Child Injury Lawyer Blog

By Will Brown, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Columbus, Ohio, a day care provider was arrested following injuries to a 6 month old girl under the care of the day care provider. The child suffered internal and brain injuries that may be inconsistent with a fall or other accidental cause. Cases like this can be challenging. Many questions or issues arise including the following:

Were there any witnesses to an assault or other intentional act against the child?

What was the child's condition when brought into the day care center?

Are there alternate medical causes or explanations for the serious personal injuries?

What was the background of the day care provider?

The day care provider did not have a license. Lacking a license does not mean that there was neglect; however, a parent should be wary about placing a child in an day care center that is required to be licensed and regulated chooses to break the rules. It may be more costly for a parent to place a child in a day care facility that has a license; however, safety should take precedence over price when leaving a child in a day care center. You can read more about this story at Columbus Ohio Day Care Provider Arrested for Child Endangerment and Assault.

By Ryan E. Alekman, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Cheyenne, Wyoming, a child is recovery from surgery following a Pit Bull dog attack. The 10 year old boy (William Kunert) was bit by a neighbor's dog. William was reported to have been bitten by the dog in May 2009 as well. Pit Bull attacks have been reported across the Nation. Dog bite incidents like these raise several issues:

What safety precautions were put in place to protect children?

Was the dog in a fenced area?

Was the dog on a leash?

Did the dog have up to date vaccinations?

Who is going to pay for the medical expenses?

Was Animal Control involved in the past? current incident?

What measures will be taken in the future to prevent future dog attacks / dog bites?

You can read more about this story at Wyoming Boy Bitten by Pit Bull - Recovering following Surgery.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Indianapolis, Indiana and cities throughout the United States, there are thousands of theme parks, amusement parks, and county fairs. Children enjoy amusement park rides and typically have a great and memorable time. Unfortunately, amusement parks are sometimes the sites of tragic and serious personal injuries. In Indianapolis, Indiana, it was reported that a child suffered a serious head injury while riding on a Teacup Ride. Details were not initially released as to the cause or mechanism of the injury. There will be an investigation into this incident. The ride will be inspected and witnesses will be interviewed. Whatever the results of the investigation, a child was seriously injured and it is a very stressful situation for the parents and family members. When at amusement parks, ride operators as well as children and parents should always do their best to act / participate in a safe and prudent manner. The safety of a child should always be the paramount concern over everything else. You can read more about this story at Child Suffers Serious Personal Injuries on Amusement Park Ride in Indianapolis, Indiana.

By George Fusner, Jr., Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Memphis, Tennessee, it was reported by ABC 24 Eyewitness News that a 1 year old girl was hit by a school bus at her day care center -Premier Kids Enrichment Center which is located on North Watkins in Frayser.

The incident could have easily resulted in serious personal injuries. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported. Certainly, it would be quite harrowing for a family member to be informed of an incident of this nature. It is also disturbing that the incident happened at all since a 1 year old should have very close supervision especially when in or near school or day care buses and vans.

Day care centers have a duty to provide a reasonably safe environment for children both inside and outside of the facility. This is especially true when transportation services are provided. If you have a child in day care, make sure you speak to the child care providers, bus drivers, and administrators about transportation safety and the policies and procedures for the facility. You can read more about this story at Memphis Tennessee Day Care Center - 1 Year Old Hit by Day Care Bus.

By Steven Smith, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In New York and other States, the teenage years are often filled with good times and fun. The teenage years are also filled with pressure, stress, a transition from childhood to young adulthood, and the demands of everyday life. Even those teens who appear to have everything in place can be the ones at risk for stress, depression, and in some instances suicide. In New York, a 17 year old (Alexis Pilkington) ended her own life. She was a soccer star at the West Islip High School and was credited with helping her team win the Long Island Soccer Championship last year. She was well liked and a great soccer player. She also had some issues that she went to therapy for. Tragically, Alexis ended her own life despite the love and support of family, friends, and the community. Hopefully, Alexis will be remembered for her smile, her love of family, and her great soccer abilities. The death of Alexis should be a life lesson and teaching tool of sorts for others. Suicide is a real risk for many teenagers even those who appear to be "on the ball" or great kicking the ball. You can read more about this story at 17 Year Old Star Soccer Player Ends Her Life.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Accidental injuries to children can be avoided in many instances. Statistically, accidents are the leading cause of children between the ages of three and eight years old. In addition to deaths, accidents are among the leading causes of permanent physical impairment, traumatic brain injuries, fractures, and other serious injuries.

