SILER & INGBER’S 2019 OPIOID AWARENESS SCHOLARSHIP WINNER
Our team at Siler & Ingber is proud to congratulate Amiah Tracy! Amiah Tracy, a 2019 graduate of Rush Henrietta Senior High School, is the winner of this year’s $5,000 Opioid Awareness Scholarship sponsored by Siler & Ingber, LLP in partnership with the Rabinowitz Charitable Foundation (RCF). Opioid deaths have been rising at epidemic proportions for the last two decades. More people have died from an opioid overdose in Nassau and Suffolk counties in 2017 than ever before. Sadly, Suffolk County is leading the state death toll with over 600 fatalities. This year, hundreds of Long Island high school students opened their hearts and submitted essays for a chance to win the Opioid Awareness scholarship. They shared tragic and triumphant stories of how opioid abuse has affected their lives, as well as their plans on how they can use the scholarship funds to make a difference. In her compelling essay, Amiah shared personal examples of how opioid abuse directly impacted her family and how these experiences have inspired her to pursue a future as a criminal defense attorney. Her desire to help those who may have had similar experiences with opioids or other drug-related abuse is inspiring. Amaih’s drive to push through a difficult circumstance and use it to empower her to better our system is what makes her a deserving candidate for the Opioid Awareness Scholarship. Amiah plans to use her scholarship at Alfred University, where she is majoring in communications with a concentration in pre-law. “The Rabinowitz Charitable Foundation is proud to have aligned with Siler & Ingber, LLP to support Amiah Tracy in furthering her education and shedding light on this serious epidemic,” says Michelle-Lee Rabinowitz, president of The Rabinowitz Charitable Foundation (RCF). As one of the leading personal injury firms on Long Island, community safety advocates at Siler & Ingber, LLP have a 98 percent success rate when it comes to fighting for the rights of their clients. With over 20 years of experience in personal injury litigation, Siler & Ingber LLP have a winning record of seeking justice for unnecessary and preventable injuries on Long Island and in New York City.
Carbon Monoxide: Why It’s Called The ‘Silent Killer’
The season of bitter cold temperatures has just begun on Long Island. If you haven’t kicked up your heat yet, chances are you will soon. Now that most residents are cooped up indoors for the season, it’s important to prepare for one of the most preventable accidents that kills hundreds of Americans every year: carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the “silent killer” for its colorless, odorless appearance and ability to seep undetected into homes. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (C.D.C.), CO is responsible for over 400 deaths, 20,000 hospital visits, and 4,000 hospitalizations every year. Shockingly, this number is conceived to be even higher due to the fact that carbon monoxide poisoning is often misdiagnosed and documented as other illnesses such as the flu. CO fatalities and illnesses are preventable when you know what to look for. All Long Islanders should be aware of the specific carbon monoxide risks in their home, how to prevent leaks, and what to do if you suspect CO is present. Why Winter Raises Risks for CO Poisoning Fatalities caused by carbon monoxide poisoning soar during the winter months with an increase in residents using gas appliances and heaters. Windows and doors also tend to remain sealed when the weather is cold, allowing the gas to build up to deadly proportions without a proper means of escape. Any appliance or tool that runs on gasoline, natural gas, propane, kerosene, wood, charcoal, or diesel fuel has the potential to produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide gas. CO is found in the fumes that result from burning these fuels and it becomes deadly when large amounts are trapped in enclosed spaces. Some of the most common appliances causing harm to people in the winter include: Cars and trucks; Small engines (high-pressure washers, floor buggers, welders, pumps, compressors); Stoves; Lanterns; Fireplaces; Gas ranges; Generators; Water Heaters; Portable Space Heaters; Snow and leaf blowers; and Furnaces. Most CO leaks are the result of failed or improperly used appliances and heating systems that allow abnormal release and build-up. Open fires using any of the above heating sources can also lead to CO leaks when the fuel does not burn fully. Signs of CO Poisoning Because you cannot see, smell, or even taste CO in the air, being aware of the symptoms associated with carbon monoxide poisoning may be your first clue that there is a problem. Everyone reacts differently when exposed to CO, but some of the most common signs and symptoms listed by the U.S. Fire Administration include: Headache; Fatigue; Shortness of breath; Nausea; and Dizziness. If your home contains a high level of CO or you have been exposed to the gas for a prolonged period of time, symptoms will progressively become more severe, including: Mental confusion; Vomiting; Loss of muscular coordination; Loss of consciousness; and Death. Unfortunately, symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can often be misdiagnosed as other illnesses such as the flu. If you or a loved one experiences a sudden onset of these symptoms (while in the home), and have not come in contact with anyone who has been diagnosed with the flu, remove yourselves from the residence until the CO levels are checked. How To Prevent CO Poisoning December is not the coldest month of the year in New York. In fact, January tends to be the time when heat systems are kicked on full blast, resulting in the death of at least two people a day from carbon monoxide poisoning. Now is the time to protect your home from CO leaks. The New York Department of Health provides the following recommendations to keep your family safe this winter: Make sure you have working CO detectors installed to provide warnings that elevated CO levels are present. These devices should be placed according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions and tested at least two times every year. Schedule annual maintenance for furnaces and heating appliances in the home. If you have already begun using these appliances, make sure to schedule maintenance as soon as possible. Never operate cooking appliances such as stoves for warmth. Never use gas or coal grills indoors (especially for warming purposes) or in a semi-enclosed space such as a garage, shed or porch. Never use portable generators in the home or basement. Keep these appliances at least 15 feet away from your home at all times. Never use gas-powered tools indoors or in a semi-enclosed space such as a crawlspace, garage, shed, or porch. If you are idling your car, keep it outside of the garage to prevent CO from getting into the home. Check your vehicle’s exhaust pipe for blockage from ice and snow to be sure the CO gas has a method to escape. Use these safety steps as a guide to keep your family warm and safe as the cold winter season continues. For more information on how to protect your home for CO, check out these resources below: New York Department of Health- Carbon Monoxide…The Silent Killer C.D.C.- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning FAQ U.S. Fire Administration- Carbon monoxide safety outreach materials. Long Island Accident Attorneys If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to the negligence of another, our team at the law firm of Siler & Ingber is here to help. With a 98% success rate, we have the experience and the know-how to help our clients achieve a favorable outcome. Our personal injury attorneys at Siler & Ingber have over 20 years of experience serving clients across New York City and Long Island. We protect your rights by maximizing recovery and securing the financial support our clients need to succeed on their road to recovery. Contact us today at 1-877-529-4343 , or schedule an appointment online anytime. We never charge a fee unless we recover money for you.
