New Drug to Treat Lupus Nears Approval

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Lupus, a debilitating disease that has had pharmaceutical companies scratching their heads for years, has effected and taken many lives.   Lupus is an autoimmune disease, by which the defense system against pathogens instead attacks the body’s own tissues. Generally, this disease effects women of child-bearing age, resulting in rashes, arthritis, mouth sores, kidney damage, among a number of other symptoms. Currently, there are about 325,000 Americans who suffer from the disease and are awaiting a drug to ease their pain. Fortunately, their long wait may be over.

The biotechnology company, Human Genome Sciences, announced on Monday that its experimental drug in fighting Lupus, Benlysta, has passed its second big clinical trial. This ultimately raises the chances that the drug will receive approval, and be the first new treatment released for Lupus in over forty years. While Human Genome Sciences wants to release Benlysta in the first half of 2010, the first doses will most likely go to the 200,000 Americans who are suffering the most.

While the drug did not test as well during the second trial as the first, both were sufficient enough to pass the trials. In the first test, 43.2 percent of patients who were consuming a high dosage of Benlysta showed significant signs of improvement, compared with 33.8 percent of those who were receiving a placebo. In the second study, there was not a statistically significant difference between those taking the drug, and those taking the placebo. However, the second trial took place in North America and Western Europe, while the first took place in Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe. The difference in results can be easily attributed to the lack of top-notch medical resources located in the aforementioned regions, giving more of an opporutnity for the drug to be effective to people of the first trial, rather than the second.

Human Genome Sciences has been a pioneer in genomics, which is the analyzation of human DNA. This is the same organization that discovered the gene for protein. Benlysta, would block a protein that stimulates B cells, which are consequently a part of the immune system. If this drug is approved, it would be one of the pioneer pharmaceutical drug to come from genomics.

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Families of Bicyclists Receive Settlement

Last week, Santa Clara County in San Francisco, California has agreed to pay $800,000 in damage to the father of a bicyclist who was killed by a police officer who fell asleep behind the wheel of his cop cruiser.

This bicycle accident occurred on March 9th, 2008 when Deputy James Council’s car crossed the center line of the road and struck three bicyclists. One of the riders, Christopher Knapp, was severely injured as a result of the bicycle accident. Unfortunately, the two other bikers, Kristy Gough and Matt Peterson were both killed in the incident. The parents of Peterson and Gough filed suit against the county in Supreme Court. For their loss, the Gough’s were awarded $1.2 million, while the Peterson’s were given $2.3 million. The suit filed by Knapp is still pending.

Council pleaded guilty to two counts of misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter because of the bicycle accident. In the end, he was sentenced to four months in jail, as well as over eight-hundred hours of community service. According to police officials, he most likely will serve his sentence in home detention, or by possibly participating in a Sheriff’s work-furlough program. Additionally, Council was demoted an unsworn position as a sheriff’s technician because his involvement in the deaths of Gough and Peterson.

The three victims in the bicycle accident were among about a dozen people who were riding with the Third Pillar, a San Mateo based bicycle group, as well as Team Roaring Mouse from San Francisco. Gough was a professional athlete who competed in triathlons. She began racing on the road in 2008, and had won each race she entered in 2008. Similarly, Peterson was also a seasoned athlete who competed in races often. Both individuals won their districts only eight days before their deaths.

Riding a bicycle is done for many reasons: transportation, exercise, or pleasure. But, whatever the reason, it is important that everyone one the road using the utmost safety when riding. Drivers, keep an eye out for bicyclists, and vice versa. Everyone has to share the road with each other, regardless of the mode of transportation used. Bicycle-auto accidents can be completely devastating, resulting in severe injury and/or death. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, please do not hesitate to contact us at The Law Offices of Bredell and Bredell for help.

