Nebraska Trial Lawyers Blog

According to a CNN.com news report, research has revealed that the same dementia-like disease found in the brain tissue of several NFL (National Football League) players is the same shown in the brains of four U.S. veterans who were exposed to explosive devices and other types of head trauma. The suggestion made by the new data is that there is a common thread binding those exposed to traumatic brain injury, whether it occurs on a football field or in a war zone. Two of the military cases and a group of mice studied concurrently by researchers suggest that a single exposure to an IED (improvised explosive device) may instigate the cluster of abnormal protein in the brain that characterizes the disease chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE.

Finding the Link Between Soldiers, Football Players, and Brain Injury

Researchers at the Boston University School of Medicine excised thin slivers of brain tissue from four U.S. veterans who suddenly died and compared the tissue to two other groups: three amateur football players and a professional wrestler with a history of concussions.

The study also included a control group of four young people who died suddenly and had no history of concussions. The question that arose was whether a blast or a history of concussions, or both, contributed to CTE. To help answer that question, a group of mice were exposed to 330 mph winds to mimic what would likely be felt in an IED blast; the effect of the wind blasts was the brain rocking back and forth inside the skull, which can lead to brain damage. Tau, released by neurons after the brain is shaken inside the skull, was found in the brains of the mice two weeks after the blast exposure.

A Navy commander and neurologist asserts that the research definitively shows that blasts and shaking of the head gives you the same pathology seen in sports concussions. Some military cases were notable for overlapping of symptoms that were reported by football players who were later diagnosed with CTE, such as headaches and depression, and for a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder before death. The authors of the study speculate that there may be a link but also acknowledge the study’s limitations, such as a small study size, but feel they have enough information to move toward developing CTE-oriented therapies. The study has been published online in the Science Translational Medicine journal.

Having Experienced Legal Representation

A brain injury, regardless as to who sustains or where it occurs, is extremely serious and can permanently impact the life of the victim. In the event a brain injury is caused by the negligence of another party in an accident, the accident victim is legally able to pursue compensation from any at-fault parties. The brain injury attorneys in Nebraska of Cullan & Cullan, LLC are dedicated to helping accident victims get the compensation they deserve. As physicians, we understand the devastating impact of brain injuries and the need for full compensation to aid in recovery. To discuss your case with us, call (402) 397-7600.

With the summer season fast approaching and the mercury rising, Nebraskans are gearing up to enjoy the great outdoors. Bicycling is an exhilarating way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Cornhusker State, but bike riders face unique hazards that others on the open road do not. With this in mind, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and AAA are launching the “Be a ‘Roll’ Model” public awareness campaign, which focuses on bicycle safety.

The Roll Model campaign encourages parents, siblings, grandparents, and other caregivers to demonstrate safe bicycling habits for younger children every time they are going to hit the road on two wheels. Injuryboard.com offers these tips for Roll Models for safe bicycle travel:

1. Drive focused and don’t be distracted while biking.
2. Put safety first by wearing a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
3. Ride prepared and always expect the unexpected.
4. Bikers should remember the rules of the road and follow all traffic laws, such as obeying traffic signs and signals.
5. Motorists need to be aware of bikers and should always be respectful of those who they’re sharing the road with.

The state of Nebraska recently passed an important piece of legislation to help make the roads safer for bicyclists and motorists. The law, known as the “3 foot passing law,” requires every vehicle to leave a clearance of three feet between their vehicle and any bicycle or electric assistive mobility device when passing. Laws can certainly help keep everyone safe on the road, but it is always the responsibility of everyone on the road to drive alert, focused, and safely to prevent a dangerous NE traffic accident.

Being a cautious and careful bike rider can help you avoid a collision, but the negligence of another party may still cause a dangerous crash. The personal injury lawyers in Nebraska of the law firm of Cullan & Cullan are dedicated to protecting the rights of accident victims and helping those injured by another person’s carelessness obtain compensation to aid in his or her recovery. For a no-cost consultation on your accident claim, call (402) 397-7600.

A recent report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that child injury deaths have significantly decreased, according to a report in The Christian Science Monitor. From 2000 to 2009, the CDC data shows child injury deaths dropped almost 30 percent. Medical experts and researchers state the findings mean more than 11,000 children’s lives have been saved. However, more than 9,000 children still die annually from unintentional injuries, making injury the number one cause of death among children.