10 Most Dangerous Toys: What Not To Buy This Holiday
The consumer safety group World Against Toys Causing Harm (W.A.T.C.H.) released its list of the 10 Most Dangerous Toys of 2019 last week, just in time for holiday shopping. If you have young children and teens on your shopping agenda this year, these are the products you should avoid to prevent holiday disasters and injuries. W.A.T.C.H.’s 10 Most Dangerous Toys 2019 1. Nerf Ultra One The Nerf Ultra One gun made by Hasbro features a dangerous motor that can fire darts with a powerful force up to 120 feet away. Made for children ages eight and up, manufactures warn that children can sustain serious harm to the eyes and battery-related injuries when misused. The Nerf darts can also be a choking hazard for children under the ages of eight who like to chew and put things in their mouths. 2. Spike The Fine Motor Hedgehog This hazardous little animal is marketed to children as young as 18-months-old. With no manufacturer warnings provided, parents are falsely led to believe the toy is completely safe. However, the rigid plastic quills that detach from the back of Spike serve as a potential choking hazard. The quills measuring at approximately 3-1/2 inches can be easily ingested and cause young children who like to put things in their mouth to choke or suffer injuries to the throat and neck. 3. Bunchems Bunch’N Build Bunchems come with several product warnings that lead us to question why this toy was made for children to begin with. These small plastic balls tightly stick together when children build and create quite a nightmare for parents. Recommended for children ages four and up, the plastic pieces can easily become entangled in children’s hair, as well as become a choking hazard for both kids and their pets. 4. Stuffed Yeti Yeti is a soft, ape-like stuffed toy that is marketed to children 24 months and older. This toy wouldn’t be so dangerous if it weren’t for the long, fiber-like hairs that come loose when pulled or chewed. Being that 24-month-olds actively put everything in their mouths, this Yeti toy has been classified as an aspiration and ingestion injury risk to children who accidentally eat the hair. 5. Nickelodeon Frozen Treats Slime Kids love slime. But parents may want to think twice about purchasing this product. Sold at popular stores such as Target and Walmart, Nickelodeon Slime Treats are recommended for children six and up. Not only does the product contain chemicals that can make kids sick if eaten, but the slime can lead to ingestion and irritation injuries if children accidentally swallow it. 6. Anstoy Electronic Toy Gun Parents and child safety advocates have been fighting about the controversial topic of toy guns for decades. This particular one, however, is pushing the limits for its realistic appearance. According to W.A.T.C.H., with so many recent school shooting tragedies, there is no reason to make guns as realistic for children as this Anstoy toy. Even though the products are marketed to children 14 years and older, toy experts are giving this product a big thumbs down. 7. Diecast School Bus This mini school bus made by Schylling and marketed to children three and up is not as safe as it looks. The small rubber wheels on the bus can be easily pulled off. These features make this toy bus a major choking hazard for children who like to put things in their mouths. 8. Pogo Trick Board This pogo trick board might be even more dangerous than its predecessor, the original pogo stick. Made for children six years and older, kids who jump on this toy without a helmet or other protective gear put themselves at risk for broken bones and head injuries. Even the cover photo of this product is hazardous, showing no children using the toy with protection and only two of the three jumpers wearing a helmet. 9. Power Rangers Electronic Cheetah Claw Making plastic claws for children is a bad idea, and the Power Ranger Electronic Cheetah Claw is no exception to the rule. Also made by Hasbro, product warnings for this hazardous claw state that the toy’s rigid plastic pieces can cause eye and facial injuries. Yet, the claw is marketed towards children as young as 5-years-old and encourages violence by using phrases such as using the “strength of the cheetah claw” to take on enemies. 10. Viga Pull-Along Caterpillar Just because a toy is made for a baby or toddler does not make it safe. This pull-along caterpillar by Viga is targeted towards children ages 18 months and up when it should be taken off the shelves for good. This is another product that displays no warnings to parents but features a pull cord long enough to pose a strangulation and entanglement risk. Why The List Is Made Consumers are used to hearing about contaminated foods and drugs. Particularly after a year like 2019, when a concerning number of meat, lettuce, and blood pressure medication recalls were issued. There are strict guidelines food and drug manufacturers must follow to get their products on the market, and even then, some mistakes can slip through the cracks. Dangerous toys, however, can easily make their way onto shelves and into the homes of families with children without a great deal of oversight to prevent harm. With minimal regulations and testing standards to ban unsafe toys from being sold, some toys have to cause mass chaos or child fatalities before they are finally placed on the recall list. W.A.T.C.H. is a Massachusetts non-profit corporation founded by the nationally known trial lawyer and consumer advocate, Edward M. Swartz. Since 1968 and until his passing in 2010, Swartz educated the public about the dangers of child products and the life-threatening toys that cause unnecessary harm to our young. He founded the W.A.T.C.H. organization after recognizing a need for a national crusade to fight back against companies who put dangerous toys on the market. For 40 years, W.A.T.C.H. has been holding the leaders
Best and Worst Hospitals On LI
