported. The Angel Line cribs were sold at Ababy.com, Babyage.com and other online stores from December 2004 to January 2009.

Bartlett, Ill.-based Victory Land has received 17 reports of incidents involving its Heritage Collection cribs, including three reports of minor injuries. The cribs were manufactured in Vietnam and sold by Kmart from February 2007 to October 2008.

CPSC urged parents to stop using the cribs and contact the companies for a free repair kit. The agency suggested bassinets, play yards or toddler beds as potential safe alternatives, depending on the age of the child.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of the cribs listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Ways to prevent child accidents at home; Part 2 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Protecting your family from falls can prevent bruises, broken bones, or even death. Keep all top floor windows closed or protect them with bars if you have small children. Never keep furniture that can be climbed on in front of windows. Put safety gates at the top and bottom of every flight of stairs to prevent little ones from falling. Keep stairways uncluttered and especially keep the tops of stairways clear of anything that could be tripped over. Area rugs should have non-slip mats installed underneath them and loose carpeting should be tacked down immediately.

Poisoning is a dangerous household accident that is totally preventable. Keep dangerous substances such as household cleaners, paint thinners, anti-freeze, pesticides, medicines and anything that is dangerous to ingest locked up in a secure location. Common substances such as mouthwash, alcoholic beverages and tobacco products are also very dangerous poisons that should be kept out of reach of children. Even laundry detergent and batteries are deadly poisons. Keep the phone number of the poison control center posted near your phone because time is of the essence when it comes to accidental ingestion. Never induce vomiting unless you are instructed to do so by the poison control center. Keep a bottle of Ipecac syrup in your medicine cabinet at all times.

Choking is a hazard that mostly affects children. Keep the floor clear of all small objects that could be swallowed. Keep items that could have small parts chewed off of them out of reach and never leave small children unsupervised. Tie up any cords from blinds and don't let your child play with ropes, ribbons or long pieces of string. Throw away any plastic bags immediately to prevent suffocation. Supervise small children while they eat and steer clear of food items such as peanuts and hot dogs. Be sure you and your family members know the Heimlich maneuver.

Stay aware and be vigilant when it comes to home safety. The most tragic accidents are the ones that could have been prevented. Adequate supervision is the key with children. It only takes a few seconds for an accident to occur.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of the possible accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Ways to prevent child accidents at home | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Your home seems like it should be the safest place on earth but most accidents and injuries occur in and around the home. Unfortunately the truth is that most accidents could have been prevented if a few precautions had been taken. You might be surprised to find out how many ways there are to become hurt by everyday items. Taking a good look around your home and yard and eliminating obvious risks for injuries can go a long way towards protecting your family from senseless tragedy.

One of the most common causes of injury and death around the home is drowning. A small child can drown in only a few inches of water. If you have small children you should install locks on your toilet bowl lids and eliminate any standing water around the home. Be sure to keep any buckets or containers free from water and never leave your child unattended in the bathtub.

When you are filling a bathtub with water do not leave it unattended for any length of time. Swimming pools should have fences built around them with lockable gates or have removable ladders. Place water alarm devices in your swimming pools that will sound a piercing alarm when something enters the water. If you have a baby pool in the yard keep it empty when you are not using it. Never leave children unsupervised in a pool. Older children and adults should use the buddy system when swimming in a pool. Make sure your family is trained in CPR and take refresher courses from time to time.

Another common injury around the home is burns. Scalds from hot water top the list in burning injuries so be sure your water heater's thermostat is set below 120 degrees. Always keep hot liquids out of a child's reach and take care when walking with hot coffee or tea. Many children are scalded when an adult accidentally spills a hot beverage on them. When you are cooking on the stove keep all pot handles turned towards the back of the stove so that small children can't pull them on top of themselves. Always check the temperature of your child's bath water before letting them enter the tub. Keep items such as curling irons or clothes irons supervised at all times and place them in a high location after use.

Electrocution is a common household tragedy. Keep all electric outlets covered with safety plugs so that children can't insert metal items or fingers. Keep plugged in cords hidden from view so that children or pets will not be tempted to chew on them. Place objects in front of outlets that have plugs in them. In the bathroom keep all appliances unplugged when not in use and never keep an appliance near the bathtub. Exposed wires should be immediately discarded or taped with electrical tape.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured by one of the possible accidents listed above you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child Accident Statistics | Sylvania, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Injuries are a major source of childhood emergency department and hospital admissions. The following statistics are from the National Safety Council, the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, and other sources:

·Injury is the leading cause of death in children and young adults. According to the most recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were approximately 2,800 children, ages one to 14 years, that died from an unintentional injury .

·Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury for children. Children ages 14 and under account for one-third of all fall-related visits to hospital emergency rooms.

·In 2003, nearly 285,600 children ages 14 and under were treated in the US for bicycle-related injuries. Nearly half (47 percent) of children ages 14 and under hospitalized for bicycle-related injuries are diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury.

·Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages one to 14. The majority of drownings and near-drownings occur in residential swimming pools and in open water sites. However, children can drown in as little as one inch of water.

·Airway obstruction injury is the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among infants under age one.

·Approximately 45 percent of unintentional injury deaths occurred in and around the home. Unintentional home injury deaths to children are caused primarily by fire and burns, suffocation, drowning, firearms, falls, choking and poisoning.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due a car accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child Safety Tips | Fremont, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Once a child starts crawling you should childproof your home. Make sure to do the following to ensure your child's safety:

Install stairway gates to prevent falls.
Put plastic safety caps on electrical outlets to prevent electrocution.
Look for dangerous power cords. Kids can bite on them or try to cut them, or if they are damaged, and your child touches them, they can be electrocuted.
Put guards on windows to prevent falls.
Put poisons up high and locked away.
Keep medicines (over the counter and prescription) out of reach of children in a locked cabinet, even vitamins and aspirin, even mouthwash and toothpaste. Always use child resistant caps.
Keep guns out of children's reach, locked up, and keep guns and ammo separate.
Lower hot water heat temperature not to scald.
Put a fence around an outdoor swimming pool and keep the gate locked. Curious neighborhood children may want to investigate your pool when you are not at home.
Handling food properly will decrease chances of food poisoning.
Use non slip rugs and bath mat to prevent slipping in tub.
Look for toys or cords that your child could trip on and remove them.
Install toilet safety locks to avoid drowning from toddlers falling into toilet water.
Don't leave buckets of mop water lying around. A toddler can drown in even a small amount.
Keep your eyes on children at all times. A child can pull stool or chair to a washing machine and fall in head first, trapped to drown.
Thousands of home accidents occur every year, most of which could have been prevented.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due a car accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Top Ten Home Child Accidents | Port Clinton, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Drowning is the number one home accident, one of many that are all tragic and all easily preventable. Other top home accidents include:

Fire
Burns from pots, grease, irons etc
Head injuries
Falls
Poisoning
Electrocution
Shooting
Broken bones
Suffocation

School Transportation – Some Surprising Statistics | Sandusky, Ohio Bus Accident Lawyer

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Nearly 50 million students headed off to approximately 99,000 public elementary and secondary schools for the fall term according to IES National Center for Education Statistics. Though children are also transported via car, train and bike, the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration reports that every year, approximately 475,000 public school buses travel about 4.3 billion miles to transport 25 million children to and from school and school-related activities.

Among many adults, the perception is that children are safer traveling to and from school in the family car, primarily because they can use seat belts. But statistics disprove that theory. According to the National Safety Council, the national school bus accident rate is 0.01 per 100 million miles traveled, compared to 0.04 for trains, 0.06 for commercial aviation and 0.96 for other passenger vehicles. Therefore, the federal government considers school buses to be about nine times safer that other passenger vehicles during the normal school commute.

Among bus-related child fatalities, frontovers are the number one cause of death. Vehicle and bus safety discussions typically focus on car seats and the need for seat belts on buses. But it's a fact that more children are being killed outside of a bus than killed inside a bus because the large danger zones around buses which make it impossible for the driver to see small children. Children mistakenly believe that if they can see the bus, the bus driver can see them. However, there is approximately a 10' blind zone in front of school buses that most children and parents may not be aware of. And drivers don't realize that the blind zones around their larger passenger vehicles can be as large as the danger zones associated with buses.

Bus stops, designated drop-off locations at schools, and school parking lots are the most dangerous areas where children and parents need to be extra vigilant in regards to frontovers and backovers. Loading and unloading areas are a danger zone for children whether they are being transported by a bus, passenger vehicle, biking or even walking.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to a backover or frontover accident need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Teenagers Behind the Wheel - A scary thing for many | Port Clinton, Ohio Car Accident Lawyer

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

To many it's a little scary to know that your son or daughter will be on the road by the time their sixteen. I saw an interesting statistic recently that really opened my eyes. Evidently, your average sixteen year-old soccer player has 1,500 hours of instruction in soccer by the time they reach that age. But, we're handing these same kids drivers licenses and unleashing them on the road with only fifty to a hundred hours of driving instruction. A vast difference which is scarry!

This is disconcerting for a number of reasons:

In 2006, drivers age 15-17 were involved in approximately 974,000 accidents that injured 406,427 people and killed 2,541.
Auto accidents are the leading cause of death among U.S. teenagers as it accounts for 36% of all deaths in that age group according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has found that the 16-19 year-old age bracket has a greater risk of an accident than any other age group.
The risk of an auto accident for a 16 year-old is double that of a 18 or 19 year old.
This rate of injury for 16 years old increases every time another passenger is placed in the vehicle.
Lastly, 33% of teenage drivers are involved in a car crash in their first year of driving and somewhere in the United States, a teenage driver is killed every 6.5 minutes and injured every 55 seconds according to www.teensafety.com

So what's a parent to do?

More instruction is one thing. Some options would include:

The Mid-Ohio School in Lexington, KY offers a Honda Ten Defensive Driving Program and teaches the dynamics of driving including wet braking techniques, emergency lane change maneuvers, and a skid drill that simulates driving on ice, snow and rain.
Tire Rack's Street Survival Program will be held in fifty cities across the country through November 15th. It costs $60 and is open to permitted and licensed drivers between the ages of 16-21.
Driver's Edge is another touring school, which combines a classroom component with on-course driving experience. The program is cost-free and focuses on real-life emergency situations. It was founded by former race driver Jeff Payne.

