Pratcher Krayer LLCWilmington Personal Injury Attorney | Workers' Compensation Law2024-03-15T14:36:58Zhttps://www.pkinjury.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1302690/2022/05/cropped-Site-icon-PK-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2534082024-03-13T14:37:04Z2024-03-15T14:36:58Z1. Inadequate supervision
Bruises might indicate that a resident is not receiving the supervision they require. Without proper oversight, accidents can happen more frequently, leading to injuries such as falls or collisions with objects.
2. Physical altercations
Physical altercations with staff or other residents can leave a loved one with bruises. Any unexplained bruising should prompt further investigation to determine the cause and prevent further harm.
3. Neglect of basic needs
Neglect can manifest in various forms, including inadequate nutrition, hydration or personal care. Malnourishment or dehydration can weaken the body, making individuals more prone to bruising from minor bumps or accidents.
4. Rough handling
Improper handling or rough treatment by caregivers can leave bruises. Mishandling during transfers, bathing or administering medical care can also leave marks, indicating a lack of proper training or care.
5. Medical issues
Untreated medical conditions, such as blood clotting disorders or medication side effects, can increase the likelihood of bruising. Failure to address these underlying health issues constitutes neglect and requires immediate attention.
By remaining observant and proactive, family members can advocate for their loved ones and quickly address any signs of neglect or abuse.]]>On Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2534072024-03-13T14:35:19Z2024-03-14T14:34:11ZVisibility issues
One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is the failure of other drivers to see motorcycles. These vehicles are smaller and less visible than others on the road. They can hide in a driver's blind spot or be easy to overlook in traffic. When drivers fail to see bikes, they may change lanes, make turns or pull out from side streets without realizing that a motorcycle is nearby.
Speeding
Motorcycles are faster than other vehicles. This can make them more challenging to judge in traffic. Drivers may mistake the distance and speed of an approaching motorcycle, leading to dangerous situations on the road.
Road conditions
Potholes, debris or uneven surfaces can cause motorcycles to swerve or lose control. This increases the chances of departing the roadway, which the Delaware Department of Transportation said caused one in four serious injury or fatal accidents in 2019. It also makes bikes less predictable to other drivers. In these situations, drivers may not anticipate the movements of a motorcycle, leading to accidents.
To reduce the risk of accidents, drivers should always check their blind spots and mirrors before changing lanes or making turns. They should also avoid distractions and be alert for motorcycles on the road. Riders can improve their visibility by wearing bright or reflective clothing and using headlights, even during the day. They should also ride defensively, assuming that other drivers may not see them and taking evasive action if necessary.]]>On Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2534062024-03-13T14:27:49Z2024-03-13T14:27:49ZDevelopment of CTE
Researchers link the development of CTE to the repeated trauma that occurs in contact sports, such as football, boxing and hockey. It also has links to other activities that involve frequent blows to the head, like military combat.
Each time the head experiences a significant impact, there is a risk of damaging the brain tissue. It also triggers a cascade of events that can lead to the formation of tau protein tangles. Over time, these tangles can spread throughout the brain and disrupt normal brain function, leading to the symptoms associated with CTE.
Symptoms of CTE
The symptoms of CTE can vary widely from person to person and may not become apparent until years or even decades after the head injuries occur. Early symptoms may include headaches, dizziness and difficulty concentrating. More advanced stages of the disease can manifest as memory loss, confusion, aggression and depression. In some cases, individuals with CTE may also experience problems with motor function, such as tremors or difficulty walking.
Treatment for CTE
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for CTE and only limited treatment options. Prevention is the best option for combatting CTE. Individuals engaging in activities where brain injuries are common should wear appropriate protective gear, practice good technique to minimize head impacts and seek medical attention for all head injuries.
Diagnosis of CTE can only occur posthumously through brain tissue analysis. However, research into the condition is ongoing, and there is growing awareness of the risks associated with repetitive head trauma.]]>On Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2534042024-02-22T19:50:33Z2024-02-23T19:49:48ZEntrances and exits
One of the most vulnerable areas in stores during snowy weather is the entrance and exit points. Melting snow from customers' shoes can build up, creating puddles that quickly turn into slippery patches and throw a person's balance off. Additionally, these areas may see a higher volume of foot traffic, increasing the risk of slips and falls.
Aisles near entryways
Aisles near entryways are another potential hazard zone. As people track in snow and slush, moisture can transfer onto the store's flooring, making these areas prone to slick conditions. Employees need to watch out for wet patches and clean them up immediately.
Refrigerated sections
While it may seem counterintuitive, refrigerated sections within stores can also become slippery zones during snowy weather. As condensation forms on these cold surfaces, it can mix with any moisture tracked in from outside, creating icy patches underfoot.
