CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. Doctors may prescribe these devices to treat sleep apnea disorders. However, some brands and models may be dangerous if defective. Possible side effects include lung cancer, sarcoidosis, recurrent pneumonitis, severe new or worsened asthma, and COPD/respiratory disease.
“Lung cancer is cancer that forms in tissues of the lung, usually in the cells that line the air passages. It is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women.” (1) You may be suffering from lung cancer caused by a defective CPAP machine. Symptoms of exposure to particles from the degraded foam include “headache, irritation, inflammation, respiratory issues, and possible toxic” and cancer-causing effects. (2)
“Sarcoidosis is a disease characterized by the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells (granulomas) in any part of your body.” Some experts think this condition “results from the body’s immune system responding to an unknown substance.” Possible harmful substances include infectious agents and chemicals. Defective CPAP devices may release irritating particles into the airways and lungs. (3)
Pneumonitis is a condition that resembles pneumonia, a serious infection of one or both lungs, and is often mistaken for pneumonia despite there not being any infectious agent present. One study shows the risk of recurrent pneumonia is “even higher among patients who received CPAP therapy.” (4)
“Asthma is a chronic (long-term) condition that affects the airways in the lungs. The airways are tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs.” Inflamed, narrowed airways can make breathing difficult. Pollen, bacteria, and other foreign material can lead to inflammation and set off an asthma attack. Defective CPAP machines can release dangerous particles and chemicals, adding to or creating inflammation and damaging airways. (5) This can result in an initial diagnosis of asthma or worsen an existing condition.
What is COPD? “Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. It includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.” Defective CPAP machines can release foreign particles, blocking airflow and making it hard for you to breathe. (6) This can cause respiratory disease to occur.
In addition to being life-threatening, defective CPAP devices also can lead to other side effects. These include:
Philips Respironics has issued multiple recalls of its breathing devices due to potentially dangerous defects. The problem stems from the device’s polyurethane (PE-PUR) sound abatement foam. Recalled models are: (7) (8) (9)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified some Philips recalls as a Class I recall. A Class I recall is “the most serious type of recall. Use of these devices may cause serious injuries or death.” (10)
According to the FDA, “The polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) foam used in these devices to reduce sound and vibration can break down. If this occurs, black pieces of foam, or certain chemicals that are not visible, could be breathed in or swallowed by the person using the device.” (11)
Also, the foam used in recalled Philips breathing devices may release, or off gas, chemicals into your airways. Both the foam and the leached chemicals have the potential to put your life at risk. You may experience difficulty breathing, inflammation, a lack of oxygen, too much carbon dioxide, and other severe reactions. (12)
Already, thousands of people have reported serious complications after using some of Philips breathing devices. Lawsuits are underway.
When it comes to breathing complications, reactions to defective devices can be life-threatening. Deaths have been reported, in addition to serious respiratory reactions. (13)
Since July 2021, Weitz & Luxenberg has received thousands of calls from people saying they were harmed by a defective Philips breathing device. Each week that goes by brings us even more calls. This recall is turning out to be larger than anyone anticipated.
If you suffered severe medical complications, or someone you love died, after using a recalled Philips medical device, you may be able to seek compensation.
Compensation could cover your medical expenses, pain and suffering due to your injury, lost earnings, and any potential loss of future income. Punitive damages might also be awarded.
Possible compensation could include:
Weitz & Luxenberg is a national law firm with nearly four decades of experience helping people who were harmed by the actions of others. These others are often large, seemingly untouchable companies. Since the mid 1980s, we have committed ourselves to holding negligent corporations accountable.
Sometimes these companies are multinational medical device manufacturers. In the case of CPAP devices, some makes and models have already been recalled due to potentially severe complications.
W&L is leading the fight in pursuing compensation on behalf of our clients who have been harmed by these devices. We are prepared to take action now.
We are fortunate to count W&L attorney Brendan McDonough among our team of experienced medical device litigators. In addition to being an attorney, he is a medical engineer. His background and knowledge give our firm an edge when it comes to handling defective medical device litigation.
The good news for our clients is that Mr. McDonough is just one of dozens of our firm’s dedicated, tenacious attorneys. Thanks to him, and others like him, W&L has a solid history of winning dating back decades.
Over the years, we have achieved more than $19 billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients. Here are just a couple examples of our big wins, led by Ellen Relkin. She is a W&L partner and chair of our Drug and Medical Device litigation team:
Contaminants found in the drinking water at Camp Lejeune include trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride. (1)
Research indicates a link between esophageal cancer and exposure to both TCE and PCE. (2) Benzene and vinyl chloride have also been associated with esophageal cancer. (3)
“Esophageal cancer is cancer that occurs in the esophagus — a long, hollow tube that runs from your throat to your stomach,” according to the Mayo Clinic. “Esophageal cancer usually begins in the cells that line the inside of the esophagus.” (4)
Two common forms of esophageal cancer are squamous cell (also called epidermoid carcinoma) and adenocarcinoma.
