Child Injury Lawyer Blog

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

At times, medications, that are put out in the market to treat children, can actually put children at risk or cause personal injuries or illness. PediaCare children's medicines, manufactured by Johnson & Johnson, were recalled due to problems at a plant where poor quality standards or issues were identified. The medications involved in the recall included PediaCare Decongestant and PediaCare Allergy and Cold, PediaCare Multi-Symptom Cold, and PediaCare Long Acting Cough. For more details, see Children's Medications Recalled.

By Roy S. Dickinson, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Oklahoma and other States, the summer months present real dangers to children. Leaving a child in a vehicle unattended can lead to tragic and deadly consequences. In Meeker, Oklahoma, a toddler died after being mistakenly left in a hot vehicle during the day. Even a few minutes in a hot car can lead to serious personal injuries and even wrongful death. It was reported that a 2 year old girl died in a hot car after being left in the vehicle during the day. The medical examiner later determined that the cause of death was hyperthermia. The death of this little girl is certainly a great loss for her family, neighbors, and community. See Meeker Oklahoma - 2 Year Old Dies in Hot Car. See also Monroe County, Georgia - 21 Month Old Child Dies - Left Inside Parked Van All Day - Dangers of Leaving a Child in a Vehicle.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Harry Crowther, is an 11 year old British boy, that has an aging disorder called Atypical Progeria Syndrome. According to news report, he is in the only person at the current time in the world with this disorder. Even though this aging disorder has caused him ongoing pain, discomfort and stiffness that is common with old age, Harry is doing his best to play like other 11 year old boys. He likes climbing trees and riding skateboards. It appears that this child has a lot of heart and courage despite the stress and pain associated with this disorder. You can read more about this remarkable young man at Boy, 11, Ages Five Times Faster than Friends.

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

In Lufkin, Texas, a teacher's aide was arrested based on criminal allegations that she struck / hit a 4 year old boy. The incident took place at the Slack Elementary School. It was reported that another teacher's aide witness the acts of Debra Martin Fuqua (age 54). There were subsequent investigations of the incident by the school district as well as Child Protective Services. This was an interesting story in that the alleged criminal acts were witnessed by another school employee. Often times, a child has no such adult witness to step up and serve as a witness on the case. See Lufkin Texas Teacher's Aide Arrested.

The mistreatment of children in day care centers, schools, and homes is wholly unacceptable. Physical violence and corporal punishment cause physical personal injuries and often times long term psychological injuries as well.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Gary Coleman was and will continue to be a television icon. Tragically, his famous but troubled and, at times, unhealthy life ended with his death at the age of 42. Gary Coleman rose to fame in the 1970s / 1980s with the hit show Different Strokes. Gary Coleman was an accomplished actor and had great comedic timing. Unfortunately, his acting career like the acting careers of many others, had a peek and a short time span. Gary was super cute and in demand as a child but, as an adult, he was not able to break free of being type casted as Arnold Willis from Different Strokes.

How did Gary Coleman's life make a difference? Gary Coleman brought public attention to those suffering from kidney diseases and those in need of kidney transplants. In addition, Gary Coleman brought public attention to the continued need for child actors to protect their earnings. Had Gary Coleman had better management and parents in place for that matter, Gary Coleman could have lived a more comfortable life free of some of the troubles and tabloid articles that made him famous as an adult. How will Gary Coleman's death make a difference? Well, in death, Gary Coleman may bring more awareness to the seriousness of head injuries and the need for medical treatment when there is a head injury or brain injury. In addition, Gary Coleman will be remembered for his acting, his success, his challenges, and his attitude. I always liked Gary Coleman in how he handled himself as a child actor and in how he handled himself as a former child actor. Gary Coleman did not have an easy or charmed life and it is unfortunate that he died with more troubles than successes in the years preceding his death. Rest in peace Gary Coleman. See Gary Coleman - Different Strokes Television Star Dies at the Age of 42.

By Scott Zahler, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Savannah, Georgia, a 3 year old girl suffered personal injuries as a result of a knife that was thrown by a Garden City, Georgia woman who threw the knife during a fight over the purchase or selection of the wrong brand of beer. Throwing knives, shooting guns, and other dangerous activities can lead to serious personal injuries of children. It can also get a person arrested for assault, battery, neglect of a child, and other criminal charges.

It is important for parents and other adults to recognize that children are at risk any time that there is violent activities. Keep the children out of it and think about their safety first over everything else. You can read about the unfortunate stabbing of a 3 year old girl in Savannah at Three Year Old Stabbed in Beer Dispute.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Indiana and other States, parents and other drivers continue to hit the roads with children in the vehicle while under the influence of drugs and alcohol. When driving, it is important to be alert and sharp. It is a well know fact that alcohol dulls the senses and has a definite effect on motor skills. Driving under the influence puts many people at risk including the driver, passengers (especially children), other drivers and passengers in vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. If you have been drinking, stay out of the driver's seat and get somebody sober behind the wheel. In Muncie, Indiana, a man was arrested for drunk driving charges. He had picked up the children of his fiance from a day care center and was driving the children home when he crashed into a tree. Police arrived on the scene. The children in the vehicle were young children. One was 5 years old and the other was 2 years old. Both were treated at Ball Memorial Hospital. The 5 year old was taken to Riley Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana for treatment for internal injuries. See Child Injured in Drunk Driving Incident in Muncie, Indiana.