Proper supervision and playground / sports equipment can avoid many injuries. Parents, coaches, teachers, and child care providers all play an important role in the safety of children. Be the adult and take charge . . . make sure that the child is engaged in an activity that is well supervised at all times. Children will be children. Children often times have poor safety awareness and judgment. You can read about the ways to prevent common accidental child injuries at Injuries to Children Can Be Avoided.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Kansas and other States, parents must be diligent in selecting a day care center. When considering a day care center, parents should inspect the facility and find out information regarding government inspections and compliance with Kansas day care regulations. A new Kansas Senate bill would require that all home day care centers have an inspection. The proposed law would get rid of the designation "registered home day care center". Under the prior system, "Registered home day care centers" were not subjected to an initial inspection or follow up inspection. According to some lawmakers, the designation of "registered day care center" gave many parents a false sense of security. You can read more about the Kansas Senate bill to provide better regulation and inspection of all Kansas home based day care centers at Kansas Senate Recommends Tighter Day Care / Child Care Regulations.

Whatever laws are in place, parents should still take an active role in inspecting and researching day care centers. Parents should ask to see licensing and inspection documents. In addition, parents should contact the State and local government agencies to check on the history and compliance of the day care center.

By Robert Chaiken, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

A seven year old girl and her mother were leaving the soccer fields at Bear Creek Park, Texas, late one recent evening. As they made their way back to their car, the child ran into the road and was struck by a passing SUV. According to the girl’s mother, the automobile appeared to be a silver Isuzu Trooper or Mitsubishi Montero.

After hitting the girl, the driver of the SUV reportedly stopped a short way down the road, and a woman got out of the passenger’s side of the SUV and walked back to the girl and her mother to see if the child was injured. After seeing that the girl was clearly injured and lying in the road, she walked back to the SUV and got in. The vehicle then drove off without anyone offering their identity or any further assistance.

The girl was flown by medical helicopter to Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital sometime later; her injuries are said to be critical. Police are looking for any information on the driver or passenger of the SUV. The female passenger is described as a slim Caucasian with a mole on her left cheek. She was wearing a black baseball cap.

Anyone with information about the accident is asked to call the Houston Police Department Hit and Run Unit at 713-247-4065.

You can read more about this hit and run accident that left a little girl critically injured at Child injured in hit and run at Bear Creek Park.

By Stephanie F. Brown, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

A teenage boy from Atlanta, Georgia recently broke up with his girlfriend by sending her, her mother, and her sisters nude images of himself via cell phone text message. According to Cecily Hill, the Republican State Representative for Kingsland, Georgia, the boy could not be charged with any specific crime; that has led Kingsland to introduce legislation that would make so-called “sexting” – sending nude images over cell phone text messaging systems – illegal. It represents an update to a current law that prohibits transmitting obscene images of minors on floppy disks, CDs, or computer bulletin boards.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation supports the bill, but spokesperson John Bankhead said that care must be taken in writing the bill so that children sending images to other children without the intent to engage in child pornography or without appreciation of the consequences would not be permanently labeled as sex offenders.

The Georgia House is also considering legislation that would broaden the definition of rape; the current law only includes females and children under the age of ten years old. Proponents say that the current law leaves young boys who are targeted by sexual predators out in the cold.

Both bills, if they pass, promise to make it clearer what is acceptable behavior and what is not when it comes to sexual content or sexual activity involving minors.

Find out more about this story at Camden's Hill lodges bill to make 'sexting' illegal.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Many parents dread the first day of summer almost as much as their children look forward to it. What to do with antsy kids for three months over the summer? Now is the time to start thinking about summer camp. The good ones fill up their rosters quickly. The following are some tips for narrowing down your choices.

1. Talk to your children: Find out from them what kind of camp they would be interested in attending so they can get the most out of it.
2. Stay organized: Once you know what type of camp you are looking for, make a list of available options. Keeping all the details in a neat list will help make the decision process easier.
3. Watch the budget: Make sure to pick a camp that is in a comfortable price range for you. Some camps offer financial assistance, so be sure to ask.
4. Day camp or Sleep-away? Before deciding, honestly assess whether your child is mature enough to handle a sleep-away camp, or if a day camp would be a better choice.
5. Make it work for your schedule: Make sure the pick-up and drop off times work with your work schedule. Finding other parents who can share carpooling duty can help as well.
6. Talk to the director: Getting a feel for the philosophy of the camp is important. Ask to speak to the director and find out what the camp values are.
7. Check into the staff; While you have the director on the phone, find out how they screen and train counselors and arrange to meet with them if it will make you feel more comfortable.
8. Ask about medical services: Many camps require staff to be trained in CPR and first aid, but don’t assume – ask.

Read more tips for making sure your kids are safe and happy at summer camp by visiting Summer Camps: Tips for picking the best camp for your kid.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Both spring break and summer are just around the corner, so now is a great time for parents and children to refresh their water safety skills. Planning ahead can make a day at the beach, pool or water park fun and relaxing for everyone.

Before you go:
Most drowning accidents involving children under five years old happen at a residential pool. Families with backyard pools should make sure they use appropriate safeguards, like a latched four foot high isolation fence around the pool area with an alarm. You should also keep the pool covered when not in use, and keep safety devices within reach at all times.

Even if you do not own your own pool, parents should get themselves CPR trained and carry a first-aid kit when they go out with their kids for the day.

