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3 Important Reasons Why You Should Hire a Wrongful Death Attorney

Losing a loved one is a devastating and life-altering experience. While death is a natural part of life, there are tragic situations where individuals lose their lives due to the negligent or wrongful actions of others. For the surviving family members, the emotional toll of such a loss is compounded by financial hardships, especially if…
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Baby Infant Formula Lawsuits & Settlement Amounts

Baby formula is designed to provide essential nutrition for infants, particularly for premature babies and those unable to breastfeed. However, recent lawsuits have raised concerns about dangerous ingredients, toxic heavy metals, bacterial contamination, and life-threatening health conditions linked to popular baby formula brands. Parents across the U.S. are suing major baby formula manufacturers for failing…
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4 Reasons to Hire a Truck Accident Attorney

Every year, thousands of people die from large truck related accidents in the U.S. According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020 alone, 4965 people died and roughly 146,930 people got injured in crashes involving large trucks, out of which 71 percent of fatal victims were occupants of other…
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NuVasive Orthopedic Implants Lawsuit

NuVasive Orthopedic Implants Recalled After Reports of Pain, Bone Changes Federal health authorities have issued warnings to surgeons, recommending they stop implanting stainless steel Precice orthopedic devices manufactured by NuVasive Specialized Orthopedics. The warning comes just a few months after NuVasive reported that some patients had experienced pain and changes in their bones after having…
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Elmiron Lawsuits

Several lawsuits have been filed on behalf of individuals who took the drug Elmiron and later developed debilitating eye conditions. What should people know about this medication, what it was designed to treat and what rights they have if they’ve taken the drug and later had vision problems? What Is Elmiron? Elmiron, the brand name…
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Are Talcum Powder & Mesothelioma Connected?

Decades ago, few people had heard of mesothelioma. This aggressive cancer wasn’t formally named until the early 1900s, and its link to asbestos exposure wasn’t confirmed until the 1960s. Since then, research has shown that asbestos is responsible for roughly 80% of all mesothelioma cases. Most people associate asbestos with insulation and construction materials, but…
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Bicycle Rules of the Road: How to Coexist With Drivers

A bike ride can be fun and relaxing, but it is important to know and follow the rules of the road to cycle safely. If bike riding is part of your lifestyle, it’s important to understand how to co-exist with drivers and other cyclists. Knowing and obeying the rules helps keep you safe, and helps…
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The Top 5 Most Dangerous Chemicals in Your Home

You may assume that the household cleaners and products you use every day are safe and healthy for you and your family. However, these products may contain chemicals that could be harmful to your body or the environment. Learning more about some of the toxic chemicals you may have been exposed to when using these…
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What Is the Difference Between Medical Malpractice and Negligence?

Mistakes happen all the time; they are a part of life. However, when an error occurs in a medical setting, it could lead to severe complications and, in extreme cases, could even lead to death. Healthcare mistakes generally fall into one of two related categories: medical malpractice or medical negligence. The distinction between these two…
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What Role Do Dashcams Play In Car Accidents?

In the 1980s, law enforcement began mounting smaller cameras in vehicles to capture video and audio evidence both inside and outside the car. Now, newer civilian vehicle models advertise similar features, including back-up cameras and dashcams. The worldwide vehicle dashcam industry is expected to grow by 17.3% over the next five years, reaching a value…
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The 10 Most Dangerous Roadway Conditions

Although driving a car is relatively common for most people in the U.S., it doesn’t make the activity any less dangerous. Car accidents happen daily, but some of them could be prevented if drivers simply learned how to deal with dangerous roadway conditions. Review these top hazardous driving conditions and how to handle them so…
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10 Steps to Follow if you are in a Car Accident and Need a car accident lawyer in San Diego!

1. Call Police Alert the police to your car accident in San Diego once it has occurred. A police report that states who was at fault is the single most persuasive piece of evidence in proving liability. 2. Obtain Contact Information Get the other drivers information including name, address, phone number, license number, and take…
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California Cruise Ship Accident Lawsuits: Legal Options for Injured Passengers and Crew

Cruise vacations departing from California ports—such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco—promise relaxation and adventure. But when accidents happen at sea, the consequences can be severe. From slip-and-falls and food poisoning to assault and medical negligence, cruise ship injuries often involve complex legal issues governed by maritime law. If you’ve been injured aboard…
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Daylight Savings Time is Here Again, Does it decrease San Diego traffic accidents?

