Sunday, November 29, 2009

How to Survive Traveling in a Dust or Sand Storm?

Federal regulations (49 C.F.R. Section 392.14) for commercial vehicle operators require:

Extreme caution in the operation of a commercial motor vehicle shall be exercised when hazardous conditions, such as those caused by snow, ice, sleet, fog, mist, rain, dust, or smoke, adversely affect visibility or traction. Speed shall be reduced when such conditions exist. If conditions become sufficiently dangerous, the operation of the commercial motor vehicle shall be discontinued and shall not be resumed until the commercial motor vehicle can be safely operated. Whenever compliance with the foregoing provisions of this rule increases hazard to passengers, the commercial motor vehicle may be operated to the nearest point at which the safety of passengers is assured.
However, every year severe motor vehicle collisions occur as a result of truck drivers ignoring or failing to heed the aforementioned regulation.

What can you do to help protect yourself in conditions of a dust storm or heavy fog? The following is a series of recommendations that you may consider in order to protect yourself in a dust or sand storm if you live, work or travel in areas where such weather conditions exist.

Step 1. Be prepared.

Prepare a checklist of items to add to your supplies you should carry in the trunk of your vehicle in addition to your flashlight and first aid kit. Consider including the following:

a) a pair of goggles to protect your eyes during a dust or sand storm as glasses alone provide minimal protection;
b) a respirator or mask that protects you from particulates to protect your ability to breathe during dust or sand storm;
b) protective clothing to protect you from being sandblasted during a sandstorm;
c) a supply of water - if you become stuck in a dust or sandstorm it may be helpful to have a supply of water to keep you hydrated. Many dust storms occur in arid and hot climates.

Step 2. Detour or Outmaneuver the Storm.

If you are able to identify a dust or sandstorm coming your way, use common sense. If you can detour or outmaneuver the storm, do so rather than attempt to drive into or through it. It's not wise to exercise high speeds to out run a storm. You may be able to pull over and prepare for the storm.

Step 3. Pull over.

If a storm over takes you and visibility is less than 300 feet, pull over as much off the road as possible. It is recommended by some authorities that you set your parking brake, turn off your headlights, turn signals and brake lights, because those deciding to continue to travel through a blinding storm will "key in" on your rear lights and causing them to crash into the rear of your vehicle. In many cases, if your exterior lights are on, other drivers will use the taillights of the person in front of them as a guide to help navigate the road ahead of them. If you are pulled off the road and are sitting there with your lights on, believe it or not, someone might think they can follow you and run right off the road or even collide into you! Turning your headlights off while stationed off of the road, will reduce the possibility of a rear-end collision. If you are unable to safely pull off the road, keep your headlights on, turn on your hazard lights, slow down, and proceed with caution, sounding your horn periodically. Use the highway's center line to guide you if you can't see in front of you. Pull over at the earliest and safest spot to do so.

Step 4. Take cover.

Roll up your windows. Shut off the exterior vents that allow air to circulate into your vehicle from the outside. If you have a respirator or mask designed to filter out particulates, put it on. If you don't, use a bandanna or some other cloth handkerchief to you mouth and nose to protect your lungs.

Recently, I represented a grandmother and her grandson who were over run by a truck driver who failed to slow down during a dust storm. The vehicle our client was driving was a Camaro. The 18 wheeler crashed into the rear of our client's vehicle as she was attempting to pull off the road. The crush of the vehicle forced the bumper of the vehicle into the back of the front seat of the 4 door sedan. Had anyone been in the back seat, they would have been crushed and killed.

Step 5. Don't go roaming around.

The safest place while your vehicle is parked off the road is within the confines of your vehicle instead of roaming round outside of your vehicle.
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Saturday, November 28, 2009

How Do You Select and Hire a Competent Attorney?


Question - "The insurance company paid for my property damage. Why do I need to hire a lawyer? If I need an attorney, how do I go about selecting and hiring one?"