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Drivers: Share The Road With Bicyclists

Friday, November 13, 2009

It is an inevitable fact of the poor economy: to save money more Americans are choosing bicycling as opposed to driving. Therefore,  in recent months there has been a great increase in the amount of bicycles that are on the road. Unfortunately, this can result in auto-bicycle accidents, and ultimately in injury and/ death. Drivers must work with the bicyclists to help ensure that everyone remains safe while on the road.

  • Drivers need to recognize that bicyclists also have a right to the road.   Giving them three or more feet when passing can help give them the space they need to remain safe.
  • Respect the speeds of the bicyclists. Many drivers underestimate the speed that cyclists are traveling, and turn in front of a biker. Many times, a bike can be traveling comparable speeds to that of a car, so even if you might not have the ample time to turn as you may think.
  • When in doubt, wait. It is important to be patient with bikers. If you are unable to allow three feet of space between you and the cyclist to pass, wait until you can, just as you would with any other automobile on the road.  Do  not pull into the lane of oncoming opposing traffic.  Additionally, do not honk or yell at the bicyclists, as it is possible to startle them and cause them to veer.
  • Be careful when opening your car door along busy roadways. Look for pedestrians or bicyclists before opening the door, as they may be hugging the side of the road behind you. It is possible to cause serious injury if you open the door into a rider’s path. Always keep a look out for cyclists, and make sure that you provide them enough time to cross streets and make turns.

Because more people are using the bicycle as their main mode of transportation due to the economy, it is important that drivers remember to do their share to keep the roadways safe. Clearly, automobiles are more powerful than bicycles, and for that reason alone, drivers need to be extra respectful in sharing the road. Bicycle-Automobile accidents do happen, and cause severe injury and or death. Should this happen to you or a loved one, The Law Offices of Bredell and Bredell are here to help. Please do not hesitate to contact us in the event of a bicycle-automobile accident.

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Always Put Safety First When on the Hunt

As Thanksgiving approaches, more and more Americans all across the country are finding enjoyment from hunting. Whether it is birds, deer, turkey, or any other form of small game, many find this activity to be a therauptic and fun way to spend time around the winter holiday season. While the hunting regulations vary from state to state, it is the goal of all hunters to ensure the safety of all of those who participate. If people are careless with their firearms, it is possible that severe injury and/or death can occur from such a recreational accident.

Safety must always be the top priority when hunting. When your team goes afield, it is important to make sure that everyone is fully knowledgeable of how to hunt skillfully and safely. In 1966, hunting accidents began to be recorded, averaging roughly twelve deaths per every 10,000 hunters. While this number has been dwindling in recent years on average, in states where hunting remains very popular (such as Texas), the amount of fatalities due to hunting accidents remains relatively constant. Regardless of the fact, any deaths from hunting accidents are unacceptable because they are completely preventable.

If you and your loved ones plan to go hunting this season, here are the top ten things to remember about firearm safety:

  1. It is important to make sure you are aware of the direction your muzzle is facing at all times. Keeping it pointed in a safe direction can prevent hunting accidents should the gun accidentally fire.
  2. When they are not actually being used, guns should always be unloaded.
  3. Treat the gun as if it could fire at anytime–don’t rely solely on a gun’s “safety.”
  4. Be certain of not only your target, but what is surrounding it.
  5. Use the correct ammunition for the gun that you are using. If improper ammunition is loaded into a gun, it can cause it to malfunction.
  6. If for any reason, the gun fails to fire after the trigger is pulled, it is extremely important to handle the gun with care. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and ask for help.
  7. When shooting, it is essential to wear protective ear and eye gear.
  8. The barrel should always be clear of any obstructions before pulling the trigger.
  9. While you shouldn’t alter or modify your gun, you should have it serviced regularly.
  10. It is very important to learn everything possible concerning the mechanics and the handling characteristics of your firearm. Do not use any firearm that you have not properly been trained how to use.