The Fall 2019 Leapfrog Safety Ratings are giving some New Yorkers a reason to be afraid of the hospital. Among the 147 medical facilities evaluated in New York this season, only 11 hospitals received an ‘A’ rating. The majority of hospitals scored a grade of ‘C’ or ‘D’, ratings that indicate facilities lacking in successful protocols to help prevent patients from harm. When looking at the overall summary of ratings for NYS, these were the results: 11 scored an ‘A’ 18 scored a ‘B’ 88 scored a ‘C’ 30 scored a ‘D’ New York State is now in the bottom five states across the country when it comes to prioritizing patient health and safety, sitting at number 47 out of 51. Long Island hospital ratings were equally as unimpressive in comparison to facilities statewide. Of the 21 hospitals graded: 2 scored an ‘A’ 4 scored a ‘B’ 13 scored a ‘C’ 2 scored a ‘D’ The percentage of Long Island hospitals providing average to below-average care was slightly lower than the state average, but still concerning. More than 70 percent of hospitals in NY received a ‘C’ grade or lower compared to over 60 percent of facilities on Long Island. On a national scale, here’s how New York State and Long Island grades compared: ‘A’ Grade: U.S. (33%), NYS (8%), LI (9.5%) ‘B’ Grade: U.S. (25%), NYS (12%), LI (19%) ‘C’ Grade: U.S. (34%), NYS (60%), LI (62%) ‘D’ Grade: U.S. (8%), NYS (20%), LI (9.5%) (percentages rounded accordingly) With medical errors still serving as the third leading cause of death in our country, these results are heartbreaking. Patients seek medical care from a hospital to get better, not to leave in worse condition than when they came. Medical facilities that are not adhering to safety protocols or implementing them in the first place are unnecessarily jeopardizing the health of every patient who walks through the doors. Preparation is a patient’s first line of defense against becoming a victim of medical negligence. Thankfully, the Leapfrog Safety Grades provide guidance to get you started by educating patients on how to research and prioritize safety measures to receive the best quality of care. Why LI Hospitals Are Falling Behind The Leapfrog Group has been evaluating the safety and health practices of hospitals across the country for almost 20 years. By releasing two annual reports since 2012, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades have helped millions of patients choose the right medical facility by providing education and transparency of the U.S. health care system. Leapfrog uses an A-F grading system derived from evaluating 28 safety measures proven to reduce injuries to patients across hospital and medical facility settings. These 28 measures are categorized into five main groups: infections, problems with surgery, practices to prevent medical errors, safety problems, and doctors, nurses & hospital staff. Hospitals are scored on each safety measure independently to comprise the final letter score. The two lowest-scoring hospitals on Long Island received ‘D’ grades: Southside Hospital in Bay Shore and Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow. These are some of the safety measures they appear to be struggling with the most: MRSA infections; Surgical wound splits; Infections in the urinary tract; Death from serious treatable complications; Errors in doctors ordering medications through computers; Patients experiencing serious breathing problems; Dangerous blot clots; Accidental cuts and tears; Communication (about medication and discharge); Patient falls and injuries; Safe medication administration; Dangerous bedsores; Having enough specially trained doctors for ICU; Communication with doctors and nurses; and Responsiveness of hospital staff. Some hospitals (including Southside Hospital) refuse to report information on particular safety measures. This automatically equals a below-average score for that area, which negatively impacts the overall grade of the hospital. Refusals to report information result when a hospital is not keeping track of their data, forgets to submit requested data, does not have a protocol in place for a safety measure, or when a facility is trying to hide flaws. Whatever the reason, patients might want to beware of hospitals with missing data in areas that directly affect their treatment and health needs. How To Use The Grade Once you have the information you need to compare the safety protocols of hospitals in your area, it’s time to choose the best one for your health. But how? Aside from looking at the most current hospital grade in the Fall 2019 ratings, Leapfrog suggests also researching how hospitals scored specifically in three areas: handwashing, infection prevention, and fall prevention. These three safety measures affect all patients equally and can lead to serious injuries when carelessness or negligence occurs. Other factors that may sway your judgment on a hospital include: Location; Type of procedure or treatment needed; The urgency of treatment needed; Recommendations from family, friends, and loved ones; Referrals from physicians and specialists you trust; or Specialty needed. If you are stuck between two hospitals for a procedure, take a tour! Scheduling a tour of the hospital grounds will provide you with a better idea of the experience and condition of the facility. It will also give you a chance to test out their level of communication and protocols based on what you witness during your tour. Long Island Hospital Ratings Take a look below to see how hospitals scored near you: A-Rating Mather Hospital (Port Jefferson) St. Francis Hospital, The Heart Center (Roslyn) B-Rating Huntington Hospital (Huntington) Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center (West Islip) NYU Winthrop Hospital (Mineola) St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center (Smithtown) C-Rating South Nassau Communities Hospital (Oceanside) Mercy Medical Center (Rockville Centre) Long Island Jewish Valley Stream (Valley Stream) Long Island Jewish Medical Center (New Hyde Park) North Shore University Hospital (Manhasset) Glen Cove Hospital (Glen Cove) St. Joseph Hospital (Bethpage ) Plainview Hospital (Plainview) Syosset Hospital (Syosset) Stony Brook University Hospital (Stony Brook) BMHMC DBA LI COMMUNITY HOSPITAL (Patchogue) Peconic Bay Medical Center (Riverhead) Southampton Hospital (Southampton) D-Rating Nassau University Medical Center (East Meadow) Southside Hospital (Bay Shore) For more detailed information on where how each
Annual Thanksgiving Free Pie Giveaway
