Car crashes are among some of the biggest dangers to babies. All babies need a rear-facing car seat for their first ride home from the hospital.

Your baby will use this seat whenever you travel– even the shortest distance– for one year or longer. While babies may use a forward-facing car seat once they are at least one year old and at least 10 kg, it is safest for them to rear-face as long as possible.

Follow these car seat safety tips:

• Look for a car seat with the highest rear-facing weight and length limits once your child has outgrown their first car seat.
• Always install the car seat in the rear seat—the middle position is the safest.
• Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the car seat and follow all age, height and weight specifications.
• Secure the car seat using the Universal Anchorage System (UAS or LATCH), which is now mandatory in all car models. Follow both the car seat and car manual instructions. If the UAS system does not secure the seat adequately, then use the seat belt, as indicated in the car seat instructions.
• Check that the car seat does not move more than 2.5 cm (1 inch) forward or from side to side once it is installed.
• Harness straps should be threaded just at or below your baby’s shoulders. The chest clip should be at armpit level and the harness should fit snugly.
• Tuck a blanket around your baby if needed instead of using a bunting bag.
• Don’t use a car seat that has been in a car crash, even a minor one. It is not safe.
• Never leave your baby unattended in a car, even to run a quick errand.

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a car accident, consult a Personal Injury Lawyer.

Source: Canadian Pediatric Society.

This weekend marks the first long weekend of the Spring/Summer season, which means many of us will be hitting the highways to spend time with family and friends. It also means that there will be an increased police presence on Ontario’s highways targeting speeding and dangerous drivers.

If you see those flashing red lights in your rear-view window while traveling this weekend, here are some things you should and shouldn’t do when pulled over:

• DO show the officer that you acknowledge them by turning on your 4-way flashers and pull over to a safe area as soon as possible.
• DO remember that because of the long drive, you may be feeling stressed and tired. Check yourself and make sure that you keep as calm and friendly as possible when speaking with the officer who has pulled you over.
• DO remember that police are looking out for your safety and working to help prevent car accidents that could cause serious injury or death.
• DO roll your window down after pulling over and wait for the officer to approach your car and if it’s dark outside, turn the above head light on to illuminate the front cabin of the car (they’re probably going to shine a flashlight in there anyways).
• DO NOT make moves until the officer has instructed you to do so. You may think that getting all of your information ready is a good thing, but the officer has no idea what you may or may not have in your car. Sudden movements or unrequested behaviour could be cause for concern of an officer approaching a vehicle. Being proactive will not help you in this situation.
• DO remember that more than likely, you were stopped for either a routine spot check or for speeding. If you plan on fighting any ticket, make sure to not say anything that would indicate an admission of guilt and definitely don’t inform the officer that you are going to fight the ticket as they will make sure that their notes are in tip-top shape, making a defense more difficult.
• DO get back on the road. Once everything has been handled and you can get back on your way, put any paperwork or belonging back where they were taken from, turn-on your signal, and merge safely back into traffic.

Hopefully these tips will help you survive the trip and ease any stress about the heightened police presence on the roads during this long weekend and the ones to come. Safe driving!

If you or someone you know has an auto related injury, schedule your free consultation with our best accident lawyers. You pay no fees until your case is won or settled.

You may recall a story in the news about Tide Pods, the colorful, single-load packets of laundry detergent that were available between 2012 through the end of 2013. During that time, more than 17,000 children under age 6 ate or inhaled the contents or squirted concentrated liquid from a packet into their eyes, according to the New York Times.

It’s reminder that the products we use daily and deem as safe could actually be hazardous and cause serious injury. With spring-cleaning in full force, it’s important to stop and think about the household products you’re using. Could they actually be a danger to you or your family?

Consumer Reports recommends avoiding antibacterial such as dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, which may help promote antibiotic-resistant bacteria. That harsh chemical can be found in several cleaners including Scrubbing Bubbles Heavy Duty All Purpose Cleaner and some types of Clorox Disinfecting Wipes.

Better choices include Clorox Green Works All-Purpose Cleaner, which did well in Consumer Reports’ tough mess test. Also, consider Clorox Healthcare Bleach Germicidal Wipes, a good option for occasional disinfecting, like when someone has a cold or flu.