Driving while under the influence of alcohol and / or drugs is extremely dangerous. Keep the safety of children and others in mind. If you drink - never drive. Otherwise, your driving could land an innocent child into the hospital or worse an early grave. Think smart - Don't Drink and Drive.

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

In Ohio and other states, accidental injuries take place in day care centers. It is important for day care providers and child care providers to recognize and respond to injuries. First Aid kits should be readily available and the parent should be immediately contacted should the injury require medical care beyond a simple bandaid. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services requires day care centers to complete an Incident Report when there is an injury that takes place at a day care center. Incident Reports like these are important in that they help document the incident for the day care center, parents, and the State of Ohio. Recognizing and reporting accidents and incidents that lead to injury can help bring a better safety awareness to day care centers. There are many issues or questions that arise when a child is injured in a day care center including the following:

When did the incident / injuries take place?

What students / day care center workers were present at the time of the injury?

What was the cause of the injury?

Were the injuries preventable?

Was there an issue with the supervision of the children?

Was there an maintenance issue with the facility that caused the child personal injuries?

See Ohio Day Care Center Accident / Incident / Injury Report.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Spring and Summer months bring with them better weather and more swimmers. It is a great time for parents to think about water safety and about providing their children with qualified swimming lessons. Many YMCAs and other community centers through the nation offer baby water safety classes. It is a great gift for a parent to provide a child with the skills necessary to swim. Children are curious and have poor safety awareness. Some children unexpectedly fall into water including pools, lakes, and other areas. As such, a child, who has been provided swim lessons, may very well have a less likelihood of drowning and suffering drowning related injuries than a child with no training or experience with the water. Parents should check out local YMCAs and other groups and consider enrolling a small child in a swimming class. There are many qualified swimming instructors and programs out there. It is important for a parent to ask a lot of questions including the following:

What is the recommended age for a child to have initial swimming lessons?

What is the training of the instructor?

How long has the program been in effect?

What are the short term and long term goals of the swimming program?

What kind of instruction or techniques are involved with the swimming program?

How does the swimming instruction program differ from others in the area?

You can read more about infant / toddler / child swimming instruction programs at YMCAs Offer Baby Water Safety Classes.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Toddlers are at risk for choking incidents in homes and day care centers. Due to this real danger, parents, babysitters, teachers, day care providers, and child care workers should take precautions to remove items from the reach of children that may lead to a choking incident. Parents and caregivers should be super diligent in monitoring what a child eats, what is within reach of a child, and what toys are available and appropriate for a child. It is estimated that approximately 2.5 million children in the United States experience some type of choking episode or incident every year after consuming or swallowing a foreign object. Of these, medical researchers estimate that 2,000 deaths result every year. This is a staggering number considering that many such incidents are avoidable with proper supervision, consistency, and some common sense. One suggestion from medical experts is to do a "Toilet Paper Tube Test." If an item can fit through a toilet paper tube, it is too small to be left within the reach of a child. Safety precautions and solid supervision can help prevent many choking incidents from taking place. This would certainly reduce the number of associated choking personal injuries to children. You can read more at Doctors Warn of Choking Hazards to Children.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In the United States and other countries like Ireland, driveway accidents or back over accidents continue to be a problem and a serious danger to small children and toddlers. A doctor in Ireland is trying to raise awareness of this problem and has offered a solution of sorts through a campaign called "Spot a Tot". One suggestion is to walk around the vehicle and check for any children in the area prior to getting in the car to back up out of the driveway. Drive way or back over accidents happen because a child, due to the child's height and size, is hidden from the view of the driver as the driver is backing up. There have been a number of drive way or back over accidents leading to serious child personal injuries and even death. Take the time to "Spot a Tot". A few extra seconds of safety can save a child from serious injuries and can even safe a life. See Drive Way / Back Over Accidents - Danger to Children - "Spot a Tot" Program.

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

In New York and other States, two things don't mix well - day care centers and guns. In Syracuse, New York, a man was sentenced to prison for having a shot gun outside of a New York day care center. He was charged and sentenced for criminal possession of this firearm / weapon. Police had responded to the scene after getting a call that shots were fired. While no children or others were injured, the man was still charged with a crime. See Syracuse, New York - Man Sentenced to Prison for Having Shotgun Outside of Day Care Center.