Another helpful tool to reduce the risk to your teenager is a Graduated Drivers License program. All states have it to some degree, but your own family may consider implementing one for your new driver.

In a graduated program, there should be a period where they can only drive under the direct supervision of a licensed adult. Then, once you're comfortable (and the State you live in allows it), allow the teen an intermediate period where he or she can drive alone under limited circumstances such as during daylight hours and with no passengers. Lastly, when you as the parent are comfortable with your teen's skills and maturity behind the wheel, grant him or her full driving privileges.

I think the bottom line for parents is that you have to be involved. You can't rely on some course by the State and a few hours behind the wheel to properly prepare your teens for the dangers of driving a vehicle. Know where and when your teens are driving. Get involved. It may be the difference in whether or not your teen sees his or her 20th birthday.

If you have been injured in an accident, call our Port Clinton, Ohio personal injury lawyers at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of The Ohio Accident Book.

Safety tips to prevent backovers and frontovers | Fremont, Ohio Car Accident Lawyer

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Janette Fennell offers the following safety tips to prevent backovers and frontovers:

KidsAndCars.org Safety Tips to Prevent Backovers and Frontovers:

Walk around and behind a vehicle prior to moving it.
Know where your kids are. Make children move away from your vehicle to a place where they are in full view before moving the car, and ensure that another adult is properly supervising children before moving your vehicle.
Teach children that parked vehicles might move. Let them know that they can see the vehicle, but the driver might not be able to see them.
Consider installing cross view mirrors, audible collision detectors, a rear-view video camera and/or some type of back up detection device.
Measure the size of your blind zone (area) behind the vehicle(s) you drive.
Be aware that steep inclines and large SUV's, vans and trucks add to the difficulty of seeing behind a vehicle.
Consider retrofitting your vehicle(s) with rear sensor system safety technology if you do not have it. There are cost-effective and simple-to-install kits available. When you purchase a new car, be sure to ask for rear sensor system safety technology.
Always set the emergency brake, and teach your children to never play in, around or behind a vehicle.
Keep toys and other sports equipment off the driveway.
Homeowners should trim landscaping around the driveway to ensure they can see the sidewalk, street and pedestrians clearly when backing out of their driveways. Pedestrians also need to be able to see a vehicle pulling out of the driveway.
Never leave children alone in or around cars; not even for a minute.
Keep vehicles locked at all times; even in the garage or driveway.
Keys and/or remote openers should never be left within reach of children.
Make sure all child passengers have left the car after it is parked, and be sure to hold children's hands when leaving the vehicle.
Be especially careful about keeping children safe in and around cars during busy times, schedule changes and periods of crisis or holidays.
Advise children of the 10' blind zone around bus perimeters and that they should not play or push in line at the bus stop especially as a bus approaches. They should never retrieve an article dropped in front of a bus without getting a signal from the driver that it is okay to do so.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to a backover or frontover accident need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Children and backover accidents | Swanton, Ohio Car Accident Lawyer

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Every week, fifty children are backed over by motor vehicles in the United States. Forty-eight children end up in emergency rooms and two die as a result of these tragedies, which are referred to as backovers. More than seventy percent of those children are struck by a driver who is related to them, often a parent. That equates to 41% of the non-traffic vehicular deaths for kids aged fourteen and younger. It's preventable. And with the pervasiveness of larger vehicles, it is essential people understand the hazards and enact measures to prevent this growing phenomenon. There are two major contributing factors: young children, who have virtually no concept of danger, and vehicle blind zones. Fortunately, there are numerous precautions that can be taken to prevent these accidents.

Children are at risk for a number of reasons, including their height and inability to comprehend the dangers vehicles present. Toddlers 12-23 months-old represent 70% of the victims. They don't anticipate the movement of the car and are not cognizant of pseudo-boundaries like sidewalks, steps, and blind zones. Kids, especially toddlers, are often impulsive and victim of what Janette Fennell, founder KidsAndCars.org safety advocacy group, calls the "bye-bye syndrome." She notes, "Children often don't want to be left behind when a beloved relative is leaving; they sneak out and put themselves in a dangerous position behind the vehicle where they can't be seen."

All vehicles have blind zones in the front, back, sides and corners. These areas are not visible to drivers, even with the proper use of their mirrors and when they turn around to look. As vehicles have grown longer, higher and larger, the blind zones have grown as well, but drivers underestimate the size of these zones. Most vehicles have a blind zone behind them seven to eight feet wide, and 20-30 feet long; but a pickup's blind zone can be up to 50' behind it. And the shorter the driver is, the larger the blind zone. Steep inclines also extend blind zones. In front of a vehicle, the average blind zone is smaller, but unexpectedly dangerous, typically extending six to eight feet. From 2004 to 2008, frontovers represented 22.5% of non-traffic vehicular fatalities for children younger than 14 years-old, and over the past two years, frontovers have increased dramatically. Astonishingly, as of July, backovers and frontovers are taking place at an equal pace so far in 2010.

Backovers are preventable accidents. Awareness is key. And fortunately, there are many ways to reduce blind zones and avert these accidents. Vehicles can be purchased or retrofit with backup warning devises to reduce or eliminate their blind zones. Rear sensor systems can alert drivers to obstacles or people in their blind zones with an audio warning. Rear view camera systems show drivers what's behind them via an in-car monitor. As a result of the Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act, the Federal government is in the process of developing and implementing a rear visibility standard for all motor vehicles.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to a backover or frontover accident need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Drowning; Doesn't look like drowning | Sandusky, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Drowning is not the violent, splashing, call for help that most people expect. If you spend time on or near the water (hint: that's all of us), then you should make sure that you know what to look for whenever people enter the water. Drowning is almost always a deceptively quiet event. The waving, splashing, and yelling that dramatic conditioning (television) prepares us to look for, is rarely seen in real life.

The Instinctive Drowning Response - so named by Francesco A. Pia, Ph.D., is what people do to avoid actual or perceived suffocation in the water. And it does not look like most people expect. There is very little splashing, no waving, and no yelling or calls for help of any kind. To get an idea of just how quiet and undramatic from the surface drowning can be, consider this: It is the number two cause of accidental death in children, age 15 and under (just behind vehicle accidents) - of the approximately 750 children who will drown next year, about 375 of them will do so within 25 yards of a parent or other adult. In ten percent of those drowning', the adult will actually watch them do it, having no idea it is happening (source: CDC). Drowning does not look like drowning - Dr. Pia, in an article in the Coast Guard's On Scene magazine, described the instinctive drowning response like this:

Except in rare circumstances, drowning people are physiologically unable to call out for help. The respiratory system was designed for breathing. Speech is the secondary or overlaid function. Breathing must be fulfilled, before speech occurs.
Drowning people's mouths alternately sink below and reappear above the surface of the water. The mouths of drowning people are not above the surface of the water long enough for them to exhale, inhale, and call out for help. When the drowning people's mouths are above the surface, they exhale and inhale quickly as their mouths start to sink below the surface of the water.
Drowning people cannot wave for help. Nature instinctively forces them to extend their arms laterally and press down on the water's surface. Pressing down on the surface of the water, permits drowning people to leverage their bodies so they can lift their mouths out of the water to breathe.
Throughout the Instinctive Drowning Response, drowning people cannot voluntarily control their arm movements. Physiologically, drowning people who are struggling on the surface of the water cannot stop drowning and perform voluntary movements such as waving for help, moving toward a rescuer, or reaching out for a piece of rescue equipment.
From beginning to end of the Instinctive Drowning Response, people's bodies remain upright in the water, with no evidence of a supporting kick. Unless rescued by a trained lifeguard, these drowning people can only struggle on the surface of the water from 20 to 60 seconds before submersion occurs.
(Source: On Scene Magazine: Fall 2006, p. 14)

This doesn't mean that a person that is yelling for help and thrashing isn't in real trouble - they are experiencing aquatic distress. Not always present before the instinctive drowning response, aquatic distress doesn't last long - but unlike true drowning, these victims can still assist in their own rescue. They can grab lifelines, throw rings, etc.

Look for these other signs of drowning when persons are in the water:

Head low in the water, mouth at water level
Head tilted back with mouth open
Eyes glassy and empty, unable to focus
Eyes closed
Hair over forehead or eyes
Not using legs - Vertical
Hyperventilating or gasping
Trying to swim in a particular direction but not making headway
Trying to roll over on the back
Ladder climb, rarely out of the water.

So if something happens and everything looks OK - don't be too sure. Sometimes the most common indication that someone is drowning is that they don't look like they're drowning. They may just look like they are treading water and looking up at the deck. One way to be sure? Ask them, "Are you all right?" If they can answer at all - they probably are. If they return a blank stare, you may have less than 30 seconds to get to them. And parents - children playing in the water make noise. When they get quiet, you get to them and find out why.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to one of the listed Fisher-Price recalls you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

How to select a child safety seat | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that three out of four child safety seats are not used correctly? Safety experts at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are helping parents keep their children from joining the thousands of children who are injured or killed each year because they were not properly secured in their child seats. It is critical that parents choose an appropriate seat for their child and install it correctly.

How To Select A Child Safety Seat

The proper safety seat for your child depends first on your child's size, typically estimated by his or her age. There are four basic types of child restraint systems that are used at various stages of your child's growth.

Rear Facing Seats

Infants from birth to the age of one and up to twenty pounds should be secured in a rear-facing seat. These seats provide support for your child's young body with safety features that surround the child. Avoid seats with potential barriers that could collide with your child during a crash. Such barriers include handles, hanging toys and head rests. While such features may seem convenient, they can be dangerous during a collision.

According to Edmunds.com, it is important that your infant's seat has an angle of approximately 45 degrees. Safer infant car seats are now equipped with angle indicators and built-in adjusters.

Pros and Cons from Consumer Reports:

Pros: Safety data suggests that keeping your child in a rear-facing seat offers the best protection. With its removable carrier and swing-up handle, an infant seat lets you move your baby in and out of the car without disturbing him or her. Many infant seats may be used as a "travel system" allowing you move a sleeping baby from the car to a stroller without waking the child.

Cons: Once your infant grows too tall for a rear-facing seat, you'll have to switch to a larger-capacity seat or a convertible seat. You should verify the construction and materials used in your removable carrier seat. Some manufacturers use flimsy plastic materials to anchor the carrier/seat to the base, which may not withstand collision forces.