The adverse party's insurance company owes no duty of care to you. The only duty of care the adverse party's insurer has pertains solely to it's insured. Those duties of care include (1) the duty to its insured from any claim you may have against their insured and (2) the duty to indemnify and hold harmless its insured from any claim you may have up to the tender of its insured's policy limits. In summary, the adverse party's insurance carrier has a duty of care to minimize any liability its insured has concerning your claim and no duty of care to you.

Consulting with an attorney provides you with free legal advice to assist you in making proper decisions that may protect and pursue your legal rights and remedies.

In interviewing your prospective attorney you should inquire as to the following:

1. Do you provide your propective clients with an initial free consultation? Most competent attorneys will provide you with an initial free consultation.

2. Do you accept cases based upon a contingency fee and, if so, what is the percentage and how is it calculated?

3. In addition to your attorney's fees, does your fee agreement provide for a recovery for your costs advanced and how are they calculated, i.e., what is your rate of reimbursement for photocopies, faxes, long distance telephone charges and other costs?

4. What experience do you have in trying cases to verdict? Although most cases settle out of court, if your attorney has the reputation of taking no cases to verdict, the insurance carriers may reduce the value of your case significantly.

5. If the attorney has taken cases to trial, what cases were they and what were the results? Does your attorney have a proven tract record of trials and verdicts that demostrates an ability to "bring in the verdict." If not, the carrier may reduce the value of your case significantly.

6. Has your attorney conducted focus groups in his practice? Focus groups provide invaluable information to attorneys in determining how to structure a case.

7. Has your attorney attended a program that pertains to the "Overcoming Jury Bias" model? Does your attorney know how to identify the five (5) jury biases that adversely effect every case and the ten (10) principles or belief systems how to overcome them?

8. Does the attorney inspire you? Does the attorney empower you? There are those who talk the talk and there are those that walk the walk. Are you being shuttled to paralegals and other support staff or are you able to talk to your attorney directly?

9. Is your prospective attorney capable of providing you with the information you need to make you a better witness to provide you with the ability to present your case in an efficatious way?

10. Research your prospective attorney and see if the things the attorney tells you checks out. I know of attorneys who obtain most of their clients from TV advertising but have never obtained a jury verdict in favor of their client!

Don't be afraid to ask questions. To be forewarned is to be forearmed. Clearly, not all attorneys are created equal!
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

15 Safety Rules of Caving


Recently a 26-year-old medical student died while participating in a recreational pursuit called "caving." Caving involves the practice of investigating and exploring caves. John Jones, the aforementioned medical student, is reported to have died earlier this week when his body became cramped in an underground chute where he became stuck with his head at an angle below his feet.

Rescurers came to the scene but were unable to free Jones' body. Officials have determined that the cave called "Nutty Putty" located in Utah is unsafe and have decided to close the cave permanently without removing Jones' body.

In researching this topic I came across a list of safety practices one should consider when caving. The list is not meant to replace using common sense and additional reading is recommended. The list of 15 safety practices is provided for your consideration, including, but not limited to, the following:

1. Always go caving with other people (never alone);
2. Wear a good-quality hardhat with a chinstrap and primary light source attached.
3. Carry three sources of light;
4. Always leave information with someone about where you are going and your expected time of return, allowing several hours for unexpected delays;
5. Follow the lead of the more experienced caver or someone who knows the cave well;
6. If all lights fail, sit down and wait for help to come;
7. Avoid jumping, since cave floors are seldom level and even a short jump may result in injury;
8. Practice rope work (vertical caving) under the guidance of an expert before doing any vertical caving;
9. Caving can be extremely tiring; know your physical limits and watch for fatigue in others;
10. Never go caving if in ill health or if you have a chronic disorder such as heart disease or epilepsy;
11. Carry a small first aid kit and a large trash bag to make a heat tent using the heat from a candle or carbide lamp;
12. If an immobilizing injury occurs, treat for shock (keep the injured person warm) and contact the local cave rescue organization or the State Police;
13. Sitting still can cause shivering after a period of time (the first symptom of hypothermia); get moving and initiate activity;
14. The slowest caver sets the pace; the leader should go only as fast as others can follow; and
15. If lost in a cave, panic is the worst enemy. Remain calm, conserve your light, and if you followed the rule about leaving word, you have little to worry about.
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Friday, November 27, 2009

