Defective Products

Auto Safety Is the Manufacturer’s Responsibility

Published on: September 17, 2012 | By Van Sant Law

U.S. and foreign auto manufacturers tend to design in features based on consumer demand. Over the last few years the focus has been on increasing both the electronic bells and whistles in cars, as well as increasing the fuel efficiency. What has not been a primary focus with recent late model cars has been automotive safety.

Side airbags were introduced about a decade ago, but their use has not been widespread. In fact side airbags, which are known to reduce driver and passenger chances of being seriously injured in a major impact collision, are common mostly on very high end, luxury vehicles.

Side airbags are not typically included in the rear of a vehicle, and as a personal injury attorney, I have often wondered why. Concerns over child safety have mandated that kids be strapped into approved safety seats until they are above a certain weight. Once a child is out of a car seat, they are still required to ride in the back seat, but if there are not side airbags in the back seat, is this really the safest place for a child?

Avoid Holiday Accidents Around Your Home

Published on: December 20, 2011 | By Van Sant Law

Over the holidays you’ll probably have several visitors to your home, and chances are you’ll probably be out and about a lot over the next couple of weeks. Be sure to watch your footing, because according to statistics, more falls occur in December and January than any other time of the year.

Now why would it be that more accidents occur in these winter months? Could it be the additional decorations and extension cords draped throughout the yard and house? Could it be the boxes overflowing with inventory in store aisles or wrapping left lying on the floor, covering up a tripping hazard? What about the toys spread everywhere on Christmas morning. Yes, these are all accidents just waiting to happen.

Be careful this holiday season. Watch your step, help your elders, and if you or someone you love is injured in a fall or accident,

Avoid Personal Injuries at Home through Prevention

Published on: August 29, 2011 | By Van Sant Law

We recently read an interesting statistic about household injuries. Did you know there are more than 13 million household injuries requiring medical treatment in the United States every year? Worse than that, an estimated 20,000 people die from household injuries, with some of the most common being falls, poisonings, and fires.

The study by the University of North Carolina also noted that most household injuries are preventable. Here are a few suggestions to get you thinking as you look around your own home for ways to prevent accidents for family members and your household guests that fall into these categories:

Get rid of rugs that slip or electrical cords that could cause someone to trip. Don’t pile clean laundry or other things on stairways, and make sure that stairwells are well lit. Teach your children to pick up their toys, and always watch for pets that may be lying in your path.