Day care centers should be a safe and nurturing haven for children. Unfortunately, people put children at danger in day care centers frequently by conducting criminal activity in and / or around day care centers. Vehicles have been reported to crash into day care centers and some people have even run drugs in or near a day care center. The safety and welfare of children should be a paramount concern for the day care center, the community, and any persons in or around a day care center.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Clear Lake, Minnesota and other cities, parents place their children in day care center with the hope and expectation that the children will receive care in a nurturing, clean, and safe environment. Unfortunately, children in Minnesota are abused, neglected, and injured in Minnesota day care centers. Some children even suffer serious personal injuries or die as a result of poor care or criminal acts in a day care center. In Clear Lake, Minnesota, a Ham Lake (Minnesota) man - Joshua Paul Emery - was sentenced to 6 years of prison for an incident that took place at a day care center. Emery punched a 3 year old girl enrolled in the program because she was crying. The trauma was this punch caused her bowel to perforate which in turn required surgery. Emery was charged and subsequently he pleaded guilty to the criminal charges of assault.

Some people do not have any place being around children in a day care center. If a person lacks training or the patience to deal with children, that person does not belong at a day care center. You can read more about this story at Ham Lake, Minnesota Man Gets 6 Years for Assaulting Girl at Day Care Center.

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

In Charlotte, North Carolina, a man tried to abduct / kidnap a 4 year old boy from a Charlotte gym while the boy's father was working out. The gym provided for day care services for members. While the boy's father was working out, a man came to the day care center part of the gym and told the attendant that he was a friend of the boy's father (work out partner) and that he was there to pick up the boy. As the attendant was gathering the boy's belongs, the boy stated that the man was not his father and that he did not know the man. The attendant then informed the man that the attendant would need to contact the father before releasing the boy out of the care and custody of the gym's day care program.

Fortunately, the child spoke up and the child was not released. It was quite frightening for the mother of the child to learn of the details of this story. Child predators and offenders go to great lengths to get their next victims. One would think that a child in a day care center would be safe from the harm or victimization. When parents take a child to a day care center, parents should find out the policy and procedures for drop off and pick up. Make sure that the procedures prevent incidents like this from taking place. Not all children are going to speak up and let an attendant know that there is a problem. That is why proper policies and procedures are so important. You can read more about this story at Stranger Tries to Take Boy from Charlotte, North Carolina Gym Day Care Center.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

The Billings (Montana) Gazette posted a good article about safety restraints and seat belts. By following these simple tips, parents, teachers, bus drivers, van drivers, and day care providers can improve the safe transportation of children under their care.

The safety tips included the following:

*Encourage and require that children and others always wear a seat belt;

*Check to make sure that the car seat or safety restraint meets the height, weight and age of the child;

*Transport infants in rear facing car seats in the back seat of the vehicle;

*Keep infants, toddlers, and other children out of seats with an air bag; and

*Read warning labels and instructions on all car seats.

Children should be taught at an early age that wearing a seatbelt or being in a child restraint is not optional - it is mandatory - otherwise, there will be no trip or movement of the vehicle. Children like to battle parents and others when they think there is a chance of victory. If the child knows that the adult or caregiver will never make an exception to the seat belt / safety restraint rule, it is more likely that the child will form a good habit of following this safety rule.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In South Dakota and other States, it is quite tragic that incidents of Shaken Baby Syndrome continue to be reported. The simple and violent act of shaking a baby can result in serious brain damage and even death. Never - ever shake a baby for any reason. Whether it is done in fun, in anger or for discipline, a child's brain and skull cannot withstand the force of an adult shaking the child. In Eagle Butte, South Dakota, it was reported by the Rapid City Journal that Nicholas Allan Rivers, age 30, pleaded guilty to criminal charges of assault resulting in bodily injury. The incident causing serious child personal injuries took place on May 4, 2009.

The safety and well being of a child under the care of a parent, friend, neighbor, teacher, or day care provider should take precedence over all other matters. Keep children safe and it should be repeated - never - ever shake a child.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Washington and States, children continue to be the unfortunate victims of drive way and back over accidents. In Newcastle, Washington, a father was backing out of his driveway when he accidentally hit his son with the back end of the vehicle. As the father was backing up, the boy ran over from a corner to where the vehicle was backing up according to local police.

Drivers, to the best of their ability, should be on the look out for children when backing out of driveways or parking lots. Many incidents are unfortunate tragedies while other incidents can be prevented by keeping children away from the moving vehicle and having other adult supervision in place.

You can read more about this story at 5 Year Old Washington Boy Fatally Struck in Driveway.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In selecting a day care center for a child, a parent should do some research to find out information about the day care center. It is much better to do this research so that the parent is making an informed and good decision about the day care center. Price, location, and convenience cannot and should not be the only factors to be considered by a parent. There are typically many options available for parents. The best option is not always the easiest day care option for a parent. Erin Toombs wrote an excellent article titled Choosing a Day Care Center. I would recommend that parents read this article and follow some of the tips in making a decision as to a day care center. The selection of a good day care center can make a big difference for the child. The safety and education of a child in a day care center are the most important factors to consider. Day care centers should have an "open door" policy to visitors, follow state and local day care regulations, have proper staff in place, train staff on an ongoing basis, and have good facilities including playground facilities, classroom facilities, napping areas, and clean bathroom areas. Day care centers that follow policies and procedures and implement high quality standards are less likely to have children suffer serious personal injuries due to negligence or poor safety precautions.