Northwest 188 Pilots' Licenses Revoked by FAA


On October 21, 2009, pilots flying Northwest Flight 188 overflew their destination by over 150 miles after their pilots were out of contact with controllers for over 77 minutes. After contact was reestablished between the pilots and the controllers, the controllers requested an explanation from the pilots of the aircraft as to why the pilots had lost communication with the controllers to verify that the pilots had control of their aircraft consistent with protocols established post 9/11. In response to the controller's inquiry, the pilots indicated that they had been "distracted" during the flight. In fact, the pilots were allegedly out of contact with FAA controllers for approximately 77 minutes while the pilots were discussing their company's new crew-scheduling program vis a vis their laptop computers as their plane flew past their destination (Minneapolis) by 150 miles.

Both pilots have had their licenses suspended by the FAA. This breach of professionalism should result in consumers taking action. Consistent thereto, I have notified Delta (the new owner of Northwest) that I will not be flying any aircraft operated by this carrier for at least a year. Albeit the pilots have been sanctioned, the airline needs to take responsibility by assuring the public that this type of action will never be repeated. The pilots' conduct was totally unacceptable and constitute a gross misconduct and a threat to the public safety.

_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Do You Know What To Do In the Event of An Emergency Evacuation of An Airliner?


Having represented a number of victims who survived the aircrash of UAL Flight 232, I found a common comment from each of them who said, "I wish I had listened more attentively to the flight attendant as she was giving the pre-flight instruction."

No matter how often you fly, I recommend that you take time out to listen and watch the flight attendants in the aisle (or video if provided) giving you instructions on what to do in the event of an emergency during flight. Also, take a look at the safety card. The more people fly, the more most tend to "zone out" and ignore the pre-flight attendant's instructions.

I take note that when I'm flying, the pilots who are dead heading are taking time out to listen to the flight attendants and also reading the safety cards.

Now watch the following video of what actually happened on this horrific flight. A number of victims were able to walk away from this crash; but a number died as well.

Having represented over 16 individuals (and families) involved in this terrible trajedy, I take note of how important it is to prepare yourself in the event of an emergency on board an airliner.

To be forewarned is to be forearmed.



_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Electrolux ICON and Kenmore Pro Gas Ranges Recalled Due to the Hazard of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning


Electrolux Home Products, Inc. has recalled its Electrolux ICON and Kenmore Pro 30” Gas Ranges, because a defective part allows more fuel to pass to the oven that can cause incomplete combusion and a release of carbon monoxide posing a serious threat of carbon monoxide poisoning. The following Electrolux ICON and Kenmore PRO 30” free-standing gas range model and serial numbers are included in this recall. For Electrolux ICON, the model and serial numbers are located on the back of the range. For the Kenmore PRO, the model and serial numbers are located near the base of the range just below the bottom right portion of the oven door and also on the back of the range. Not all serial numbers within these ranges are included in the recall.

Those involved in this recall include the Electrolux ICON Gas Range (serial numbers E30GF74HPS NF83000000 – NF93633000) and the Kenmore PRO 30” Gas Range (serial numbers790.76913800 and 790.76913801). The ranges wer sold by retailers from August 2008 to October 2009 for between $2,500.00 to $3,500.00.

Consumers should immediately discontinue using the range’s oven and contact Electrolux for the Electrolux ICON or Sears for the Kenmore PRO to schedule a free repair. Consumers can continue to use the cooktop (top burners) and the broiler as well as any clock and/or timer functions. For additional information, contact Electrolux toll-free at (888) 360-8557 between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and on Saturdays between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., or visit the firm’s Web site at www.gasrangeorifice.com. Consumers with Kenmore PRO brand ranges should call Sears toll-free at (800) 733-2299 between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET Monday through Saturday.
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.
_________________________________________

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Toyota Recalls 3.8 Million Vehicles Due to Potential Floor Mat Entrapment of Accelerator Pedal Causing Risk of Sudden Acceleration and Crash


Toyota Motor Company has announced the recall of approximately 3.8 million vehicles, because of the potential risk of floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedeal resulting in sudden acceleration, injury or death. Over 200 incidents have been reported and 16 claimed deaths associated with this issue. The makes and models of the vehicles involved in this recall include: 2007 to 2010 Camry, 2005 to 2010 Avalon, 2004 to 2009 Prius; 2005 to 2010 Tacoma; 2007 to 2010 Tundra; 2007 to 2010 ES350; 2006 to 2010 IS250 and 2006 to 2010 IS350.

