Apparently, five engineers have responded to a Southern Illinois University assistant professor’s findings which support that he can create an electrical flaw in Toyota vehicles without the vehicles’ diagnostic system picking it up. The article also mentions that if the assistant professor’s study is determined to be accurate, claims may be made by some Toyota consumers regarding incidents of unintended acceleration without a trouble code being initiated on the vehicles’ computers.
While Toyota engineers support the claim that the assistant professor’s tests are “an unrealistic manipulation,” the automaker has been asked by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee to provide a company employee memo that may reveal safety risks being taken as a way to save the company money. While Toyota continues to defend itself against claims of electrical defect, there is no doubt that some Toyota motorists and passengers have experienced the consequences of sudden acceleration in injury and fatal auto accidents.
]]> A Massachusetts automotive advocacy group has been able to identify 3,306 unintended gas pedal accidents with Toyota cars since 1999. Out of these incidents, 1,159 resulted in crashes with 469 injuries and 39 deaths. The other issue Toyota faces relates to the drivers (amounting to over 60) who have reported incidents of sudden acceleration after having their recalled vehicles fixed by the automaker. This data was released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the first week of March.The skilled St. Louis personal injury attorneys at Page Cagle understand how being harmed by a defective product can pose several emotional, physical, and financial challenges to an injury victim. If a manufacturer of a defective auto failed to properly detect a flaw in the design or manufacturing process and you have been injured as a result, you may be able to hold that manufacturer liable. Call the Page Cagle experienced personal injury lawyers today at 866-620-5757 for a free consultation and to learn more about your legal rights.
Source reports: http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-toyota-demo9-2010mar09,0,5500476.story; http://bulletin.aarp.org/states/ca/2010/10/articles/toyota_plans_live_webcast_torrance_support_its.html
]]>Fortunately, this man was not injured and a California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer was able to assist him in slowing down the runaway Prius. The article points out that this process took approximately 20 minutes and that the CHP officer instructed the driver through loudspeaker to apply the brakes as well as the emergency brake. Once the vehicle was able to hit 50 mph, the motorist turned off his engine and the vehicle eventually came to a stop.
Although the article didn’t mention whether or not this man’s Prius had received a redesigned gas pedal or a new floor mat, recent speculation and academic studies from outside experts have pointed to electronic malfunction as the origin of Toyota throttle problems. The 2008 Prius involved in the above incident has been included only in the floor mat recall. After learning of the incident, Toyota sent a field technical specialist to provide assistance and investigate the report.
]]> It is uncertain how many more incidents of unintended acceleration may occur, especially since the exact cause of Toyota’s throttle issues are currently being debated more than ever before. In addition, past auto accidents involving recalled Toyota models have left injured motorists and even their passengers questioning if the previously determined cause of the vehicle malfunction may have been inaccurate.If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident that involved a recalled Toyota vehicle, the skilled Missouri auto accident injury lawyers at Page Cagle can help. We have many years of experience in personal litigation, thus lending us the legal knowledge and resources that you need to achieve a successful outcome in your case. For more information about how our law firm may be able to help you receive compensation for property damage, medical bills, pain and suffering, and loss of wages, please contact us today. Call 866-620-5757 for a free consultation.
Source article: http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/daily-news/100309-California-Highway-Patrol-Helps-Stop-Speeding-Prius/
]]>While the assistant professor has concluded that wiring failure in recalled Toyota cars is connected to sudden acceleration, Toyota has denied such claims of electronic flaw. Based on the article, the automaker referred to the assistant professor’s study as “completely unrealistic under real-world conditions.” Through the webcast, Toyota is supposed to present their defense by re-creating the study and providing rebuttals made by experts from Stanford University’s Center for Automotive Research.
Auto manufacturers are responsible for designing, testing, and creating vehicles that are free of defect or flaw before putting them on the market. The assistant professor involved in the Toyota throttle study asserts that automotive electronics may cause a vehicle to experience problems if the components are not properly tested to respond to extreme vibrations or temperatures.
]]> While it has not been officially proven if there is in fact a flaw in the electrical system involving the sensors or the throttle control systems, outside experts and critics firmly believe that new floor mats and redesigned gas peals are not sufficient fixes to the problem of unintended acceleration.Those who have been injured in an auto accident involving a recalled Toyota vehicle have legal rights and may be able to file a claim against Toyota Motor Corp if it is determined that an auto defect was responsible for the accident and the resulting injuries. At Page Cagle, our skilled Missouri personal injury attorneys will help you with your potential injury claim, please call 866-620-5757 for a free consultation.