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

The National Governors Association has selected Oregon and five other States to help promote and establish higher day care standards. States already have day care standards that address the health, safety, and welfare of the students. For instance, most states, if not all of them, have staff to child ratios for day care centers. In looking to go beyond basic standards, Oregon will be looking at other factors that will improve the day care experience for children. For instance, one such area would involve monitoring how a child retains information during story time. It appears that the day care program or model being considered or implemented by Oregon will look deeper into the day care experience of the child. You can read more about this story at Oregon Looking to Lead the Nation in Raising Day Care Standards.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Parents, caregivers, day care providers, teachers, babysitters, siblings, and other should pay attention to some simple but important advice - NEVER EVER SHAKEN A BABY. Babies and infants are very fragile. There brains and skulls are still developing. A person would not typically throw a television or glass to the floor. As such, why shake a baby? A television or glass can be replaced. A baby's brain function, health, and welfare are not as easily fixed or replaced. Severe medical complications can and do result from Shaken Baby Syndrome. You can read more about this topic at Never, Never Shake a Baby. See also Shaken Baby Syndrome - Texas Man Alleged to Have Caused Injuries to Child.

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

The New Hampshire Bureau of Child Care Licensing is the state agency responsible for licensing, inspecting, and regulating day care center and child care centers in the State of New Hampshire. According to a recent news story reported in the Eagle Tribune Online, many day care centers are cited with serious violations of state day care centers. Unfortunately, many of these violations cause or eventually lead to the cause of serious child personal injuries to New Hampshire children.

Some of the violations involve the threat or implementation of corporal punishment. Others involve facility standards involving the safety of a child like a playground in disrepair or exposed rusty nails in and around the facility. It is important that the State continue these inspections which should be conducted with regularity but in practice can range from 1 to 3 years between inspections. You can read more about this story at Many New Hampshire Day Care Centers Violating State Standards. You can also view the New Hampshire Bureau of Licensing Website for general information on day care centers throughout the State of New Hampshire.

By Benjamin A. Klopman, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Maryland and other States, parents, who need to place a child in day care, must make the decision between a Maryland home day care center and a Maryland commercial or traditional day care center. A good article was posted regarding this topic at Advantages and Disadvantages of Day Care for Kids.

The advantages of Maryland home day care centers include the following:

*Cost is typically lower than traditional commercial Maryland day care center;
*Small number of children allow for individualized attention;
*Typically one child care provider which allows the child to bond with the child care provider;
*Few children may equate to fewer illnesses and germs;
*Size of the home day care center allows for more flexibility in accommodating individual needs of the child and family.

The disadvantages of Maryland home day care centers include the following:

*More staff members allow for continued care if one caregiver is sick or goes on vacation;
*Rules are typically more formal and this may lead to better following of these rules as to the care of the children; and
*There are typically supervisors in place to monitor the actions of the caregivers.

Of course, there are other advantages and disadvantages to each type of day care center in place. A parent should inspect the day care center to make sure that the needs of the child can be met and are met by the day care center.

Consistent child care supervision can help prevent serious child personal injuries from taking place. Unfortunately, many day care centers, whether the day care center is a Maryland home day care center or a Maryland commercial day care center, fail to provide adequate supervision and safety precaution. This, in turn, can lead to a serious child personal injury.

By Roy S. Dickinson, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Bartlesville, Oklahoma, a 4 year old suffered serious personal injuries in the form of a skull fracture. The boy also suffered bruises on his chest, upper shoulders, back, and legs. David Wymon Laird, faces criminal charges of child abuse. At first, Laird denied that he harmed the child but he later admitted to police, according to a news story, that boy was harmed when Laird was disciplining the child. The boy was transported to Tulsa's Children's Hospital where he was treated with these serious life threatening personal injuries.

Children should never been disciplined by assaulting the child or inflicting head injuries that can and do lead to brain injuries. You can read more about this tragic story at Bartlesville, Oklahoma Man Slams Head of 4 Year Old - Skull Fracture.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

A former daycare worker is facing criminal charges regarding an incident that took place at the For Kids Only Child Care Center in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. The former day care worker, Ashley Miller, is accused of placing a pillow over a child's face who was enrolled in the day care center. According to the news report, there was video surveillance at the facility at the time of the incident. Assuming that the video was preserved and can be admitted into evidence, it may be a tough case for the child care worker to defend her actions. Placing a pillow over a child's face is dangerous and can lead to serious personal injuries and, in some cases, wrongful death. You can read more about this story at Former Day Care Worker in Sheperdsville, Kentucky Accused of Abusing 1 Year Old - Power of Video Surveillance Evidence.