Checkout counters
The checkout area is another location where slips and falls can occur, especially if employees do not clean the floors well. With the hustle and bustle of transactions, spilled liquids or melted snow from items can go unnoticed, posing a risk to unsuspecting shoppers.
By recognizing the potential hazard areas within stores after snowfall, store owners can take proactive steps to ensure the safety of shoppers. A little caution can go a long way in making every shopping trip a smooth experience.]]>On Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2534022024-02-15T22:14:49Z2024-02-15T22:14:49ZForward collision warning
Approximately 20,190 people died in car accidents during the first six months of 2022. However, collision warning systems use sensors to monitor the distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you, which can reduce this number. If the system detects that you approach another vehicle too quickly and a collision is imminent, it will alert you with visual and auditory signals.
Automatic emergency braking
Automatic emergency braking warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes to mitigate or prevent impacts. Advanced sensors and sophisticated algorithms help AEB systems react much faster than human drivers.
Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist
Lane departure warning systems alert you if your vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling. Meanwhile, lane keeping assist actively intervenes by gently steering your car back into its lane if you fail to take corrective action.
Blind spot detection
Blind spot detection systems use sensors to monitor the areas beside and behind your vehicle that may not be visible in your mirrors. If another vehicle enters your blind spot while you drive or prepare to change lanes, BSD will alert you.
Adaptive cruise control
Adaptive cruise control enhances traditional cruise control by automatically adjusting your vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. By slowing down or accelerating as needed, ACC helps prevent rear-end collisions and promotes smoother traffic flow on highways and busy roads.
Although new technologies help keep the roads safer, you should remain vigilant behind the wheel.]]>On Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2534012024-02-08T03:15:24Z2024-02-10T03:15:13ZDistracted driving
Distracted driving stands as one of the primary causes behind head-on collisions. When drivers take their eyes off the road or their hands off the wheel to text, make phone calls or engage in other distracting activities, they increase the risk of veering into oncoming traffic.
Speeding
Excessive speeding reduces a driver's ability to react to sudden changes in road conditions or obstacles. Speeding drivers may lose control of their vehicles, drift into opposing lanes, and cause catastrophic head-on collisions.
Impaired driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, coordination and reaction time. Intoxicated drivers often exhibit erratic behavior on the road, including swerving into oncoming traffic lanes, leading to deadly head-on collisions.
Fatigue
Fatigued drivers are similar to impaired drivers, as their ability to focus and react is significantly diminished. Falling asleep at the wheel or experiencing microsleep episodes can result in unintentional lane departures and subsequent head-on collisions.
Improper passing
Attempting to pass other vehicles in unsafe conditions, such as on curves, hills or in heavy traffic, can lead to head-on collisions. Drivers who misjudge the distance or speed of oncoming vehicles risk catastrophic consequences.
Recognizing and addressing the common causes of these accidents can help reduce them and promote safer roads for everyone.]]>On Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2534002024-02-08T03:13:17Z2024-02-08T03:13:17ZDefining personal injury claims
A personal injury claim refers to legal action taken by an individual who has suffered harm due to the negligence of another party.
You have to determine the at-fault parties involved in the accident, as Delaware follows a modified comparative negligence system. Although you can seek compensation if you are up to 50% responsible for causing your wreck, you may receive a reduced amount. You may need help to obtain reasonable compensation.
Car accident personal injury claims
Here is a breakdown of the steps involved in a car accident personal injury claim:
The foremost priority after a car accident is to seek medical attention for any injuries sustained. Even if injuries seem minor, you should undergo a medical evaluation as some injuries may not be immediately clear.
Gather evidence to support your personal injury claim. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, obtaining contact information from witnesses and obtaining a copy of the police report.
Promptly notify your insurance company about the accident. Provide them with accurate details of the incident while avoiding admitting fault or making statements that could jeopardize your claim.
You will need to gather documentation to support your claim. This may include medical records, repair estimates, proof of lost wages and any other relevant expenses incurred as a result of the accident.
You can negotiate with the insurance companies involved to seek fair compensation for your injuries and damages. This negotiation process may involve back-and-forth discussions and settlement offers.
If you cannot negotiate a fair settlement, you can pursue legal action by filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party. This step initiates formal legal proceedings and may lead to a trial in court.
Parties may sometimes opt for mediation or arbitration as an alternative dispute resolution method. This involves a neutral third party facilitating discussions between the parties to reach a settlement outside of court.
If you agree to a settlement offer or if the court rules in your favor, you will receive compensation for your injuries and damages. This compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other accident-related losses.
These steps might differ according to your specific circumstances.