The specific measures of the vehicle-based remedy are as follows:

1. The shape of the accelerator pedal will be reconfigured to address the risk of floor mat entrapment, even when an older-design all-weather floor mat or other inappropriate floor mat is improperly attached, or is placed on top of another floor mat. For the ES350, Camry, and Avalon models involved, the shape of the floor surface underneath will also be reconfigured to increase the space between the accelerator pedal and the floor.

2. Vehicles with any genuine Toyota or Lexus accessory all-weather floor mat will be provided with newly-designed replacement driver- and front passenger-side all-weather floor mats.

In addition, as a separate measure independent of the vehicle-based remedy, Toyota will install a brake override system onto the involved Camry, Avalon, and Lexus ES 350, IS350 and IS 250 models as an extra measure of confidence. This system cuts engine power in case of simultaneous application of both the accelerator and brake pedals.

Toyota is in the process of completing development of these actions and for the ES350, Camry, and Avalon will start notifying owners of the involved vehicles via first-class mail by the end of this year. The remedy process regarding the other five models will occur on a rolling schedule during 2010.

Dealers will be trained and equipped to make the necessary modifications to these models starting at the beginning of 2010. Initially, dealers will be instructed on how to reshape the accelerator pedal for the repair. As replacement parts with the same shape as the modified pedal become available, they will be made available to dealers for the repair, beginning around April 2010. Customers who have had the remedy completed will have the opportunity to receive a new pedal if they desire.

In the meantime, owners of the involved vehicles are asked to take out any removable driver’s floor mat and not replace it with any other floor mat until they are notified of the vehicle-based remedy, as notified in the consumer safety advisory and the interim notice.

The brake override system will be made standard equipment throughout the Toyota and Lexus product lines starting with January 2010 production of ES350 and Camry and is scheduled to be incorporated into new production of most models by the end of 2010.

Owners who have further questions are asked to visit http://www.toyota.com/ or http://www.lexus.com/ or contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331 or Lexus Customer Assistance at 1-800-255-3987.

_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Monday, November 23, 2009

Stork Craft Issues Recall of Over 2.1 Million Cribs Due to Risk of Suffocation




Stork Craft Manufacturing, Inc. has issued a voluntary recall of over 2.1 million Stork Craft drop-side cribs distributed in the United States and Canada, because of a risk of suffociation due to the cribs' drop-side hardware breaking, deforming or parts become missing resulting in infants and toddlers becoming entrapped in the space between the drop-side and crib mattress.
Also a complete detachment of the drop-side could result in the infant falling from the crib. Consumers should immediately discontinue the use of the recalled products. This recall involves Stork Craft drop-side cribs and Stork Craft drop-side cribs with the Fisher-Price logo. This recall does not involve any cribs that do not have a drop-side. This recall does not involve any cribs with metal rod drop-side hardware. It involves only those cribs with plastic trigger and one-hand-system drop-side hardware. This recall includes Stork Craft cribs with manufacturing and distribution dates between January 1993 and October 2009. This recall also includes Stork Craft cribs with the Fisher-Price logo that have manufacturing dates between October 1997 and December 2004. The Stork Craft cribs with the Fisher-Price logo were first sold in the U.S. in July 1998 and in Canada in September 1998. The cribs were sold in various styles and finishes. The manufacture date, model number, crib name, country of origin, and the firm’s name, address, and contact information are located on the assembly instruction sheet attached to the mattress support board. The firm’s insignia “storkcraft baby” or “storkling” is inscribed on the drop-side teething rail of some cribs. In Stork Craft cribs that contain the “Fisher-Price” logo, this logo can be found on the crib’s teething rail, in the manufacturer’s instructions, on the assembly instruction sheet attached to the mattress support board, and on the end panels of the Twinkle-Twinkle and Crystal crib models. Major retailers in the United States and Canada sold the recalled cribs including BJ’s Wholesale Club, J.C. Penney, Kmart, Meijer, Sears, USA Baby, and Wal-Mart stores and online at Amazon.com, Babiesrus.com, Costco.com, Target.com, and Walmart.com from January 1993 through October 2009 for between $100 and $400. For additional information, contact Stork Craft toll-free at (877) 274-0277 anytime to order the free repair kit, or log on to http://www.storkcraft./