Convertible Seats

A convertible seat may be used as a rear-facing infant car seat until your child is one year old and weighs twenty-two pounds. The convertible seat may then be turned around and used as a forward-facing seat until your child reaches the height and weight limits of the seat. These seats have the advantage of offering a dual purpose seat, which helps avoid purchasing an additional seat when your child outgrows her rear-facing infant seat. However, convertible seats cannot be used as carriers or packaged with strollers, which may be less convenient for parents.

Pros and Cons from Consumer Reports:

Pros: Convertible models eliminate the need to switch seats when your infant becomes a toddler. Additionally, convertible seats often have higher weight capacities, which enable parents to keep even larger babies in the safer rear-facing configuration for a longer time.

Cons: Convertible seats do not offer the convenience of a separate carrier and are not compatible with "travel system" strollers.

Forward Facing Seats

Toddlers from age one to four and between twenty and forty pounds can be secured using a front-facing safety seat. Make sure to read your seat's instruction manual to determine the height and weight limits of your seat. Again, take extra precaution to avoid seats with trays or handles that could impact your child during a collision.

Pros and Cons from Consumer Reports:

Pros: Forward-facing toddler seats accommodate a wide range of sizes and weights, which increases the seats' useful life.

Cons: Some high-backed models may interfere with vehicle head restraints.

Booster Seats

After age four and approximately forty pounds, your child will outgrow her front-facing seat. At this point, you should secure your child in a booster seat. Booster seats are typically appropriate for children age four to at least age eight or taller than 4'9″. For maximum safety, choose a booster seat with belt-positioning guides that accommodate installation in a greater number of vehicles and properly align the belt on your child's body.

Pros and Cons from Consumer Reports:

Pros: These seats are relatively inexpensive. Booster seats with belt-positioning guides offer the best protection and can be used to accommodate the difference in belt position among different vehicles.

Cons: Booster seats may tempt parents to stop using a forward-facing toddler seat with a harness too early. Safety research shows that it is best to keep children in a full harness as long as possible before switching your child to a booster seat.

Seat Belts

When your child outgrows his booster seat - typically at age eight or taller than 4'9″ - he can use the adult seat belt in the back seat, so long as it fits properly with the lap belt snug across his waist and hips and the shoulder belt snug across his chest and shoulder without rubbing or crossing at his neck.

Not all child seats are created equally. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) provide only minimum standards for child seat safety. The safety seat you select for your child should exceed the bare minimum requirements under the FMVSS.

Parents should look for quality in their child's safety seat. Often the safest seats will be more expensive than other seats, but a few dollars is a small price to pay to ensure that your child is protected in a collision

In addition to reading literature about car seats, parents should also physically inspect the seats they are considering. Unfortunately, some car seat manufacturers do not manufacture their seats using robust materials. Some seats are made from flimsy plastics that will easily break during a collision. Carrier-system car seats in which the seat is anchored to a "base" in the vehicle, but can then be removed and used with strollers and other devices are particularly vulnerable. The anchor system must be made of robust materials, such as metal. Parents should not rely on plastic anchorages to secure the seat.

Did you know that not every child seat will fit in every vehicle? Parents should have a car seat specialist ensure that their selected seat will fit properly in their vehicle. Many child seat retailers have trained selection and installation specialists on staff.

Remember, your child is your most precious cargo. Choosing the proper car seat is an important decision, and correctly installing the child safety seat is critical to protecting your child in a collision.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due a car accident you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Fisher-Price recalls more than 10 million items | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Fisher-Price is recalling more than 10 million tricycles, toys and high chairs over safety concerns.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission says two of the products being recalled involve injuries.

In the recall of about 7 million Fisher-Price Trikes and Tough Trikes toddler tricycles, the agency is aware of 10 reports of children being hurt.

Fisher-Price is also recalling more than 1 million Healthy Care, Easy Clean and Close to Me High Chairs. Officials have received 14 reports of problems with the high chairs, with seven children requiring stitches.

Also being recalled by Fisher-Price, are more than 2.9 million toys of various types with components that, if loose, present a choking hazard.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to one of the listed Fisher-Price recalls you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Child Safety Seats, Questions and Answers | Bowling Green, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, LLC would like to provide you with some information on child safety seats. The law requires children younger than age 4 to ride in safety seats. In order to help decrease the incidence of serious injury and death to children who are involved in car accidents, Ohio requires children to use safety seats while traveling. Here are some questions and answers that are provided by the Ohio State Bar Association (OSBA).

Q: When am I required to use a safety seat for my daughter?

A: If your child weighs less than 40 pounds or is less than 4 years of age, she must ride in a safety seat.

Q: When may I use a booster seat for my daughter?

A: Your child may ride in a booster seat if she is between 4 and 7 years of age and less than 4 feet, 9 nine inches (57 inches) tall. Children 8 years of age or older may use a standard adult seat belt.

Q: Is my child required to be in the back seat of the car?

A: No. Your child may be seated in the front seat or the backseat of the car. Though Ohio does not require your child to be in the back seat, most pediatricians and related experts agree your child is safest when seated in the back seat.

Q: What penalties might I face if my child is not properly seated?

A: First-time offenders will be guilty of a minor misdemeanor and face a minimum fine of $25 to a maximum fine of $75. Repeat offenders will be guilty of a fourth-degree misdemeanor, which can include a maximum punishment of up to 30 days in jail and a $250 fine.

Q: What if I can't afford a proper safety seat?

A: If you cannot afford a safety seat, your local police department, fire department, church or hospital might provide you with one at little or no cost.

If you purchase a used safety seat, inspect it thoroughly and contact the manufacturer to ensure it has not been recalled. You can sign up for monthly recall alerts at www.safekids.org/our-work/recalls/2010/.

Q: Where can I get help properly installing my car seat?

A: Some local hospitals, police departments or fire departments are staffed with safety seat technicians who will help you install your child's safety seat properly. There are also safety seat inspection stations throughout the state. Find the site nearest to you at www.nhtsa.gov/peo ple/injury/childps/CPSFitting/ Index.cfm. Make sure you are ready for National Seat Check Sept. 25.

Q: What is the specific law that speaks about car seats in Ohio?

A: In Ohio, the law regarding car seats is spelled out in the Ohio Revised Code, Section 4511.81, titled, "Child restraint system - child highway safety fund."

Q: Are car seat laws the same in every state?

A: No; every state has its own law regarding car seats and restraints. If you are traveling, make sure to learn about the laws of the states through which you will be traveling.

For more information on a variety of legal topics, visit the OSBA's website at www.ohiobar.org.

If your child is injured in an accident, don't hesitate to call our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers at any time of the day or night.

Wal-Mart to limit toxic cadmium in products for children | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

It appears that Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., the world's largest retailer, has really started to crack down on the use of the toxic metal cadmium in children's jewelry and other products. The new policy doesn't affect products now on the shelves of Wal-Mart stores. Instead, children's jewelry and craft-making kits, toys and child-care articles such as bibs and pacifiers manufactured as of April 9th are being tested for cadmium, according to Wal-Mart.

Setting new standards is a voluntary move. Though cadmium can harm bones and kidneys and is a known carcinogen, unfortunately, there are no government regulations on how much of it is allowed in children's jewelry. Wal-Mart's decision was spurred by investigative reports by The Associated Press that showed high levels of cadmium in some pieces of children's jewelry, including several which Wal-Mart later recalled. The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission now wants to restrict cadmium in children's jewelry, and several lawmakers at the federal and state levels have proposed tight limits. In California, the state Senate has passed a bill that would effectively ban cadmium in children's jewelry.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to cadmium in children's jewelry you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Gund recalls to replace baby books due to the choking hazard | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Gund, of Edison, New Jersey, has recalled Gund Baby Paperboard Books. The recall includes about 15,100 books in the United States and 865 in Canada. The Styrofoam used to fill the books' binding can detach, posing a choking/aspiration hazard to infants and young children. Gund has received three reports of children mouthing the Styrofoam that detached from the books. This recall involves three miniature children's paperboard books with plastic handles designed as baby rattles.

The recall includes:

·Animals (item number 059174)

·Numbers (item number 059175)

·Colors (item number 059176)

·The books were also sold as a three-book set (item number 059173)

The name "Gund" and the item number are located on the back of the books.

·The books measure 4 1/2 inches by 7 inches.

·The books were sold at gift and specialty stores nationwide from January 2009 through March 2010 for about $8 individually and $20 for the set.

Consumers should immediately take the books away from young children and contact Gund for a free replacement product. For additional information, contact Gund at (800) 436-3726 or visit the firm's Web site at www.gund.com.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to a Gund baby book you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Graco®-Branded Drop-Side Cribs Recalled | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

LaJobi Inc., of Cranbury, New Jersey, has recalled Graco®-branded drop-side cribs made by LaJobi. The drop-side hardware can break or fail, allowing the drop-side to detach from the crib. When the drop-side detaches, a hazardous gap is created between the drop-side and the crib mattress in which infants and toddlers can become wedged or entrapped, posing a risk of suffocation and strangulation. In addition, children can fall from the cribs when the drop-side detaches or fails to lock.

CPSC and LaJobi have received a total of 99 reports of drop-side incidents, including hardware breakage and drop-side detachment.

·There were two incidents in which children became entrapped in the gap created by the detached drop-side. Both children were freed by their caregivers.

·There were six reports of children falling due to drop-side failure, including one report of a mild concussion.

This recall involves LaJobi-manufactured Graco® wood cribs. The full size cribs were sold in cherry, espresso, natural and white finishes. The production date, item number, purchase order number and finish name is printed on a label affixed to the footboard or headboard. "LaJobi" and the crib model name are printed on a product sticker located on the stabilizer bar or bottom rail of the crib.

The cribs were sold at children's product stores and other retailers nationwide from February 2007 to March 2010 for between $140 and $200. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled cribs and contact LaJobi to receive a free hardware retrofit kit that will immobilize the drop side. CPSC urges parents and caregivers to find an alternative, safe sleeping environment for their baby. For additional information, contact LaJobi toll-free at (888) 842-2215 anytime, or visit its Web site at www.LaJobi.com.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to a Graco branded drop-side crib you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents

Baby Slings Recalled After Infant Deaths | Findlay, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to a recent Jere Beasley Report, now more than 1 million baby slings made by Infantino have been recalled after claims linking them to three infant deaths. The Consumer Product Safety Commission said babies could suffocate in the soft fabric slings. The agency urged parents to immediately stop using the slings for babies under four months. The recall involves 1 million Infantino:

·"SlingRider"

·"Wendy Bellissimo"

These slings were sold in the United States and 15,000 in Canada.