Squamous cell carcinoma forms in the “the thin, flat cells lining the inside of the esophagus,” says the National Cancer Institute (NCI). It is usually located in the upper and middle parts of the esophagus. (5)
Adenocarcinoma begins in the glandular cells of the esophagus “in the lower part of the esophagus, near the stomach.” (6)
Some of the common symptoms of esophageal cancer at Camp Lejeune include: (7)
In the early stages, esophageal cancer may not present any symptoms. (8)
Scientific evidence suggests environmental exposure to industrial chemicals increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer. This includes perchloroethylene, a chemical used in dry cleaning, (9)
The chemicals found in the water at Camp Lejeune were known cancer-causing agents (carcinogens), especially TCE. (10) (11)
The contaminated water at Camp Lejeune was traced to a local dry-cleaning business. The dry cleaner improperly released these contaminants into the surrounding soil, air, and groundwater. (12)
The National Toxicology Program (NTP) lists TCE as a carcinogen. (13) It is also a known fact that PCE breaks down into TCE and vinyl chloride. (14)
Review of Mortality studies of Camp Lejeune veterans and civilian victims by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) raise concerns regarding causes of death. Among those causes is esophageal cancer. (15) Three of the studies reviewed observed elevated risks of esophageal cancer. (16)
The PACT Act is a law that allows victims of Camp Lejeune water contamination — including Camp Lejeune esophageal cancer victims — to file claims against the U.S. government. You could receive compensation for pain and suffering, as well as any related medical costs. (17)
You are eligible even if you are a veteran who was denied disability or benefits through the Veterans Administration.
To qualify, you must have lived or worked on Camp Lejeune for a minimum of 30 total days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987. The right to file extends to unborn babies who were exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, in utero. (18)
You have a limited amount of time to take action against the government. This is why it is so important for you to contact an attorney about your case as soon as possible.
You need to provide your attorney with all the documentation you have about your case. For example, you want to provide a birth certificate, adoption papers, marriage license, military and housing records, mortgage papers, utility bills, and medical diagnosis and bills for related treatments. These documents can be used to support your claim.
Your attorney evaluates your case, investigates, and advises you of your legal options. We can help you settle your claim against the government for as much compensation as possible.
W&L has a proud and lengthy history of helping veterans, their families, and many others who have suffered harm because of the greed and negligence of others. We have pursued cases against corporate giants and government entities alike.
W&L attorneys are ready to take on the U.S. government — on your behalf — in your Camp Lejeune esophageal cancer case. Contact us, so we can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Here are some ways we have helped others in similar contaminated water cases:
The Roblox gambling platform utilizes digital currency. These “Robux” come with a cash value of $0.0125. Robux are purchased with gift or credit cards. While the website says no one under the age of 18 can make credit card purchases, this is not enforced. (1) (2) (3)
Credit and gift card transactions are traceable. This means the company has knowledge of illegal Roblox gambling. (4)
Roblox earns millions when online casinos exchange Robux for dollars by charging a 30% fee on the transactions. Gamers on the Roblox platform can link their Robux wallet to third-party casino websites. They then navigate to those sites and gamble. This includes children.
Our lawsuit alleges that Roblox and the online casinos violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, as well as state consumer protection laws.
Under RICO, companies can be prosecuted for a “pattern of racketeering activity.” This is defined as committing two or more predicate acts in the previous 10 years. The list of predicate acts includes gambling. (5)
Other consumer protection violations fall under New York’s General Business Law (GBL) and California’s Unfair Competition Law, and involve deception, conspiracy, and negligence. (6)
If your child has been victimized on this gambling platform, contact us today to understand your legal rights.
Get a Free Case ReviewIn our Roblox class action lawsuit, mothers Rachelle Colvin and Danielle Sass say Roblox and three co-defendants function as a gambling ring targeting minors.
Co-defendants named in the Roblox class action lawsuit are Satozuki Limited B.V., Studs Entertainment Ltd., and RBLXWild Entertainment LLC. The co-defendants operate the online casino websites RBXFlip, Bloxflip, and RBLXWild.
The complaint was filed in United States District Court for the Northern District of California by Weitz & Luxenberg attorneys on August 15, 2023. The case is Colvin et al. v. Roblox Corporation et al., N.D. Cal., No. 4:23-cv-04146.
On March 26, 2024, the Court issued a ruling rejecting Roblox’s arguments to dismiss the case and allowing plaintiffs to move forward with their case and to proceed into discovery. The lawsuit is ongoing at this time.
Roblox, based in California, is already under fire for marketing practices aimed at minors. These practices blur the lines between what is content and what is an advertisement. (8) (9)
The Roblox class action lawsuit notes Roblox’s “deceptive commercial advertising and addictive content.” Some of the deceptive advertisements may appear in ways especially attractive to minors. This includes animation and other graphics that are similar to cartoons. (10)
The company pays social media influencers to advertise and promote their websites to children. Evidence offered in the complaint involves “KreekCraft” who posted to social media, “Heard a lot about rbxflip today. For the people unaware it’s a Roblox robux gambling site. 1. It is ILLEGAL for anyone not an adult to gamble. 2. Don’t use it. You’ll be banned.” The complaint explains, “Roblox frequently interacts with “KreekCraft” on social media and monitors his Twitter account.” (11) (12)
You may be able to join our lawsuit if you are the parent of a child who purchased Robux digital currency and your child spent the Robux on one of these gambling websites:
The Robux could have been bought using credit cards or gift cards.