Source article: http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-toyota-demo9-2010mar09,0,5500476.story
]]>Reglan works by increasing muscle contractions in the upper digestive tract. This speeds up the rate at which the stomach empties into the intestines. Reglan is also used short-term to treat heartburn caused by acid reflux in people who have used other medications without relief of symptoms. The drug is used in people with diabetes which can cause nausea, vomiting, heartburn, loss of appetite and a feeling of fullness after eating.
The Reglan black box warning states that patients using the medication as a long-term treatment for gastrointestinal disorders are at risk for tardive dyskinesia. Those who are at risk for this serious Reglan side effect are the elderly, particularly women who have been taking Reglan for extended periods of time. Tardive dyskinesia typically causes the following symptoms:
The sad fact remains that these symptoms are almost irreversible since there is no known treatment for tardive dyskinesia. If you or a loved one has developed tardive dyskinesia after taking Reglan, please contact the skilled injury lawyers at Page Cagle for a free consultation and evaluation of your case. You may be able to seek compensation for your injuries and loss. Call our St. Louis product liability attorneys at 866-620-5757 today to find out how we can help.
]]>The Center for Disease Control indicates that dogs bite 4.5 million Americans each year. Keep in mind that these are just the cases that are reported. Countless dog bite instances are left unreported. The most common victims of dog bite attacks and mauling incidents are children. This is due to the fact that children often miss a dog’s warning signs more easily than adults do. Education is a much-needed action for preventing severe instances of dog bites.
Research shows that Missouri dog bites occur more frequently in the spring and summer months than in winter months. This is because during the springtime and summer, children are more likely to be outside and around animals. If a dog has bitten your child in Missouri, clean the wound thoroughly and talk to your pediatrician about possible rabies infections.
]]> Additionally, you should seek advice from an experienced Missouri dog bite attorney. Missouri dog bite attorneys will tell you they see an increase in dog bites every spring.Missouri law is very specific in respect to dog bites and liability to dog owners. Several factors, including the dog’s previous behavior as well as the city and county in which the attack took place, will determine the dog owner’s legal liability. The experienced Missouri dog bite attorneys at Page Cagle have a wealth of knowledge about dog bites and can help you file a claim or lawsuit. Call our offices today at 314.322.8515 for a free consultation.
]]>Recalls and corrections have become commonplace in recent months. Chrysler is attempting to fix this safety hazard before there are any personal injuries due to faulty manufacturing. This proactive move by Chrysler may have been inspired by the recent woes of Toyota and Honda. Honda recently had to recall almost half a million of their vehicles due to defective airbags, which caused a number of personal injuries and one reported fatality. Toyota recalled more than 8.5 million vehicles for defective gas pedals that caused unintended acceleration. Car manufacturers are required by law to ensure the safety of their vehicles.
]]> If the airbag system of a vehicle is faulty and does not deploy correctly, serious injury or death may occur. If you have suffered a personal injury due to a failed airbag deployment, please contact the skilled Missouri car accident lawyers of Page Cagle. The auto company or airbag manufacturer may be held responsible for your accident, injuries, damages and loss. We can help you determine if you have an auto products liability claim. If you suspect you have been injured in a car accident because of a defective auto, you would be well-advised to preserve your vehicle unaltered so it can be examined for product defects and malfunctions. Call our experienced attorneys at 314-322-8515 today for a free consultation.Source: http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE61N5MM20100224
]]>Failing to yield right-of-way is a common cause of Missouri auto accidents. We see this problem occur most commonly in accidents that take place at street intersections. Very often, these types of accidents will involve a driver who fails to yield right-of-way to another or a driver who runs a red light. Both of these circumstances are serious traffic violations under Missouri law. The driver who failed to yield right-of-way in such cases could be determined to be at fault for the accident and could be held liable for injuries, damages and losses suffered by the victims of a car accident. In such cases, victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of surgery, physical therapy or other related damages.
]]> If you or a loved one has been injured an auto accident, you need the help and guidance of an experienced St. Louis car crash attorney. A skilled and knowledgeable auto accident lawyer at Page Cagle can help protect your legal rights and make sure you secure just compensation to cover expenses and damages associated with your injuries. Please keep in mind that there may be time limits within which to file your Missouri personal injury claim or lawsuit. Our attorneys will evaluate your case free of charge and you will not pay anything until we recover money for you. Call us today at 866-620-5757 for a free consultation.Source: http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/news/span-21828-style-font.html
]]>The Missouri Highway Patrol reported that the bus had its flashing lights on and stop arm extended. The driver of the truck was allegedly speeding and unable to stop the vehicle in time. Four students from the bus and the student driver were transported to the Cedar County Memorial Hospital for minor injuries. There were 16 total students on the bus at the time of the crash.