You have a right to fair compensation
Understanding what to expect can make the personal injury claim process after a car accident less unnerving.]]>On Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2533992024-02-08T03:11:16Z2024-02-08T03:11:16ZDefining wrongful death claims
A wrongful death claim is a legal action brought against a person or entity whose negligence, recklessness or intentional act caused someone's death. It allows surviving family members or representatives to seek compensation for the loss of their loved one.
These claims typically arise from various incidents, including car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents or criminal acts. Every case is different, but if the deceased could have filed a personal injury claim had they lived, eligible survivors may be able to file a wrongful death claim.
Purpose of wrongful death claims
The primary purpose of a wrongful death claim is to provide financial support to the deceased person's surviving family members who have been negatively affected by the loss. This compensation may cover medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, loss of companionship and emotional suffering endured by the surviving family members.
Immediate family members
Immediate family members, such as spouses, children and parents, have the primary right to file a wrongful death claim in Delaware. These individuals often suffer significant emotional and financial losses as a result of the deceased's untimely death.
Personal representatives
If immediate family members do not pursue a wrongful death claim, the personal representative of the deceased's estate may file on behalf of the estate and beneficiaries. This representative acts in the estate's best interests and distributes any damages awarded according to Delaware's laws of intestate succession or the decedent's will.
Dependents and financial dependence
In some cases, individuals who were financially dependent on the deceased may also be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. This can include individuals such as partners or other relatives.
Statutory beneficiaries
Delaware law outlines specific statutory beneficiaries who may be able to seek compensation in a wrongful death claim. Their relationship to the deceased and their dependency on the deceased for financial support or other forms of care determine these beneficiaries.
Time limits for filing
Typically, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of the deceased's death. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in the loss of the right to seek compensation.
Closure
Although financial compensation cannot take the place of your loved one, a wrongful death claim may help you deal with your loss.]]>On Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2533982024-01-26T21:11:45Z2024-02-05T21:10:42ZMuscle and bone issues
One of the immediate consequences of a crush injury is damage to muscles and bones. The intense pressure can lead to fractures, dislocations and muscle tears. The legs, chest and head are common areas susceptible to crush injuries.
In some cases, the impact may cause long-term damage, affecting an individual's mobility and overall quality of life. Prompt medical attention is important to address these injuries and minimize their lasting effects.
Internal injuries and complications
Crush injuries can also lead to internal damage, as organs may face compression or punctures. Even if there are no visible external injuries, the internal consequences can be severe. Internal bleeding, organ damage and the risk of infection are potential complications.
Psychological impact
Beyond the physical toll, crush injuries can have a profound psychological impact. The trauma of a car collision, coupled with the pain and recovery process, can lead to anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Recognizing and addressing the emotional aspects of crush injuries is important for holistic recovery.
Crush injuries during car collisions are complex and can have far-reaching consequences. By prioritizing awareness, individuals can navigate the roads with a heightened sense of caution.]]>On Behalf of Pratcher Krayer LLChttps://www.pkinjury.com/?p=2533972024-01-22T20:43:53Z2024-01-31T20:42:57ZInadequate staffing levels
One sign of an unsafe nursing home is insufficient staffing. Overworked and overwhelmed staff members may struggle to meet the needs of residents, leading to neglect and compromised care.
Pay attention to the ratio of staff to residents. An imbalance can result in delayed responses to emergencies and decreased quality of care.
Unsanitary conditions
Cleanliness is a key indicator of a well-managed nursing home. Facilities that lack proper hygiene standards may expose residents to health risks.
Watch for signs of neglect such as dirty common areas, messy living spaces and unattended personal hygiene needs. Maintaining a clean environment is important for preventing infections and promoting overall well-being.
Poorly maintained spaces
Asking the right questions to staff before your loved one moves in is one way of learning more about the state of the building. Physical surroundings play a significant role in the safety of nursing home residents. Buildings and equipment in disrepair can pose serious hazards.
Look out for broken handrails, malfunctioning elevators or poorly lit hallways. A lack of maintenance may not only jeopardize the safety of residents but also indicate a broader neglect of the facility's overall management.
Lack of personalized care plans
Each resident in a nursing home should have an individualized care plan tailored to their unique needs. An absence of personalized care plans suggests a one-size-fits-all approach that may overlook key aspects of residents' well-being. This oversight can lead to inadequate medical attention, incorrect medication administration and overall dissatisfaction among residents.
Isolation and lack of social activities
An unsafe facility may leave residents left alone for extended periods. Lack of organized social activities and limited opportunities for engagement can contribute to feelings of loneliness and negatively impact residents' overall quality of life.
Staying aware of the signs of an unsafe nursing home residence is important for safeguarding the elderly at a very vulnerable point in their lives. You can take proactive steps to ensure that your loved ones receive the care and attention they deserve in their golden years.]]>