Victims lost considerable amounts of money on the Roblox platform and the linked gambling websites. Often, the money was lost without parents knowing about it.
However, perhaps the real danger lies in how these sites encourage early onset addictive behaviors in children.
One study notes, “there are multiple novel practices in gaming that incorporate elements of gambling. All of them are linked to problem gambling.” (13)
Has the Roblox online gaming platform targeted your child for gambling? Contact us today for a free case review.
Get a Free Case ReviewIn a class action lawsuit, first a legal complaint is filed. Then the “class” must be certified by the court. Next, members of the class must be notified. They must be allowed time to opt out of the lawsuit or decide they want to participate in the lawsuit. After that, your attorneys may negotiate a settlement or go to trial with the case in court.
The Weitz & Luxenberg consumer protection attorneys representing our clients in this Roblox lawsuit include James Bilsborrow, Devin Bolton, and Aaron Freedman.
Mr. Bilsborrow, W&L partner and practice group co-chair, has a long-standing interest in product liability and emerging technologies. He emphasizes, “Protecting our children from being preyed upon by irresponsible online companies is a fight worth waging. W&L is ready for that fight.”
Victims of Roblox gambling could benefit from receiving any monetary compensation they deserve. More importantly, they can help safeguard other families — notably their children — from injury at the hands of the online gaming industry.
W&L takes society’s obligation to protect children seriously. We encourage all victims to come forward. Join us in fighting to put a stop to unlawful practices.
Any company’s attempt to make money by tricking your children needs to be stopped. And violation of the law deserves to be punished. Our goal is to protect our most vulnerable members, particularly children.
We have also filed lawsuits against other organizations harming younger members of our society online, including for cases of social media addiction.
The Roblox company puts profits first, regardless of who it hurts. It tricks children using its online platform. Our W&L attorneys are working to hold Roblox accountable for taking advantage of them.
If your child has engaged online with Roblox, let us help you. Contact us for a free initial consultation. We can explore your family’s legal options if you are affected by online addictive gambling games pretending to be harmless.
The Abbott Amplatzer Steerable Delivery Sheath (ASDS) is a cardiac catheter. It is used during certain types of medical heart procedures. This product lets “catheter-based devices to be introduced into the chambers of the heart.” (1) (2)
Abbott has recalled its Amplatzer Steerable Delivery Sheath cardiac catheter. This recall is because of the increased risk that this device can introduce air bubbles (air emboli) into patients undergoing certain heart procedures. (3)
“Air embolism can lead to injuries such as sudden (acute) reduction in blood flow to the heart … fast or slow heartbeat … low blood pressure … and lack of enough oxygen in the blood.” These air bubbles can potentially lead to lead to stroke and death. (4)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified the Abbott OCT catheter recall as Class I. (5)
Some patients have experienced air emboli. This led to transient ST segment elevation and hemodynamic instability. Although some patients had medical conditions that resolved spontaneously, others required medical intervention. (6)
Abbott has instructed its customers to return any remaining unused Abbott OCT catheters. (7)
When the FDA learns about a company’s correction or removal action regarding a potentially defective device, the agency: (8)
Then the agency determines the seriousness of the recall: (9)
The FDA learned about problems with Abbott’s catheter. By law, Abbott had to correct or remove the device. In the case of its cardiac catheter, Abbott removed it from where it was being used or sold. (11)
Recalls occur when: (12)
Under federal law, when a device is defective, three options are possible: (13)
With voluntary recalls, a manufacturer issues a recall on its own. The Abbott catheter recall was voluntary. (14)w
You could experience medical complications if your surgeon used an Abbott catheter during your heart procedure. The major concern is “an increased risk of air bubbles. … Bubbles, also known as air emboli, can lead to”: (15)
Most importantly, air bubbles can lead to stroke and death. (16)
You should watch for these possible severe air embolism symptoms: (17)
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. You possibly could have an air embolism.
Weitz & Luxenberg is accepting cases for litigation against Abbott. If you, or a loved one, suffered an air embolism after undergoing a medical procedure using an Abbott cardiac catheter, contact us.
We have a lot of experience successfully handling injury cases due to defective medical devices. You may think you’re the only one who experienced a serious medical injury, but hundreds of people are going through the same thing. Let us help you, like we have helped thousands of others.
Hiring a national law firm with a successful track record is key. Weitz & Luxenberg attorneys have been handling complex medical device litigation, such as this Abbott recall, for nearly 40 years.
We are prepared and ready to proceed with your Abbott catheter recall litigation. We have made it our mission to stand up to large, negligent corporations. We have secured billions of dollars on behalf of our clients.
We offer a free initial consultation. Our attorneys can provide legal advice regarding your individual situation. For more information, contact us at (917) LAWYERS.