While in the water:
Supervision is the most critical aspect to keeping everyone safe. Never just assume someone else is watching your child. A life vest is the most important piece of safety equipment for your children – “floaties” and water wings are for recreation only. Parents should also consider water shoes for everyone to protect feet from rocks and broken glass.

At the end of the day:
If you own a pool make sure it is covered, the gate is locked, and that any toys are moved out of the pool area.

Read more tips for water safety at From the YMCA: Get your water-safety procedures in place as spring break approaches.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

A startling statistic is that death rates are twice as high in homes without working fire alarms. SAFE Kids USA reports that over one hundred thousand kids are hurt every year in the US in fire and burn incidents. These incidents are also the the third leading cause of death for children under fourteen years old. In sixty six percent of the cases where a child was injured or died from a residential fire, the fire alarms either weren't working or were simply never installed. Remarkably, statistics show that a working fire alarm reduces your chances of dying in a fire by fifty percent.

Making sure that the fire alarms in your home are working is incredibly simple and inexpensive to do. A Nebraska Fire Department spokesperson offered the following tips for making sure your home’s fire alarms are in working order:

• Fire alarms that are older than ten years old should be replaced.
• Batteries should be replaced twice a year, don’t wait for them to start chirping: pick a set of dates you are likely to remember and put them on your calendar.
• If your fire alarm does start chirping, DO NOT simply turn it off and plan to replace the battery “later.” Go to the store immediately and replace the battery right away.
• Consider installing hard-wired alarms, which are more reliable.
• Take extra care with cigarettes, home cooking equipment and space heaters.

Find out more ways to protect your child from fire and burn injuries at Change your clock, check your batteries.

By George Fusner, Jr., Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Douglas Cronberger of rural Norene, Tennessee thought he heard a prowler enter his home during the night. He got up to check it out, bringing his .380 caliber handgun with him. He thought the gun was unloaded. After checking the house and not finding anyone, he set the gun on the end table in the living room and forgot about it, then later went back to bed.

Sometime during the night, his three year old step-daughter, Cheyenne Alexis McKeehan, woke up and went out into the living room. She picked up the pistol and fatally shot herself in the abdomen. Police believe that the girl thought the gun was the remote for her Nintendo Wii video game, which was also kept in the living room and looks remarkably like a real gun. The girl had been playing the video game for several days before the incident occurred.

The child’s mother, Tina Ann CronBerger, was asleep in the house when the accident took place. Terry Ashe, the Wilson County Sheriff, is saddened by this tragic accident, but is working hard to get out the message that everyone needs to secure their firearms, especially those who have children of any age in the house.

Read more details of this tragic accident at 3-year-old fatally shoots herself after mixing up wii game with real pistol.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Diane M. McKinley, of Renovo, Pennsylvania, was driving her Honda Civic down Route 2005 with Mildred L. Barnhard of Lock Haven Pennsylvania in the passenger seat and a five year old child in the back seat. When Ms. McKinley stopped at the intersection of Route 2005 and Route 2022 in Covington, Pennsylvania to make a left hand turn, the car was struck from behind by an International tanker truck. The truck was driven by Barry K. Smith.

The Civic became entangled with the tanker from the force of the collision, and was pushed forward one hundred feet into the intersection. Luckily, no other vehicles were involved in the crash. All four people involved in the accident were wearing their seat belts at the time. Even so, Ms. Barnhard was pronounced dead on arrival at Soldiers and Sailors Hospital. Ms. McKinley and the child were also injured; the severity of their injuries is not known. The child was taken to the hospital by helicopter. The driver of the truck was not injured in the accident.

The state police department is reconstructing the accident in order to better understand how it happened, and to learn how future accidents at the intersection can be avoided.

Read more about the tanker truck accident that injured a child and killed a passenger at Tanker truck, car crash kills Pa. woman.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Bounce houses, trampolines, and inflatable play areas can be dangerous to children. Tragically, a number of children suffer serious personal injuries playing on or in these areas every year. Some even die as a result of the injuries. In Wichita, Kansas, it was reported that a 5 year old girl died after falling off of an inflatable bounce play area at Pure Entertainment. While the child was rushed to a local emergency room, the child ultimately died as a result of the injuries. There are several questions when considering or investigating accidents or incidents involving bounce houses or inflatable play areas including:

What kind of bounce house or inflatable play area was involved?

Who was supervising the child at the time of the incident?

Was the area in and around the bounce house / inflatable play area free from hazards?

Was the bounce house or inflatable play area properly installed, anchored, and in place according the manufacturer standards and recommendations?

Were there other incidents involving serious personal injuries or death involving the same or similar bounce houses / inflatable play areas?

Whatever the results of the investigation, a 5 year old boy died and a family and community has suffered a great loss. You can read more about this incident at 5 Year Old Child Dies After Fall at Pure Entertainment.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Governor Ritter of Colorado was recently in a bicycle accident that caused several broken ribs. After his own experience with a bicycle injury, he is throwing extra support behind a bill that would require Colorado kids from ages two to seventeen to wear a safety helmet when riding a bike, roller blades, or skate board.

