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UHN Study Finds Long-term Care Facilities May Not Be Best for Adults with Traumatic Brain Injury

Last week, the University Health Network (UHN) announced the results of a new, large-scale Canadian study that reveals that many adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI) live in a long-term health setting – such as a nursing home – which may not be appropriate for their condition and younger age.

The study, led by Dr. Angela Colantonio, Senior Scientist, Toronto Rehab, University Health Network, was published in the Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation. It looked at more than 10,000 adults with TBI in four non-acute settings: home care, mental health, nursing homes and complex continuing care facilities.

“There were two striking findings in this work: First, persons with traumatic brain injury were significantly younger than other residents in nursing home settings; and, they were also more likely to be male, whereas most of the other residents were female,” said Dr. Colantonio.

Dr. Colantonio also notes that this is a result of a lack of appropriate housing or health-care setting alternatives for this population. For many individuals living with TBI, it is imperative they are in a setting with TBI rehabilitation to help them thrive.

“Providing housing for people living with visible and invisible disabilities associated with brain injury is critical in reducing the homeless population and the number of people incarcerated,” said Harry Zarins, Executive Director, Brain Injury Association of Canada. “Importantly, having housing available will also reduce the time Canadians suffering with brain injury are spending in hospitals. Hand in hand with housing is the availability and implementation of a visionary rehabilitation program.”

Read more on the UHN’s website.


Read Carefully Before You Buy Critical Illness Insurance

We know how complicated critical illness insurance policies and claims can be. Even the most comprehensive policies may contain restrictions, complex terms and stringent procedures. It’s not always simple to understand and claim your allowable benefit.

Many Canadians are opting for critical illness insurance to bridge gaps in their health insurance coverage. Common worries include expensive drugs not being covered by medical plans and being able to pay for additional expenses such as rehabilitation costs or a spouse having to leave work to provide care.

The question is, is it worth the cost? The Toronto Star takes a closer look concluding that critical illness insurance can be worth it but you really have to understand how it works or you could be in for a nasty shock when a claim is submitted.

Glenn Cooke, a life insurance broker who runs Life Insurance Canada.com, explains that “Critical illness insurance is a great product but you have to understand the risks you are insuring and the exclusions.”

Here are three important things to know about critical illness insurance:

  1. You can end up paying a lot in premiums just in case you develop a limited number of conditions listed on the policy.
  2. An illness you think is covered may not meet the policy definition.
  3. A return of premium rider is a costly add-on that could double your monthly premiums and getting your money back is not a slam dunk.

You can read more about it here.

If you or someone you know has been denied Critical Illness insurance benefits, our expert critical illness insurance claim lawyer can help you.


It’s Officially Spring! Time to Adjust your Driving Habits

Today marks the first official day of Spring. Warmer temperatures and melting snow mean it’s time to tweak our driving habits and our vehicles and hope that winter weather is gone for good.

Here are 5 tips for safe spring driving from wheels.ca:

  1. Don’t be too eager to take off your winter tires. They should be left on until the ambient temperatures stay above 7 degrees Celsius.
  2. We still can get some snowfall, which means the warm spring sun can melt ice and snow near the road. This melt water can freeze when the sun stops shining on it and the temperatures drop below zero. If you notice wet-looking roads and the temperatures have dropped below freezing, expect ice and slow down.
  3. As the weather warms it will bring out motorcyclists and cyclists. Every motorist has to practise good vision techniques and stay focused on their driving to spot these smaller road users. Looking out for and respecting these two-wheeled travellers is an important part of safe motoring.
  4. On the other side of the safety equation, cyclists and bikers need to ride wisely and be visible to motorists and truckers. Cyclists should wear brightly coloured clothing or safety vests, use lights, keep right and ride in single file. The laws of physics are not on the side of the smaller vehicle in a collision.
  5. Warmer weather brings more children outside. Slow down and pay very careful attention in residential and school zones. School kids are easily distracted by play and don’t always notice traffic. Be alert for teenagers who tend to be fixated on their texting, socializing and cellphones and, as a result, won’t be paying much attention to traffic.

Click here for 5 more tips.

Regardless of the season, if you or someone you know suffers an auto related injury, speak to a Car Accident Lawyer with a proven track-record of recovering monies for car accident victims.


Five Questions to Ask When Choosing Personal Injury Lawyer

Going through the process of choosing a personal injury lawyer can sound overwhelming, especially when you or a loved one has just been seriously injured.

However, selecting a lawyer as quickly as possible after an accident is very important because in many situations, there are very strict timelines to adhere to in order to preserve legal rights–otherwise, you may lose all of your rights to claim compensation.

To make the process quick and easy for you, we’ve put together a list of five important questions to ask the personal injury lawyers you’re considering.

Do I pay upfront?

Choose a personal injury lawyer that handles cases on a contingency fee basis. This way you don’t pay any legal fees until your case has been won or settled so that you can focus on your injury recovery.

How much information will you share with me?

You want a personal injury lawyer that is transparent and will keep you informed about the litigation process and overall strategy for winning.

Do you service my local area?

The best personal injury lawyer for you is one that operates in your local area. This way you can be sure they have all the right contacts and connections needed for your case.

Why should I choose you?

You want a firm that focuses specifically on personal injury cases so that you know they have the right experience and expertise.

What do past clients say about you?

A reputable personal injury lawyer will be able to provide you with testimonials and references from past clients.


Tips to Keep Your Baby Safe in the Car

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.


Do’s and Don’ts of Getting Pulled Over by Police

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.


How Safe are your Cleaning Supplies?

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.


Spring Driving Precautions for Motorcyclists

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

 


What to do When Spouse is Diagnosed with Critical Illness

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.


What To Do If You Think You Have a Concussion

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.

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  • "I‌ wanted‌ to‌ thank‌ Gary‌ Mazin‌ for‌ everything‌ he‌ did‌ for‌ me. ‌ Retaining‌ him‌ was‌ the‌ best‌ decision‌ I‌ had‌ ever‌ made. Gary is the best personal injury lawyer. His‌ expertise,‌ professionalism‌ and‌ kindness‌ were‌ always‌ present. ‌ He‌ was‌ able‌ to‌ get‌ me‌ the‌ fair‌ settlement‌ that‌ I‌ deserved‌ because‌ of‌ his‌ knowledge‌ and‌ support. He‌ is‌ a‌ truly‌ dedicated‌ personal‌ injury‌ lawyer‌ to‌ whom‌ I‌ am‌ forever‌ grateful."
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Mazin & Associates PC dedicates itself to achieving maximum settlements in serious personal injury and accident cases. Our areas of practice include car accidents, motorcycle injuries, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, slip and falls, wrongful death, product liability, long-term disability and medical malpractice.

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  • Tel: (416) 625-2122
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