Tepezza is a medication, teprotumumab, for treating TED — thyroid eye disease. If you have TED, your immune system creates inflammation that causes swelling behind your eyes. (1)
TED “can lead to disfigurement, debilitation, and permanent vision loss.” Teprotumumab is a “human monoclonal antibody that inhibits insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R).” Tepezza is intended to improve “proptosis, diplopia, Clinical Activity Score, and quality of life in patients with TED.” (2)
Many patients have already experienced significant Tepezza side effects. Some of the most concerning are:
This Eustachian tube dysfunction condition occurs when “the mucosal lining of the tube is swollen, or does not open or close properly.” If you experience this Tepezza side effect, your hearing may be muffled. You might also have to deal with pain, a ringing in your ear (tinnitus), a feeling of fullness in your ear, or balance problems. Reduced hearing is also possible. (3)
There are many other serious Tepezza side effects that may occur. These include: (4)
Additional significant, but less intense, Tepezza side effects include: (5)
The manufacturer of Tepezza aggressively marketed Tepezza for thyroid eye disease, downplaying signs of potential hearing loss and the fact Tepezza hearing damage could be permanent.
Tepezza failed to change the warning on its label until the FDA recommended a label change, despite a post-market study reporting that “more patients than previously reported may experience hearing symptoms such as hearing loss or muffled hearing,” stating “In two clinical trials conducted prior to FDA approval of the drug, otologic symptoms were reported in 10 percent of patients. The new study found the rate could be as high as 65 percent.” (6)
Results of another study about Tepezza demonstrated an even higher percentage of TED patients treated with teprotumumab who developed new otologic symptoms. This was as high as 81.5%. “Symptoms ranged from mild (the sensation of ear popping once per week) to significant declines in word recognition resulting in a change from serviceable to nonserviceable hearing.” (7)
Four of the six patients with persistent hearing loss began wearing hearing aids. Some patients “discontinued therapy because of otologic symptoms.” (8)
Even worse, less than 50% of patients who had noticed subjective symptoms of hearing loss “experienced symptom resolution” at a mean follow-up just shy of 39.2 weeks. (9)
In addition to side effects leading to significant hearing damage, Tepezza comes with warnings. These include the possibility of: (10)
If you or a loved one suffered significant side effects after taking Tepezza to treat TED, you may be eligible to join the litigation against the manufacturer. Sadly, you are just one of many people who may have developed irreversible hearing damage, deafness, or tinnitus.
We are interested in hearing from anyone harmed by Tepezza. Now, you are facing not only serious vision impairment, but also may be facing permanent hearing damage.
Lawsuits against Horizon claim the company withheld data and analyses showing Tepezza could cause irreversible hearing damage, even as it was seeking market approval for the drug. All across the country, lawsuits are being filed.
If you or a loved one has sustained such injuries, you may be eligible to join the Tepezza litigation. We are a national firm that has nearly four decades of experience standing up to pharmaceutical giants, such as Horizon. We encourage you to reach out to us today.
One of our experienced defective drug attorneys can help you consider your legal options. This is what W&L attorneys are trained to do. Holding irresponsible companies accountable is what drives us.
People across the country are experiencing serious Tepezza side effects. Because the lawsuits filed against the manufacturer relate to the same Tepezza side effects injuries and have “common questions of fact,” the Court has approved of cases are being temporarily coordinated in one multidistrict litigation (MDL). This is to reduce “the burden on federal district courts, and make litigation more convenient for the parties and to promote overall efficiency in the courts.” MDLs “can sometime involve several thousand individual lawsuits.” (13)
Weitz & Luxenberg has a long history of helping our clients hurt by defective drugs and due to the actions of large corporations. We have made it our mission to secure just and appropriate compensation for your injuries.
As a national law firm, Weitz & Luxenberg has been standing up to pharmaceutical giants across the country — whenever and wherever we are needed.
Our attorneys have won billions of dollars on behalf of our clients. Here are a couple examples of our major victories:
Chemical hair straightening products change the actual structure of your hair. These products often involve multiple processes and applications to the scalp. If you used chemical hair straighteners or relaxers, you may experience any number of uncomfortable, potentially dangerous, side effects. Additionally, your risk of developing uterine, endometrial, and ovarian cancer significantly increases. Some of the potentially dangerous side effects may include: (1)
Lesions and burns on your scalp expose your skin to irritants. Toxic chemicals can enter your body and bloodstream more easily. (2)
Other, more general, potential side effects of using chemical hair straighteners or relaxers include: (3)
Have you or a loved one developed cancer from using chemical hair relaxers? Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Get a Free Case ReviewSome studies suggest chemical hair straightening products “may contain hazardous chemicals with endocrine-disrupting and carcinogenic properties.” These chemicals put women at risk of developing reproductive-related cancers, such as uterine, endometrial, and ovarian cancer. (4)
Studies indicate that in the United States, chemical hair relaxers are linked to uterine cancer. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that the incidence “rates of uterine cancer have been rising … particularly among Black women.” (5)
Use of chemical hair straightening products is “associated with a higher risk of hormone-sensitive cancers,” including ovarian. (6) Researchers for the NIH looked at nearly 34,00 women from 35 to 74 years of age. They identified 378 women who had developed uterine cancer. (7)
Women who frequently used these products were more likely to develop uterine cancer than women who had never used a chemical hair straightening product. (8) (9)