The Infantino slings being recalled were sold from 2003 through 2010 at several retailers, These retailers include:

·Target

·Babies "R" Us

·Burlington Coat Factory

Consumers can call Infantino at 866-860-1361 to receive a free replacement product. There are no federal safety rules for baby slings. Infantino says it's working with CPSC and ASTM International, an organization that sets voluntary safety standards, to develop a standard for slings. The CPSC specializes in product safety, and often negotiates agreements with manufacturers for recalls, when necessary.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to a Infantino baby sling you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

8,400 Baby Walkers Recalled | Bowling Green, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Suntech Enterprises, Inc. is recalling approximately 8,400 baby walkers because the walkers can fit through standard doorways and "fail to have sufficient stair-fall protection to prevent falls down stairs." So far, according to the company, no injuries have been reported. As of December 21, 2010, all baby walkers will be required by law to be either too wide to fit through standard doorways or "have features, such as a gripping mechanism, to stop the walker at the edge of a step," according to a mandatory rule the CPSC issued in May 2010.

The baby walkers have a plastic frame supported by:

·Four wheels

·Eight break pads, according to the CPSC.

The walkers were sold in:

·Blue

·Pink,

·Green

·And they all had a white activity tray and patterned, vinyl seat.

Item number (which is printed on the side of the packaging):

·WK110

·WK112

The recalled walkers were manufactured in China and were sold at children's product stores in

·California

·Illinois

·New York

·Texas

The walkers manufactured in China, and were sold in the states listed above were sold from January 2007 through December 2009 for between $25 and $30.

Suntech and the CPSC are advising consumers to immediately stop using the recalled walkers and bring them to the store where purchased for a full refund.

If your child is injured due to a Suntech baby walker, don't hesitate to call our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170.

Part Two: Swimming Pool Safety Information | Bowling Green, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Part Two
Here is some information on swimming pool safety and responsibility.

Operating a Swimming Pool is an Immense Responsibility

Water safety is fostered with keen due diligence to:
1) Facility maintenance and infrastructure compliance with accepted standards;
2) Quality lifeguard staffing and training; management commitment to safety by consistent policy and appropriate financial/resource support.

2) Effective Supervision: Quality Lifeguard Staffing and Training; Management Commitment to Safety by Consistent Policy and Appropriate Financial/Resource Support;

a) Have all lifeguards trained by Red Cross or equivalent standards for CPR and advanced first aid. Statistics published by the Center for Disease Control document that a trained lifeguard will successfully respond to rescues and avoid tragedies for 98 out of 100 rescues attempted.
b) Establish normal operation plan. Have operation plan and specific responsibilities assigned to each staff member. Lifeguard stations should be established with different zones of responsibility when prompted by good standards of practice. It is recommended that a detailed work description be prepared by the aquatic's director and each staff member should review and sign the document stating that they have been informed and understand their responsibilities;
c) Never allow young children to be left alone in and around the pool for a moment. Make sure an adult is always present.
d) Post Pool Rules clearly and in a conspicuous location in the pool area; establish a bold lettered policy that the lifeguard on duty is not to be distracted by patrons and that the lifeguard has complete authority to enforce rules of the pool and to remove patrons that do not comply with pool policies. Reference Red Cross lifeguard training manual for suggested Pool Rules listing;
e) Prohibit glass containers and limit alcohol consumption;
f) Post a sign establishing the maximum pool occupancy;
g) Never rely on flotation devices or swimming lessons to protect a child. Twenty-five percent of all drowning victims have had swimming lessons.
h) Establish an emergency plan so lifeguards and other employees know what to do in the event of a pool facility emergency. Rehearse plan with local police, fire, and ambulance workers. Keep a telephone outside the pool area; post the 9-1-1 emergency number on the telephone;
i) Establish accident reporting policy;
j) Establish a lightning storm pool closing policy.

Note: The National Spa & Pool Institute (NSPI) (www.nspi.org) publishes recommended Pool Maintenance guidelines to both prevent injury and provide proper performance (reference ANSI/NSPI-1 2003).

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to a swimming pool you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Part One: Swimming Pool Safety Information | Bowling Green, Ohio Child Accident Lawyer

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Part One
Here is some information on swimming pool safety and responsibility.

Operating a Swimming Pool is an Immense Responsibility

Water safety is fostered with keen due diligence to:
1) Facility maintenance and infrastructure compliance with accepted standards;
2) Quality lifeguard staffing and training; management commitment to safety by consistent policy and appropriate financial/resource support.

1) Facility Maintenance and Infrastructure Compliance with Accepted Standards:
a) Inspect pool and deck for cracks; inspect for sharp edges, pinch points, loose parts and any other potential injury points;
b) Check diving board, hardware and anchoring points;
c) Have "No Diving" signs posted along sides of pool that are less than 8' deep; check that depth and geometry of pool in diving area meet standards; rope off diving area to separate swimmers from divers; check that depth markings are appropriately displayed;
d) Check that decks, horizontal pool surfaces, underwater steps, and ladders have non-skid surfaces;
e) Reference chapter 680 of the National Electric Code for all wiring, audio, and lighting standards. Inspect electrical wiring, check for corrosion of conduits, enclosures and proper grounding;
f) Check for proper "bonding" (grounding) of pool ladders and hand rails and any metal surface within 5' of the pool edge, but less than 12' above the deck;
g) Inspect underwater lighting and circuits to deck lighting, and pumps; test ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for proper operation; receptacles must also be GFCI protected; no receptacle to be within 10' from pool edge; check that above grade lighting fixtures are in compliance code standards;
h) Maintain proper water chemistry (pH and chlorine levels) to prevent Recreational Water Illnesses (RWI's); follow the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, (see: www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming/twelvesteps.htm);
i) Maintain appropriate barriers around pool perimeter: covers, fences and gates around pool must be of approved design to prevent unauthorized entry; follow the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines for safety guidelines for pools (see: www.cpsc.gov). Be wary of suffocation hazards associated with solar covers;
j) Review local codes or standards;
k) Inspect submerged intake guards for potential hair entrapment;
l) Inspect intake guards for compliance with ANSI A112.19.8 to prevent bowel evisceration;
m) Inspect the facility for any other apparent unsafe conditions;
n) Ensure that the necessary rescue equipment such as back boards, neck braces, rescue poles, first aid kits, etc., are available and ready for use. Reference latest Red Cross Lifeguard Training Manual and review requirements with lifeguard staff for further details.

Note: The National Spa & Pool Institute (NSPI) (www.nspi.org) publishes recommended Pool Maintenance guidelines to both prevent injury and provide proper performance (reference ANSI/NSPI-1 2003).

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to a swimming pool you need information. Contact our Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Pool Safety is "No Accident" | Swanton, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Here is some information that was recently published by the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC) about deaths due to drowning:

Each year approximately 6,500 people die from drowning in the United States and an estimated 140,000 persons drown worldwide.
Based on past record, about 75% of all drowning fatalities are males
Drowning is the second leading cause of injury related death for children between 0 and 14 years of age
For each of the 1,000 children that drown, four are hospitalized for near drowning (American Academy of Pediatrics)
one out of the four near drowning cases suffer severe, permanent neurological disability (Foundation for Aquatic Injury Prevention)
For children ages 1 to 4 years, 80% of drownings occur in backyard swimming pools or spas.

If your child is injured in an accident, don't hesitate to call our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers at any time of the day or night.

Gage Shultz Wins a Bike, Makes the News | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyer

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

At five years old, Gage Shultz is already a giver. And a locally famous one at that.

Gage gave his bike away to a friend who did not have one, and yesterday, he was rewarded for that selfless act.

He was selected as the most recent Bikes for Kids winner and got to pick out a new bike at Wersell's Bike Shop. Every major news outlet in Toledo came out to congratulate him and spotlight his good deed.

Our Toledo, Ohio personal injury law firm is proud to have had the opportunity to meet Gage and reward him for his generosity.

Click here to see 13ABC's coverage of Gage's big day.

Child Pedestrian Safety, Part 3 of 3 | Bowling Green, Ohio Child Injury Lawyers

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Here are some tips on how to keep your children safe while walking at any age:

Preschool

Supervise them at all times
Teach by explaining
Teach by example
Praise them

Children ages 5- 10

Accompany them
Make sure they follow these rules when crossing the street:
- Stop at a curb or the edge of the road, and only at a corner or intersection
- Look left-right-left for moving cars
- Walk, don't run, when road is clear or all cars have come to a stop
- Stay alert and keep looking for cars as you cross

Remind them to use their eyes and ears at all times
Teach them to obey all traffic markers

Children ages 10 and up

Choose their route to school
Make sure they use the sidewalk
Make sure they are visible

If your child is injured in an accident, don't hesitate to call our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers at any time of the day or night.

Child Pedestrian Safety, Part 2 of 3 | Swanton, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

There are some noticeable patterns to when and where and how child pedestrian accidents occur.

Urban areas have twice the rate of traffic-related pedestrians deaths as rural areas
Accidents are most likely to happen between the hours of 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. when children are traveling from school and playing. (It was recently calculated that 43 percent of fatal child pedestrian accidents occurred between these dangerous hours.)

Collisions with child pedestrians most often happen when:

The child darts out.
A vehicle turns into the path of a child.
A child is hidden from view by an ice cream truck.
A child is hidden from view by a bus and the driver does not stop.
Vehicles are backing up in roadways, driveways or parking lots.

Child accidents are often devastating; our experienced Swanton, Ohio child accident attorneys can make the litigation process easier for all parties involved.

Child Pedestrian Safety - Part 1 of 3 | Toledo, Ohio Child Accident Attorneys

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Pedestrian injury is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 5 to 14. These accidents claim the lives of about 600 children annually, according to a recent report.

Children are particularly at-risk because they are exposed to traffic threats that exceed their cognitive, developmental, behavioral, physical and sensory abilities.