According to the CDC, the most common ways children are either hurt or killed are by accidental poisoning, suffocation, drowning, falls, or in fires or auto accidents. The research reveals some alarming trends, such as the fact that motor vehicle accident deaths have decreased by 41 percent but they still account for half of all child injury deaths. Also, poisoning death rates have greatly increased over the last decade, largely driven by a 91 percent increase among teens. Suffocation death rates among infants under one year have increased as well by 54 percent.

Though the statistics are quite shocking, a medical epidemiologist for the CDC asserts there are two main things that can help reduce child injury deaths. Safer environments for children to live, learn, and play can undoubtedly reduce the risk of child injuries. In addition, empowered parents and child caregivers who have the knowledge and skills to make safe choices can be vital for protecting children.

Being aware of the common causes of child injury fatalities and knowing how to protect your child from such incidents can be key in keeping your little one safe. The negligence of another party, however, may still cause a dangerous accident that can harm your child. The Omaha child injury lawyers at the law firm of Cullan & Cullan, LLC can help you obtain the compensation you and your child need to recover from a devastating accident. To see how our legal team can assist you with your case, call (402) 397-7600.

According to a JournalStar.com news report, eight people were injured and sent to the hospital after a boating crash on Nebraska’s Branched Oak Lake. The 19-year-old driver was operating a large Sea Ray motorboat when it collided with a drifting sailboat around 8 p.m. on May 4. Both sea vessels sustained major damage and are being held by authorities for review. An official with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reports that all eight individuals injured in the collision are expected to survive and were treated for non-life threatening injuries, including cuts, bruises, and fractures.

The 19-year-old driver of the boat has been arrested by deputies with the Lancaster County Sherriff’s Department on suspicion of boating under the influence. In addition, the driver and another passenger were cited for possession of alcohol as a minor. The driver was treated for minor injuries at BryanLGH Medical Center West following the aquatic collision and was then taken to jail. The young man was out of custody on May 5, and formal charges have presently not been filed.

As a boating accident is more difficult to inspect than a standard motor vehicle crash, a Game and Parks superintendent says that the investigation into an incident such as this will be very complex.

This unfortunate boating accident serves as a reminder to Nebraskans to always drive responsibly to ensure the safety of not only themselves but their passengers as well, whether it is on a state highway or on a body of water. However, if you have been injured in any type of accident which was caused by the negligence of another person, a Nebraska personal injury attorney with the law firm of Cullan & Cullan can help you obtain compensation for your injuries. To discuss your potential accident claim with a member of our legal team, call (402) 397-7600.

A 52-year-old Prosser man died as a result of a recent Nebraska semi truck accident near Hastings, according to TheIndependent.com. The Nebraska State Patrol stated a truck hauling batteries was traveling eastbound on Highway 6 around 11:30 a.m. when it stopped at a railroad crossing. An eastbound semitrailer truck that was hauling corn then collided with the rear of the first truck, and the collision then forced the truck into the westbound lane where the accident victim who lost his life was driving his 2008 Ford pickup truck.

The 63-year old driver of the battery truck, a resident of Omaha, was taken to Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries to his face and shoulders. The 46-year-old semi trailer truck driver who caused the initial collision was not injured. Tragically, the pickup truck driver was announced dead at the scene. The victim was reportedly a safety officer for the Wood River Volunteer Fire Department.

Highway 6 was closed for more than eight hours as the Nebraska State Patrol conducted an investigation and cleaned up the accident site.

In the sudden event that a life is lost, loved ones may certainly be left to wonder if the person’s death could have been prevented. If a death was caused by another person’s negligence, family members can seek compensation from any at-fault parties with the help of a Nebraska wrongful death attorney. At the law firm of Cullan & Cullan, we are dedicated to helping those who have senselessly lost a loved one get the compensation they need to aid in paying for the unexpected costs that can arise, such as funeral expenses. To allow us to help you during this difficult time, please call (402) 397-7600.

A dog can certainly be man’s best friend and can be an excellent source of companionship for the owner and his or her family, but under the right circumstances, a dog can also present a danger to others.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year, and one in five dog bites results in a severe enough injury that it requires medical attention.