According to the Department of Transportation, which oversees the observance of daylight saving time, the Uniform Time Act of 1966 established the practice of switching clocks as we know it today. The DOT says moving the clock forward by an hour saves energy by providing an extra hour of sunlight, reducing the need to use…
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Zantac Cancer Lawsuit Investigation

Zantac Cancer Lawsuit Investigation Melinda J Helbock A.P.C is investigating reports of cancer diagnosis related to the use of Zantac heartburn medication. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with cancer you may be considering filing a Zantac cancer lawsuit for their illnesses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along…
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After $265M Verdict, Could Dicamba Be Another Herbicide Problem for Monsanto?

This verdict could boost dozens of other lawsuits filed over Monsanto’s Dicamba herbicide, while Bayer insisted the case was an anomaly. Unlike Non Hodgkins Lymphoma cancer Lawsuits associated with Roundup, the cases allege Dicamba herbicide sprayed by farmers drifted into neighboring fields, causing damages to their crops. This month’s $265 million verdict over Monsanto Co.’s…
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Jury Awards $29 Million in Latest Johnson & Johnson Cancer-Causing Baby Powder Lawsuit

March 15, 2019 An Oakland, Calif. jury has awarded a $29 million settlement to a woman who sued Johnson & Johnson over allegations that the company’s talcum-based baby powder contains asbestos-causing cancer, according to ABC News. Teresa Leavitt’s lawsuit against the pharmaceutical giant claimed the company’s baby powder was the reason she developed mesothelioma, a…
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California Jury Awards $2 Billion To Couple In Roundup Weed Killer Cancer Trial

In one of the largest product liability verdicts in U.S. history, a California jury awarded $2.055 billion to a couple who developed cancer after decades of using Roundup® Weed Killer, manufactured by Monsanto (now owned by Bayer AG). The case has become a flashpoint in the national debate over glyphosate, the herbicide’s active ingredient, and…
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Expected Goodyear Tire Recall affects Thousands of GM Vehicles

As the deadline to file GM ignition switch compensation claims nears, the automaker continues to get hit with problems. The latest for the automaker is a Goodyear tire recall that affects thousands of GM’s full-size crossovers. In response to the expected tire recall, which will affect some 48,500 tires, GM told dealers to stop selling…
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Auto Care and Safety Tips for Cold Weather Conditions

Most of us don’t really consider San Diego to have harsh winter weather. But, this winter has brought us colder days and nights, some rain and even snow in places like Ramona and Murrieta! And, what many of us forget is that it is just as important to prep our cars for winter weather as…
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GM Claims Deadline Extended to Jan. 31, 2015, Offers May Not be Best For All

The administrator for GM’s victims’ compensation program announced earlier this month that GM is giving individuals and families who have suffered injury or loss due to faulty ignition switches until Jan. 31, 2015 to file compensation claims; the deadline has been extended by one month. According to Kenneth R. Feinberg, GM extended the deadline to…
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Zoloft While Breastfeeding Lawsuit

Zoloft (sertraline) is a commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and postpartum depression. While many doctors consider Zoloft one of the safer SSRIs during pregnancy and breastfeeding, scientific studies have raised concerns about the potential risks of Zoloft passing into breast milk and causing harm to nursing infants.…
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Judge Rules in Favor of $9 Billion Actos Award

Takeda Pharmaceuticals Co. and Eli Lilly & Co. lost the battle to overturn a $9 billion punitive damage award based on claims that the companies failed to warn the public about the potential risk for developing bladder cancer when taking the diabetes medication Actos. On Aug. 27 U.S. District Judge Rebecca Doherty ruled that the…
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FDA Reclassifies Transvaginal Mesh as “High Risk”

The FDA’s decision to fast-track transvaginal mesh products has backfired as thousands of women allege injuries from mesh erosion and infection. The FDA approved transvaginal mesh products without conducting human trials because there were similar products already on the market and the FDA deemed them as being “low to moderate” risk. When the FDA fast-tracked…
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San Diego Personal Injury Lawyer Shares Important Information about Allergic Reactions to Medications