The NIH study “found that women who reported frequent use of hair straightening products, defined as more than four times in the previous year, were more than twice as likely to go on to develop uterine cancer compared to those who did not use the products.” Specifically, roughly 1.64% of women who never used chemical hair straighteners went on to develop uterine cancer by age 70. However, for frequent users, that risk went up to 4.05%. (10)
In fact, women who had reported using chemical hair straighteners frequently “were about 2½ times more likely to develop uterine cancer.” A major concern is that some of the chemicals used in hair straightening “products might be absorbed through the scalp and have estrogen-like properties in the body.” (11)
In the NIH study, approximately “60% of the women who reported using straighteners … self-identified as being Black. …the effects may be greater for Black women because they’re more likely to use these products.” (12)
Not only do Black women report using chemical hair straighteners more frequently, but they also tend to start using these products at earlier ages. (13)
Self-identified Black women reported using chemical hair straightening products more than women of other races. Because of the frequency of use, they “were at higher risk for uterine cancer compared to women who did not report using these products.” Also, the researchers of the NIH study found that while hair straighteners did put you at risk of developing uterine cancer, other hair products did not — this included bleach, perms, hair dyes, and highlights. (14)
Chemical hair straightening products may be linked to ovarian cancer. These chemicals also are “endocrine disruptors that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.” (15)
Researchers studied roughly 40,500 participants from 35 to 74 years of age. Participants completed questionnaires about their use of specific hair care products, including straighteners and relaxers. (16)
“Over a mean follow-up of 10 years, 241 women were diagnosed with ovarian cancer.” Frequent use of chemical hair straighteners and relaxers was associated with ovarian cancer risk. Frequent use was defined as four or more times in 12 months. (17)
Women who self-identified as African American or Black were more likely to use chemical hair straightening products more frequently than woman of other races. These women seemed to face a greater risk of developing ovarian cancer. (18)
The dangerous chemicals used in hair straightening or relaxing products include “a range of endocrine disrupting compounds that are potentially of concern, including phthalates, parabens, cyclosiloxanes, and metals, in addition to formaldehyde.” (19)
“Endometrial cancer is also the most common form of uterine cancer, so it is frequently referred to as uterine cancer.” But endometrial cancer is its own specific type of uterine cancer. (20)
The endometrium is the lining of the uterus. Cancer of the endometrium is different from other types of uterine cancer that can originate in the connective tissue or muscle of the uterus. Approximately 80% of all endometrial cancers are a type called adenocarcinomas. This type develops in the glands in the endometrium. One possible cause of endometrial cancer is hormonal imbalance. (21)
Narrow beauty standards put women of color, include Blacks and Latinas, at risk of being harmed by chemical hair straightening products. They are the targeted demographic for chemical hair straighteners. (22)
Women of color are fed “backwards beauty standards and messages” about their bodies. The underlying message is straight (“White”) hair is beautiful. Curly (“Black”) hair is not. (23)
These women often feel pressured into using these dangerous chemical hair straightening products at a young age — and for many years to come. These products become a common and integral part of their beauty routine. And, as a result, Blacks and Latinas unknowingly put themselves at risk for developing reproductive cancers and other horrendous side effects. (24)
If you developed cancer as a result of using chemical hair relaxers, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact us today to understand your legal rights.
Get a Free Case ReviewThe danger of chemical hair straightening products lies with the chemicals themselves. These harmful ingredients include, but are not limited to: (25)
Other dangerous chemicals in hair straightening products can include: (26)
Golf cart accidents are common. One horrific example occurred in May 2023. A driver crashed her car into a golf cart carrying a newlywed couple just leaving their reception. The bride was killed — still wearing her wedding gown — and the groom seriously injured. (1)
There were 156,040 people treated in emergency rooms for golf cart related injuries over a 10-year period, according to National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) data. (2)
Interestingly, 40% of golf cart accidents on golf courses involve experienced players, while 60% involve visitors. Worse yet, 70% of golf cart accidents occur on private golf courses. (3)
No matter where golf cart accidents occur, there are some recognizable causes you should be aware of that can happen.
Golf cart accidents are often the result of a lack of attention to road safety or the lack of safety features in the design of the golf cart itself. (4)
Some golf cart accidents may be due to the design of the golf cart itself. Golf carts are not equipped with the same safety features as other vehicles. These “missing” safety features include safety belts, doors, mirrors, and lights. (6)
Golf cart accident left you injured? Our legal team is ready to take the wheel. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Get a Free Case ReviewGolf cart accidents can lead to serious injuries, even death. The injuries are similar to injuries sustained in other accidents involving motor vehicles.
As a victim of a golf cart accident, you may have medical expenses for treatment. You may also have a loss of income when you must take time off of work. This is why compensation is such an important component in any legal claim.
When you are injured in a golf cart accident, it is called a “personal injury” case. In these lawsuits, you seek damages in the form of monetary awards.
Damages may also be awarded for your loss of irreplaceable items — especially if they have sentimental value — and reimbursement for any altered travel plans.
For example, if you were in a golf cart accident and were wearing a family heirloom watch broken beyond repair. You may be able to obtain damages for that watch. While damages cannot restore the sentimental value of the watch, the money may compensate somewhat for its loss.