As for your bathroom, be aware that toilet-bowl cleaners can harbor some of the most dangerous chemicals in your house. Products such as Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner Complete Clean contain hydrochloric acid, which can burn your eyes and skin. For a safer option, select a cleaner without hydrochloric acid, such as Seventh Generation Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner, which did well in Consumer Reports’ tests.

Spring-cleaning also means washing windows and making glass sparkle, but be careful with ammonia. It can potentially damage your eyes or lungs. Instead, try a glass cleaner that’s ammonia-free—such as Staples’ Sustainable Earth Glass Cleaner. Another option is to dilute ammonia: Use a half-cup in four cups of water.

Our lawyers have recovered millions for people injured by product defects and manufacturer mistakes. If you or a family member has sustained a serious personal injury or permanent disability, contact our disability insurance claim lawyer today.

The beginning of spring brings a whole different set of weather and road conditions. It also brings motorcyclists to the roadways. Even the most mature and experienced motorcyclists need to be cautious while riding.

Read the following rules to avoid serious or fatal injury in a motorcycle collision.

1. Take professional rider training. There is no substitute for a skilled rider with a proper safety attitude.
2. Wear an approved motorcycle helmet and fasten it properly. Most crashes happen at speeds around 50km/h and helmets are very effective at preventing head injuries at those speeds.
3. Wear highly visible clothing (especially at night) and make sure that your headlight is functioning properly. Always wear protective clothing and protective gear.
4. Communicate with drivers in other vehicles by using proper signals, lane positions and brake lights. Try to establish eye contact with the other drivers whenever possible.
5. Keep an adequate space cushion when following, being followed, sharing your lane, passing other vehicles or being passed. Slow down and adjust your speed according to road and weather conditions. Many single vehicle motorcycle collisions occur from speeding and losing control in a curve or in a situation of unpredictable vehicle behaviour.
6. Scan your course of travel 12 to 15 seconds ahead so you can identify and avoid potential hazards. Predict what you might do if a dangerous situation presents itself. This gives you time to prepare for a safe outcome. You can also practice evasive maneuvers under supervision in secluded areas to develop instinctive reactions.
7. Remain alert, keep hydrated and pace yourself. Your riding ability is directly related to your physical and mental state. Also, always look twice before advancing through intersections.
8. Limit the distance of your trip. A distance of 300 to 500 km/day will let you enjoy the trip and stop for much needed breaks.

By following these simple rules you can enjoy the fun of riding a motorcycle and the beginning of a new season while still staying safe. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our motorcycle accident lawyer now. We have helped Toronto motorcycle accident victims recover millions.

Source: Canada Safety Council

It’s never easy when a loved one (especially a spouse) is diagnosed with a critical illness. Here are some strategies and tips to help you and your spouse support one another through such a difficult time.

Take a deep breath. The most important thing you can do is be there for your spouse and remain calm. Don’t panic, panicking can cause emotional paralysis and further distress an ill individual. Take a breath, step back and figure out how you’re going to tackle the problem as a couple.

Study up. Help your partner become an informed patient by reading all you can about the disease, treatment options and typical progression so you have an idea what to expect and can make the best care decisions. Many disorders have national and local Internet sites that can assist with finding information and support for patients and caregivers.

Attend doctors’ visits together. The best way to assist a critically ill spouse is to be actively involved in the care, which can mean attending all doctors’ visits, tests and follow-ups together. This way, you can be sure that you both covered all questions that you want answered.

Be involved in decision-making. After asking the doctor all of your questions, deciding on a course of action should not just be a decision between your spouse and the doctor. It’s important to make joint care decisions because you, too, are impacted. Be sure to discuss all the pros and cons of any treatment and what side effects to expect, as you’ll have to deal with them as well.

Know what to expect. If your spouse undergoes major surgery or another complex treatment, the transition home from the hospital is critical. Before you leave the hospital, speak to the doctor and get a written set of instructions on how you can best help at home. Have them tell you what the expectation is and what kind of things should you be expecting when your partner gets home? Also find out about any side effects or complications that you should be on the lookout for? Catching these things early can make all the difference.

Care for yourself. Many caregivers neglect to take care of themselves. Even while dealing with the stress of being a caregiver, you need to take time for yourself to eat right, exercise and sleep. If the stress starts to overwhelm you, consider joining a support group.