Allergic reactions to medications are very serious and can be life-threatening. Most often doctors don’t know ahead of time that you will have an allergic reaction to a prescription medication — they are usually unexpected. But, the way you handle an allergic reaction can be the difference between life and death. San Diego personal injury…
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Legal Help for Victims of San Diego Wildfires

As the wildfires burn through San Diego County, The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock A.P.C. wants San Diego residents to know you are all in our thoughts. According to CNN, three dozen fires raged throughout the night Wednesday, eight of which continue to burn Thursday in a patchwork across the county. Since the first…
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Driver Suspected of Drunk Driving in Fatal Auto Accident

Two 20-year-olds were killed in an East County auto accident; the driver is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to NBC San Diego, the driver, a 26-year-old San Diego resident, crashed into a concrete culvert after losing control of a Nissan Sentra while traveling at approximately 70 mph on I-8.…
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What You Should Do if You are Involved in an Auto Accident

Car accidents happen so suddenly, many times people forget what they should do and how they should handle themselves. In order to best protect yourself, especially if the accident was caused by another person, try and remember to do the following: Take pictures or video of the scene using your cellphone if possible Write down…
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Any Amount of Alcohol Poses Risk for Fatal Car Accidents

According to researchers from the University of California, San Diego, even the smallest amount of alcohol could significantly increase the risk for auto accidents. Results from a study conducted by the UCSD researchers found that drivers with blood alcohol content (BAC) of .01 percent, which is below the legal limit in California, were 46 percent…
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Tanning Beds Still Popular, Despite Cancer Risks

Despite increasing evidence linking the use of tanning beds to skin cancer, Americans continue to love their tans. In fact, a recent study published in JAMA Dermatology found that the state of Florida currently features more tanning salons than McDonald’s restaurants. “Commercial tanning beds have been available for cosmetic use for many decades, and current…
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How to Deal with Your Insurance Company after a Car Accident

After a car accident, the first thing you should do is assess any possible injuries and seek immediate medical assistance. Next, call the authorities (such as police) to document the incident and provide additional assistance. Once any urgent issues are addressed at the accident scene, you will need to get in touch with your insurance…
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Energy Drinks Increase Risk for Heart Problems Study Says

In our fast-paced society, energy drinks have become a popular way to get a quick boost, but a recent study sheds light on serious and potentially fatal health risks that may be linked to drinks like Red Bull, Monster and Rockstar. The study, presented on Dec. 2 at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society…
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Study Links Tylenol during Pregnancy to Problems for Children

A recent study has drawn a correlation between use of Tylenol during pregnancy and developmental problems in children. The study, published by researchers from the University of Oslo in the International Journal of Epidemiology in October, evaluated long-term side effects of the main ingredient in Tylenol, acetaminophen. In the study, the popular painkiller is referred…
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Beware of Tide Pod Poisoning in Children

Tide Pod laundry detergent has rapidly gained popularity because of the convenience it brings to our daily lives, but it’s important to note that there is a potential for children to mistake these little packets of detergent for sweet treats or chew toys, which may lead to serious injuries. The single-use laundry detergent capsules have…
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How to Reduce Auto Accident Risks for Pregnant Women and Babies

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine suggests that the leading cause of fetal morbidity and mortality is motor vehicle accidents. Given this information, it is very important that expectant mothers educate themselves on the best ways to keep themselves and their unborn babies safe in the event of a motor…
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Ford to Recall more than 24,000 Focus EV and C-Max Models

The Detroit News reports that Ford will issue a voluntary recall for 23,800 Focus Electric and C-Max Hybrid and Energi models with a push-button ignition. The recall is being issued because it has been determined that the cars don’t alert drivers when the driver’s door is open, which is a violation of federal regulations. While…
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Study: Bladder Slings Improve Stress Urinary Incontinence

Recent research suggests that the use of transvaginal mesh, also known as bladder sling, can be helpful in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The study, published on September 19 by the New England Journal of Medicine, was conducted by Dutch researchers and suggests that bladder sling surgery as a first line of treatment…
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Opioids like OxyContin, Vicodin may cause Birth Defects: Study

A new study suggests that women may increase the risk of giving birth to a baby with a serious congenital birth defect by more than double when they use opioids such as OxyContin and Vicodin during pregnancy. The study was published online by the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, and was funded by the U.S. Centers…
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New Study Links Lead Exposure to Discipline Problems in Children

According to a study recently conducted by researchers at the University of Wisconsin, children who have been exposed to high levels of lead are more likely to face discipline problems in school. This raises concerns about potential long-term consequences of lead exposure. In a press release issued last week, the researchers state that rates of…
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How Does the FDA Classify Teratogenic Drugs?