Another example might be if you had paid to go on a cruise but had to cancel plans due to recovery from injuries you sustained in a golf cart accident. You may be awarded damages to reimburse you for whatever nonrefundable money you had paid in advance. This could include the cruise tickets, tour and hotel reservations, airfare, and other travel-related costs.
When a defendant’s actions are considered to be excessively careless, punitive damages may be awarded. Punitive damages are unrelated to the type or severity of your injuries; they are meant to be punishment. Punitive damage awards are rare.
If you have been in a golf cart accident, there are things you should do as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Immediately following any accident, especially a golf cart accident, seek medical attention. You need to do this even if your injuries appear minor at the time. Any treatment you receive helps establish medical records. These can help support your legal claims regarding the accident.
Next, you need to report the accident to the appropriate authorities. Again, this step is key to any legal options you choose to exercise regarding the accident.
Another good idea is to collect contact information of witnesses, first responders, and anyone who was at the scene at the time of your accident. You should also take pictures of the accident scene and of your injuries and of anyone else who was hurt. These things can help support your claims to take legal action later.
Finally, you want to obtain an attorney and provide all of this information. Your attorney evaluates your case and help you consider what legal options you have.
If you or a loved one have suffered injury from a golf cart accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact us today to understand your legal rights.
Get a Free Case ReviewGolf cart accident lawsuits generally fall under personal injury. They may also involve wrongful death or product liability. Some cases may fit a combination of all three. So, it is important to understand the distinctions.
Personal injury includes any kind of injury to your body, emotions, or reputation. Under this category, there are three potential claims: (15)
Wrongful death suits are brought against people or companies responsible for a person’s death, either knowingly or through negligence. Damages in these cases take into consideration: (16)
“Products liability refers to the liability of any or all parties along the chain of manufacture of any product for damage caused by that product.” (17)
Product liability claims may be based on negligence, strict liability, or breach of warranty of fitness. Usually, to prove strict liability or breach of warranty of fitness, there must be defects in the design, manufacturing, or marketing of the product itself. (18)
Whatever legal options you choose to exercise, it is wise to move as quickly as possible. In the State of New York, especially in New York City, a personal injury lawsuit must be filed within 1 year and 90 days of the date of the incident. (19)
In New York, a lawsuit must be filed in the proper county. It can be the county where you or the defendant lives, works, or transacts business. (20)
The first step in bringing a lawsuit is taken by you, the plaintiff (the person suing). You file an Application for a Pro Se Summons with the clerk and pay the appropriate fees. (21)
Next, the clerk issues a summons and complaint along with an index number. You then have the summons served to the defendant within 20 days. (22)
The defendant has 20 to 30 days to appear in court and file an answer. After the defendant has filed an answer, the case is put on the Personal Appearance Part calendar and a court date is set. (23)
Anyone harmed physically or emotionally — or who suffered property damage — in a golf cart accident can file a lawsuit. The lawsuit establishes legal responsibility for the accident and may award monetary damages as compensation.
Family members of someone hurt in a golf cart accident can file a lawsuit on their loved one’s behalf. For example, the surviving family members of a deceased person, parents of an injured child, and caretaker of an elderly or disabled individual, can all file a lawsuit on the injured person’s behalf.
W&L has years of experience with personal injury legal cases. Our track record of success is well established, both in New York City and nationwide. We have dedicated attorneys who faithfully represent our client’s interests. And we see cases through from start to finish.
If you seek a golf cart accident lawyer, you want your attorney to be knowledgeable and experienced in personal injury, wrongful death, and product liability litigations. You also want an attorney who is compassionate and committed to obtaining the optimal outcome for your case.
Personal injury, wrongful death, and product liability cases can be complex and involve many defendants. These cases demand attentive and persistent legal representation to gain just compensation for people like you, who have suffered much through no fault of their own.
“Manufacturers of pharmaceutical drugs and infusions are required to disclose serious side effects of their products, so patients and their physicians can fully evaluate the benefits versus potential risks of using a new drug on the market. This especially true in a situation, like here, where TED patients who are at risk for potential permanent loss of vision are placed in potential risk of permanent hearing loss,” explains attorney Teresa Curtin.
“Given that visually impaired patients rely on their sense of hearing to function independently in the world and communicate with others, any hearing loss needs to be vigilantly guarded against. The failure of Horizon Therapeutics to properly test and monitor hearing loss prior to Tepezza entering the market needs full investigation.”
She emphasizes, “We are grateful that Tepezza’s label has been updated to more fully report the dangers of hearing loss from use of this drug, but sadly this label update is too late for those patients dealing with serious hearing loss induced by Tepezza, on top of the vision loss caused by TED.”
On July 20, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported an updated warning label guide of Tepezza injections that included severe and possibly irreversible hearing impairment. The FDA approved a revised version of the Tepezza prescribing information guide that warns of potential severe and even permanent hearing loss. The revamped guide suggests medical practitioners monitor patients’ hearing before, during, and following Tepezza infusions. (1)
Tepezza “is used to treat thyroid eye disease (TED)… a disorder in which the immune system causes inflammation and swelling behind the eye.” (2)
Tepezza “is an insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor inhibitor indicated for the treatment of Thyroid Eye Disease.” (3) The treatment is administered once every three weeks, for a total of eight infusions.