By Scott Zahler, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Atlanta and other busy cities, driver should exercise caution especially when driving through or near crosswalks that children use. WSB Radio reported that a child was hit in a crosswalk by a driver who ran a red light and then kept on driving. Tragically, the driver kept on driving and dragged the 8 year old boy another 100 to 150 feet as the driver fled the scene of the pedestrian / automobile accident. The driver was reported to be Cynthia Parham who was arrested later on various traffic related charges. Ms. Parham will be entitled to defend herself against these traffic / criminal charged through an Atlanta criminal defense attorney or the services or the local public defender's office.

Crosswalks are in place for a purpose. They are in place for adults and children to use with the purpose of safe passage across the roadway. Traffic devices like red lights and stop signs should be obeyed. When drivers ignore traffic signals, traffic devices, and the presence of pedestrians especially children, serious and tragic personal injuries can result. You can read more about this story at 8 Year Old Child Hit and Driver Charged in Atlanta, Georgia.

By Benjamin A. Klopman, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Howard County, Maryland, Judge Timothy McCrone sentenced Michael Adegoke Oye-Adeniran to a 20 year prison term for crimes committed against his niece. Prosecutors brought a case against this man for an incident involving a scalding incident. The allegations were that this man got angry when the child soiled herself so he put her feet into water that was 160 degrees. The severe heat of the water caused severe personal injuries to the child who was 2 years old at the time. The water was so hot that she suffered second and third degree burns to her feet. It was reported that the water was so hot that her toenails melted off. ( See Maryland Man Gets 20 Year Prison Sentence).

Parents, caregivers, day care providers and others should recognize that children will have potty problems. At times, children will soil their diapers or underwear. This can even happen with an older child. Child caregivers should keep everything in perspective and should never ever use physical harm like scalding water to discipline a child. The child's personal injuries in the form of physical scars and psychological scars will last a lifetime for a child. Corporal punishment of this nature is criminal and should be and was subject to a long prison term.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Utah and Other States, day care centers have been the unfortunate locations of automobile accidents and trucking accidents. Because many day care centers are situated in commercial areas near busy streets and highways, there have been a number of reported automobile accidents in which a vehicle crashes into a day care center facility / building. In Billerica, Utah, it was reported that a mini van crashed into a Kindercare Day Care Center. There were no reported serious personal injuries to children but two infants were transported for medical evaluation at local hospitals following this Utah crash. The police investigating the accident reported that the driver stated that she meant to hit the brake when instead she hit the gas / accelerator.

When driving in or around schools or day care centers, drivers should exercise the utmost caution and be on the lookout for any children. You can read more about this story at Mini Van Crashes into Utah Kindercare Day Care Center.

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

In Massachusetts, child safety advocates are trying to get tougher or more restrictive All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) legislation put in place. Currently, Massachusetts laws allows a child 10 years of age and older to ride on an ATV with adult supervision. Proposed legislation would raise the age in Massachusetts to 14 and older. Katie Kearney is a mother and a proponent of such legislation. Her son died following an ATV accident in 2006 after he suffered serious traumatic brain injuries. He was riding the ATV at a friend's house.

Dr. Lois Lee, the director of Children's Hospital Boston - Emergency Department Injury Prevention Program, points out that there is a substantial risk of injury and even death to children who ride on All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). Statistics show that
injuries there were 900 child personal injuries reported between 2004 - 2005 in Massachusetts. Approximately a quarter of these injuries required treatment in intensive care for serious personal injuries. Some even had serious traumatic brain injuries.

Yes, ATVs are fun but they are truly dangerous vehicles especially for children. You can read more about this story at Families Pushes for Tougher ATV Legislation in Massachusetts.

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

In Omaha, Nebraska, a two vehicle car crash ended with damage into a day care center. Fortunately, no children in the day care center suffered any personal injuries as a result of this crash. The presence of day care centers just off of busy roads is another reason for drivers to exercise the utmost caution and care when driving in Omaha, Nebraska and other areas.

Automobile accidents that result in damage to day care buildings and facilities have been reported in various cities throughout the United States. The only way to prevent such incidents or reduce the number of such incidents is for drivers to obey the rules of the road including speed limits, turn signals, signs, and traffic. You can read more about this Nebraska story including a photograph of the automobile accident scene at Car Crashes into Nebraska Day Care Center.

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

In Georgia and other States, adults and children enjoy riding ATVs (All Terrain Vehicles). ATV riding can be quite dangerous as well. It is important for adults and children riding ATVs to follow safety precautions by wearing helmets, knowing the terrain where the riding is taking place, and by traveling at a safe speed.

In Cleveland, Georgia, it was reported by the Atlanta Journal Constitution Newspaper website that a man died as a result of an ATV accident. It was reported that the man and the ATV went off a 25 foot embankment.

Just because a person is operating an ATV off the road does not make it safe. Of course, it is safer than riding an ATV on or near traffic. However, accidents can still happen on and off dirt roads and other off road areas.