Teratogenic drugs are substances that can cause birth defects or developmental abnormalities when taken during pregnancy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a crucial role in identifying these risks and regulating medications to protect pregnant women and their unborn children. The FDA uses a classification system to categorize drugs based on their potential…
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Study Shows Marked Increase in Injuries to Children tied to Magnetic Balls

A recent study found that between 2002 and 2011 the number of serious injuries to children who swallowed toy magnets increased by up to five times. The Annals of Emergency Medicine published the study last week, noting that doctors and hospitals have reported in excess of 22,500 cases where patients required medical treatment after ingesting…
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Broken CFL Light Bulbs Pose a Threat

In most American homes, CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) light bulbs have replaced fluorescent lamp bulbs. These newer light bulbs, often spiral-shaped, produce the same amount of light as traditional light bulbs, but they last much longer and consume significantly less power. While CFL light bulbs are the more modern, “greener” choice when it comes to…
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More U.S. Women Die from Prescription Painkiller Overdoses than from Motor Vehicle Accidents

According to a recent national health survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more women in the U.S. have died from prescription painkiller overdoses since 2007 than from motor vehicle accidents. In fact, roughly 18 American women die from painkiller overdoses every day — that’s more than four times the rate of…
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As July 4 Approaches Beware of Fireworks Dangers

As Independence Day grows nearer, it is important to our personal injury lawyers that they help Americans become aware of the serious risk of injury linked to fireworks. Last year alone, more than 5,000 visits to U.S. emergency rooms in the 30 days surrounding the Fourth were attributed to firecrackers, aerial explosives or homemade devices.…
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Can Birth Defects be Caused by Pharmaceutical Drugs?

Birth defects are among the most devastating conditions parents may face when welcoming a new child into the world. While some birth defects are caused by genetic factors or environmental exposures, others result from pharmaceutical drugs taken during pregnancy. Certain medications have been linked to serious birth defects, prompting lawsuits and regulatory action to protect…
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San Diego Chargers Doctor Has a History of Medical Malpractice

San Diego Charger’s team doctor, David Chao, has been at the center of controversy for his tainted past and history of medical malpractice. Despite the allegations against him however, he has been cleared. Those in opposition to him being cleared say he should be fired from the Chargers because of his past. In 2012, a…
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Bill Limits Athletes Workers Compensation Rights in California

According to a new bill, athletes who spent the majority of their careers playing for teams in states other than California are no longer eligible to file workers’ compensation claims in California. The bill passed state Assembly on Thursday. According to the bill, which came from Assemblyman Henry Perea, out of state players should not…
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CA Senate Studies Bills to Broaden Health Care Provider Duties

The California state Senate is reviewing three bills that have been introduced to lessen the effects of a predicted upcoming physician shortage. Under the proposed laws, nurse practitioners, optometrists and pharmacists would assume some of the responsibilities currently handled only by doctors. President Obama’s Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is providing more care to…
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Abbott Recalls Insulin Blood Glucose Meters

A voluntary recall of an insulin blood glucose meterused by diabetics and made by Abbott was announced April 15 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to a defect causing the meters to give false readings. The FreeStyle Insulinx® Blood Glucose Meters are sold in the U.S. and numerous countries abroad. The meters…
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Report Exposes Patient Neglect at UC Hospitals

According to a 40-page report by a labor union that represents approximately 15,000 UC hospital workers, UCI Medical Center and four other hospitals are guilty of inadequate and uneven staffing levels, resulting in patient neglect and harm. The labor union released the report Thursday, alleging that patient at UCI Medical Center in Orange who were…
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