Always check all sides and corners of the crib for disengagement. Any disengagement can create a gap and entrap a child. In addition, do not try to repair any side of the crib, especially with tape, wire or rope.

_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Monday, November 16, 2009

Stop, Look & Listen



Stop, look and listen. Those words of instruction not only pertain to one driving near railroad tracks, but also pertain to any controlled intersection which directs traffic to stop before entering into an intersection.

Another collision occurred today near Boise, Idaho. A vehicle is reported to have been traveling on Bennington Avenue at the intersection of Chinden Blvd.; the vehicle was attempting to make a left turn onto Chinden Blvd. and was T-boned. Unfortunately, the driver of the vehicle that was attempting to negotiate the left turn was reported to have died at the scene of the collision.

In order to avert a collision, one should know how to calculate the distance a vehicle is traveling in feet per second in order to determine whether one has enough clearance to drive safely into an intersection. The calculation is quite simple. In order to determine how many feet a vehicle is traveling per second, you multiply the miles per hour the vehicle is traveling by 1.4667. Hence, a vehicle traveling 40 mph is traveling 58.67 feet per second; a vehicle traveling 45 mph is traveling 66 feet per second; a vehicle traveling 50 mph is traveling 73.34 feet per second and a vehicle traveling 55 mph is traveling 80.67 feet per second. In order to put this in perspective, a vehicle traveling 55 miles per hour travels the distance of a football field (300 feet) in just 3.72 seconds. Obviously, one isn't require to make a mathematical calculation before driving into an intersection, but one should become familiar with traffic patterns and how traffic is manuevering at a given intersection before attempting to enter same. The driver who died today apparantly miscalculated the time and distance necessary to maneuver safely into the intersection; or, perhaps the driver was distracted and didn't see the oncoming traffic before the collision occurred. Either way, it is important to take the time to stop, look and listen before attempting to negotiate into an intersection that is controlled by a stop sign and yield the right-of-way to cross-traffic.

A controlled intersection is one that is marked with a stop sign or stop light. An intersection that is controlled by a stop sign requires the driver to stop at the intersection and yield the right-of-way to cross-traffic before entering into the intersection. Drivers that approach a controlled intersection should "stop, look and listen" for oncoming cross-traffic and then yield the right-of-way to same. The life you save may be your own.

My sincerest condolences to the family who lost their loved one today. It is sad when such a death could have been prevented had the driver simply followed the rules of the road.

Parents are encouraged to talk to their children and make sure they understand the "time and distance" necessary in negotiating left turns and the need to yield the right-of-way to cross traffic when approaching a controlled intersection.
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Homelite Recalls Backpack Blowers Due to Fire Hazard



Homelite Consumer Products, Inc. has recalled approximately 85,000 Mighty Lite backpack blowers, because the fuel take may leak gasoline resulting in a fire hazard to consumers.

This recall involves the Homelite Mighty Lite backpack blowers. The blowers are red and black. For more information regarding the product models involved in this recall see http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10037.html

The product in question was sold at the following at Home Depot stores and various retailers of refurbished products including Direct Tools Factory Outlets, CPO Homelite, Gardner, Tap Enterprises, Isla Supply and Heartland America stores nationwide from September 2007 through October 2009 for between $90 and $140. Consumers should call Homelite Comsumer Products at 800.242.4672 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday to obtain information on how to obtain a free fuel tank replacement or go to the firm's website at www.homelite.com. Consumers should immediately discontinue use of the recalled product.
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Samsung Recalls Over-the-Range Microwaves Due to Shock Hazard



Samsung has recalled approximately 43,000 Over-the-Range Microwaves because if an installation bolt comes in contact with an electrical component inside the microwave and the unit is plugged into an ungrounded electrical outlet, it could create a shock hazard. This recall involves the Samsung 1000 watt over-the range microwave oven.