November is a time for friends, family, and giving. In an effort to giving-back and thanking our community, we are once again holding a FREE Thanksgiving Pie Giveaway. This is not a gimmick or a contest, we just want to do something nice. We have partnered up with another local business that helps people following a car accident, V&J Autobody. Together we are reaching out to the community and giving back, and here’s why! It just feels good. Knowing that we’ve helped someone in their most vulnerable state is a reward in its own right. Knowing that our past clients chose us when they didn’t have to makes it even better. By helping others, we’re able to strengthen our community. There’s more than enough news stories out there that talk about danger, poverty, violence, and crime in New York. Sometimes we need just a little bit of good news to get us through the day. We love meeting new people, which helps us stretch further into our community. We wouldn’t be here without you. Building a business is no easy task. It takes hard work, determination, focus, the right resources, and people believing in your services enough to take that leap of faith to trust you with their problems. The more people we serve, the more connected we feel to people all around New York. Free Pies for Your Thanksgiving Gathering Because we’re in the giving spirit, both Siler & Ingber and V&J Autobody Inc. are hosting a meet and greet event to giveaway pies and fun swag! On Wednesday, November 27, we’ll be giving away free pies! Only one pie per person. Pie pickup will be between 11 am and 2 pm at: V&J Autobody Inc. 941 Wellwood Ave. Lindenhurst, NY 11757 Here’s How to Order Your FREE Pie: Follow & Like our Facebook page and V&J Autobody Private message us from Facebook messenger your First Name, Last Name, email address and type of pie (choose between apple, pumpkin, blueberry, and cherry). Visit us on Wednesday, November 27 to pick up your pie! It’s that easy. Thanks again for all you have done for us. Now it’s our turn to give back to you.
How Do Municipalities in New York Establish Speed Limits?
A speed limit is a maximum speed you can legally travel on the road by motor vehicle. If you’re caught going over it, you could face a hefty fine. If your speeding causes a fatal car accident, the losses are even greater. However, as much as residents in New York City love to debate the speed limits, few know exactly how they are established in the first place. Who Chooses The Speed Limits In NYC? Who exactly has jurisdiction over setting speed limits in New York State can be confusing. With a balance of county, town, and state roadways, multiple parties can play a part. In New York State, the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law are the ones who give the authority for villages, towns, and cities to set speed limits. Towns with populations exceeding over 50,000, or who are defined as “suburban towns” may be granted authority to set their own limits on county roads within the town limits. Any roads or highways that do not meet these requirements are monitored by the New York State Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) Roads and highways in New York City are regulated by the NYC Region 11 office of the D.O.T., who has jurisdiction of the following roadways according to the Traffic Engineering Directive: State highways and highways on Indian Reservations; County roads and town highways; and Roads on the grounds of state department buildings, institutions of the State University of New York, state hospitals, and other state institutions. Additionally, the D.O.T. has the authority to establish minimum and maximum speed limits in special situations such as on controlled access state highways, bridges, and elevated structures, rest and parking areas, as well as place special traffic regulations and restrictions in these areas. The D.O.T. does not, however, ignore the authority of local governments who have the capability of establishing their own speed limits. They often share dual jurisdiction, in which D.O.T. often favors the decision of the local authorities. Exceptions to dual jurisdiction practices apply to controlled access state highways outside of New York City. In these cases, D.O.T. will step in to set speed limits on bridges, elevated structures, and other stretches where these roads run through towns exceeding 50,000 in population. On bridges or highways that cross state lines, the jurisdiction then switches over to the authorities of the neighboring state. Even with authority to set speed limits, D.O.T. has its own restrictions to follow. Maximum speed limits were first restricted by the Emergency Highway Energy Conservation Act from 1973, stating no highway limit could exceed 55 miles per hour. Since the legislation was enacted in 1995 to establish a maximum speed limit of 65 miles per hour in New York on rural freeways and interstate look-a-like roads. How Are Speed Limits Chosen? There is a lot of research that goes into setting a speed limit. According to the Federal Highway Administration, some of these factors include: Types of vehicles sharing the road; Traffic volume; Number of pedestrians and bicyclists; Weather patterns and visibility; Roadway designs (purpose of the road, narrow or lack of shoulder space, available sight distance, driveways present, etc.); Pavement conditions; and Crash risk frequency and severity. Why Might Speed Limits Change? Areas in NYC are continuously changing. Populations increase, road conditions worsen, and new construction is constantly changing the landscape. Speed limits must be reevaluated and adjusted in these cases to accommodate the elevated risks to motors, pedestrians, and cyclists. Other factors leading to speed limit changes include: High rates of crashes on certain roads or interactions; Public complaints; New schools; New developments and commercial districts; More traffic lights or crosswalks; and High areas of traffic congestion. Most recently, the NYC D.O.T. reduced the speed limit on the West Side Highway from 35 to 30. The move was sparked by the rise in pedestrian accidents and cyclist fatalities across the city, in the hope to reduce the number of accidents leading to these preventable tragedies. Why Do We Have Speed Limits? Speed limits are set to warn motorists of the maximum speed you should be driving on a road or highway. These speed limits are not suggestions. Vehicles traveling over the speed limit elevate their risk of accidents and the severity of injuries sustained in a crash. Across roads nationwide, it’s far too common for drivers to frequently drive 10 to 15 miles over the speed limit, part of the reason why traffic accidents have continued to rise over the years. When authorities such as the D.O.T. enact a speed limit, they do so with the intention that all drivers will at least be going five miles over the posted limit. But drivers can rest assured- you are allowed to go slower! Avoid Speeding and Speeders Speeding-related accidents are 100 percent preventable. You can help reduce speeding accidents in your community by slowing down on the road and encouraging others to do the same. Unfortunately, not every motorist will adhere to the speed limit, no matter how often you encourage them. If you notice a driver speeding around you on the road, do not engage. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests the following safety measures drivers should be taking to avoid collisions with aggressive drivers: Let aggressive drivers pass you if you are driving in the left lane; Drive far from speeding drivers to give them plenty of room to maneuver; Try to move over safely if a speeding driver is tailgating you; Do not try to compete with a speeding driver or go slower to make them slow down; and If you believe a driver is purposely trying to harass you, call the police for assistance. New York City and Long Island Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys There is no good excuse for speeding and putting the lives of others at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident caused by a reckless driver, our winning team is here to stand up for your rights. The
Veterans Day: Freebies and Deals For Vets!
Veterans Day is a time to honor all Americans who have served in the U.S. Military; in war or in peace, alive or passed on. These brave men and women have made countless sacrifices for the freedoms we enjoy every day. Most have even put their own lives on the line. As paramount as their service is to the safety of our country, veterans are not always cared for when they return home. According to the National Coalition of Homeless Veterans, more than 40,000 veterans are homeless on any given night. Another 1.4 million veterans are considered at-risk of being homeless for reasons including poverty, untreated mental illness, and lack of supports. Transitioning back to life after service is not an easy fret for veterans. There are several risk factors challenging veterans when attempting to renter civilian society, including: Years of military training non-transferable to available employment; Shortages in affordable housing; Poor access to health care; High rates of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (P.T.S.D.) and other mental illnesses; Strained personal and family relationships from years away; and Substance abuse. New York City and its metropolitan areas are home to millions of U.S. veterans: 58,815 in Queens, 54,178 in Brooklyn, 38,577 in Manhattan, 37,495 in the Bronx, 21,502 on Staten Island. For all of the countless sacrifices veterans have made, these national heroes deserve more than a simple thank you. Here are some of the local establishments and organizations reaching out to help veterans and their families next week with freebies and deals. Free Meals (all on November 11) Applebee’s: Veterans and active-duty military receive a free meal from a limited menu at participating Applebee’s on November 11. Dine-in only. Chili’s Grill & Bar:: All Veterans and active-duty military personnel can get a free meal on Veteran’s Day Monday, November 11, 2019, at all participating Chili’s Grill and Bar restaurants. Golden Corral: Military Veterans, retirees, and active-duty members are being offered a free sit-in “thank you” dinner on Monday, November 11, 2019, from 5pm -9pm. Red Robin: Veteran’s and Active Duty Military are being offered a free dine-in Red’s Tavern Double Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries on Veteran’s Day, 11/11/2019. Grub Burger: Veterans and active military members can get a free meal at a Grub Burger Bar location. IHOP: All Active duty and Retired Veterans in observance of Veteran’s Day, November 11, are invited to come in to IHOP and enjoy a “free” breakfast. Texas Road House: Veterans and active military receive a free lunch on November 11, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at all Texas Roadhouse locations. TGI Fridays:: Military guests with a valid military ID will be treated to a free lunch menu item up to $12 on November 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. These guests also will receive a $5 coupon for their next meal on Fridays. Subway: Military Veterans with a valid ID are being offered a free six-inch sub on November 11 at select locations. Manhattan Bagel Company: All active, former and retired military personnel with valid identification are invited to enjoy a free bagel and cream cheese at Manhattan Bagel Company’s participating locations on Veterans Day November 11. BJs Restaurant Brewhouse: Military and Veteran’s with a valid ID are being offered a free entree up to $14.95 and a free Dr. Pepper beverage on November 11. Houlihan’s: All military members – both active-duty and Veterans – will receive a free and complimentary meal on Veterans Day. Guests must come with proof of duty by an I.D., photo in uniform, earning receipt or any other form of proof. California Pizza Kitchen: Veterans and active U.S. military members with proof of service have an invitation to enjoy a complimentary meal from CPK’s Veterans Day menu at all participating California Pizza Kitchen locations nationwide. Cici’s Pizza: All active duty or retired military with a valid military ID are being offered a free pizza buffet on November 11. Famous Dave’s: Military personnel and Veterans are being offered a free meal on November 11th at participating locations only. Proof of military service is required. Joe’s Crab Shack: Veterans and active-duty military with valid ID will enjoy 20 percent off on November 11. Little Caesars Pizza: Veterans and active-duty military with valid ID will receive a free $5 hot-n-ready lunch combo. On November 11, from 11am to 2pm. Please call ahead to your local Little Caesars Pizza if you have any questions about your Veteran’s Day Discount. Logan’s Roadhouse: Veterans and active-duty military with valid proof of service will receive a free American Roadhouse Meal on Veterans Day. Meal Discounts Hometown Buffet (November 11, 2019): Active duty, reserve, or retired