These alarming statistics serve as a reminder that dog attacks occur frequently and can be very dangerous for the victim, but canine lovers can help play a part in preventing a dog attack. The CDC offers the following tips for dog owners:

1. Speak with a professional, such as a veterinarian, before you adopt your new pup to learn what breed may be best for your household and your lifestyle. Canines with a history of aggression aren’t appropriate for households with children.
2. Spend time with your potential new pet before you decide to adopt to make sure it is a good fit for you and your family.
3. To reduce aggressive tendencies, spay or neuter your animal.
4. Properly train and socialize your pet. Teaching the dog submissive behaviors can keep aggression at bay, as well as not playing aggressive games with them.
5. If your dog develops aggressive or hostile behavior, seek the help of a professional so your pup can remain placid.
6. Never leave an infant or young child alone with your dog, as small children are most at risk for a dog attack.

A dog attack can leave a victim with severe injuries, both physical and emotional. Therefore, it is important that a dog attack victim seek compensation from any at-fault parties to aid in recovery. If you are the victim of a dog attack in NE, schedule a free consultation with an Omaha dog bite lawyer at the law firm of Cullan & Cullan. We understand the serious impact of this kind of attack and will get you the compensation you need to move forward. Call (402) 397-7600 to speak with us regarding your case.

The manufacturers of the blood thinning medication Pradaxa have recently come under a great deal of scrutiny from a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigation. An FDA report concerning Pradaxa, which helps reduce the risk of stroke for patients with the heart condition non-valvular atrial fibrillation, has thousands of patients concerned as there is a potential link between the drug and fatal bleeding incidents. Claims against the German manufacturer of the drug, Boehringer Ingelheim, have began making their way into court since a number of these hemorrhaging incidents have called into question the safety of this blood thinning medication. The company admits that in just one year, the drug was linked to 260 cases of fatal bleeding.

Pradaxa was approved by the FDA in 2010 as a substitute for the widely-used anticoagulant Warfarin, and an estimated 1.1 million prescriptions were filled in the U.S. between its approval in October 2010 to August of 2011. The use of a blood thinner such as Pradaxa comes with a great patient risk, as even a very minor scrape or injury can result in excessive hemorrhaging. This risk was known at the time of FDA approval, but since the drug was put on the market there has been a much higher rate of reported bleeding incidents than was anticipated. The FDA is continuing to investigate why this might be. Safety investigations are underway, not only in the U.S., but in Europe and Canada as well.

Patients are advised not to stop taking the drug without discussing it with their physician first, but Pradaxa users should be aware of the signs that may be indicative of a potential bleeding problem. These signs include: coughing up blood or clots; severe or uncontrollable bleeding; frequent nose bleeds; vomiting blood; inexplicable bruising; pink or brown urine; and red or black stool.

Pradaxa lawsuits in the U.S. are alleging that the drug’s maker failed to warn about the possibly life-threatening side effects of the drug, and when a drug manufacturer puts profit before patient safety, thousands of innocent patients could pay the price. At the law firm of Cullan & Cullan, LLC, our Nebraska pharmaceutical litigation attorneys have extensive experience helping patients who have been harmed due to a dangerous or defective drug and will work diligently to ensure drug companies are held responsible. Call us immediately to discuss your claim at (402) 397-7600.

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a severe type of injury which can permanently alter a person’s life. TBI is one of the leading causes of acquired disability and death in infants, and the Brain Injury Association of Michigan reports that children ages zero to four and 15 to 19 are the most at-risk age groups for getting a traumatic brain injury.

The only known cure for a traumatic brain injury is prevention, so following these seasonal safety tips from the Brain Injury Association of America can help prevent a child injury accident while having fun in the sun.

Spring

• Falls are a common cause of playground injuries, so check for an appropriate surface under the playground equipment; avoid hard surfaces such as concrete.
• Wear a helmet during spring recreational activities! Check your child’s baseball helmet to ensure it meets athletic equipment standards, and have your child wear a helmet while skating or bicycling.
• Brain injury is the leading cause of death for children hit by cars, so teach your children proper pedestrian safety. Never allow kids to run into the street and tell them to stop at the curb and look both ways before crossing the street.
• Two-thirds of ATV, or all-terrain vehicle, accidents involve kids 16-years-old or younger, so lead by example and wear a helmet.