]]> Victims of collisions like this one may not discover injuries associated with the incident until a few days after the accident; therefore, putting them at a disadvantage for receiving just compensation for their trauma. Minor injuries can develop into long-lasting conditions, inhibiting victims of wrongful personal injury from certain daily life activities.If you or someone you love has been involved in a bus or auto accident, do not hesitate to contact a skilled St. Louis injury lawyer to learn more about filing an injury claim. The attorneys at Page Cagle have a successful history of dealing with personal injury litigation concerning automobile and bus accidents as well as helping people obtain the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been a victim of wrongful personal injury, please call 866-620-5757 for a free consultation.
]]>In 2001, several European countries convened to discuss warnings for Levaquin, as it is the most tendon-toxic in the group of fluoroquinolones. The European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products agreed that further studies were needed.
The leading manufacturer in Europe of levofloxacin (the European counterpart of Levaquin), Aventis, agreed to fund two epidemiological studies in order to examine the drug’s toxic effects on tendons. Aventis then enlisted Johnson and Johnson Pharmaceutical Research and Development (PRD) to co-author a U.S. study on fluoroquinolones and tendon rupture as well, thereby promoting the largest epidemiological study to date.
]]> Six months before the scheduled completion of the U.S. study, Aventis released its European studies that indicated a significant increase in risks of tendon rupture associated with the drug as compared to others of its kind. However, the U.S. study had the opposite findings. This is because the U.S. study did not assess the risk of Levaquin tendon toxicity. Instead, the study analyzed the risk of Achilles tendon ruptures. In addition, Johnson and Johnson PRD excluded nearly 70% of health claims made by elderly persons suffering from Achilles tendon rupture.Despite the numerous changes to the Levaquin label, the number of tendon rupture cases that are directly related to Levaquin have increased steadily. If you or someone you know suffers from severe Levaquin side effects, contact an experienced St. Louis injury lawyer. us today for a free consultation.
Source article: http://www.wvrecord.com/news/223717-trio-says-levaquin-caused-tendon-injuries
]]>On January 15, 2010, Johnson & Johnson expanded its recall to cover all lots that may have been affected by the contaminated wooden pallets, regardless of consumer reports. The recall was also extended to include products such as Junior Strength Motrin IB, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Benadryl, Extra Strength Tylenol, Extra Strength Tylenol Rapid Release, Motrin IB, Regular Strength Tylenol, Rolaids, Simply Sleep, St. Joseph Aspirin, Tylenol Arthritis and Tylenol PM.
Many of the recalled lots were manufactured at one of Johnson & Johnson’s main manufacturing sites located in Puerto Rico. Users of the products have reported side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea; though no serious medical problems have been reported.
FDA officials also reported that Johnson & Johnson was aware of consumer complaints as early as September 2008, though it did not thoroughly investigate until late 2009.
]]> Fortunately, strict product liability laws make the manufacturer responsible for any injury sustained by the use or consumption of a faulty or contaminated product. If you or a loved one has suffered because of a defective product or medication, help may be available.Do not hesitate to get in touch with a knowledgeable St. Louis products liability lawyer who can help you file a claim and recover compensation for your injuries or loss. The Missouri product liability lawyers at Page Cagle are skilled in handling personal injury cases. Call our offices today at 866-620-5757 for a free and comprehensive consultation.
]]>Officials determined that those who got sick all shopped at Costco (a Daniele salami supplier) prior to becoming ill. Researchers tested a sample of the Costco salami and it was positive for salmonella. Since salami does not usually contain the bacteria, investigators were led to believe that black pepper was the contaminating factor.
According to the CDC and the FDA, the levels of contamination for pepper and spices are generally low; however, black pepper is more likely to carry salmonella compared to other spices because it is sun-dried in order to retain its outer skins. The direct correlation between Daniele International and the salmonella outbreak is still under investigation; therefore, the company has not taken full responsibility for the outbreak.
]]> Salmonella symptoms usually include nausea, chills and a fever, which are symptoms that are closely related to the stomach flu. Most people are unaware that they have a salmonella infection and let it go untreated and undiagnosed. Food poisoning can lead to many complicated health issues and, in the most serious of cases, death.If you, or a loved one, have suffered from food poisoning or a food borne illness, help may be available. Do not hesitate to call a knowledgeable St. Louis food borne illness lawyer at Page Cagle. We can help you file a claim and recover compensation for your injuries or loss. Contact Page Cagle today for a free and comprehensive consultation.
Sources: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/peppered-salami-salmonella-outbreak/story?id=9666209
]]>The recall was issued in order to replace the airbag inflator that can cause the airbag to overinflate, and according to the report, result "in metal fragments passing through the airbag cushion material and possibly causing injury or fatality to vehicle occupants." So far, the malfunction has been linked to eleven injuries and one fatality.