military personnel in uniform or with a valid ID receive 15% discount on Military Mondays. Old Country Buffett (November 11, 2019): Active duty, reserve, or retired military personnel in uniform or with a valid ID receive 15% discount on Military Mondays. Fogo De Chao (November 8-11, 2019): Veterans and active-duty personnel receive discounts on November 8-11, which includes 50% towards their meal at Fogo De Chao, in addition to up to three of their guests enjoy 10% off. Outback (November 11, 2019): Veterans with a military ID can get a free Bloomin’ Onion and non-alcoholic beverage on November 11, and 20 percent off their check Nov. 12 to Dec. 31. Find more information on free meals and discounts here. Shopping Deals BJs Wholesale (November 11, 2019): Active duty military personnel and Veterans receive discounts on November 11, 2019, at BJs wholesale, which include 30% off standard membership fees. Additional incentives like extra money off coupons are occasionally offered for new members. The Home Depot (November 11): Veterans are being offered a 10% military discount on in-store purchases on select items. All veterans are eligible for this discount during the Veterans Day weekend. Walgreens (November 8-11): 20% off for military, Veterans and their families. Walgreens also provides free flu shots for VA-enrolled Veterans. Rack Room Shoes (November 11): United States Military and families with a valid ID receive
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
More than 1,250 Americans are newly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer every day, an average of 56,770 per year. Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. This aggressive disease has already surpassed breast cancer in prevalence and is predicted to surpass colon cancer rates by 2020. Despite the advancements in medical screenings and treatments, a pancreatic cancer diagnosis is often devastating for patients and families. According to the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients in the last 40 years have failed to improve substantially. Pancreatic cancer now has the highest mortality rate of all major cancers- only 9% survive more than five years. With November marking National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, our team at Siler & Ingber is showing our support for the cause with a special social media initiative dedicated to raising funds and awareness for an incredible charity- the Lustgarten Foundation. The Lustgarten Foundation has been dedicated to finding a cure for pancreatic cancer for over 20 years. As the world’s largest private funder of pancreatic cancer research, the Lustgarten Foundation stands as a strong advocate for pancreatic patients and their families. Their focus on prevention, new therapies, and earlier detection has led to some of the most notable discoveries in pancreatic cancer treatment and inspired hope among those who carry the deadly diagnosis. The Lustgarten Foundation- Dedicated To Finding A Cure In 1998, Marc Lustgarten, Cablevision Vice Chairman, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. It took six months before Marc received his official diagnosis. Unfortunately, at that point, there were little to no treatment options left to save his life. Pancreatic cancer has not always been at the forefront of cancer research. When Marc received his diagnosis more than 20 years ago, little was known about the disease and minimal funding was available for research. Noticing the gap, Marc, alongside Cablevision Chairman Charles F. Dolan and Chief Executive James L. Dolan, had a vision for a foundation that would fund the much-needed research to improve the survival rates for those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. When Marc died tragically of the disease in 1999, the Lustgarten Foundation continued on to honor his memory with more inspiration than ever before to find a cure. The vision of the Lustgarten Foundation was shaped by Marc’s experience and the struggles millions of patients have faced worldwide after a delayed pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Their overall mission for finding a cure stems from three areas of focus: Funding scientific and clinical research related to pancreatic diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods. Providing research information and clinical support services to patients, caregivers, and individuals at high risk. Increasing public awareness and hope for those dealing with this disease. The Lustgarten Foundation has had a role in some of the most substantial advancements in the field of pancreatic cancer research. As a driving force, they have aided in the discovery of life-saving therapies, treatments, and screening methods. They are the only pancreatic cancer organization that contributes 100 percent of their donations directly to research to fight back against this deadly disease. But with tens of thousands of patients newly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer every year, their mission and tireless efforts are far from over. Siler & Ingber Joins The Fight For A Cure Supporting survivors and finding a cure for pancreatic cancer is a cause that is near and dear to the hearts of our team at Siler & Ingber. As a firm that has been personally affected by the devastating outcomes of this disease, we are proud to be joining the Lustgarten Foundation this year in their mission to raise funding for this worthy cause. From now until the end of November, every engagement we receive on all our social media pages will equal a $1 donation to the Lustgarten Foundation. This means every ‘Like’, every ‘Follow’, every ‘Share’, or every ‘Comment,’- all $1 to pancreatic cancer research. In addition, the Lustgarten Foundation provides a number of other ways you can join the fight against pancreatic cancer, including: Fundraising Walks Hosting Local Events Volunteering Individual Fundraising Events Make a Donation It only takes a few clicks to make a significant difference in the lives of a family directly impacted by pancreatic cancer. Join us this National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in reaching our goal by visiting and sharing our pages on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. For more information on how you can get involved, visit the Lustgarten Foundation website for stories, research news, and events.