The bill has already passed the House, but is drawing criticism from those who say that the government is taking on too much responsibility that should go to parents. Chris Brown, the owner of Brown’s Cycles, said that he believes strongly that kids should wear helmets when biking or blading, but does not want the government getting involved. He went on to say that the consequences of the proposed law are “ridiculous bureaucracy;” a police officer is supposed to stop the child, issue a ticket and give him a pamphlet explaining the dangers of riding without a helmet.

One of Brown’s employees, who himself suffered a head injury in a bicycle accident, summed it up nicely, saying “your child’s life is worth 35 dollars for a helmet.” The bill will now go to the Senate for a vote before it can become law.

Read more about pending legislation in Colorado that would require minors to wear bike helmets at Ritter Supports New Helmet Bill after Accident.

By Joshua Shulman, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

The USA Today Website recently reported that there have been claims in a lawsuit that the Boy Scouts of America tried to keep information quiet about 1000 suspected child molesters during the time period between 1965 and 1985. The case currently in trial involves a victim of a man who confessed to molesting 17 scouts during his time spent working or volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America. Attorneys for the boy claim that the Boy Scouts of American knew about the alleged bad acts of local assistant Scoutmaster, Timur Dykes, yet allowed Dykes to continue his activities with the Boy Scouts of America. Of course, there are many other facts and disputes to this case that will be played out in Court. Ultimately, it will be the decision of the jury to determine the liability of the Boy Scouts of America, the local chapter, and the damages at issue in this case. You can read more about this story at Assistant Scout Master and Boy Scouts of America - Civil Trial Involving Child Abuse in Portland, Oregon.

By Steven Smith, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Two year old Olivia Raspanti choked on a carrot and died last year while attending the Carousel Day School in Hicksville, New York. Olivia apparently took the carrot from a teacher’s bag and tried to eat it. She choked and was taken to the hospital where she later died.

Eugene Formica, the daycare center’s owner, and Kathryn Cordaro, the manager, were both arrested, and pleaded not guilty to several charges, including misdemeanor charges of second-degree reckless endangerment, misrepresentation by a day care provider and not having a required license and a felony charge of reckless assault of a child by a day care provider. The Carousel Day School faces the same charges and may be fined up to $25,000.

This past week, Nassau County, New York prosecutors announced that the pair had been indicted by the grand jury. The felony charge could result in a prison sentence of up to four years, while each misdemeanor has a maximum one year sentence. Formica and Ms. Cordaro’s attorneys called the indictment “unwarranted” and “preposterous.” The teacher from whose bag the carrot was taken was given immunity to testify against the pair in court.

Authorities reported that the school lacked a license to run a daycare center for children under thirty three months of age and that it had unsafe conditions. They further charge that Cordaro didn’t do all she could to save the child’s life, in spite of the fact that the Nassau County Child Protective Services called the death a “tragic accident.”

Lisa and Anthony Raspanti, Olivia’s parents, are suing the daycare center. Read more about this case at Owner, manager of school where girl choked indicted.

By Robert Fernicola, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Diane Russell of Vineland New Jersey recently drove her Kia through a red light and slammed into a school bus carrying two children. The bus was flipped on its side; both drivers, the two middle school children on the bus and the five year old passenger in Russell’s car were injured.

The bus driver, Helen Mathis, was briefly pinned in the bus. According to police, all the injured people were taken to the hospital and none of the injuries were considered serious. Luckily, the bus driver had just started her pick up route and only the two students were on board at the time of the accident. Her bus usually carries thirty five students.

Both students were wearing their safety belts when the bus turned over. After the accident, Ms. Mathis advised the students to escape through the back safety exit while she radioed for help. Ms. Russell has been cited for running a red light.

In the morning hours, drivers are usually hurriedly trying to rush to work, and are sometimes more careless or take more risks than at other times of the day. Unfortunately, the morning commute is also the time that school buses are out picking up kids for the day. Getting to work a few minutes early is not worth risking the life, health, safety, or well being of a child.

Read more about this school bus accident at Five hurt in V'land school bus crash.

By Robert Chaiken, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

A new fire code regulation in Montgomery County, Texas would require daycare operators to install fire alarm systems with manual activation systems. Several daycare providers have taken issue with the new regulation, saying that it would place an unfair financial burden on their businesses.

Concerned daycare owners and operators went before county commissioners recently to ask that existing facilities be grandfathered under a November 2007 fire code. Becky Williams of Kiddie Cabin Daycare testified that retrofitting her center with the new fire alarms would cost up to $10,000. She went on to say that she has installed fire detectors in every room of the center, and that she performed fire alarm drills with the children every month.

The county Fire Marshall stated that he is required to inspect daycare centers for compliance once a year on behalf of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. He said that he will begin using the Life Safety Code, which was adopted by the Texas Department of Insurance in October of 2009.

