Our Posts

Traffic-related fatalities in the U.S. have surged, with the NHTSA estimating 42,915 deaths in 2021, a 10.5% increase from 2020. This marks the highest toll since 2005. In response, the U.S. Department of Transportation has introduced the National Roadway Safety Strategy and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which includes the Safe Streets and Roads for All program. These initiatives aim to enhance road safety through improved infrastructure and policies. The NHTSA also launched the "Click It or Ticket" campaign to promote seat belt use.

The FDA has increased its oversight of ophthalmic products, issuing warnings to companies like CVS and Walgreens for selling unapproved eye drops. These products, marketed for conditions like cataracts, bypass necessary safety evaluations. Companies have 15 days to respond and are removing products from shelves, offering refunds. Concerns include the use of silver as a preservative, which may cause argyria. The FDA's actions aim to protect consumers from unsafe products, emphasizing the need for immediate medical attention for eye infections.

Kraft Heinz has recalled 83,800 cases of Kraft Singles American cheese slices due to a wrapping machine malfunction, which left thin plastic strips on the cheese, posing choking hazards. The recall affects 16-ounce and three-pound multipacks with specific UPCs and "Best When Used By" dates in January 2024. Consumers should return affected products for refunds. No severe health issues have been reported, and Kraft Heinz has repaired the machine and inspected others to prevent future incidents. The recall highlights the importance of food safety and consumer vigilance.

On September 21, 2023, H&M recalled over 12,200 men's clasp beaded bracelets due to high lead levels in the clasps, posing health risks. The recall, prompted by U.S. and European regulatory violations, aims to prevent lead poisoning, especially in children. Sold from January to July 2023, these bracelets featured glass and wooden beads. H&M is offering full refunds and advising customers to stop using the bracelets immediately. This action highlights H&M's commitment to consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

A recall has been issued for about 11,000 bistro furniture sets due to safety concerns after reports of chairs breaking or collapsing. These sets, sold at stores like HomeGoods, T.J. Maxx, and Homesense under brands such as Panama Jack and House & Garden, pose potential risks to consumers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission advises customers to contact the stores for a refund and proper disposal instructions. The recall highlights the importance of consumer safety and the need for stringent quality checks.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has recalled infant swings by HONEY JOY COMPANY due to design flaws posing suffocation risks and violating the Safe Sleep for Babies Act. These swings, sold on Amazon, exceed the safe incline limit and were marketed for infant sleep. Although no injuries have been reported, the CPSC urges consumers to stop using the swings and seek refunds. The recall affects models BB5569US-GR and BB5569US-BE. HONEY JOY and Amazon are contacting buyers to provide further instructions.

In September, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) focuses on infant safety, highlighting the importance of secure sleep environments to reduce nursery product-related deaths. Their 2023 report reveals over 160 annual deaths linked to unsafe sleep settings, with African American children disproportionately affected. The CPSC urges the use of federally approved sleep products and adherence to the "bare is best" philosophy, avoiding soft bedding. They emphasize vigilance in following safety guidelines and checking product recalls to prevent injuries and fatalities among infants.

In 2022, the U.S. faced a significant rise in pedestrian deaths, reaching the highest numbers since 1981, with at least 7,508 fatalities. This marks a 77% increase since 2010. The Governors Highway Safety Association highlights risky driving, poor infrastructure, and high speeds as key factors. Nighttime incidents account for 77% of these deaths, with SUVs contributing significantly. People of color are disproportionately affected. The report stresses the need for improved infrastructure, such as sidewalks and traffic calming measures, to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce fatalities.

On September 18, 2023, Buffalo Games recalled 52,000 Chuckle & Roar Ultimate Water Beads Activity Kits due to serious safety concerns. The recall followed incidents where a 10-month-old died and a 9-month-old was injured after ingesting the beads, which can expand internally, causing choking and obstructions. Sold at Target from March to November 2022, the kits pose significant risks. Buffalo Games, with the CPSC, urges consumers to stop using the kits and offers refunds. Legal assistance is available for affected families through Parker Waichman LLP.

In 2018, the FDA questioned the effectiveness of phenylephrine, a common ingredient in over-the-counter decongestants. By 2023, the FDA confirmed that phenylephrine is no more effective than a placebo. This led to lawsuits against companies like Procter & Gamble and Johnson & Johnson for misleading marketing. Consumers in certain states may be eligible for compensation if they purchased specific decongestants. Legal actions are ongoing, with firms like Parker Waichman LLP offering free consultations to affected consumers.

DR Power Equipment has recalled several models of its chipper shredders due to laceration hazards. The recall affects models with numbers starting with CS3 and CS4, sold between 2019 and 2023. The recall follows reports of metal parts dislodging, causing injuries, and hoppers detaching. Consumers are advised to stop using the products and contact DR Power for a refund or repair. Approximately 5,900 units in the U.S. and 90 in Canada are affected. The products are identifiable by their orange and black colors and specific model numbers.

FXI Inc. has issued an urgent recall for Novaform ComfortGrande and DreamAway mattresses sold exclusively at Costco due to mold exposure risks. Manufactured between January and April 2023, these mattresses may have been contaminated with water, fostering mold growth. This poses health risks, especially for those with compromised immune systems or mold allergies. Consumers are advised to contact FXI for a refund or replacement. The recall highlights the importance of quality control in manufacturing to ensure consumer safety.