Know your limits. Don’t expect to do everything. Your spouse may need treatments or other care that you’re unable to provide – and that’s OK. If you’re supposed to be doing personal care, such as bathing, dressing, feeding or medical tasks like wound care, and you realize that you don’t know how, this is a sign you’re in over your head. If you’re faced with tasks you can’t complete, consider hiring a trained caregivier. Many times your insurance will even help cover it.

Even the most comprehensive critical illness insurance policies may contain restrictions, complex terms and stringent procedures. It’s not always simple to understand and claim your allowable benefit. We can help, contact our critical illness lawyer to schedule a consultation.

Millions of Canadians suffer concussions in different types of accidents each year – slips and falls, car accidents, boating accidents – they can all cause concussions.

Brainline.org explains more about concussions, the steps to take if you believe you have one and when you should seek medical help.

Today, there is no single, objective measure that can determine if someone has had a concussion. To make a diagnosis, professionals look at many variables that might indicate trauma, ranging from changes in balance to memory lapses and dizziness.

It’s critical to seek immediate medical attention in a hospital or emergency department if any of these symptoms are present:

• Loss of consciousness, even if only briefly
• Any period of amnesia, or loss of memory for the event
• Feeling dazed or confused
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Seizure

In addition, for children under 2 years of age, any scalp swelling or abnormality in the way they usually behave. If possible, see a medical professional who has knowledge of and experience with brain injury.

The best answer about when you should seek medical help is: when in doubt, get prompt medical attention. Lots of people may have a headache or dizziness for a day or so and then recover fully, but a very small group of people who sustain a concussion — five percent — can develop bleeding or a blood clot that can be life threatening if not promptly diagnosed.

If you have suffered a concussion or traumatic brain injury in an accident, contact us immediately.

Physiotherapy is often prescribed to people who have suffered injuries or become disabled in accidents. It can help them better function in their daily lives, recuperate and regain their strength.

There are 7,500 licensed physiotherapists in Ontario alone, which speaks to the popularity of this type of therapy. Here are the answers to some common questions about physiotherapy.

How do physiotherapists work?
Physiotherapists combine in-depth knowledge of how the body works with specialized hands-on clinical skills to assess, diagnose and treat symptoms of illness, injury or disability.

What is the goal of physiotherapy?
A Physiotherapist’s goal is to restore, maintain and maximize your strength, function, movement and overall well-being. It aims to improve and maintain functional independence and physical performance; prevent and manage pain, physical impairments, disabilities and limits to participation and promote fitness, health and wellness.

By helping your body move and function to its fullest, physiotherapy can improve the quality of your life and make you stronger by improving your flexibility, freedom, mobility, vitality and so much more.

How is physiotherapy effective?
Physiotherapy is effective in treating patients from infants to the elderly, with a variety of conditions including heart and lung disease, trauma and athletic injuries, workplace injuries, arthritis and osteoporosis, stroke and brain injury, spinal cord and nerve injury, amputations, cancer, pre- and postsurgical, diabetes and incontinence.

If you have been injured in an accident and are undergoing treatment, speak to a lawyer immediately. You could be entitled to compensation.

Fuel consumption, comfort and price are important factors that many of us consider when purchasing a vehicle but safety features also need to be a top priority.

In a Public Opinion Survey done by Transport Canada, airbags and seat belts are among the most common safety features that Canadians recognize on their vehicles but they need to be used properly in order to achieve maximum protection.

Airbags

Airbags are essential in helping prevent injuries and death, especially in frontal (i.e. head-on) collisions. Airbags are inflatable devices that deploy in a fraction of a second during a serious collision. Make sure that you do the following each time you get into your vehicle:

• Always wear your lap and shoulder belt system. Airbags are not a replacement for seatbelts and are specifically designed to work with the seat belt restraint system. Failure to buckle-up will put you at significant, additional risk.
• Maintain distance between yourself and the airbag. Sit at least 10 inches (25 cm) away from the steering wheel airbag. Sitting any closer than 10 inches puts you (or your passengers) at risk of making contact with the airbag while it’s inflating.
• Tilt the steering wheel toward your chest, not your head or neck.
• Frontal airbags on the passenger side are larger, so passengers should move the vehicle seat back as far as possible to provide plenty of room.
• Front seat passengers should not put their feet or any objects on the dashboard.

