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Sixty lawsuits have been filed against L'Oréal and other companies, alleging their chemical hair relaxers caused uterine cancer and other health issues, particularly affecting African American women. The lawsuits claim the companies knowingly sold products with harmful chemicals. Some cases will be consolidated in a Chicago federal court. A National Institutes of Health study found frequent users of these products have a higher risk of developing uterine cancer. L'Oréal denies the allegations, asserting their products are safe. Thousands more lawsuits are anticipated.

Volvo is recalling over 127,000 vehicles due to a diagnostic error in the brake control module 2 (BCM2) affecting the brake-by-wire systems in 2023 models. This issue can impair the antilock brake system, traction control, and electronic stability control, increasing crash risk. Affected models include the 2023 Volvo C40, S60, S90, V60, V60 Cross Country, V90 Cross Country, XC40, XC60, V90, and XC90. Volvo is offering a free over-the-air software update to fix the problem, with notification letters sent by March 15, 2023.

EzriCare Artificial Tears eye drops have been recalled by Global Pharma Healthcare due to contamination with the antibiotic-resistant bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This contamination has led to over 55 bacterial infection cases across 12 states, resulting in five instances of permanent vision loss and one death. The CDC has advised against using these and other preservative-free eye drops. The recall affects products distributed online in the U.S. by EzriCare and Delsam Pharma. Legal action may be pursued by those affected.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) urges vehicle owners to check and replace Takata airbags immediately, following another fatality linked to a rupture. In 2023, 24 deaths have been associated with these airbags. A recent incident involved a 2010 Chrysler 300, marking the third Chrysler-related death this year. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles issued a "Do Not Drive" warning for certain models. NHTSA emphasizes the urgency of free recall repairs, as older airbags pose increased risks. Vehicle owners should verify recalls and contact dealerships for repairs to prevent potentially fatal injuries.

The CDC issued a health advisory on February 1, 2023, linking EzriCare Artificial Tears to drug-resistant bacterial infections, including blindness and death. The outbreak involves a rare strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa found in 12 U.S. states, affecting 55 patients. The bacteria are resistant to multiple antibiotics. The CDC advises stopping the use of EzriCare Artificial Tears and seeking medical attention for eye infection symptoms. Investigations are ongoing to determine if contamination occurred during manufacturing or use. Legal consultations are available for affected individuals.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has recalled certain ZLINE gas ranges due to carbon monoxide poisoning risks. Affected models include RG48, RGS-48, RGB-48, and others, sold from February 2019 to December 2022. About 30,000 units are involved, with 44 reports of carbon monoxide emissions and three cases requiring medical attention. Customers should stop using the oven compartment and contact ZLINE for a free inspection and repair. Symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure range from dizziness and headaches to severe effects like unconsciousness and death.

The CDC has linked EzriCare Artificial Tears eye drops to drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections, resulting in at least one death and multiple cases of blindness. Over 50 individuals across 11 states have been affected, with symptoms including eye pain, swelling, and vision issues. The preservative-free drops may allow bacterial growth if contaminated. Despite the risks, the product has not been recalled and remains available for purchase. The CDC advises discontinuing use until further investigation is complete.

Volvo Group has been fined $130 million by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for delaying safety recalls in the U.S. The penalty, one of the largest under recall law, affects Volvo Bus, Volvo Trucks, Nova Bus, and Mack Trucks. Volvo will be under a three-year consent decree with an independent auditor reviewing recalls from 2013 to 2026. The fine aims to improve Volvo's safety data analytics and recall compliance. Volvo emphasizes its commitment to safety and collaboration with the NHTSA to address compliance issues.

Ford is recalling nearly 500,000 SUVs due to a defective rearview camera that could fail, posing a risk of accidents involving pedestrians. The recall affects 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviators, Ford Explorers, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsairs, primarily sold in the U.S. The issue involves a faulty video output that displays a blue image instead of the surroundings. Despite initial recalls in 2021, the problem persisted, leading to over 2,100 warranty claims and 17 reported accidents. Back-up cameras are crucial safety features required by law.

Modern pickup truck designs are contributing to a rise in fatal pedestrian collisions due to their large size, high hoods, and significant blind spots. A study by Consumer Reports highlights that some trucks have front blind spots much longer than those of sedans and SUVs, posing a severe risk, especially to small children. The demand for larger trucks, driven by marketing strategies, has led to increased pedestrian fatalities. Safety advocates urge for design changes and improved safety features, but manufacturers resist due to profitability. Meanwhile, pedestrian deaths have surged, highlighting the need for regulatory action and infrastructure improvements.

A safety article from Consumer Reports highlights that the design of trucks and SUVs may contribute to an increase in deadly pedestrian collisions due to larger blind spots and longer braking distances. The popularity of these vehicles has coincided with a nearly 60% rise in pedestrian fatalities since 2009. Studies show that Automatic Emergency Braking systems may not effectively prevent collisions when turning. Experts suggest improving vehicle design, crash prevention systems, and intersection infrastructure to enhance pedestrian safety.

On January 25, 2023, the FDA announced a Class I recall of Datascope's Cardiosave Hybrid and Rescue Intra-Aortic Balloon Pumps (IABPs) due to serious risks, including device shutdowns and potential patient harm. Since 2012, 4,454 devices were distributed, with 134 complaints, 12 shutdowns, 4 injuries, and 1 death reported. IABPs assist heart function by inflating and deflating balloons in the aorta. The recall addresses issues like balloon compromise, leading to blood back events, hemodynamic instability, and contamination risks. Previous recalls involved fluid leaks, battery failures, and altitude-related shutdowns.