The cars that currently fall under the airbag recall include 2001 and 2002 model-year Accord, Civic, Odyssey, Pilot, CL, CR-V and 2002 Acura TL vehicles. The Japanese-only models that are included in the recall are Inspire, Saber and Lagreat. If Honda contacts you about the recall, you should contact an authorized dealership as soon as you receive your notification.
]]> By law, car manufacturers are responsible for creating vehicles that are safe and will protect consumers. Unfortunately, it seems as though vehicle recalls are becoming more and more common, which puts drivers at higher risk of harm. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury because of a vehicle malfunction or recall, you may be able to hold negligent auto manufacturers responsible for your injury and subsequent financial costs.Do not hesitate to call a knowledgeable St. Louis products liability lawyer at Page Cagle for more information regarding your legal rights. We are skilled in handling personal injury cases and can help you file a claim and recover compensation for your injuries or loss. Call Page Cagle today at 866-620-5757 for a free and comprehensive consultation.
]]>After escaping, the father made several attempts to re-enter the home to rescue his two daughters, who were trapped on the second floor. Due to heavy smoke and flames, he was unable to succeed. One of the trapped family members, a 13-year-old girl, was located near a window and was easily rescued once fire officials arrived at the scene. Unfortunately, firefighters were unable to reach the second daughter, who was 10-years-old.
The fire severely damaged the home, causing the roof to collapse the structure completely. The surviving family members were rushed to the hospital and treated for smoke inhalation and other minor injuries. The cause of the fire is undetermined.
]]> Sometimes the cause of a fire may be attributed to the property owner’s negligence or inadequate maintenance of the premises. Property owners are obligated to protect persons on their property from injuries resulting from hazardous conditions that the owner knew or should have known existed.If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury due to a fire or another disaster caused by someone else’s negligence, do not hesitate to call a knowledgeable St. Louis premises liability lawyer. At Page Cagle, we can help you file a claim and recover compensation for your injuries or loss. Contact the Missouri personal injury law firm of Page Cagle today by calling 866-620-5757 for a free and comprehensive consultation.
]]>Toyota spokesman, Brian Lyons, stated, “The pedal may become harder to press and may become slower to return when released. In the worst cases, it may become stuck in a partially depressed position.” Toyota also claims that unintended acceleration due to gas pedal malfunction is “rare and infrequent,” but can occur after gas petal mechanisms endure excessive use.
Toyota says that owners will be notified when a solution is available and urges people to brake firmly in order to regain control of their vehicle if the gas pedal should become stuck. In such an event, the car should be driven to the closest safe location, turned off, and a Toyota dealer should be contacted.
The following vehicles are currently being recalled: 2009-2010 Toyota Rav4, Corolla, Matrix, 2005-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 Camry, 2010 Highlander, 2007-2010 Tundra and 2008-2010 Sequoia.
]]> By law, car manufacturers are responsible for designing and manufacturing vehicles that are safe and will protect vehicle occupants in the event of a collision. However, vehicle recalls are becoming common, which puts drivers at higher risk of enduring injury or even death. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury because of a vehicle malfunction or recall, you may be able to hold negligent auto manufacturers legally accountable.Anyone who has been injured in an accident involving a recalled Toyota or Lexus vehicle in Missouri may want to consider contacting a knowledgeable St. Louis personal injury lawyer. The attorneys at Page Cagle are skilled in handling personal injury and auto accident litigation. Our offices today for a free consultation and to learn more about your legal options in filing an injury claim.
Source: http://money.cnn.com/2010/01/21/autos/toyota_recall/index.htm
]]>Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime under Missouri law. Under Missouri Revised Statutes section 577.060.1.: "A person commits the crime of leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident when being the operator or driver of a vehicle on the highway or on any publicly or privately owned parking lot or parking facility generally open for use by the public and knowing that an injury has been caused to a person or damage has been caused to property, due to his culpability or to accident, he leaves the place of the injury, damage or accident without stopping and giving his name, residence, including city and street number, motor vehicle number and driver's license number, if any, to the injured party or to a police officer, or if no police officer is in the vicinity, then to the nearest police station or judicial officer."
]]> What that means is that the motorist has the responsibility to stop at the scene of the accident, exchange information with other parties (contact, insurance, driver's license) and if possible, obtain assistance for the injured party. Drivers are required under the law to stop at the scene, even if the accident was not their fault.If you have been injured in a Missouri pedestrian accident, please contact the experienced St. Louis personal injury lawyers at Page Cagle to schedule a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation. If your loved one was killed as a result of negligence or wrongdoing, we will assist you in filing a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. Call us today to find out how we can help.
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