Here are some of the top reasons why children under the age of 10 are at-risk pedestrians:

They often "dart out" into traffic, perhaps chasing after a toy or a pet.
They may believe that if they can see the driver, the driver can see them.
They may believe a green light means it is always safe to cross.
They may believe drivers will always stop if they are at a crosswalk.
They may believe cars can stop quickly.
They often cannot accurately tell which direction sounds is coming from.
Their peripheral vision is significantly less than that of an adult.
They may not be able to tell how fast a car is traveling or how far away it is.

Our Toledo, Ohio child accident attorneys are prepared to take on your case if your child has been injured in an accident. Call us 24 hours a day for a free consultation.

Which Cribs Are Safe? | Bowling Green, Ohio Child Accident Lawyers

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Following a recent ban on drop-side cribs and the recall of millions of other cribs by the Consumer Products Safety Commission, many parents may be wondering what makes a crib safe anymore.

According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, parents should look for cribs with four solid sides and no moving parts. These cribs should be made of sturdy materials and should not move or shake when pressure is applied to them.

Many manufacturers have already stopped producing drop-side cribs due to the threat of babies becoming trapped or falling out of the crib entirely.

Parents should also look for cribs containing wood with low emissions of volatile organic compounds such as formaldehyde. The EPA has been instructed to set a national standard for these emissions by 2013.

According to the Wall Street Journal article, parents should also be wary of secondhand cribs and should focus more on quality construction and less on price.

Our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers have handled cases where infants have been killed or injured by unsafe cribs. Our office hopes these new standards will prevent us from having to handle any more.

Our Firm Philosophy | Findlay, Ohio Child Accident Attorney

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Firm Philosophy
"Promise A Lot and Deliver More"

My father always told me "your word is your bond." If you make a promise your reputation depends on keeping it.

As an attorney for the last 26 and a half years I have always tried to "under-promise and over-deliver" and keep my word.

I have changed that philosophy in the last year after learning from the teachings of Sid Friedman. Now I try to "promise a lot and deliver more."

At our law firm we make it a policy to:

Return all phone calls
Listen to your problems and concerns
Maximize your recovery
Advise you of all your legal options
Provide you with 25 more methods of customer service to show you the Boyk Difference

Currently 70 percent of our business comes from repeat customers and referrals from existing clients. Our Toledo area law firm's goal is to be your family's legal resource for life.

11-year-old Ahjzanae Triplett Loses Life in Tragic Accident | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers were saddened to hear of the death of 11-year-old Ahjzanae Triplett on Sunday.

She was playing with her younger brother and another child near the mechanical gate of her Museum Place apartment when the gate opened and trapped her between it and its control box.

There is no sign so far of how the gate was activated, as no cars tried to enter or leave the parking lot around the time of the accident. The gate can be opened either by a car driving over a control pad or by a device similar to a garage door opener.

There is an electronic eye on the gate that can tell when there is an object in its path, but its position prevented it from detecting the girl.

Our thoughts are with her family at this difficult time.

More details on tragic loss of Ahjzanae Triplett | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

More details have emerged regarding the tragic accident that claimed the life of 11-year-old Ahjzanae Triplett, a girl whose friends and family call helpful and good-spirited.

Ahjzanae was collecting rocks outside her apartment with her younger brother and another child when she became trapped between the enclosed parking lot's mechanical gate and its control box. She died of compressive asphyxia because she was wedged into such a tight space, according to a Lucas County deputy coroner.

There is still no indication of how or why the gate was activated or how she got stuck.

Wallick-Hendy Properties, the company that manages the apartment complex where the accident occurred, says this was the first accident involving an electric gate at one of its properties.

According to a quote from city Law Director Adam Loukx in the Toledo Blade, the city of Toledo has no liability in this accident because "the city does not own, control or operate the building."

That same Toledo Blade article states that two girls in the United Kingdom were recently killed in similar accidents. Karolina Golabek, 5, and Semelia Campbell, 6, both lost their lives after becoming stuck in automatic gates.

Our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers want to stress that there are important steps that the family must take after this tragic accident. First and foremost, a thorough investigation of the accident scene and all witnesses present must be conducted. The easiest way to accomplish this is to hire an attorney and allow them to use the experts and private investigators they consult on a daily basis to find the truth.

When a wrongful death occurs, the family always wants answers as to what happened and why. In order for them to go on with their lives, an investigation must be done. Using expert witnesses and private investigators will help find answers and will provide the family with the closure they need.

An attorney can also help the family navigate the confusing sea of paperwork, probate, and investigations that follow tragic accidents like these. Dealing with the logistics of a wrongful death case is nearly impossible when you are mourning the loss of a loved one.

Donations for Ahjzanae's memorial service are being accepted at Key Bank branches.

Learn the top 4 ways

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Discover important ways to protect your child

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Top 5 ways your child

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Do you know how to protect your child near a pool? | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Toledo, Ohio child drowning lawyers want to know: Do you know how to protect your kids near swimming pools?

Another important swimming safety tip parents should know is to check if the pool is equipped with proper safety equipment. Parents should see if the pool has an emergency phone to be able to call 911. Other essential equipment should include a Sheppard's hook or reaching pole that can be used to extend out to a troubled swimmer. Also check and see if there is a throw rope with a ring buoy.

There should be a visible line or float rope in the pool that separates the shallow from the deep part of the pool. This line or float rope can act as an added safety feature for weaker swimmers who get into deeper parts of the pool by accident.

Call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents to learn what to do in the event of a child accident.

Check your pool for drowning hazards | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers want to remind readers that one of the most important things parents need to do when arriving at a swimming pool is to look in the deepest part of the pool and visually observe the drain or drains of the pool. The drain and bottom must be clearly visible in the deepest part of the pool for that pool to maintain proper water clarify. Parents also should also look at the pool and observe the color of the water before letting their children swim in the pool.

When observing the water clarity of a pool, make sure to look in the deep end and not in the middle or the shallow end of the pool. If water clarity is not acceptable, parents should notify management immediately so that management can close the pool to all users. Also be sure to check the water clarity of the pool throughout the day if you plan on swimming for several hours.

A murky and cloudy pool can often create a dangerous condition, preventing parents from properly supervising and keeping an eye on their children. Children can easily go missing in seconds in water that is cloudy or murky and make it impossible for them to be seen at the bottom of the pool. If there is a situation where a rescue is needed, water clarity is essential to allow a proper rescue. These reasons are why water clarity is so important. It might sound absurd but the water clarity of the pool could make the difference between life and death when a child is drowning.

If your child has suffered serious injury from a pool accident, call 800.637.8170 immediately for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Kids at risk

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Child safety during summer

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Swimming deaths in summer

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Parents take extra caution

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Serious pool

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Do you need to hire a lawyer if your child is injured in an accident?

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Do you need a Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyer to help you if your child has been injured in an accident?

Lawyers help level the playing field between parents and adjusters. Insurance adjusters handle claims for a living. Naturally they have a tremendous advantage over most parents in negotiating a settlement. This is true even if the parents are very sophisticated and have successful careers.

Injury cases, particularly those involving children, are far more complicated than they often appear. The number of legal issues that arise even in seemingly straightforward cases can be tricky for even for lawyers who specialize in representing injured people.

For example, the attorneys in our office have handled tragic cases involving children who were injured or killed when struck by a car in a driveway. Because our office is experienced in handling such cases, we know the importance of doing things like hiring a private investigator to interview witnesses, gathering the child's school records, and making sure the family members of the child were receiving the proper psychological treatment to cope with their loss.

Apart from legal issues, an attorney experienced with child injury cases may be able to help guide you to the best medical care in the area. We've had a number of situations in our office where an accident has left a child with a broken arm or leg. That's a problem for anyone, but growing children can experience issues with growth plates that can cause situations such as one leg being shorter than the other. Because we deal with physicians on a daily basis, we're able to connect our clients with the top medical providers in the region.

So, if your child has been injured, contact a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your son or daughter's rights. Consulting a lawyer early in the case could make the difference between whether your child is taken advantage of or receives fair compensation.

We have also written a book for parents called Little Kids, Big Accidents. Call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of to talk to one of our lawyers, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Pool safety tips for parents Part V | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children under six years old.

Our Toledo, Ohio child accidental drowning lawyers want to urge parents to teach their youngsters about pool safety, in and out of the water, and regardless of whose pool their are visiting.

Read Part V of our Pool Safety tips, courtesy of Goldfish Swim School:

- Do not allow anyone of any age to swim alone. Examples of good safety behavior by adults are important to children.

- Teach your children to swim, but maintain constant supervision.

- To avoid entrapment, never use a pool if any of the grate outlets are missing or broken.

Want more tips on child safety? Do you know what to do if your child is injured in an accident? Call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Use caution with lawn mowers to avoid child accidents | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Summer time is coming soon and people are looking forward to enjoy spending time outside with their children. But our Toledo, Ohio child injury lawyers want to remind parents that one important part of being outside is maintaining your lawn, which can pose a risk to kids when using motorized eqipment like lawnmowers or weed-wackers.

Here are a few tips to keep you and your children safe:

- Lawn mowers should not be operated by children younger than 12; for a ride-on mower the operator should be at least 16.

- Children should never be allowed to ride along as a passenger on ride-one mowers.

- Do not allow children to modify blade settings; only an adult should do this.

- Young children should never be allowed near the mowing area; they should remain at a safe distance.

If your child has been injured in an accident due to the negligence of another person, call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents today.

Pool safety tips for parents Part III | Toledo, Ohio accidental drowning lawyers

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Does your child know the rules of the pool, even when they are not at home?

Our Toledo, Ohio child injury lawyers want to urge parents to talk to their kids about pool safety, in order to prevent the devastating injuries that cana result from pool accidents.

Read Part III of our Pool Safety tips, compliments of Goldfish Swim School:

- A clear view of the pool or spa from the house should be assured by removing vegetation and other obstacles.

- If you use a pool or spa cover, carefully read and follow the manufacturer's directions for safe installation, use, and maintenance.

- Always completely remove the cover before using your pool or spa, to avoid the possibility of anyone, especially a small child - being trapped and drowning under the cover.

Call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents to learn more tips on child safety.

Pool safety tips for parents Part IV | Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers want parents to check out Part IV of our Pool Safety tips, compliments of Goldfish Swim School.

Parents should stress to their kids that pool safety rules are universal, and should be followed no matter what pool or body of water they are around.