Hunting and other recreational accidents are especially tragic because injury and/or death occurs from participating in a generally safe and enjoyable activity. However, if the utmost care is not paid, then hunting excursions can be memorable for negative reasons. Do not allow this to happen to you and your loved ones this holiday season. There are several courses available around the country that emphasize the aforementioned safety tips, teaching every participant how to hunt safely. The Law Offices of Bredell and Bredell are here to help should you or a loved one be injured in a recreational accident. Please contact us immediately should this apply to you.

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The Road is Everyone’s Domain: Motorcycle Tips to Remember

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Riding on a motorcycle an exhilarating activity. However, the road belongs to everyone. It is very easy to get into motorcycle accidents when on the open road. There are concerns particularly in Las Vegas, as motorcycle accidents have been reoccurring in recent weeks, some within twenty-four hours from one another and claiming fatalities.

In many instances, the motorcyclist is engaging in risky driving behaviors.   Increasing speed and show-boating tricks can have negative consequences, resulting in severe injuries and/or death.  But often, the cyclist is fully complying with the law, driving carefully, and simply is not seen by another motorist.   It is very important to keep in mind these helpful safety tips to make sure that both motorcyclists and motorists share the road safely:

  • Whether a new or experienced rider, it is important to stay current on the latest safety features of the vehicle, and the rules of the road. Many dealerships offer courses on motorcycle safety to the public for this very reason. During these courses, the participants are taught the proper way to make turns, properly stop using the brake, as well as how to swerve to avoid an obstacle.
  • Riders have to be alert and aware of their surroundings at all times. It is common for automobiles and trucks not to see the tiny bikers, thus resulting in motorcycle accidents. Riders also have to know their bike’s limitations, as well as their own, as well as the general hazards of the road.
  • Slow down! Slower speeds will reduce the chances of being clipped by a bigger vehicle on the road.
  • Make sure that you never operate a motorcycle without proper certification and licensing in order to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.

So far this year, Nevada officers have responded to eighteen motorcycle accidents that have ended in fatality. This is a six times increase from this time last year. These incidents are especially tragic, as they are easily prevented. Watching your speed, as well as focusing all attention on the road can help keep you safe. Should you or a loved one be injured in a motorcycle accident, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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Iraq and Afghanistan Vets Suffer Severe Vision Loss Due to TBI

Last month, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology (PAAO) Joint Meeting met in San Francisco, California to discuss a study produced by the Veterans Administration. The topic was concerning veterans who have returned from Iraq and Afghanistan and who have suffered severe vision problems as a result of traumatic brain injuries.  These veterans have a much lower quality of life than they had previously.   According to a study conducted by Glenn C. Cockerham, MD, Stanford University, and the Veterans Administration Palo Alto Department of Ophthalmology, veteran patients had far worse vision problems and quality of life than civilian patients.

Visual function and eye injuries in forty-two individuals with explosion-related TBI, were compared with quality of life standards. Because eyes and their corresponding tissues are less protected than the head during unexpected explosions, they are much more susceptible to blast forces. Therefore that can lead to many injuries including: retinal and choroidal damage, optic never injury, double vision, visual field changes, glaucoma, and other disorders. These injuries will evolve and change over time–greatly lowering the quality of inflicted veterans lives.

Additionally, the Harvard School of Medicine has released a study stating that approximately 20% of people with these types of vision problems suffer from vivid, recurrent visual hallucinations known as Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS). It is important that families and doctors of inflicted veterans ask their loved ones of they have been experiencing any type of hallucination.  The study found that many veterans were too afraid to admit that they were experiencing hallucinations, for fear of being considered mentally ill. Health professionals unfortunately do not usually recognize this, because it is usually only occurs with age-related  macular degeneration (AMD).  AMD is the most common form of vision loss in the elderly, and many also suffer from CBS. However, it was also noted that once patients understand what is going on, they can learn to ignore them. Or, if that does not work, medication is available. Reportedly, most patients are not bothered by the images.