What is the Average Settlement for a Head Injury in New York?
This page aims to help with understanding the many factors that go into head injury settlement calculations. When someone is injured in any type of accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, they are often entitled to compensation for the damages associated with the injury. There are instances in which insurance companies and injury victims will settle outside of court, which ultimately allows victims to receive damages while not going through the convoluted trial process. Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are particularly unique when it comes to the variation in settlement amounts, which is primarily due to the varying extent of head injuries and the overall unique circumstances that surround each case. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has conducted several TBI studies throughout recent years, and they’ve publicly stated that TBIs are a serious public health concern for the entirety of the United States. If you or a loved one has unfortunately suffered from a head or brain injury, you should contact us for a free case review so we can go over the details of your accident and better understand what’s necessary for your specific situation. How is a head injury settlement calculated? The damages in any given head injury case are going to primarily depend upon the specific injuries that were suffered and the overall harm that resulted from the specific accident. There are situations in which victims and their legal team can look at similar injury cases to help better understand their entitled damages, but there will always be unique damages that are connected to the distinctive factors associated with each case. That’s why the actual settlement calculation will always refer back to the specific case details. The following are some of the common special damages associated with head injuries: Lost earning capacity Lost wages Medical expenses (past and future) Funeral/burial expenses (wrongful death) Property damages The following are some of the common general damages associated with head injuries, which can also be referred to as non-economic losses: Pain and suffering Mental anguish and shock Embarrassment and humiliation Loss of reputation Loss of quality of life Loss of companionship/society Loss of consortium (made by a family member or spouse of the victim) Emotional distress When our team of attorneys comes across a head injury case, we’ll make sure to do all of the following in order fully calculate your settlement’s damages: Calculate special damages — This type of calculation is rather simple when it comes to damages like lost wages and medical expenses, but it gets more complicated when you have to factor in future wages and lost earning capacity. This is why it’s crucial to always keep several records of your accident and medical reports. This includes recording any type of medication that’s used to help your rehabilitation. Calculate general damages — General damages will typically amount to much more than special damages, especially with serious head injury cases. We always recommend that head injury victims keep a diary and take notes on how their pain and suffering is affecting their daily life. This type of constant data recording will help bolster the validity of these damages, which can many times be contested by insurance companies and defendants without concrete evidence. Add the damages together — The overall sum of your damages will be your claim’s value, but of course, these calculations are rather complicated and require professional assistance in order to be accurately determined. Adjusting settlement value to assist savings — There are many instances in which people must compromise the overall value of their settlement by considering the loss of expenses and risks of not going to trial. There are several factors that come into play when it comes to this type of settlement adjustment, including the example of how clearly at fault the defendant is for the causation of the accident. Recent jury verdict comparisons — One of the last things we’ll do as we calculate your head injury settlement is to conduct a thorough analysis of the settlements of other head injury cases throughout New York. Everyone else involved in a head injury case will do this same type of research, so it’s important that we are as prepared as possible when it comes to knowing the details of similar past settlements. Other Factors That Impact Settlement Value There are many factors that are important to consider when it comes to the overall value of your head/brain injury settlement, including the following: Liability — When a case can clearly distinguish who is liable for the accident’s occurrence, it will ultimately result in higher settlement values, as opposed to cases where liability can be disputed. Multiple tortfeasors — When there are multiple people who are liable for the causation of a victim’s injury, and each tortfeasor has different insurance representation, then there can be some issues in terms of determining how much each liable party should pay the victim. Plaintiff characteristics — This includes information like the plaintiff’s occupation, age, prior medical history and likeability, which can all have effects on the overall settlement value. Location of the case — This refers to the actual venue of the trial or settlement process because some jurisdictions will be more conservative than others when it comes to settlement values. Insurance adjusters will undoubtedly have this type of information in mind just in case a trial occurs. Defendant’s egregiousness — This refers to punitive damages that are utilized in order to punish a defendant for their dangerous conduct. The odds are that you’ll not be adding punitive damages to the overall value of your settlement, but you’ll maybe use the potential for punitive damages as a source of leverage so you can lessen the number of adjustments to the overall settlement value. Damages mitigation — It’s the plaintiff’s responsibility to mitigate or reduce their damages to their utmost ability if it’s at all possible. This means you’ll need to keep up with your injury rehabilitation, medical visits and much more. Should