By J. Rock Palermo, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Louisiana, legislation is being proposed that will encourage day care centers and child care providers to check day care vehicles before exiting the vehicle. In Louisiana and other States, children have been left behind in day care vehicles. Some children have even died from exposure to extreme cold or extreme heat after being left in the vehicle. Checklists and alarms can help avoid these tragic incidents. The Committee on Transportation, Highways and Public Works approved a bill that would require the Department of Social Services to prepare regulations to require child inspection alarms on day care center vehicles. The child inspection alarms would be activated once the vehicle is turned on. When the vehicle is turned off, the alarm will sound to remind the driver to check all parts of the vehicle. The alarm can only be shut off after the driver walks to the back of the vehicle. This relatively inexpensive device can save lives and better protect children. You can read more about this story at Panel Says Day Care Center Vehicles Must Have Child Inspection Alarms.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

When addressing playground safety issues, I thought it would be interesting to post an article from a child's point of view. My 11 year old daughter provided me with the following article on Playground Safety:

On the playground, kids just want to have fun. Boys like to play sports like football and soccer. Girls like to play on the jungle gym. The boys' games can get pretty intense and the girls' jungle gym play can get competitive.

The teachers monitoring the playground cannot see every child playing at once. Let's just say your child is participating in a football game at school during recess. There is a fifth grader on the other team while your child is only in the second grade. Your child may have the chance to catch the ball BOOM! The big fifth grader tackles your child. After the incident, the teachers come running toward your child. They call you, the parent, and tell you about the terrible occurrence.

Thereafter, you arrive at the school and take your child to the doctor. You then find out that your child has a broken wrist.

To avoid this happening to your child or another child in the future, you should ask your child what they were doing with their friends. If some activity taking place does not sound safe or appropriate, you should speak to the teacher and, if necessary, the principal about the dangerous activity.

You should ask that the school to provide close supervision of your child and other children during recess and other times on the playground. A school and its staff should always do their best to keep kids safe.

By Scott A. Marks, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In California and other States, guns including pellet and bb guns have no place on campus or at the school or even near the school. In Whittier, California, a 10 year old boy purchased a pellet type of gun from an ice cream truck / ice cream man. Thereafter, he accidentally shot the pellet son at another student. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries that resulted from the incident. The matter was reported to school officials who later suspended the 10 year old student.

While there were no serious personal injuries reported, there was certainly a danger or risk of serious personal injuries any time that there is a child using a pellet gun without safety precautions and without adult supervision. There is also a danger that a police officer or other person could mistake a toy gun or a pellet gun for a real gun.

Parents, teachers, and other adults should do their best to educate their children on the dangers of both real guns and toy guns. Furthermore, selling items like a pellet gun from an ice cream truck near an elementary school is problematic. City officials could consider a city ordinance banning or regulating such sales. You can read more about this story at Boy Suspended from School in Whittier California Regarding a Pellet Gun Incident.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Spring City, Pennsylvania, a man brought his computer into a business to have some work done on the computer. When the computer tech was examining the computer, the tech found suspicious images on the computer that turned out to be 100 child pornography images. According to the story reported by ABC 6 Action News, the man admitted to the having the images on his computer that he received through a download. Of course, the man was arrested. He will be entitled to the services of a private criminal law attorney or the public defender; however, there appears to be a good bit of forensic evidence against him. (See Man Arrested for Having Child Pornography on his Computer.)

Child pornography is not a victim less crime since the children are subject to the photographs and often times illegal acts. Child pornography possession and downloading only contributes to an industry that abuses and neglects children.

SPRING CITY, Pa. - April 6, 2010 (WPVI) -- A man from Spring City, Chester County, has been arrested on charges of child pornography and his neighborhood is in shock.

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Scott Cooper seemed like the all American Dad and Husband, a man who worked hard to provide his family the nice home with the picket fence.

"I don't know. I never would have guessed or expected it. I find it hard to believe," said a neighbor.

But investigators say behind closed doors he had a dirty secret he liked to view child pornography.

"The defendant had taken his computer to have some repairs done and during the course of those repairs the shop owner discovered what looked like a suspicious image," explained Chester County Deputy District Attorney Beth Pitts.

The computer technician contacted police. The case was turned over to the Internet Crimes against Children Task Force. It allegedly found 100 images of child porn.

According to court records, Scott Cooper told detectives he knew the child porn was quote "taboo" and he called it a stupid risky hobby. He told them he would download bulk images, view them, then try and delete them.

"I am really really shocked and appalled because I think he does a great job taking care of his kids and I just find it really hard to believe," said a neighbor.

"A little scared, very scared," said Jill Ohler.

That was the reaction from neighbors. It's one often heard in cases like this an unnerving reminder that our neighbors aren't always who they seem to be.

Cooper will be arraigned on Thursday.