Protecting our children is a priority, but of course it cannot come at the expense of driving daycare centers out of business. Any regulations that better protect children should be considered very carefully before being thrown out for strictly financial reasons. It will be up to the Montgomery County commissioners to decide whether to exempt or grandfather any businesses under the new fire codes.

Read more about this Texas showdown over new fire code regulations at County to revisit daycare issue.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

A little girl died in Kansas City, Kansas recently, after being hit by a school bus while waiting at the bus stop to be taken to her elementary school. The family has asked that the school district and the police department not release the child’s name until they have had some time to heal. They have also not released the name of the bus driver or any details of the accident. The refusal of the school district to release any information about the accident is causing frustration with parents of other school age children in the district.

According to Larry Bluthardt, director for school bus safety and education for the Kansas Department of Education, seventeen children across the US were killed last year while waiting for, boarding or departing a school bus. This fatal accident was the first child killed in a Kansas state school bus accident in over ten years.

While the Kansas state school bus accident record seems quite good, one child killed in an accident is one too many. All drivers, but especially school bus drivers, need to pay very careful attention to their driving. Children can be hard to see and can move quickly and unexpectedly into harm’s way.

Read more about this tragic school bus accident at Questions remain following child’s death in school bus accident in KCK.

By John Jensen, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Lighters are common household items. It should also be noted that lighters are very dangerous in the hands of a toddler or child. In North Carolina, a 2 year old boy suffered third degree burns after he lit his clothes on fire from a lighter. The boy's parents were charged with negligent child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury. Investigating officers observed marijuana and other drug paraphernalia at the the home. The incident may have occurred after the parents had smoked marijuana.

The boy was airlifted by helicopter to a hospital at the University of North Carolina. You can read more about this story at North Carolina Boy Airlifted for Burn Injuries from Lighter.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

You might be surprised to find out that in everyday life, commonplace items or activities are much more likely to be dangerous or even fatal than the alarming accidents we hear about on the news each night. Unfortunately, people are much more likely to use caution when they are in a situation they perceive as being dangerous than they are when doing normal activities. But 1 million Americans are seriously injured in their own kitchens every year – and that is only one room in the house.

An example that parents should be especially aware of is the teddy bear. Which is more dangerous – a teddy bear or a real bear? In the last eighty nine years, eighty two Americans have been killed in bear attacks. Teddy bears and other toys account for twenty two deaths each year, and nearly one hundred and fifty thousand injuries. Most of these deaths and injuries happen to children. The most common teddy bear hazard is the small parts that can fall off and become choking hazards, like their glass eyes. Teddy bears are also tripping hazards. Tripping and falling can cause no harm at all or can result in death, if the child trips and falls down a flight of stairs or hits his or her head on the sharp corner of a coffee table.

So while you should use caution while hiking in the woods with your children, it is even more important to make sure that their toys are age-appropriate, that they are picked up and put away after use, and that they don’t have any small parts that can break off.

Read about more everyday, little known hazards at Dangers Of The Commonplace.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

When parents send their children off to school every day, they do not always know what goes on in the classroom until report cards come out or it becomes time for parent teacher conferences. But having a healthy relationship with your child’s teacher is an important aspect of being involved in your child’s education.

According to Parentsoup.com, the following five tips can help you forge a strong relationship with your child’s teacher, which helps your child get more out of his or her school experience.

Introduce yourself. Don’t wait until something goes wrong to meet the teacher. Introduce yourself as soon as possible and try to make a kind, friendly impression.
Get the facts.If your child tells you something upsetting about what happened at school, they may be leaving out important details. Calmly get the teacher’s side of the story before you make any judgments.
Show respect. If you have a problem with a teacher, have the courtesy to discuss it with the teacher first. Only go to the principal if you can’t get the issue resolved.
Be empathetic.Teachers have a tough job, and their goal is to do what’s best for your child. Approach them with this in mind.
Stay in touch. Don’t wait for report cards to come out before getting in touch with the teacher. Keeping an open dialogue throughout the year helps you and the teacher give your child the best possible educational experience.

Find more tips and advice for improving your relationship with your child’s teacher at Good Parents Stay Involved.

By Jay Foster, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Robert Owen’s eight year old daughter Kaylan came home from school the other day with some shocking news. She said that her teacher, Betty Levy, became annoyed when the child got up to wash her hands without permission, and pushed the girl’s head under the water until she couldn’t breathe, then pulled her head out of the sink and slammed her into a file cabinet. Kaylan said that the incident made her feel “really sad.”

According to Owen, Ms. Levy has apologized and the principal of the school assured him that a letter of reprimand will be put in the teacher’s file. But Owen isn’t satisfied. He says he wants the teacher fired, and he has also filed an assault charge against her with the police. According to school officials, none of the other children in the class saw what happened, but Owen reports that one of the kids went home and told her parents about the incident.

A Jackson Public Schools official has made a statement that the district is taking the allegations seriously and that child safety at school is their first priority. The school system will be following procedure and conducting a thorough investigation into the matter. In the meantime, a judge will have to decide if there is enough evidence to arrest Ms. Levy on the assault charges.