Unfortunately, new scientific research suggests that Tepezza has caused some patients to suffer permanent hearing damage or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
TED is a vision-threatening and progressive autoimmune disease often associated with hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland overproduces hormones.
TED symptoms can prevent your eyelids from closing and cause bulging eyes, double vision, pain, and loss of vision due to damage to the optical nerve. Tepezza infusions are intended to help lessen these symptoms.
Tepezza may cause the following hearing related side effects:
Other common adverse reactions to Tepezza include: (4)
Tepezza may also cause reactions to the infusion itself. Signs and symptoms include temporary increases in blood pressure, as well as feeling hot, having a fast heart rate, labored breathing, and muscular pain. Other possible complications of Tepezza include worsening of preexisting inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and an unwanted immune response. (5)
In two clinical trials conducted prior to the January 2020 FDA approval, the manufacturer reported hearing related side effects in 10% of patients taking Tepezza and that these symptoms “were reversible upon stopping the drug.” (6) In 2021, a study found the rate of hearing symptoms could be as high as 65% with some patients not regaining their hearing at one and six months after treatment. (7)
Researchers of one case series stress the importance of objective testing of patients both before and after taking teprotumumab. They indicate “subjective hearing changes may not accurately reflect objective hearing function.” Their report suggests Tepezza may play a significant role in increasing a patient’s risk of developing “sensorineural hearing loss.” (8)
Studies show use of teprotumumab can lead to chronic sensorineural hearing loss. In some cases, patients reported experiencing the onset of symptoms of hearing impairment after just three infusions. Even several months after discontinuing treatment, some patients experienced no improvement in their hearing. (9)
Researchers advise, “It is imperative to counsel patients on the risk of potentially irreversible sensorineural hearing loss prior to the initiation of teprotumumab.” Because of the potential for serious complications, researchers suggest you work with a team of doctors, including ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists, audiologists, and endocrinologists. Researchers also recommend examining patient hearing before treatment, as well as following treatment, with Tepezza. (10)
Medical professionals should be “vigilant monitoring for the development of hearing loss.” Infusions may have a cumulative effect. “Otolaryngologists and endocrinologists should collaborate so that patients receive pretreatment hearing tests, monitoring, and education … on otologic symptoms.” (11)
Other research results “demonstrate a much higher percentage of teprotumumab-treated TED patients with new otologic symptoms than previously reported (81.5% vs 10%). Symptoms ranged from mild (the sensation of ear popping once per week) to significant declines in word recognition resulting in a change from serviceable to nonserviceable hearing.” (12)
Researchers recommend providers consider a patient’s “history of hearing loss symptoms prior to initiating therapy. We recommend offering baseline audiometric and PET testing to all patients … with repeat testing should symptoms develop, and posttreatment testing if symptoms persist. Speech testing and speech in noise testing may be of particular importance … because of possible synaptopathy induced by teprotumumab.” (13)
Doctors should consider discontinuing treatment if patients meet “ASHA ototoxicity criteria.” Doctors should also look out “for any hearing loss that is worrisome.” (14)
In one study, most “TED patients treated with teprotumumab experienced otologic symptoms. Importantly, less than half of patients with subjective hearing loss experienced symptom resolution at mean follow-up of 39.2 weeks.” Doctors should “identify risk factors, and create guidelines for screening, monitoring, and management of auditory side effects in teprotumumab-treated patients.” (15)
In fact, “Teprotumumab may cause a spectrum of potentially irreversible hearing loss ranging from mild to severe.” Researchers recommend medical professionals “adopt a surveillance protocol to include an audiogram and tympanometry before, during and after infusion, and when prompted by new symptoms of hearing dysfunction.” (16)
Teprotumumab “may cause a range of hearing changes.” Researchers recommend “a screening protocol to include an audiogram and tympanometry testing before, during, and after the infusion cycle, as well as routine symptom elicitation during the course of the infusion, to identify early hearing changes and prompt important therapeutic discussions with patients.” (17)
Lawsuits filed against Horizon Therapeutics as the manufacturer of Tepezza allege that the label on the drug did not sufficiently warn patients or doctors about the potential risk for hearing loss, nor did the Horizon Therapeutics warn how hearing issues could be permanent for those taking the eye drug. The use of Tepezza is linked to hearing loss and tinnitus, a ringing in the ears. Multiple lawsuits claim that patients were not warned Tepezza could cause significant, permanent, hearing damage, including deafness and tinnitus. (18)
Weitz & Luxenberg is pursuing lawsuits against the manufacturer. Our lawsuits, on your behalf, can become part of the multidistrict litigation (MDL). These lawsuits claim Horizon Therapeutics, Inc. failed to adequately test the product to ensure its safety and warn patients about the risks of ear injury and permanent hearing damage.
In addition, lawsuits claim the company misled both patients and doctors about the potential risk of hearing loss and other adverse hearing related events. Horizon Therapeutics said possible damage could be reversed.
Lawsuits say the manufacturer downplayed the risk that taking Tepezza could result in irreversible hearing loss. And now people — like you — are living with permanent hearing damage.