For lot and serial numbers affected by this recall, go to http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10031.html

Consumers are directed to call Samsung at 888.402.6974 from 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET or visit the firm's website at www.samsung.com/otrrecall regarding this recall to make arrangements for a free repair.
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Easton Sports Recalls Bicycles Due to Stem Failure That Poses Fall Hazard



Easton Sports, the manufacturer of bicyles with EA30 Stems (Raleigh 2007, XXIX 700 c MTN, RX1.0, Diamondback 2007, Mission and Sortie), has recalled approximately 6,400 bicycles, because the bicycle stem may crack causing the rider to lose control and a risk of serious injury if the rider were to fall. The EA30 stems are black with white-and-gray graphics and feature a four-bolt stem face cap. Also, “EA30” is printed on the stem. EA30 stems sold as aftermarket items are included in this recall. Consumers are encouraged to call Eason Sports at 866.892.6059 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm's website at www.easonbike.com for more information regarding this recall.
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Monday, November 2, 2009

Another Large Recall of Ground Beef Products is Underway Due to Possible E Coli



Fairbank Farms of Ashville, NY has recalled approximately 545,699 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. An outbreak of e-coli 0157:H7 related illnesses has been attributable to the contaminated ground beef with illnesses noted in the NorthEast including Connecticut, Maine and Massachusetts. Anyone with signs or symptoms of foodborne illness should consult a physician.

The products subject to recall include:

1. Trader Joes

1-pound packages of "TRADER JOE'S BUTCHER SHOP FINE QUALITY MEATS GROUND BEEF 85/15."
1-pound packages of "TRADER JOE'S BUTCHER SHOP FINE QUALITY MEATS GROUND BEEF 80/20." NOTE: The sell-by dates for the above two products may be October 6 or 7, 2009.

1-pound trays of "TRADER JOE'S BUTCHER SHOP FINE QUALITY MEATS GROUND BEEF PATTIES 96/4 EXTRA LEAN."
1-pound trays of "TRADER JOE'S BUTCHER SHOP FINE QUALITY MEATS GROUND BEEF PATTIES 85/15."

2. Price Chopper
1- and 2.5-pound trays of "PRICE CHOPPER MEATLOAF & MEATBALL MIX."
1-pound trays of "PRICE CHOPPER EXTRA LEAN GROUND BEEF 96/4."
1-pound trays of "PRICE CHOPPER FRESH GROUND BEEF CHUCK FOR CHILI 80% LEAN 20% FAT."

3. Lancaster and Wild Harvest
1-pound trays of "LANCASTER BRAND 96/4 EXTRA LEAN GROUND BEEF."
1- and 2-pound trays of "LANCASTER BRAND 90/10 GROUND BEEF."
1-pound trays of "WILD HARVEST NATURAL 85/15 ANGUS GROUND BEEF."

4. Shaw's
1- and 2-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF 93/7."
1-, 2- and 3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF 80/20."
1- and 3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF 75/25."
1.3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND SIRLOIN BEEF PATTIES 90/10."
1.3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND ROUND BEEF PATTIES 85/15."
1.3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF PATTIES 80/20."
3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF PATTIES FAMILY PACK 80/20."
1-pound trays of "SHAW'S ANGUS GROUND BEEF 85/15."
1-, 2- and 3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND ROUND BEEF 85/15."
1-pound trays of "SHAW'S 90% NATURAL GROUND BEEF."
1-pound trays of "SHAW'S 85% NATURAL GROUND BEEF."
1-, 2- and 3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND SIRLOIN 90/10."
1-pound trays of "MEATLOAF & MEATBALL MIX."

5. BJ's
5-pound trays of "FRESH GROUND BEEF, CONTAINS 15 % FAT" patties.
3- and 5-pound trays of "LEAN GROUND BEEF, CONTAINS 7% FAT."
2.5-pound trays of "MEATLOAF & MEATBALL MIX."