Find out more about this alleged assault on a young student by a teacher at Miss. Girl Says Teacher Held Head Underwater.

By Kevin Leach, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Virginia, families of children with autism had succeeded in getting a new bill into the House that would have required many health insurance providers to cover a treatment called “applied behavioral analysis.” But businesses and insurance companies claimed that the costs of the bill would hurt business interests in the state.

Despite the fact that an actuary who studied the financial implications of the bill reported that it would only increase insurance costs by .2% across the state, the bill did not make it out of the Virginia House Commerce and Labor subcommittee. The families in favor of the bill blamed heavy lobbying by the insurance industry for the failure of the bill to reach the House floor. Legislators pointed out that many businesses are already at the breaking point financially and that adding costs will only make things worse.

Applied behavioral analysis is considered by many autism specialists to be the best hope for autistic children to lead normal lives. But the treatment can cost thirty thousand dollars a year or more; a sum that is out of reach for most middle class families. Virginia is one of thirty five states in the US that do not require insurance companies to pay for the treatment.

Find out more about the failure of the proposed autism insurance mandate in Virginia at Va. Panel Kills Autism Treatment Coverage Mandate.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network
During the summer months it seems pretty easy to keep in tune with your children. Sports activities, family vacations, and days at the pool help create a strong family bond. But once they leave for that first day of school in the fall, it can be much harder to continue the same level of involvement in their lives. But it is worth it. Many studies have shown that parental involvement helps your kids learn more effectively.

Many schools and school groups, like the Parent Teacher Alliance (PTA), work hard to offer parents opportunities to become more involved in their children’s school experience. The following are five tips parents can use to keep involved with their child’s school and help improve their overall educational experience:

1. Ask lots of questions, and listen to the answers. Your child is discovering many new things every day at school. Put aside your grown-up worries for an hour or two and listen to what they have to say.
2.Keep in touch with the teacher. Knowing and keeping in touch with your child’s teacher is the most effective way to keep abreast of your child’s progress and to get a handle on any problems he or she might be having.
3. Join the PTA. The PTA is very involved with what happens at your child’s school. Talking to other parents and keeping abreast of what is going on help you be more involved.
4. Provide encouragement. Report cards only come out a few times a year, but every day is a new opportunity to encourage your child to do their best.
5. Don’t forget about after school activities. Sports teams, music and drama, the YMCA, Boys and Girls Club, and church activities all offer productive and enriching activities for kids after school lets out.

Read more details about each of these tips at Good Parents Stay Involved.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Little Friends Daycare, in Johnson County, Kansas is a registered but not licensed day care facility. In Kansas, registered daycares are not inspected by the health department unless there is a complaint. A complaint was lodged recently that the center was taking care of six infants at one time; the daycare is only allowed to care for up to three children under the age of eighteen months.

When inspectors arrived at the daycare facility, they were alarmed to find an infant closed into a back room, still in her car seat and completely covered by three blankets. The owner of the daycare, Lynde Ann Price claims that the child’s parents asked her to keep the child in the car seat because she had bronchitis and they wanted her in an upright position.

But according to inspectors, Ms. Price also told them that she had forgotten the child was in the back room. They also found other infants in rooms with the doors closed, which is a violation of state child care regulations. Ms. Price reportedly said that she was overwhelmed by having too many children to take care of, but believes she was giving them good care.

The daycare has been temporarily closed, and Ms. Price will have to appear before state officials before she is allowed to reopen. Read more about this Kansas City Daycare at Inspectors Shut Down JoCo Day Care, Claim Owner 'Forgot' About Infant.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Grand Forks, Minnesota, a former day care owner (Marsha Brouillet) was sentenced for child abuse charges involving a head injury to a friend's child under her care. The child required a two day hospital stay for injuries resulting in bleeding in the brain and seizures. The mother of the 4 month old child senses that something was wrong with her child and the day care center and sought medical attention for her child. Furthermore, she removed her child from the day care center. The day care owner later admitted to shaking the child without supporting his head. The parents are thankful that the injuries were not worse and they were understandably upset that the day care owner would act in such a reckless and callous manner.

Day care center owners and employees should not work in a day care center or around children if they cannot handle the cries or demands of children. Babies, infants, toddlers, and children will cry. They can also be quite demanding and unreasonable. This comes with the territory. A safe and loving haven should be provided in a day care center. You can read more about this Minnesota matter at Child Suffered Head Injury at Day Care Center.

By Jonathan Safran, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Kansas and other states, children in day care centers are often times put at risk by unsafe day care center drivers. Some of these drivers even choose to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In Witchita, Kansas, a former day care owner was charged with driving under the influence. She later pled no contest to the charges. Police were tipped off as to the owner's intoxication by day care center workers who say the owner leave with children in a day care center vehicle. The day care center workers were concerned and contacted the police. Fortunately, no children were harmed by the reckless conduct of the day care owner but her actions certainly put the children in the vehicle at risk. In addition, any other drivers / passengers, pedestrians, and bicylists in the area of the day care center owner's driving were also put at risk. You can read more about this story at Former Day Care Center Owner Guilty of DUI Charges.