- Drain any standing water from the surface of your pool or spa cover. An infant or small child can drown in even the smallest amount of water.

- If you use any of the lightweight, floating pool covers, be especially alert for the potential for drowning accidents. These covers are not for safety, and no one should ever crawl or walk on them.

- Keep toys, particularly tricycles or wheel toys, away from the pool. A child playing with these could accidentally fall into the water.

Call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents to learn more about child safety and how to avoid serious child accidents.

Pool safety tips for parents Part II | Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers want to stress to parents the importance of summer pool safety. Do your kids know the rules of swimming and pools, even if they are away from home?

Read Part II of our pool safety tips, compliments of Goldfish Swim School:

- All gates or doors leading from the house to the pool area should have a self-closing and self-latching mechanism that protects against unauthorized entry and use (the inside latch should be above the reach of toddlers or young children).

- Check with your local government to learn their specific legal requirements concerning fencing around pools and spas.

- You cannot be too cautious. If your pool, spa, or hot tub is indoors, lock the door to the room or have a cover that locks, to keep out children and other unauthorized users.

- Do not place objects (e.g. chairs or tables) near the pool or spa fence that could allow a youngster to climb over.

For more information on child safety and child accidents, call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Pool safety tips for parents Part I | Toledo, Ohio accidental drowning lawyers

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Toledo, Ohio child drowning lawyers were pleased to see the following swimming tips, released by Goldfish Swim School in Birmingham, Michigan.

It is imperative that parents talk to their children about swim safety, in order to avoid potentially fatal drowning accidents. Read the first three facts here:

- Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for children under six years old.

- Never leave a child out of supervisory eye contact in or near a pool, not even for a second. There is absolutely no substitute for constant adult supervision. If you must leave the pool area, take your child with you.

- Pools and spas are attractive to children, and children must be kept away from them in the absence of adequate supervison. A fence, wall, or natural/artificial barrier should completely enclose your pool or spa.

For more tips on child accidents, call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Bicycle safety imperative during summer months | Bowling Green, Ohio child bike accident lawyers

Fri, 21 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers remind parents to recognize that children face dangers when riding their bicycles. Of the incidents reported in Ohio, 486 children through the age of 15 were injured in bicycle accidents in 2007, according to the Department of Public Safety. Two of those accidents were fatal.

Injuries attributed to bicycle accidents dropped off in 2007 for children over the age of 16, perhaps because children that age don't ride their bikes as much once they reach driving age.

Across the United States, 15 percent of all bicyclists killed and 29 percent of those injured in 2007 were under the age of 16, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That number actually has fallen pretty dramatically compared to statistics compiled for 1997. That year, 31 percent of all bicyclists killed and 44 percent of those injured were under 16 years old.

Those numbers may have dropped because of the increased emphasis on having children wear bicycle helmets. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury by 85 percent, according to the NHTSA. Brain injuries can be cut by 88 percent through helmet use, the national organization found.

Call 800.637.8170 if your child has been injured in an accident caused by negligence, for your free copy of "Little Kids, Big Accidents."

Avoid child bicycle accidents with these questions | Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyers

Wed, 12 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyers encourage parents to talk to their children about bicycle safety and what you can do to prevent serious bicycle accidents.

Here is a list of questions that every child and parent should answer before heading out on a bike ride:

Are you wearing your helmet? Does it fit properly?

Do you have on bright, reflective clothing?

Is there enough air in your tires?

Do you have a white reflector on front and red reflector on the back of your bicycle?

Are your wheels and handlebars straight?

Is your seat on straight, and is it high/low enough?

Do your parents know where you are riding to?

Was your child injured by the negligence of another person while riding their bike? Request your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents by calling 800.637.8170. We can also provide you with a free case evaluation and consultation.

Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers give away bikes to kids

Mon, 10 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

It's that time of year again, when deserving kids around northwest Ohio will be rewarded with a brand new bicycle from Wersell's Bike Shop, compliments of the Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers at our office.

The attorneys in our office started Bikes for Kids last summer, as a way to promote bicycle safety and recognize kids in the community who have made a difference in the life of someone else.

We are giving away another 13 bikes, one for each week this summer, starting the first week of June.

"The goal of Bikes for Kids is to give back to the community," Attorney Chuck Boyk said. "We really try to focus on public service here at the firm, and we choose kids who have done something outstanding for their family or the community."

NBC 24 has partnered with our office and Wersell's to promote Bikes for Kids, and will be featuring the program in television commercials and on their website.

Starting in May, parents, grandparents, teachers, and family members are encouraged to enter Bikes for Kids by telling us in 150 words or less why their child deserves a bike, and how they have made a difference.

Visit NBC 24's website at www.toledoonthemove.com or our website, www.ohiochildaccidentbook.com next month for more information on rules and how to enter!

My child was hurt - do I have a case? | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

The fact that a child died or was injured in an accident doesn't mean a claim can be maintained. A person or business entity who caused the death or injury has to be deemed negligent, or at fault, under the law. Someone is at fault when it is his responsibility to act or behave in a certain way, but fails to, which causes injury or death. There's a lot of nuance to negligence law, but that's a boiled down version of the concept.

In addition to negligence actions, claims can be brought on behalf of children who were intentionally hurt or abused by someone.

Winning a lawsuit probably would seem like a hollow victory compared to the injury suffered by a child or the loss to a parent through a child's death, but the court system is purposely set up to allow us to work out our differences with other parties in a civil, organized way.

The insurance industry, acting in concert with state and national chamber of commerce organizations, have worked their propaganda machines overtime to paint everyone who files a lawsuit as a money grubber. That's ridiculous and it's shameful. People shouldn't be made to feel guilty for pursuing legitimate claims, especially when a child was injured or killed as the result of negligent conduct. You have nothing to be ashamed of when you look out for the best interests of yourself and your family.

The best way to figure out whether or not you have a case is to discuss it with an experienced, Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyer.

Lead poisoning child injury accidents casued by recalled toys

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

The hazards of lead paint poising have been known throughout the world since the early 1900's. Most cases of child lead poising result from the ingestion and inhalation of lead based paint and particles. However, other sources of lead, such as vinyl mini-blinds and toys may also be a major source of poisoning.

In a recent article in the Jere Beasley Report, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Comission, nine childrens product manufacturers, importers, and sellers have agreed to pay more than $500,000 in civil penalities. These penalities settle allegations that the firms "knowingly manufactured, imported, or sold toys and other childrens articles with paint or other sufrace coatings that contained lead levels in violation of federal law."

The items that were recalled in 2007 and 2008 include:

·        Toys

·        Metal jewerly

·        Pens

·        Metal water bottles

·        Pencil pouches

·        Sunglasses

·        Halloween pails and baskets

Parents and relatives of lead poisoned children are encouraged to contact Charles E. Boyk Law Offices LLC., immediately to learn about the legal rights of their children. Call 800.637.8170 for your copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents. Our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident injury lawyers provide this book free of charge to parents whose children have been injured due to the negligence of someone else.

Child injured in ATV accident | Toledo, Ohio ATV accident lawyers

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Toledo, Ohio Yamaha Rhino rollover ATV accident injury lawyers handle cases involving ATV accidents on a regular basis, and know the devstating effects that they can have on a famiy.

Take for instance a recent case involving a Yamaha Rhino rollover accident. According to the Jere Beasley Report, there have been several Rhino rollover lawsuits filed in 2009. Vicki Joyce's child was injured when the Yamaha 660 Rhino she was in rolled over and pinned her legs underneath it. Ms. Joyce has filed a lawsuit alleging the Rhino ATV is defective and unreasonbly dangerous.

The lawsuit filed by Ms. Joyce and her child in a Texas state court included Defendants, Yamaha Motor Corporation, Yamaha Motor Manufacuting Corporation and Yamaha Motor Company. Its alleged that the Defendants should have known that the Yamaha Rhino lacked necessary saftey features and posed an "additional risk of injury in the event of a rollover." This suit is one of more than 50 law suits against Rhino pending in federal courts across the country.

Its alleged in the lawsuit that the Defendents were negligent for failing to exercise reasonable care for the saftey of Rhino occupants by negligently designing, manufacturing, marketing and selling the vheicle without necessary saftey features.

Our Toledo, Ohio ATV accident attourneys want to remind riders to be careful while riding on ATVs, and also want to discourage parents from allowing their children under 16 from riding them at all.

Playground accident injury | Findlay, Ohio child accident lawyers

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Ohio child injury accidents can happen in even the most unlikely places.

Take for instance the case recently reported in the Jere Beasley Report where the City of Federal Way, Washington, will pay $2.2 million to the family of a 14-year-old girl who was choked by playground equiptment three years ago.

The girl was found unconscious hanging by the neck from a rope tied to a playground ride. She suffered an irreversable brain injury and remains in a vegetative state. She requires 24-hour medical care and lives in a skilled nursing facility. The settlement received court approval.

The parents will receive part of the settlement, but the largest portion will go to their daughter's special needs trust. The settlement had previously been reached with King County Housing Authority, which owns the Laurelwood Gardens Apartments where the family lived when the accident occurred in June 2006. The family also accused the Housing Authority and the apartments' management company, Allied Group Inc., of negligence in monitorying the playground equpitment. They were awarded $7 million in that settlement, which was covered by insurance.

If you or someone you know has been injured while on playground equipment contact our Findlay, Ohio child accident lawyers today at 800.637.8170 for your free consultation and case evaluation.

Pool tips from Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyers

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Read two more tips on how to avoid the devastating Ohio child accident injury caused by drowning. Our Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyers handle serious child injuries on a regular basis, and that is why they encourage parents to be smart, and to teach their children to be smart.

- Drowning is Silent: parents may think that if their child falls in the water, they will hear lots of splashing and screaming, and that they will be able to come to the rescue. Many times, however, children slip under the water silently. Even people in the pool have reported hearing nothing out of the ordinary during drowning incidents.

- Never leave a child unattended: even for a minute, with access to a pool, spa, bathtub, or bucket. If you have to leave, designate a "Water Watcher," someone who can concentrate on kids in the water without distraction

Call 800.637.8170 to request your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents today if your child has been injured in a serious Ohio child accident.

Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers on pool safety

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

As summer approaches, more families are headed to the pool. But all pools, from small backyard inflatables to commercial water parks, are dangerous and tempting to young kids. There are about 300 pool and spa related fatalities per year for children younger than five years of age, according to the Jere Beasley Report. To protect your loved ones from drowning, the Consumer Product Safety Commission says to keep the following in mind:

- Beware of Entrapments: Suction drains in pools and spas can cause entrapments involving hair, body parts, clothing and jewelry, which can lead to death and serious injury. Do not allow children to play in a pool or hot tub/spa with missing or broken drain covers.

- Look in the Pool First: precious time is often wasted looking for missing children anywhere but in the pool. Since every second counts, always look for a missing child in the pool or spa first. Be prepared for an emergency by having rescue equipment and phone near the pool. Also, parents should learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

If your child has suffered an Ohio accident due to the negligence of another person, call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Booster seat safety | Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyer

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Many booster seats have been recalled over the years due to the harm they cause children in the event of a car accident.

Our Toledo, Ohio car accident child injury lawyers were concerned to read a recent article in the Jere Beasley Report. According to the article, The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety has found that booster seats are doing a poor job of improving the fit of lap and shoulder belts for children.

Booster seats are meant to do one thing: elevate children so that safety belts designed for adults are in the right position to restrain kids during a crash.

Thirteen of the 41 belt-positioning booster seats that the Insurance Institute evaluated with the University of Michigan Transportation Research did so poorly that the Institute doesn't recommend them at all.

Ten models were considered "best bets," and five were "good bets." Good boosters route belts across a child's bony parts, not soft parts like the abdomen, which is more vulnerable to injury.

It is imperative that children are properly restrained in a vehicle, in order to protect their lives in the possible event of a serious car accident. Before buying a car seat, research their safety ratings, and always read the manual to ensure that you are using the seat properly.

If you or someone you know has had a child who was injured in a serious car accident, you need infromation. Contact our office 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling 800.637.8170.

Large televisions can injure children | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to the Jere Beasley Report, there have been major problems over recent years involving furniture falling on not only adults, but especially on children.

Large television sets are the source of major concern. A recent study shows that the number of children killed or injured by falling television sets appear to be on the rise.

Statistics from the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Ohio reviewed data from 100 emergency rooms and estimated that about 14,700 furniture-related injuries occurred each year between 1990 and 2007.

Televisions accounted for almost half of these injuries, as they were the most common articled involved in the serious child accidents. The child television accidents resulted in close to 300 deaths.

It is imperative that parents properly secure their television sets, and teach children not to play near them. Falling TV's can have devestating consequences, and can cause broken bones, serious closed head injuries, or even death.

If your child has been hurt in an Ohio accident due to the negligence of another person, call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids Big Accidents, or for your free consultation and case evaluation. Our Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyers are here to help you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Pedestrian child accidents | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Pedestrian accidents in which children are injured or hurt tend to be particularly heart breaking. In many situations, parents or relatives have backed over a child who happens to be playing in a driveway. Young kids can be particularly difficult to see for drivers, particularly when the person is driving a vehicle like a minivan or SUV. Unfortunately, we've seen the tragedy families endure in these types of situations.

In 2007, according to the Department of Public Safety, 610 children 15-years-old and younger were injured and 13 were killed as the result of pedestrian accidents in Ohio.

If you have a child who has been injured in an accident, request your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents by calling our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170.

Ohio bicycle child accident statistics | Toledo, Ohio bicycle accident lawyers

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

As all parents know, children also face dangers when riding their bicycles. Of the incidents reported in Ohio, 486 children through the age of 15 were injured in bicycle accidents in 2007, according to the Department of Public Safety. Two of those accidents were fatal.

Injuries attributed to bicycle accidents dropped off in 2007 for children over the age of 16, perhaps because children that age don't ride their bikes as much once they reach driving age.

Across the United States, 15 percent of all bicyclists killed and 29 percent of those injured in 2007 were under the age of 16, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That number actually has fallen pretty dramatically compared to statistics compiled for 1997. That year, 31 percent of all bicyclists killed and 44 percent of those injured were under 16 years old.

Those numbers may have dropped because of the increased emphasis on having children wear bicycle helmets. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury by 85 percent, according to the NHTSA. Brain injuries can be cut by 88 percent through helmet use, the national organization found.

If you have a child who has been injured in an accident, request your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents by calling our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers at 800.637.8170.

Car accidents involving children | Toledo, Ohio car accident lawyers

Sun, 28 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Some of the most devastating cases our Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyers handle involve car accidents.

In 2007, motor vehicle accidents in Ohio resulted in injuries to 9,159 children under the age of 15, according to the Ohio Department of Public Safety. Traffic accidents caused the deaths of 39 children under the age of 15, according to statistics compiled by the department.

Using safety seats is the best thing parents can do to safeguard their young children. When the children outgrow safety seats, parents should require their children to wear seatbelts and, preferably, to ride in the back seat.

If you have a child who has been injured in an accident, order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents by calling 800.637.8170.

Do you know what to do in an accident? | Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyers

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

When an Ohio child accident causes a child's death or injury, parents aren't thinking about Toledo, Ohio child accident injury lawyers and litigation. They're either grieving or trying to make sure their child recovers as fast as possible. But at some point, parents find that they have legal issues they need to address. People who haven't been in this situation expect that the negligent person's insurance company will pay for their medical bills, and compensate them for the loss of their child, or for the pain their child experienced. Of course, when a parent loses a child, no amount of money can ever make things right.

Unfortunately, it's rarely that simple or straightforward. Parents may find that their emotional trauma compounded by the unfair treatment some insurance companies seem to incorporate into their business models. Insurance companies often want to close a file for as little money as possible regardless of whether the child and parents are treated fairly. Though this likely is a new experience for you, it's certainly not for the adjusters and lawyers who defend these claims for insurance companies. Even sophisticated people who are successful in other areas of their lives often find themselves shocked when they seek compensation on behalf of their child.

If you have a child who has been injured in an accident, order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents by calling 800.637.8170.

Child injured in an Ohio accident? | Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

The most difficult cases our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers handle in our office involve the death or serious injury of a child. It's heartbreaking to see the emotional devastation parents, grandparents, and siblings experience after a child has been killed or injured in an accident. As we all have children in our lives, we understand how traumatic these experiences can be for families.

That's why the attorneys at Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, LLC wrote this book. We've found that parents whose kids have been hurt or killed in accidents have so much on their minds that they don't need more confusion when they're exploring their legal options.

If you have a child who has been injured in an accident, order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents by calling 800.637.8170.

Ohio kids and internet safety | Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Findlay, Ohio child accident lawyers know that kids are at risk even when they are safe in their own homes.

In the age of Facebook, texting, and YouTube, many parents are at an automatic disadvantage due to the fact that kids can be more computer-savvy than older generations.

While it is great that today's children are so technologically advanced, it can be a frightening wakeup call to parents who don't understand the different websites their kids are using.

It is imperative that parents know what their kids are doing online in order to keep them safe. Here are a few tips to help them beat the learning curve, compliments of Consumer Reports:

   1. Be involved. Teens whose parents show interest in their online lives engage in less risk-taking behavior. Most teens dislike the idea of Mom or Dad monitoring their account, but if you show positive interest in their profile and online friends, most will open up.

   2. Take age restrictions seriously. For most sites, the minimum age is 13. Some kids lie about their age online, so it's up to parents to monitor online behavior. The services themselves can't keep your child from signing up.

For more tips on Internet safety, read the next blog by our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers.

Ohio child car accident injuries may be prevented wit school bus seatbelts

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Findlay, Ohio child car accident attorneys were pleased to read that House Bill 448 was just introduced in the Ohio General Assembly, which would require all school busses purchased, leased, or rented after January 1, 2014 to be equipped wit a safety belt, according to Toledo Legal News.

The article went on to explain that over 7,000 children per year are sent to the emergency room due to school bus crashes, and that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends lap-shoulder belts be installed in school buses.

It is likely that the school bus that your child is riding in does not have a seatbelt, which makes it that much more important to stress the importance of school bus safety with your child.

Read about the tips to keep your child safe on the bus in our next blog on school bus safety.

If you would like a free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents, call 800.637.8170 to contact our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident lawyers.

Child suffers wrongful death after construction accident | Sylvania, Ohio child accident lawyer

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Sylvania, Ohio child accident lawyers were sad to read about the death of a 12-year-old girl after a piece of equipment fell on her at a construction site.

According to the Jere Beasley Report, the Redding, California girl had jumped up to grab a forklift-like metal bar, and when she did, the equipment fell forward and landed on her, crushing her skull.

Her father filed suit against the contractor of the construction site, claiming that the site should have been fenced off and that the equipment should have been chained so that it wouldn't fall over. It is also alleged that the equipment manufacturer was also at fault for not having a label on the machine warning that it could easily tip over.

If you have a child who has been injured in an Ohio child accident, call 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents.

Cribs recalled after infant death | Findlay, Ohio child accident lawyers

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Bowling Green, Ohio child accident crib recall lawyers always want to warn the community of potential dangers that can affect children. This includes recalls having to do with one of the places your child spends the most time - their crib.

Recently, a recall of about 635,000 cribs that were sold in stores such as Sears, Wal-Mart or K-mart was issued after the death of a six-month-old Iowa child who was trapped and then strangled after the drop side of the crib broke. Twenty different models of the Dorel Asia cribs were recalled because the drop sides of the cribs can detach, which creates a space in which a child could be suffocated, strangled, or trapped. The cribs were also recalled because it was found that a child could become trapped if one of the slats is damaged or broken. According to a Jere Beasley report, the company has received 31 reports of incidents involving drop side cribs. Six of those incidents involved a child being trapped between the drop side and the mattress. They have also received 36 reports of broken slats, including two reports of children being trapped. The company is offering free repair kits by contacting Dorel Asia at 866.762.2304.

To find out if the crib you own is under the Dorel Asia recall, visit he page that our Findlay, Ohio child accident injury lawyers created. Or you can order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents, written by Bowling Green, Ohio's best child accident attorneys.

Child accident causes severed feet | Child accident lawyers in Ohio

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to the Jere Beasley report, a settlement has been reached between Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom and a Louisville, Kentucky teenager and her family after a tragic child accident injury.