(Copyright ©2010 WPVI-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)

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

In New York and other States, parents bring their children to day care centers with the hope and expectation that their children will be cared for in a safe and caring environment. Unfortunately, some day care workers and child care providers prey children enrolled in day care centers. Some children suffer personal injuries due to neglect or physical abuse. Others suffer at the hands of a child care provider who makes the decision to molest and sexually assault a small child. In Irondequoit, New York, a day care worker has been accused of molesting a 7 year old girl. Police arrested Joseph M. Calabrese, age 24, who has been criminally charged with endangering the welfare of a child and with sexual abuse. Mr. Calabrese was working at Generations Daycare at the time of the alleged criminal conduct. Since Mr. Calabrese has been arrested and faces criminal charges, he will be entitled to legal representation from a private New York criminal attorney or a qualified public defender. News report did not detail the exact evidence that supported this criminal investigation. In many day care cases of this nature, evidence varies from witness statements, photographs, video surveillance, admissions of the suspect, documents, e mails, and text messages. It will be interesting to see how this criminal prosecution develops and what evidence is ultimately revealed to support these allegations. You can read more about this story at Irondequoit, New York Day Care Work Accused of Sexually Abusing 7 Year Old Girl in New York Day Care Center.
Generations Daycare in Irondequoit.

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

The Connecticut State Senate recently voted to ban smoking in Connecticut Day Care Centers. The bill passed by a lopsided vote of 35 to 0. This bill makes sense in that smoking has no place in a day care center or around small children. If a person cannot follow such regulation due to a bad smoking habit, that person should find another job or career. You can read more about this Connecticut legislation / laws at Connecticut Lawmakers Vote to Ban Smoking in Connecticut Day Care Centers.

By Joni J. Franklin, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Child care centers and day care centers in Kansas are regulated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment through various laws, rules, and regulations. Pursuant to General Regulations -K.A.R. 28-4-128. Safety Procedures, a Kansas child care center has a duty to train each person / employee who regularly cares for children in first aid. It is important for a child who is injured in a day care center to get immediate attention and help. Having training in first aid along with having the right supplies and equipment are vital for the well being of children in Kansas day care center.

If a child has been injured as a result of negligence, improper supervision, or unsafe equipment or furnishing, a child injury lawyer can answer many questions that arise when dealing with these matters.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Some household chores can lead to serious personal injuries to children. In Nebraska, a 3 year old boy suffered serious personal injuries after he fell in front of a lawnmower. The 3 year old boy was running in the yard when he slipped and fell. The 17 year old, who was operating the Craftsman riding lawnmower, could not stop. Unfortunately, the 3 year old boy suffered injuries to his lower body with concentration to his left leg. A helicopter was dispatched to the home and the boy was transported to Creighton University Medical Center.

When mowing a lawn, all small children should be kept away from the part of the yard being cut. In addition, there should be parental supervision in place to make sure that a small child does not wander or play near the lawnmower. You can read more about this story at Nebraska 3 Year Old Boy Suffers Serious Personal Injuries as a Result of a Lawnmower Accident.

By Joni J. Franklin, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Child care centers and day care centers in Kansas are regulated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment through various laws, rules, and regulations. Pursuant to General Regulations - K.A.R. 28-4-130 - Transportation (Pages 32-33), a child care center, that provides transportation, must provide safety restraints / seat belts for children as follows:

*each child care center vehicle shall be equipped with an restraint per each child;

*an infant, who is unable to sit up without support, shall be placed in an infant car seat or carrier that faces backward;

*a child, who is able to sit up with support, shall be provided with one of the following safety restraints or devices:

-shield type device;

-a car seat facing the front designed to hold a child weighing up to 40 pounds;

-a safety harness.

*a child, who is 4 years old or older OR who weighs 40 pounds or more shall have a lap belt. Shoulder straps should also be provided if the shoulder straps do not cross the child's neck or face.

Buses, according to Kansas regulations, shall not be required to be equipped with individual restraints if the bus transports only school age children.

If a child has been injured in a child care center vehicle accident, result of negligence, a child injury lawyer can answer many questions that arise when dealing with these matters.

By Thomas J. Duff, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Iowa and Other States, parents, step parents, and boyfriend / girlfriends of parents often show poor judgment and violent tendencies when disciplining children. Beatings and whippings may be the way things were done years ago; however, these forms of punishment are often times cruel and unusual and in some cases criminal. In Sioux City, Iowa, Tyrone James (age 32) was sentenced to a 2 year prison term after entering a guilty plea of charges of child endangerment. Allegations in this case involved two children who were hit by belts, tree branches and extension cords. The mother of children also pled guilty to criminal charges. See Sioux City Iowa Man Sentenced to Prison Term for Child Endangerment Criminal Charges.

Children should be raised in a loving and caring environment. Children should not be subjected to the personal injuries or the psychological injuries of being hit by a parent or other adult.

By Joni J. Franklin, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Child care centers and day care centers in Kansas are regulated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment through various laws, rules, and regulations. Pursuant to General Regulations - K.A.R. 28-4-130 - Transportation (Page 32), a child care center, that provides transportation, has a duty have no less than $100,000 in liability insurance for the injury or death of one person and $300,000 for injury or death to two or more persons.

This is an important regulation to follow as it provides for insurance coverage should there be an accident causing personal injuries or death to a child. If the day care center driver was at fault, parents should be able to see compensation to cover medical bills including future medical bills, lost wages of the parent, and the pain and suffering associated with the personal injuries. Having the requisite insurance in place along with the right legal representation in place can help a parent recover damages or compensation for the personal injuries and related expenses.