By Jonathan Safran, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

The Alphabet Street Learning Center was the site of child abuse incidents that led to the criminal prosecution and sentencing of a former day care worker. Pamela Coleman, age 42, was sentence to a one year prison sentence. At the sentencing, Judge Coleman stated that he was concerned about the future safety of her children including the one that she was pregnant with. The child victims at the day care center suffered injuries in the form of spiral fractures. These type of fractures typically occur when a child's arm is forcefully twisted. Children should be handled with care and not with force especially in a day care center. You can read more about this story at Former Wisconsin Day Care Worker Gets Prison Sentence for Child Abuse Incidents.
See also Spiral Fracture.

By Jay Foster, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Mississippi and other states, emergency rooms and pediatricians are called upon to treat children who suffer head injuries as a result of an ATV accident or incident. Dr. Shannon Smith is a pediatric rehabilitation doctor based in Mississippi. Dr. Smith is advocating for the passage of a law that would require helmets for children who ride ATVs (All Terrain Vehicles). You can read more about Dr. Smith's points and the dangers of ATVs at Mississippi Needs Tougher ATV Laws for the Protection of Children.

With or without a law in place, all owners of ATVs should exercise good safety measures especially when children are riding on the ATVs. Put a helmet on the child and properly supervise the use of the ATV. Just because the ATV is operated on a dirt road off of concrete does not mean that the child cannot be injured by an accident or fall off the ATV. Many serious head and brain related injuries can be avoided or lessened by the wearing of an appropriate helmet.

By Robert Chaiken, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Texas and other states throughout the nation, there is a danger in virtually every home - the bathtub. Leaving a toddler / small child unattended in a bathtub can lead to tragedy. In Houston, Texas, a 8 month old boy was left unattended for a period long enough to drown. The incident took place at approximately 5:20 p.m. While attending to some other children, the baby drowned. Parents and caregivers need to devote all their time and attention to the child in the bathtub due to the real and present danger of drowning. Since a child can drown in a very short period of time, there is no acceptable periods of inattention or lack of supervision when a child is in a bathtub. Unfortunately, many parents, who are loaded with responsibilities of work, housework, and other children, do not recognize the danger of the bathtub until it is too late. You can read more about this story at Baby Reported as Drowning Death in Houston, Texas.

By Jay Foster, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

A former day care worker at the New Beginning's Day Care Center in Moselle, Mississippi pleaded guilty to charges of child molestation and sexual battery. Derrick Williams (age 23) received the maximum criminal sentence according to Assistant District Attorney J. Ronald Parrish. The crimes involved the fondling of 4 and 5 year old girls who attended the day care center that was owned by Williams' mother.

It is certainly tragic that children were abused and neglected at a facility that should have been a safe haven and a place of education and fun for the children. It is quite unsettling that parents cannot trust that day care centers will provide for the safety and well being of children under their care. You can read more about this story at Ex Day Care Worker in Moselle, Mississippi Pleads Guilty to Crimes Involving Fondling of Children.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In the Blackhawk Area School District - Pennsylvania, a mother is upset over an incident that recently took place when her daughter was dropped off at the wrong bus stop without any supervision in the cold. Fortunately, the child did not suffer any serious personal injuries; however, the incident placed this child at risk where injuries or harm could have resulted. It appears that there was some kind of breakdown in communication or action on the part of the school, day care, and / or bus company that resulted in such a traumatic situation for this 7 year old girl and her family. While tragedy was avoided, this incident will be a good teaching point for the school, day care center, and bus company so that similar incidents are avoided in the future. You can read more about this story at Mother States that Daughter Was Dropped Off At Wrong Stop Without Any Supervision.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Child safety starts at home. A good article was posted at the website - www.doityourself.com on the issue of child proof door locks. Unfortunately, many children are injured in the home every day. Many of these personal injuries result when a child wanders out of the home or into an area of the home where the child does not belong. Installing appropriate child proof locks can provide a toddler / child from the every day dangers that present themselves in the home. Providing child proof door locks is one step among many that a parent, caregiver, and day care owner can take to prevent injuries to children. See 6 Reasons for Having a Child Proof door Lock in Your Home.

6 Reasons for Having a Child Proof Door Lock in Your Home

Childproofing your home is an important aspect of ensuring the safety and security of your children, and a child proof door lock is a valuable asset in this context. Young children are known for their sense of adventure, and every parent must be vigilant about the possible dangers this may lead to. Enlisted below are the most important reasons for having a child proof door lock in different parts of your home.

1 – Keeps Children Away from Danger
Children love to explore their surroundings, starting at very young ages. If the front door on your home can be opened by young children, the dangers they are exposed to are immense. It is crucial that you use a child proof door lock on the front door of your home, to avoid unsupervised explorations outdoors. Ensure that all the doors to the outside of your home, such as the patio door, side doors, garage doors and windows have child proof latches and locks on them.