It is important for all returning veterans to receive a physical and full assessment upon returning home from abroad. It is essential that if injury was sustained, it is diagnosed and treated immediately. Traumatic brain injuries are life-altering, and it is disheartening that those on the front lines protecting our country are susceptible to them. The Law Offices of Bredell and Bredell supports the United States soldiers at home and abroad. And, we encourage anyone who has sustained a traumatic brain injury in an accident to contact us for help.

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New York Revised Life-Jacket Law Goes Into Effect

Friday, November 6, 2009

On November 1st, 2009 a new law was implemented in New York that revises the existing life-jacket law. Under the new provision, all boaters on recreational watercraft that are less than twenty-one feet long are to wear a personal flotation device. This includes motorboats, canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and sailboats specifically during the off season months: November to May.

This law was approved in August, due to overwhelming evidence that a number of fatalities happened during the winter months. In fact, roughly 25% of the state’s boating and recreational accidental deaths happened in the off-season. In 2008, New York counted twenty-one boating fatalities, five of which happened in frigid conditions.

Boating accidents can be especially dangerous in cold water. Being overcome by frigid water can overpower even the strongest swimmers.  Water that is less than sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit has the ability to cause cardiac arrest.  It ultimately prevents the ability of swimming and gripping. Therefore, the chances of death among those not wearing lifejackets is higher. Regardless of the time of year, a lifejacket is the best way to prevent injury and/or death in the event of a boating accident. It is unfortunate that boaters underestimate the effects of cold water immersion and do not wear a life preserver.

According to the law, each person that is on a watercraft must wear an appropriately fitted life preserver that has been approved by the United States Coast Guard. This law is in effect on any body of water within the state that is not privately owned, including lakes, rivers, streams, and waters. Breaking such a law will result in a fine. Additionally, the new law requires that floatation devices should be worn at all times by children under twelve years of age, as well as anyone being towed including water-skiiers and wake-boarders.

Enjoying a nice boat ride during the cool, fall weather can be a very enjoyable experience. However, many people underestimate the water, and do not wear a life jacket. Unfortunately, this can result in great injury and/or death. The Law Offices of Bredell and Bredell encourage all those who partake in boating and recreational activities to take caution and wear a life jacket, no matter what time of year you are on the water!

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New York Policeman Kills Pedestrian While Intoxicated

Thursday, November 5, 2009

As American citizens, we trust our police officers to protect and uphold the law, to the benefit of the common good. This makes it even more shocking when an officer commits a crime resulting in a fatality. Over Halloween weekend, a Bronx policy officer has been arrested, on the charges that he killed a pedestrian while driving intoxicated.

Twenty-two year veteran Kevin C. Spellman was driving his government sedan when he struck sixty-seven year old Drana Nikac as she crossed the street. When police arrived on the scene of the pedestrian accident, Detective Spellman not only appeared intoxicated, but was unsteady on his feet and smelled of liquor. Although he twice denied a breath test, his blood was eventually drawn at the Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx.

Investigators found two beer cans, one empty and one full in Detective Spellman’s car. The evidence against him, in spite of his long record with the department continued to mount, until his arraignment Friday night in Bronx Criminal Court. Because of the accident, Detective Spellman was charted with second-degree vehicular homicide, criminally negligent homicide and driving while intoxicated. Additionally, just before he hit Nikac he ran a red light.

Pedestrian accidents, especially when fatal, are devastating. However, that tragedy is made even worse when the person who caused the accident was an intoxicated police officer. Drunk driving is dangerous and can have fatal consequences. It is important to always designate a sober driver.  That way, pedestrian accidents and others like it can be avoided. The  Bredell and Bredell Arrive Alive Foundation  is dedicated to raising awareness and prevention of drunk driving accidents in the local community. And, we have the experience needed to help those injured in drunk driving accidents or pedestrian accidents.

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Colorado University Encourages Bike and Skateboard Safety Program

Although biking and skateboarding may be one of the easier, and environmental friendly ways to navigate around a college campus, accidents can still occur when attention is not paid. On campuses throughout the country, particularly Colorado University at Boulder, bicycle-pedestrian accidents are on the rise due to the larger amounts of people walking and cycling on campus. The increase in people creates a higher chance of an accident.