Shimano has recalled approximately 680,000 11-Speed Bonded Hollowtech II Road Cranksets in the U.S. and 80,000 in Canada due to a defect causing the bonded parts to separate, posing a crash hazard. The recall affects models like Ultegra and Dura-Ace manufactured before July 2019. There have been 4,519 incidents and six injuries reported. Consumers should stop using the cranksets and contact Shimano for a free inspection and replacement. The cranksets were sold from January 2012 to August 2023, distributed by Shimano North America Bicycle Inc.

HONEY JOY COMPANY has recalled its Infant Swings due to a suffocation hazard and non-compliance with federal safety standards. Sold exclusively on Amazon.com, the affected models are BB5569US-GR and BB5569US-BE. These swings, featuring a cloth seat, head pillow, and five-point restraint system, violate the Safe Sleep for Babies Act due to an incline angle over 10 degrees. Approximately 170 units were sold between November 2022 and January 2023. No injuries have been reported, but consumers are advised to stop using the swings and contact HONEY JOY for a refund.

The FDA and Walmart have initiated a recall of the "Marketside Chocolate Chip Explosion Cake" due to mislabeling issues. The cake, produced by David's Cookies and sold at Walmart, failed to list peanuts as an ingredient or include a peanut allergen warning, posing a risk to those with peanut allergies. The recall affects cakes in 7-ounce packages with lot code #BS23212. Walmart and David's Cookies are working to remove the product from stores and prevent further distribution, emphasizing the importance of accurate food labeling for consumer safety.

Make Believe Ideas has recalled seven titles from the Rainbow Road Series Board Books due to detachable plastic binding rings posing a choking hazard to children. Approximately 260,000 units in the U.S. and 12,900 in Canada are affected. No injuries have been reported, but incidents of ring detachment have occurred. Consumers should stop using the books and can receive refunds via gift cards by registering online. The books were sold from March 2022 to August 2023 at various retailers and online platforms.

A tragic bus accident occurred on September 21 in Orange County, involving Farmingdale High School students. The crash on I-84 resulted in two fatalities and critically injured five students. The bus, part of a convoy heading to a band camp, rolled over due to a suspected tire failure, plunging down a 50-foot embankment. The deceased included a 43-year-old band director and a 77-year-old. The incident left the community in shock, prompting an ongoing investigation to determine the exact cause.

TOMY has recalled about 85,000 highchairs in the U.S. and Canada due to safety concerns, following reports of injuries to infants. The recall was announced on August 31 via the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The main issue involves bolts loosening, causing the seat to detach. Customers are advised to stop using the highchairs and contact TOMY for a free repair kit. Affected models include Flair Elite and Flair, sold at major retailers and online. Parents can check model numbers on TOMY's website to see if their highchair is affected.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued an urgent warning advising consumers to stop using Vera Natura adult bicycle helmets, sold exclusively on Walmart.com, due to their failure to meet federal safety standards. These helmets pose a significant risk of head injury. The seller, Tengingyue, has not initiated a recall or offered remedies. Consumers are advised to dispose of the helmets immediately and report any incidents to the CPSC. Legal options for affected consumers include seeking damages for injuries and consulting with product liability attorneys.

The FDA has issued a warning about hazardous weight loss supplements sold on Amazon and Walmart, specifically those marketed as "weight loss seeds" or "diet seeds." These products, including Nut Diet Max by OBC Group Corp, contain Thevetia peruviana, or yellow oleander, which is toxic and can cause severe health issues. A recall has been initiated, and consumers are advised to return these products and seek medical advice if consumed. The FDA is investigating in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Health.

New York City's Fire Department Chief supports new legislation effective September 16th, banning unverified lithium-ion batteries to enhance public safety. These batteries, popular for their energy capacity, pose risks if uncertified, potentially causing fires and explosions. The law targets sellers, distributors, and consumers, imposing penalties for violations. The Fire Department plans outreach programs to raise awareness about certified batteries' importance. Certified batteries undergo rigorous safety tests, unlike uncertified ones, which may lack safety mechanisms. Consumers are urged to buy from reputable vendors and follow usage guidelines.

Emporia Energy Corp. has recalled approximately 80,000 North American Smart Plugs due to electric shock risks from inadequate grounding. Announced on September 7, 2023, the recall advises consumers to stop using the plugs and contact Emporia for a refund or replacement. The affected plugs, sold online from July 2022 to May 2023, are 120V models with a white finish and Emporia logo. No injuries have been reported, but two malfunctions occurred. Consumers can contact Emporia for assistance and further details.

Parker Waichman LLP is a national law firm assisting clients with claims related to neurological damage from misdiagnosed Wernicke's Encephalopathy, often following bariatric surgeries. The firm offers free consultations for those affected by medical negligence leading to Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. Early diagnosis and treatment of Thiamine deficiency are crucial to prevent irreversible damage. Legal claims may cover medical costs, lost earnings, and quality of life. The firm emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms and risk factors to avoid malpractice.

Thiamine deficiency, or vitamin B1 deficiency, can deplete the body's minimal reserves within two weeks, leading to severe health issues affecting the nervous system, brain, muscles, heart, and digestive system. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications like Wernicke's encephalopathy, a serious neurological disorder. Symptoms include fatigue, unstable walking, vision and hearing problems, and confusion. Immediate intervention with thiamine supplements is essential, especially for high-risk groups like post-bariatric surgery patients. Failure to diagnose can result in severe consequences and may constitute medical malpractice.