In June 2007, 13-year-old Kaitlin Lasitter was a passenger on Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom's "Superman Tower of Power" ride when the ride malfunctioned, causing a cable to snap and sever Kaitlin's feet. Doctors were only able to re-attach her right foot. Part of her left leg was amputated.

The exact terms of settlement between the two parties are being kept private, however it was stated that the settlement would provide lifetime care for Kaitlin. Kentucky Kingdom also filed suit against the maker of the cable that malfunctioned, and this case has also settled.

The ride that injured Kaitlin has since been removed from the park and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture reported that the blame was being placed on a faulty cable and the slow response of the ride operator. It also stated that if the operator of the ride had been quicker in reacting to the malfunction, it is most likely that Kaitlin would have only suffered very minor injuries.

Kaitlyn has suffered excruciating pain, as she has had to endure numerous surgeries. Kaitlyn, who used to be a soccer and softball player, now struggles with being made fun of, gaining weight due to lack of physical activity, her friends and boys treat her differently, and feels that she is somewhat "missing out on being a teenager."

Our child accident injury lawyers in Ohio handle cases involving the personal injury of kids on a regular basis. If you or someone you know has a child who has suffered as a victim of a child incident, contact our office today at 800.637.8170 for your free consultation and case evaluation.

Child injured in an accident? | Child accident lawyers in Ohio

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

In any Ohio child accident injury case, parents need to understand that there are important deadlines that cannot be missed. The most crucial deadline is that for filing a lawsuit, which is called the statute of limitations. If this deadline is missed, the child will be forever barred from making a claim.

The court system understands that kids, especially young ones, will have little to no control over whether they can advance a claim. In order to protect an injured child's rights, the statute of limitations doesn't begin to run until the child is 18. In a typical accident case, the statute of limitations is two years. So, in a typical claim involving an injury to a child, the case would have to be filed by the time the child turns 20 years old.

In a dog-bite case, the statute of limitations is six years, so the suit would need to be filed by the child's 24^th birthday.

The statute of limitations for claims involving medical malpractice or intentionally harming someone is one year from the point the child turns 18.

A claim a parent may have for loss of the child's society lasts as long as the child's claims. The reason for this is to promote a more efficient judicial system and to keep the claims together.

Contact our child injury accident lawyers in Ohio to order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents by calling 800.637.8170.

Cynthia Anderson charged with vehicular homicide in death of Morgan Duris

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

The media reported today that Cynthia Anderson, the woman who struck 15-year-old Morgan Duris as she was getting on the school bus last month, was charged with vehicular homicide in the young girl's death.

According to WTOL.com:

The Sylvania Police Dept. released a lengthy report Thursday, over 30 pages long, regarding the accident that killed 15-year-old Morgan Duris. It provides new insight as to why Cynthia Anderson, 66, was charged with aggravated vehicular homicide. Anderson's SUV slammed into Morgan Duris, while she was trying to cross the street to catch her bus.

According to police reports, Cynthia Anderson from Toledo was on her way to work and was in a hurry. She later told police, "I hit a child...I was going to pass (the bus) before it stopped, then the child darted out...I should have stopped...I was trying to beat (the bus). I was trying to rush."

Our hearts go out to the Duris family during this devastating time.

Fatal bus accident could have been avoided

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

The fatal bus accident that took the life of Morgan Duris brings to light the standard of care that needs to be taken when driving near school buses.

Our Toledo, Ohio fatal child accident lawyers urge drivers to be extra cautious when around driving next to, behind, or even near school buses. Treat the school bus stop signs as stationary stop signs - they are not meant as just a caution - drivers are REQUIRED to stop.

Avoid passing buses, as children are often waiting to board, and can dart out from behind trees, shrubs, or the bus itself when going to cross the street. WTOL reported that according to the Sylvania Police report, Cynthia Anderson, the woman who struck and killed Morgan Duris, was trying to pass the school bus before it stopped when Morgan entered the road.

Mind the speed limit, and it is a good idea to travel slightly below the speed limit since children are around.

If you or someone you know has lost a child to tragic circumstances, contact our Ohio fatal car accident lawyers at 800.637.8170 for your free copy of The Ohio Wrongful Death Book.

Ohio child car accident lawyers on kids riding in cars

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Do you know the proper way to buckle your child in a car? Our Toledo, Ohio child car accident attorneys want readers to learn the Top 8 Tips for Bucking Up Your Child in order to prevent a serious injury in the event of an Ohio child accident.

1. NEVER allow a child to ride in a car without a seatbelt. Not only can they injure themselves by being thrown against doors or the seats in front of them, but they can also injure others if the impact from a crash causes them to fall on other passengers.

2. Only one person per seatbelt.

3. Car seats will only work if they are propery strapped in.

4. Never put a child under 12 years old in the front seat. Airbags deploy very quickly and can injury a child in the event of an accident.

5. Never put an infant and their car seat in the front seat.

6. Infants should always ride in the rear middle seat, with their car seat facing backwards.

7. Infants should face the rear until they are one year old and at least 20 pounds.

8. All children should ride in a car seat or booster seat until they are 4'7" or 60 pounds.

If you or someone you know has a child who has suffered injury in an Ohio car accident, order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents, by calling 800.637.8170.

Child accident in Ohio | Ohio child accident lawyer

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

As Ohio child accident lawyers, we are often asked the question, "Why did you write the book Little Kids, Big Accidents?" There are several reasons. The first big reason is that children are the most important part of a parent's life. Our children are our hopes and our dreams. An injury to our child is the worst thing that can happen to a parent.

What we found over the last 26 years is that parents often do not know what their legal rights are.

If a child is injured, what can they recover? Can they recover for pain and suffering? Can they recover for their medical bills? How can they demonstrate future damages, future injuries? Who are the correct parties to sue? What is the statute of limitations, or the time period to pursue a case to protect their children?

We've tried to put that all together in the book, Little Kids, Big Accidents, so parents can know their legal rights to protect their families and their children.

We hope that your child never suffers injuries from an Ohio child accident. But if you would like a free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents, call 800.637.8170.

Ohio child accident lawyers on how to protect kids after accident

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Toledo, Ohio child injury lawyers handle cases involving an injured child on a regular basis. There are many steps that a parent needs to take after their child is injured in an accident.

But what are the most important things you can do after an Ohio child accident?

1. Preserve evidence. Take photos of the accident scene and the injured party.

2. Get names and phone numbers of witness.

3. Seek immediately medical treatment for the child. Actions speak louder than words.

4. Do not make statements to insurance company. The insurance company is there to try to gather evidence to destroy your case.

5. Contact an attorney to protect your legal rights, and more importantly to protect your child.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured due to someone else's negligence, you need information. Contact our child accident lawyers in Ohio at 800.637.8170 for your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Ohio child accident lawyers - Falling furniture

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Who: Ohio children

What: Injured by falling furniture or TV's

Where: Toledo, Ohio

According to the Jere Beasley Report, the problem involving furniture falling on people, especially children, has been a major source of concern. Recently a study showed that the number of children injured or killed by a television set falling on them appears to have risen.

The Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Ohio reviewed the data from ER visits and estimated that furniture related injuries occurred 14,700 times each year between 1990 and 2007. Almost half of those injuries resulted from a television set. It also is responsible for nearly 300 deaths.

The number and rate of injuries to children from falling furniture increased greatly over the time period of 1990-2007. A U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission report also said that it had estimated 42,700 injuries and 180 deaths associated with furniture from 2000-2006, with 87 of those deaths involving television sets.

Parents should take special precautions when young children are present in the household. The Jere Beasley report suggests that parents anchor heavy television sets to the walls as well as any other heavy household furniture. Also, parents should avoid placing a remote, toy, or any object the child might try and grab on a television set or other pieces of heavy furniture.

Our Toledo, Ohio child accident lawyers handle cases involving the injury of children and adults on a regular basis. If you or anyone you know are victims of an accident, please contact our office today at 1.800.637.8170 for your free consultation and case evaluation. You may alos order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents: The Ultimate Guide to Child Injury Cases in Ohio.

Ohio kid accident lawyers give new laptop

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our Ohio child accident lawyers recognize that for some kids, Christmas is not about a long wish list and receiving presents. It's about figuring out ways to help your family so that Christmas can even happen.

One girl who has done just that is Deja Maddox. Deja, 14, was this year's Dear Santa winner, and Santa Boyk was thrilled to give her the number one gift on her list - a new laptop computer.

As with many families in northwest Ohio, money is tight, and that leaves Deja without many options to have fun. Taking the situation in stride, Deja helps her mother care for her younger sister, and takes her to the library to study.

An excerpt from her Dear Santa letter reveals the heart that Deja has when it comes to helping others:

"I enjoy helping people. I like to think of others before myself. I feel if you only think of yourself you won't get very far."

Read our next blog by our Ohio child accident lawyers to hear what Deja had to say after receiving her new laptop.

If you or someone you know has a child who was injured in an Ohio child accident, you need information. Order your free copy of The Ohio Child Accident Book.

Ohio child accident lawyers

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What was Deja's reaction after she won a laptop in our Toledo, Ohio kid accident lawyer's Dear Santa contest?

Our office's marketing director, Anneke Kurt, recognized Deja's desire to help after talking to her on the phone.

"Deja was shocked when I told her the news," Anneke said. "She is the type of person that does not expect anything; she helps others out of the goodness of her heart, not to receive something in return."

And shocked was exactly how Deja described herself when she came to the office to collect her hard-earned prize.

"I didn't think that I would win the contest at all," Deja said. "It looked like a good opportunity, and even if I didn't win, at least I knew I tried. But if I did, I wanted to share it with my family, and it would be great. And now it is!"

If you or someone you know has a child who has suffered a serious accident, order your free copy of Little Kids, Big Accidents by calling 800.637.8170.

Child dog bite injury filed in Ohio courts | Ohio dog bite lawyer

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Who: Ohio child

What: Injured by Ohio dog bite

Where: Toledo, Ohio

A case involving a child injured by an Ohio dog bite was recently filed in the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas.

It is important to remember that if you ever suffer any injuries from an Ohio dog bite, you need to seek treatment immediately and contact the appropriate authorities.

If you or someone you know has a child who has suffered an Ohio dog bite injury, you need information. Call 800.637.8170 to order your free copy of "The Ohio Dog Bite Book," or "Little Kids, Big Accidents."