Summer

• Always supervise children around water. Most children who survive a drowning accident are found within two minutes of being under water, so supervision can help save a life.
• If your child’s plans involve going out on a boat, explain to them the dangers of going out on a high seas excursion with someone who has been drinking. Alcohol use is a leading factor in boating accidents and fatalities.
• Install child safety window guards; screens are meant to keep out bugs, not kids.

A brain injury can have life-altering consequences, so adhering to these warm weather safety rules can help protect your child from a serious incident. Unfortunately, not all accidents can be prevented. If your child has been involved in an accident caused by another person’s negligent actions, call a Nebraska child injury attorney at Cullan & Cullan, LLC. We aim to provide exceptional representation to each client and will make sure your family receives the compensation that’s deserved. Call (402) 397-7600 for a consultation.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding your brain and spinal cord, typically due to the spread of an infection. Depending on the cause, meningitis may resolve on its own in several weeks, or in severe cases, it may be life-threatening. In honor of World Meningitis Day on April 24, the Confederation of Meningitis Organisations (CoMO) and its global members are encouraging individuals, families, and communities across the globe to learn more about this potentially serious disease.

The organizations would like people to understand the signs and symptoms of this disease, the significance of urgent treatment, and that prevention against some forms of meningitis is available through vaccination.

The signs and symptoms of meningitis are similar to the flu, and may develop over a few hours or over the course of one to two days. Symptoms may include:

• High fever;
• Severe headache;
• Seizures;
• Stiff neck;
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating; and
• Lack of interest in eating or drinking.

Anyone who suspects they may have meningitis and is experiencing these symptoms should immediately seek medical care.

The ultimate goal of CoMO and its fellow members is to stop meningitis worldwide, and you can be a part of the global movement to increase awareness and prevention by being a member of Join Hands Against Meningitis. Friends and family members are encouraged to join as well!

Receiving prompt medical care is crucial in combating this dangerous disease, and early treatment can help prevent serious complications. If your healthcare professional fails to properly diagnose the condition or does not administer the appropriate tests to determine if a patient has meningitis, the consequences can be life-threatening.

The medical malpractice attorneys in Nebraska with Cullan & Cullan, LLC are able to help you if you have suffered undue injury or harm due to the negligence of a medical professional. As physicians, we are aware of how dangerous a medical error can be for an unsuspecting patient, and will work to obtain the compensation you deserve to recover. For a no-cost consultation, please call (402) 397-7600.

The estate of a deceased woman has filed a Nebraska medical malpractice lawsuit against the Granite City medical center where she was receiving treatment, according to The Madison Record. The estate of the deceased filed the lawsuit on March 29 in Madison County Circuit Court against Gateway Regional Medical Center for failing to adequately monitor the woman and allowing her to wander, ultimately resulting in her death.

In May of 2010, an ambulance transported the victim from Park Haven Care Center to Gateway for admittance to their psychiatric unit because of suicidal thoughts. Prior to the victim being picked up, Park Haven instituted a 1:1 patient watch, meaning there would be one worker specific designated to watch her, to prevent the woman from harming herself.

The complaint alleges that when the woman arrived at Gateway Regional, however, the doctor performed an assessment but did not place her on a 1:1 patient watch. The lawsuit states that a little more than an hour after being admitted, the woman walked away, essentially wandering off; subsequently, hospital staff tried to find her but were unsuccessful. The woman was later found dead on railroad tracks near the facility.

The Madison Record reports that the estate of the deceased woman is alleging medical malpractice, saying they saying they “negligently failed to properly perform a suicide risk assessment, failed to institute a close watch of [the patient], allowed her to walk out of the hospital and failed to locate [her] after she left the hospital.” The estate is seeking a judgment of more than $600,000 plus costs.

Failure on part of a medical facility to properly monitor a patient and perform any necessary tests can have devastating results, such as in this case. If you feel you have been the victim of medical malpractice of any kind, the Nebraska medical malpractice attorneys of Cullan & Cullan, LLC will work diligently to protect your rights and help you through this difficult time. As physicians, we fully understand how a medical mistake can turn an innocent patient’s life upside down. For a complimentary consultation regarding your case, call (402) 397-7600.