6. Ford Brothers
3-pound trays of "FRESH GROUND BEEF, CONTAINS 20% FAT" patties.

7. Giant
1-pound trays of "GIANT EXTRA LEAN GROUND BEEF 96/4."
1-pound trays of "GIANT MEATLOAF & MEATBALL MIX."
1-pound trays of "GIANT NATURE'S PROMISE GROUND BEEF."
1-pound trays of "GIANT NATURE'S PROMISE GROUND BEEF PATTIES."

Each package bears the establishment number "EST. 492" inside the USDA mark of inspection or on the nutrition label. These products were packaged on September 15 and 16, 2009, and may have been labeled at the retail stores with a sell-by date from September 19 through 28, 2009, unless otherwise noted above. Consumers should ask at their point of purchase if the products they have are subject to recall. The products were sent to distribution centers, intended for further distribution to retail establishments in Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on FSIS' Web site at http://www.fsis.usda.gov/FSIS_Recalls/ Open_Federal_Cases/index.asp.

Products for further processing:
Cases of 10-pound "FAIRBANK FARMS FRESH GROUND BEEF CHUBS."

Each case bears the establishment number "EST. 492" inside the USDA mark of inspection; has package dates of "09.14.09," "09.15.09," or "09.16.09;" and sell-by dates of "10.3.09," "10.4.09," or "10.5.09. These products were distributed to retail establishments in Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia for further processing. However, these products at retail will likely not bear the package dates and sell-by dates listed above. Customers with concerns should contact their point of purchase.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef or ground beef patties that have been cooked to a temperature of 160° F. The only way to be sure ground beef is cooked to a high enough temperature to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer to measure the internal temperature. Consumer questions should be directed to the company's Consumer Hotline at (877) 546-0122.
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Chrysler Recalls 2009/2010 Vehicles Due to Risk of Tire/Wheel Separation That Could Cause a Crash



Chrysler has recalled the 2009-2010 Chrysler 300; 2009 Dodge Challenger; 2009-2010 Dodge Charger and 2010 Challenger, because the vehicles may have been assembled without a front wheel spindle nut that could result in the tire/wheel separating causing a risk of a crash while driving. Consumers are encouraged to contact a local dealer to inspect the vehicle which would be repaired without charge. Owners may contact Chrysler at 800.835.1403. The recall number is Chrysler Recall No. J27.
________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com

Preventing Children From Access to Hand Guns


Recently another child (this time a 3 yr old) accidently shot himself in the face with a hand gun while in the care and custody of a family member. See, e.g., http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,570950,00.html. Some people believe that the answer to this problem is by using gun locks. However, there are a number of ways that people (including children) can disable a gun lock. Guns should be made inaccessible to children. That means locking them in a safe and/or gun cabinent. Gun locks alone have proven to fail especially given the number of videos on the internet demonstrating children disabling gun locks.





The best way to protect children from self-inflicted wounds from a firearm or by wounds caused by other children with a firearm is to prevent the children from having access to a weapon in the first place. There are a number of products available such as gun safes for rifles and handguns that are economical. I'm not endorsing any particular product, however, you can research these products vis a vis Google simply by searching "gun safes." The safest way to prevent children from being harmed by a hand gun in your home is not to have one in the first place. However, if you choose to purchase a weapon, you should take responsibility and take all necessary precautions to prevent children from access to any and all firearms by purchasing a reliable gun safe. Gunlocks alone have been proven unreliable since children and others have access to information as to how to disable a gun lock. Gun safes are better suited to prevent children from accessing a weapon.
_________________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you or a family member have been injured or damaged due to the fault or responsibility of someone else, an industrial accident or by a dangerous or defective product, drug or toxic substance, contact Alan Morton for a no obligation, free consultation.

For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
Telephone: 208.344.5555
Toll Free: 866.946.1669 [866.WIN.1.NOW]
Facsimile: 208.342.2509
Email: amorton@mortonlawyers.com
Website: www.mortonlawyers.com