2 – Protects Kids from Risky Situations in the Home
Areas such as the kitchen and bathroom are dangerous for unsupervised young children. Electric shocks, drowning, burns, falls, heavy items tilting over, etc are some of the most common risks that a young child may be exposed to. When you are not around, it is prudent to keep these areas out of the access of young children. In the kitchen, appliances such as refrigerators, ovens and knives are highly dangerous. An inquisitive child may try to climb inside a large appliance and become trapped. There is also a high risk of injuries and burns, which can eliminated with a child proof door lock.

3 – Keeps Appliances and Electric Devices Away from Kids
In the office, there are several sharp objects and substances such as ink or glue, which are potentially dangerous to young children. In additions, electrical devices and cords increase the risks of fires and shocks. An unoccupied office must be secured shut with a childproof lock.

4 – Reduces Chances of Finger Injury
A child who can open a door is more at risk of jamming his fingers in between and getting seriously injured. A child proof door lock can eliminate this risk, while at the same time keeping the child safely out of dangerous territory.

5 – Provides Security and Peace of Mind
If you do not have child proof door locks in your home, you must ensure the safety of your children by closely monitoring them at all times. It can be very stressful to do this, especially when you can be easily distracted by a visitor or a phone call. Child proof door locks are a reliable means of ensuring the safety of your children, even if they are out of your sight for some time.

6 – Allows Children to Explore the Unlocked Areas in the Home
Child proof door locks also afford peace of mind to young kids, because they can freely explore the safe areas in their home. A child who is told ‘no’ too often may show an inclination to become disobedient over time.

Read more: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/6-reasons-for-having-a-child-proof-door-lock-in-your-home#ixzz0gROzPMNN

By Jeremy Vishno, Attorney, and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

A mother in Cantebury, Connecticut was recently arrested after she left her 11 year old daughter home alone for a week. The child's lack of supervision was discovered after she missed school. The mother initially claimed that she was visiting the State of Florida due to a death in the family but later admitted she was in Florida to see her boyfriend. Most people would probably agree that 11 year old children need supervision and that one week is way too long to leave a child to take care of herself. Others may argue that 11 year olds are mature enough to take care of themselves for this period of time. Fortunately, the 11 year old Connecticut girl did not suffer any personal injuries but one must wonder how the 11 year old feels about having a mother leave her for a week to visit a boyfriend. It was reported that the 11 year old girl went to live with her father in New York following this incident. You can see a video about this story at Police: Connecticut Mother Left Child Alone for a Week.

Of course, the mother will have the right to defend herself in the criminal proceedings through a private criminal attorney or a public defender. This story should be used as an illustration as to the importance of providing children with proper and consistent supervision. The failure to act as a responsible parent can lead to serious consequences.

By Kevin Leach, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

A young girl recently accompanied her mother to Washington Dulles airport to pick up a friend who was arriving from Argentina. A Customs and Border Protection K-9 unit dog that was undergoing training suddenly attacked the girl, knocking her over and clamping down on her pelvis. The dog refused to release, and was eventually subdued by its handler. The girl’s mother was also bitten by the dog when she tried to help her daughter. According to witnesses, the child did nothing to provoke the dog.

The child was taken to a nearby hospital and has reportedly been given twenty stitches in her torso. She has been released from the hospital and is being cared for at home. The mother was understandably upset after the attack, but doesn’t appear to have a problem with ongoing dog training efforts at the airport. She did say she believed that the handlers should take more precautions with dogs in training, such as muzzling them and keeping them away from small children.

It is a shame that an animal being trained to protect citizens attacked this young girl. She will no doubt be scarred both emotionally and physically from the attack.

Read more details about the child mauled by a customs dog at Dulles Airport at Report: Customs patrol dog attacks child at Dulles Airport.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, every five days a child dies in the United States from choking on food. That makes choking the number one cause of death for children under fourteen, although children under four are most at risk.

The group is now calling on legislators and manufacturers to put in place a system of labeling certain high-risk foods to warn parents of choking risks. It points out that there are many laws and regulations aimed at preventing children form choking on toys, but no consistent program for labeling foods that pose the same type of risk. In addition to lack of regulations, there is also no central repository for data on childhood deaths caused by choking on food. The Academy would like to see that change, as well.

Certain types of foods are more likely for kids to choke on. These foods are usually cylindrical and about the size of a child’s throat. Foods mentioned specifically included hot dogs, grapes, baby carrots, apples and peanuts. The Academy has released some tips for parents to deal with risky foods:

• Cut the food into smaller pieces so it is not the right size to block the child’s throat. This includes cutting hotdogs lengthwise and grapes into quarters.
• Don’t give small children hard to chew foods like hard candies, nuts and baby carrots.
• Keep children in an upright seated position when eating.

Read more about the American Academy of Pediatrics’ initiative to prevent childhood food choking at Labels urged for foods that can choke kids.