The “DIRC” program (standing for “Dangerous, Irresponsible, Reckless, and Careless”) is dedicated to promoting on-campus safety. In recent weeks, several demonstrations were held by the organization on campus. Peter Roper, a program manager for the CU Environmental Center, explains the groups intent: “We’re trying to make it something students don’t want to be. It’s cool to be a biker, but it’s not cool to be railroading into people.” Speeding cyclists and boarders can cause problem, specifically in areas that do not have a designated bike path. There have been multiple complaints from students in wheelchairs and with canes, as well as a seeing-eye dog whose paws were run over. Clearly, awareness needs to be raised on campus for these types of problems.

The most striking  demonstration was a scene created with three mannequins that each lay scattered on the sidewalk. To reinforce that distractions can cause accidents, near the mannequins various items were placed. (Including a cell phone, coffee, etc.) Each of the models were smashed and broken, appearing very much as if they were involved in their own bicycle-pedestrian accident. Many students have taken notice to the organization because of these dramatic on-campus displays.

In addition, a blog on behalf of the organization has been set up. This is a location where both students and faculty can place stories of near-collision bicycle and skateboarding accidents. Since its inception, blog entries have been pouring in about their experiences and problem areas around campus.

It is the goal of Roper and his associates to have everyone on campus think about how they can make it a safer place. This way, hopefully bicycle-pedestrian accidents can be avoided. Severe and life-altering injuries can come from these types of accident, and it is important to find an experienced lawyer to represent you. The Law Offices of Bredell and Bredell are dedicated to helping all those who are injured in bicycle-pedestrian accidents.

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Injured Firefighter Receives $12.7M in Worker’s Compensation Damages

Monday, November 2, 2009

Some occupations require more risk than others, and have the potential to result in accidents. For the injuries sustained in accidents that occur while on the job, the injured party is likely entitled to worker’s compensation damages.

Such an example is seen recently, as a Seattle jury awarded $12.7 million to a firefighter who was severely injured when he fell down a fire pole shaft while on-duty. Mark Jones, who was an experienced outdoorsman and former member of the Honor Guard, was unable to return to work following the accident because his injuries were so severe.

On December 23rd, 2003, Jones awoke around 3:00 a.m. to use the bathroom. He mistook the door leading to the station’s fire pole as the door to the restroom, ultimately falling eighteen feet to the first floor. The safety light intended to denote the fire pole alcove had burned out, and a chain that would have restricted access was unlatched. As a result of the fall, he suffered ten broken ribs, multiple pelvic fractures, and other minor injuries. Unfortunately, he also suffered a catastrophic brain injury when he fall, that greatly damaged his brain and spine.

A lawsuit was filed in 2006, accusing the city of being negligent in the accident. The city is being blamed for failure to safeguard the nook that contained the station’s fire pole. A state Department of Labor and Industries investigation resulted in the fining of the Fire Department for serious safety violations. Originally, Jones was only receiving minimal worker’s compensation benefits under Washington state’s current system. While the older system had a “safety net” intended for catastrophic injuries, the new system does not cover firefighters. However, following a six-week trial, the the jury agreed with Jones awarding $12.7 million in his favor. The verdict includes Jones’ caretaking and medical expenses.

Since the accident, the fire department has installed more safety measures. Reflective tape has been put around the fire pole shafts, as well as protective glass doors with special handles that will not open unless they are pushed inward. In more modern stations, the doors won’t even open unless the fire alarm sounds. This is meant to prevent accidents from Jones’ to happen again.

Regardless of the occupation, it is possible for accidents to occur on the job. Injuries that are sustained while working may be protected under worker’s compensation disability claims. It is important to investigate the options available, and The Law Offices of Bredell and Bredell are here to help. Should you or a loved one be injured at working and feel you are entitled to worker’s compensation, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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