If a child has been injured in a child care center vehicle accident, result of negligence, a child injury lawyer can answer many questions that arise when dealing with these matters.

By Joni J. Franklin, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Child care centers and day care centers in Kansas are regulated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment through various laws, rules, and regulations. Pursuant to General Regulations - K.A.R. 28-4-127 - Emergencies, a child care center has a duty to have written policies in place regarding the reporting of personal injuries and illnesses of adults and children. If a child's illness or personal injury requires medical attention, the child care center has a legal duty to immediately report the matter to the parent of guardian of the child. If a child dies at a Kansas child care center, the facility must report the death to the county health department or the Kansas Department of Health and Environment by the next working day.

It is vital that child care centers communicate with parents especially when a child is ill or when a child has suffered a personal injury. A child deserved timely medical attention when needed. Parents should have this prompt notification so that plans or arrangements can be made to address the medical and health needs of the child.

If a child has been injured as a result of negligence, improper equipment, or the lack of supervision, a child injury lawyer can answer many questions that arise including issues dealing with medical bills, medical treatment, health insurance, school medical insurance, compensation, the applicable laws, and other matters.

By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Pennsylvania and other States, it is vital that day care center and child care workers provide ongoing and consistent supervision of children under their care. Even a few minutes or less of inattention, multi-tasking, or distraction can lead to disaster and tragedy in a day care center. In Pittsburgh / Garfield, Pennsylvania, a day care operator is being criminally charged with the death of a 10 month old child that was under the care of the day care center. While the child care provider was attending to another child, the 10 month old was injured by a 7 year old child. The operator of the day care center - both the owner of the day care center and the child care worker are being charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Prosecutors will argue that owner was neglectful in staffing and that the worker was neglectful in her supervision. Of course, these individuals will be entitled to the services of a criminal defense attorney or a public defender regarding these criminal charges. You can read more about this story at Day Care Center Owner and Caregiver Charged in Death of Child in Pennsylvania.

In Kansas and other States, children continue to suffer personal injuries and even death in some instances as a result of drive way / parking lot / back over incidents. These most unfortunate automobile accidents / pedestrian accidents result when a driver fails to observe a child behind the vehicle. In some instances, the child darts behind the vehicle as the vehicle is moving. In many incidents, the injuries can be avoided with better supervision of the child and more careful driving. Before a driver attempts to back out of a parking lot or drive way, the driver should first check around his or her vehicle before getting into the vehicle. Thereafter, the driver should check again and then only back up very slowly. While not all accidents of this nature can be avoided, most can. Taking a few more seconds for the safety of children can make a big difference.

In Wichita, Kansas, it was reported that a 4 year old boy was the victim of a back over accident at an apartment complex. The incident took place at the Pelican Point Apartments in the evening hours. At the time of the incident, several children were in the area playing in the parking lot. The accident took place as a child was going after a ball. Emergency paramedics later arrived on the scene and too the boy to Via Christi Medical Center (Hospital) for evaluation. It was reported that the child was in critical condition upon arrival. Subsequently, the boy's condition was upgraded. You can read more about this story at Back Over Accident in Parking Lot at Wichita, Kansas Apartment Complex.

By Joni J. Franklin, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

Child care centers and day care centers in Kansas are regulated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment through various laws, rules, and regulations. Pursuant to General Regulations - K.A.R. 28-4-123 - Parental Access to Child Care Facilities (Page 27), a parent has a right to access the child care center during all hours of operation. This is an important regulation as it allows a parent and requires a facility to "keep its doors open". A parent could enter the facility at any time. As such, child care centers and its staff must be prepared for such a visit with the understanding that the parent will look around to make sure that everything is in order.

Parents, with children in child care centers, should visit frequently and, if possible, visit at different times. If all parents visit at one time, then the child care center may be more lax during the hours that parents do not visit. Parents are advised to use visitation times to bond with their children and to get to know the child care providers. Learn the names of the child care worker and let them know that you appreciate their hard work. If there is a problem with the care at a child care center or day care center that result in personal injuries, contact a child injury lawyer to get a better understanding of the rights of the injured child and the regulations and laws as they pertain to child care centers.

By Scott Zahler, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network

In Georgia, a 21 month old child died as a result of being left unattended in a parked van while the mother was working at an elementary school. The incident happened at
Samuel E. Hubbard Elementary School in Forsyth, Georgia. The mother, India Chatmon (age 23) had left the child in the van as she was working in the school. Once it was discovered the the child was left in the van, the child was rushed to a local emergency room - Monroe County Emergency Room. Unfortunately, medical intervention could not save this child.

This is a sad and tragic story. It is also one in which the child's death could have been prevented assuming that an autopsy confirms that the child died from hyperthermia or other causes related to being left unattended and unsupervised in the van. You can read more about this story at Georgia Child Dies After Being Left Unattended in a Vehicle.