Why Long-Haul Truckers Are At Higher Risk of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Commercial truck driving is becoming one of the most dangerous occupations in the country. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (C.D.C.), trucking accidents are the leading cause of occupational death for truck drivers above all other risks and health conditions. More than 1 in 3 long-haul truck drivers have experienced a serious accident during their career, many resulting in fatalities of others who share the road. Accident Trends In the Trucking Industry In a 10-year study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (N.H.T.S.A.), researchers found the following trends to illustrate a growing prevalence of serious and fatal accidents involving large trucks on American roads: 1 out of 4 fatal trucking accidents occurred on interstates. 58% of fatal trucking accidents occurred in rural areas. 78% of fatal trucking accidents occurred on weekdays. Fatalities in large trucking accidents increased 9% from 2016 to 2017, a difference of 406 deaths. Fatalities in large trucking accidents increased 12% from 2008 to 2017, a difference of 568 deaths. Trucking fatalities dramatically dropped in 2009 to 3,380 deaths but have been rising ever since. 32% of fatal trucking accidents occurred in head-on collisions. 21% of fatal trucking accidents occurred when other vehicles rear-ended a large truck. Large trucks are rear-ended 3 times more often than other vehicles. Drivers of large trucks have a higher percentage of recorded crashes than any other motor vehicle. When large trucks are involved in an accident, the damages are often catastrophic. Long-haul trucks, or large trucks, are massive vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds. Some loaded vehicles can exceed 35,000 pounds. In these cases, pedestrian vehicles often don’t stand a chance upon impact. In 2017, the N.H.T.S.A. reported 4,761 fatalities and over 115,000 injuries related to large trucking accidents. Truck drivers accounted for 841 deaths and over 30,000 injuries; the remainder of people injured and killed were pedestrians or occupants of other motor vehicles in the crash. Risks That Lead To Trucking Accidents Long-haul truck drivers face far more risks on the road than other motorists. The weight and size of their vehicles alone can cause difficulty maneuvering around road hazards such as construction, congestion, inclement weather (ice and snow), or pedestrians that enter the roadways. It takes a truck about 390 feet to come to a complete stop going at moderate speeds with working brakes. There are two categories of risk factors facing truck drivers that increase their chances for motor vehicle accidents: direct (risks they have control over) and indirect (risks they have little control over). Direct Risks Intoxicated Driving: At least 3 percent of truck drivers involved in fatal accidents had a Blood Alcohol Content (B.A.C.) over the legal limit. Drunk driving diminishes a driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely with all motor vehicles. However, trucks can cause more damage when things go wrong. Distracted Driving: Long-haul truck drivers can be more likely to participate in distractive driving behaviors as they spend most of their day behind the wheel. Eating meals, talking on the phone, or daydreaming may become second nature while driving, but their risk for accidents remains the same. Fatigued Driving: Fatigued driving is both a direct and indirect risk of truck driving. Truck drivers have a responsibility to know when they are too tired to drive, regardless of the demands of their job. Drivers who neglect to rest can put others in danger by falling asleep at the wheel or missing hazards in the road. No Seatbelts: The C.D.C. reports of all truck drivers killed, over one-third were not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident. Seatbelt reduce your risk of injuries by up 50 percent and death by up to 45 percent. Speeding: More than 21 percent of large-truck drivers involved in fatal crashes had at least one previous speeding violation. Speeding is known for increasing traffic accidents, particularly in large trucks that take more time to react to road hazards. Indirect Risks – Driver Shortage: The trucking industry is experiencing a driver shortage that is putting more stress on drivers and trucking companies. Less drivers mean more work for employees and less rest. More Trucks: In the last few years, the number of registered long-haul trucks has immensely increased, even though the number of drivers has decreased. The more vehicles there are to share the road, the more chances there are for accidents to occur. Overnight Hours: Drivers who have strict deadlines often drive through the night to meet them. Driving at night increases their risks for accidents and encountering other fatigued, distracted, or intoxicated drivers on the roads. Longer Trips: Truck drivers in the industry are driving longer distances to meet the growing economic demands. Drivers may be on the road anywhere between 10 to 16 hours a day. A study published in U.S. Library of Medicine found drivers who average 13 hours of driving a day are only getting about 3.83 hours of sleep a night. Fatigued Driving: The indirect risk of fatigue affecting truck drivers is caused by all factors listed above. The overnight hours, long distance drives, and frequent work can all lead to dangerous levels sleep deprivation and fatigue. Trucking Accidents in NYC Nearly 1,400 vehicles were involved in fatal trucking accidents in New York State in 2017, resulting in 121 fatalities. Of this amount, only 115 of the vehicles were large trucks, and 13 of the deaths were truckers. These tragic statistics show the true devastation one large truck can cause in a single accident. Large truck drivers have a critical responsibility to operate their vehicles with care on New York roadways, regardless of the indirect consequences of the industry. How To Prevent Trucking Accidents When a truck loses control, it’s too late to prevent the disaster that will unfold. Truck drivers should always follow safe driving behaviors every minute they are behind the wheel. These behaviors include: Driving sober; Pulling over to rest if you experience symptoms of fatigue; Reducing distractions, such as cellphone use, to stay alert