A study by the University of Illinois at Springfield, published in the Journal of Safety Research, highlights the dangers SUVs and light pickup trucks pose to children. Analyzing over 23,000 crash records in Illinois from 2016 to 2018, the study found children are eight times more likely to be killed by these vehicles than by passenger cars. SUVs and light trucks, despite being involved in fewer accidents, account for a disproportionate number of pedestrian fatalities, particularly among children, due to their size and design features like high front ends and blind spots.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration concluded its investigation into the 2009 Nissan Murano's soft brake pedal issue. The problem was linked to the antilock braking system's hydraulic control units, manufactured by Continental, which caused a gelatinous buildup due to a chemical reaction. This led to brake fluid diversion and soft pedals. Nissan issued a recall to address the issue by flushing brake systems and replacing faulty units. The NHTSA confirmed the recall resolved the problem, but the investigation may reopen if new information emerges.

Parking lots, often perceived as safe due to low vehicle speeds, are the site of nearly 20% of motor vehicle accidents, primarily caused by distracted driving. The National Safety Council reports about 500 deaths and 60,000 injuries annually from parking lot crashes. Many drivers feel confident using phones for calls, texts, and social media while driving in parking lots, despite the risks. Legal advice is recommended for those injured in such accidents, as insurance companies may downplay claims due to low-speed impacts. Parker Waichman LLP offers free consultations for affected individuals.

Approximately 28% of professional truck drivers suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, leading to fatigue and drowsiness, which increases the risk of accidents. Sleep apnea, a condition causing breathing interruptions during sleep, is prevalent among truck drivers due to factors like obesity and smoking. Despite recommendations for medical screenings, there is no federal mandate for sleep apnea testing for truck drivers. The U.S. Department of Transportation advises treatment for affected drivers, but compliance is not legally enforced. Addressing obesity and implementing mandatory testing could reduce accident risks.

Commercial truck drivers often face fatigue due to long hours on the road, despite federal regulations limiting driving time. This drowsiness can lead to accidents, with effects similar to driving under the influence. Recognizing fatigue signs, such as difficulty focusing and heavy eyelids, is crucial for safety. While some drivers use caffeine or loud music to stay awake, only sleep effectively combats exhaustion. Unrealistic delivery schedules from trucking companies contribute to this issue. Drivers can report violations of hours-of-service laws to the FMCSA. Most fatal truck accidents occur on interstates and weekdays.

Inclined infant sleepers, initially recalled in 2019, have been linked to over 100 infant deaths, prompting a re-announcement of the recall. Despite the ban under the Safe Sleep for Babies Act of 2021, many sleepers remain in circulation. Safety advocates criticize manufacturers for inadequate public awareness efforts. The sleepers pose a risk as their incline can cause asphyxiation. The Consumer Product Safety Commission faces challenges in enforcing recalls due to legal constraints. Parents are advised to register products and avoid secondhand purchases to stay informed about recalls.

The AHRQ's systematic review of around 300 studies found that emergency room misdiagnoses in the U.S. occur approximately 7.5 million times annually, with 370,000 cases resulting in permanent disability or death. The most misdiagnosed conditions include stroke, myocardial infarction, aortic aneurysm and dissection, spinal cord compression and injury, and venous thromboembolism. Leading doctor groups criticized the report's conclusions as misleading. Victims of misdiagnosis may seek compensation for damages through legal action. Parker Waichman LLP offers legal assistance for such cases.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported a significant rise in U.S. traffic fatalities over the past two years, with a 10.5% increase in 2021. Approximately 43,000 people died in vehicle accidents in 2021, up from 39,000 in 2020. Large truck accidents saw a 13% increase in fatalities. Other notable increases included rural and urban road accidents, multi-vehicle crashes, and incidents involving various age groups. The rise in fatalities is attributed to changes in travel patterns and driving behaviors due to the COVID pandemic.

Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers the cervix, posing risks during pregnancy. It can lead to severe complications like cerebral palsy if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Types include complete, marginal, partial, and low-lying previa. Risk factors include age, IVF, previous cesareans, and smoking. Diagnosis is through ultrasounds, and treatment may involve cesarean delivery. Symptoms include vaginal bleeding and cramping. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent harm to the mother and baby. Legal assistance may be available for cases of negligence.

Truck accidents involving large commercial vehicles remain a major concern in the U.S., with thousands of fatalities annually. Defined by the NHTSA as trucks over 10,000 pounds, these vehicles are involved in 9% of fatal accidents despite being only 4% of registered vehicles. Most fatalities are non-truck occupants. The NHTSA's CRSS, introduced in 2016, shows a 33% rise in fatal truck accidents since 2011. Safety features like collision warnings are being integrated to reduce accidents. Legal assistance is available for victims through Parker Waichman LLP.

Burn injuries from car accidents can range from minor to life-threatening. First-degree burns affect only the outer skin and require minimal treatment. Second-degree burns penetrate deeper, causing blisters and significant pain, with a risk of infection. Third-degree burns are the most severe, affecting all skin layers, muscle, and bone, requiring emergency medical care and surgeries. Causes include chemical exposure, fires, and electrical shocks. Victims may seek compensation for medical expenses and other losses. Parker Waichman LLP offers free consultations to help victims recover damages from negligent parties.

Override and underride truck accidents involve collisions between passenger vehicles and large trucks, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. In underride accidents, a car slides under a truck's trailer, while override accidents occur when a truck runs over a smaller vehicle. These accidents can crush the passenger compartment or tear off the vehicle's roof, leading to catastrophic injuries. Federal regulations require trucks to have safety features like underride guards to prevent such accidents. Victims may seek legal assistance to understand their rights and pursue compensation.