Seat Belts

Transport Canada estimates that if all drivers and passengers always wore their seat belts, 300 lives would be saved every year in Canada. A seatbelt works by holding the occupant in place in the seat, reducing the risk of them striking the interior of the vehicle, colliding with other passengers or being ejected during impact or emergency braking.

A few key points to remember when using a seat belt:

• Wear a lap/shoulder belt system when available.
• Sit up straight and position the lap belt low over the pelvic bones / hips (not stomach) and the shoulder belt over the shoulder and across the chest. Never place the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back. It’s dangerous.
• All occupants in a vehicle must be properly wearing a seat belt whether in motion or not.
• During pregnancy, women should wear the lap belt snug, low over the pelvic bones (below the baby) and the shoulder belt snug against the chest. The baby will be safer if the mother is protected in a crash.

If you or someone you know has an auto related injury, contact Mazin & Associates, PC to schedule your free consultation.

Source: Whiplash Prevention Campaign

Some consumer products make noise loud enough to damage your hearing, including personal audio devices if played too loudly as well as some toys and tools that make very loud noises. The louder the noise and the longer you are exposed to it, the more dangerous it is.

Know the facts:

• An intense sound close to your ear (like from a cap gun or firecracker) can cause immediate and severe hearing loss that may be permanent.
• Using some consumer products regularly at very loud levels can lead to permanent hearing loss over time.
• If your personal stereo system is so loud that you cannot hear sounds around you (like traffic), your personal safety may be at risk.
• If someone standing a meter away from you has to shout to be understood, the sound levels around you are probably more than 85 decibels (dBA). You face a significant risk of permanent hearing loss if you are exposed to these sound levels for eight hours or more a day.
• If someone standing 30 cm away has to shout to be understood, the levels probably exceed 95 dBA. This means a significant risk of permanent hearing loss if you are exposed for 45 minutes or more a day.
• If someone has to shout into your ear to be understood, the sound levels around you probably exceed 105 dBA. There is a significant risk of permanent hearing loss if you are exposed for just five minutes a day.

How to protect your hearing:

• Reduce exposure to noise.
• Limit the amount of time you spend listening to loud music, or doing leisure activities that are really noisy.
• Know your noise limit. If someone a meter away from you must shout to be understood, the sound level of the toy, tool or electronic device is probably too loud and may be hazardous.
• Play music low. Keep your music at enjoyable, but safe levels. Reduce background noise so you can use a lower volume level.
• Wear ear protection. When you must be around loud noises that may be hazardous, wear a hearing protection device like earplugs or earmuffs. The device should be as well fitted as possible. See an audiologist for help.
• Plan quiet time. If you experience temporary hearing loss or tinnitus after leisure or work activities, be sure to schedule quiet time to allow your ears to recover fully.
• Buy quieter toys. If you have to yell to be heard above the sound of a toy, it is likely too loud for a child and should not be used. Look for sound-making toys that have volume-control features or an on/off switch so that sound can be kept low or turned off.
• If you or a family member has sustained a serious personal injury or permanent disability due to a consumer product, contact us to schedule your free consultation.

Source: Government of Canada.

Ontario adult drivers who say they have experienced at least one traumatic brain injury in their lifetime also report significantly higher incidents of serious road-related driving aggression.

A recent study conducted by St. Michael’s Hospital to examine if a link between traumatic brain injuries and road-related aggression and driving collisions also exists. The study points to the value of brain injury prevention, and screening and rehabilitation services for drivers who live with a traumatic brain injury, with the goal of assessing fitness to drive and other related cognitive skills. A traumatic brain injury is defined as trauma to the head that resulted in loss of consciousness for at least five minutes or overnight hospitalization.

Drivers with serious aggression reported significantly higher odds of being involved in a motor vehicle collision that resulted in hurting themselves, their passenger or their vehicle.

“Perhaps the burden of traffic collisions and road rage could be mitigated if we were mindful of the implications associated with a brain injury,” said Dr. Gabriela Ilie, lead author of the study and a post-doctoral fellow at St. Michael’s Hospital.

These data suggest links between TBI and hazardous driving behaviours, but at this early stage it’s difficult to find a direct correlation or if these relationships are causal.

Get the full report from St. Michael’s Hospital right here.