Were you or a loved one prescribed Tepezza for treatment of your thyroid eye disease (TED)? Have you received at least two infusions by a medical facility intravenously?
You can file a Tepezza lawsuit if you received a teprotumumab or Tepezza infusion and suffered irreversible hearing loss or tinnitus as a result.
If so, Weitz & Luxenberg attorneys can let you know what legal options are available.
Already, multiple lawsuits have been filed against Horizon Therapeutics. Many of these lawsuits are on behalf of people who are in a similar situation to yours. You took a medicine to help with your vision problems. Now, that medicine has caused you to have hearing problems, as well.
Sadly, many people have experienced irreversible hearing loss or tinnitus that has not gone away. The damage seems to be permanent. The tragedy is that prompt medical treatment or discontinuance of Tepezza might have counteracted the hearing damage if proper medical monitoring had been included.
Now you are facing a loss in two of your senses — sight and hearing — instead of just one. We invite anyone who has experienced tinnitus or significant hearing loss after taking Tepezza to contact us. You may be able to join our litigation.
W&L attorneys are known for our efforts in representing thousands of clients across the country and securing just and appropriate compensation on their behalf. We help people who have sustained serious injuries due to the negligence of others.
The lawyers at Weitz & Luxenberg are prepared to help you. We are recognized nationally as a highly regarded law firm, having success in defective drug and device cases.
Our knowledgeable lawyers help evaluate your case. Then we can take the legal actions necessary to secure the best possible outcome for you. We have a solid, long-running track record for winning cases.
Researchers discovered that water systems supplying Marine Corps Base Camp were contaminated with toxic chemicals. Some of them are known to cause cancer and other illnesses. These dangerous chemicals include trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride. (1)
TCE is a “colorless, volatile liquid” that is used as an industrial solvent. (2) Studies have strongly indicated a causal link to scleroderma through exposure to TCE. (3)
Research has also associated vinyl chloride with scleroderma-like skin changes. (4) Vinyl chloride is “a volatile compound used almost exclusively by the plastics industry to produce polyvinyl chloride (PVC)” according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). (5)
At Camp Lejeune, exposure to these chemicals came primarily through drinking, cooking with, or bathing in contaminated water supplied to the base. It was supplied by two water systems — Hadnot Point and Tarawa Terrace — and was present in two more. (6) In many cases, this exposure was repeated over long periods of time.
“Scleroderma is an autoimmune connective tissue and rheumatic disease that causes inflammation in the skin and other areas of the body,” according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS). (7) NIAM goes on to explain, with scleroderma, “Too much collagen in your skin and other tissues causes patches of tight, hard skin.” (8)
There are two main types of scleroderma:
Scleroderma “is more common in women and most often develops around age 30 to 50. Systemic scleroderma can affect almost any organ in the body, and there is a large variability of symptoms among affected individuals,” according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD). (11)
Scientific evidence indicates exposure to toxins can lead to scleroderma. An assessment found evidence of autoimmune-related effects of trichloroethylene exposure. It focused on the synthesis of data among multiple studies. The researchers concluded, “The consistency among the studies and the concordance between the studies in mice and humans support an etiologic role of TCE in autoimmune disease.” (12)
Yet another study agreed, stating their results “provide evidence that occupational solvent exposure may be associated with an increased risk of SSc.” (13)
Finally, a Review of Veterans Administration Clinical Guidance for Health Conditions Related to Camp Lejeune Legislation acknowledged, “a variety of occupational and environmental exposures have been associated with its [scleroderma] development, including exposure to silica, vinyl chloride… Scleroderma has also been reported with exposure to organic solvents and epoxy resins.” (14) (15)
Your first step should be to seek medical attention in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis. A written medical diagnosis is vital in supporting your legal claims.
Next, you want to contact an attorney to seek justice and compensation. Your attorney evaluates your claim to see if you may qualify to file a successful lawsuit.
A new law, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, makes it possible for victims of the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune to file lawsuits against the U.S. federal government. These claims seek monetary compensation for serious health issues related to exposure to the toxic chemicals in the water.
To be eligible, you must meet the criteria: (16) (17)
You may also qualify to make a claim if you suffer adverse health effects because your mother lived or worked at Camp Lejeune while she was pregnant with you.
Once your attorney determines your eligibility to file a lawsuit, your attorney helps you explore your legal options.
The key to your lawsuit often depends on your choice of an attorney, making this decision extremely important. You want to be sure your attorney is up to the task.
Here are some things to look for:
W&L has been representing a wide range of clients — including veterans and their families — for almost 40 years. We are a nationally recognized leader in environmental personal injury litigation.
Our attorneys are compassionate and knowledgeable. They work tenaciously on behalf of our clients to obtain justice and the best possible outcomes to their cases.
We have a long track record of winning cases. We see our clients through their legal fight, from start to finish. And, we feel honored to represent those who have suffered so much — through carelessness, negligence, or indifference.
We have held government agencies and large corporations responsible for the harm they have done to ordinary people who could not defend themselves.
Our attorneys have many successful large water contamination case results. We have fought many legal battles on behalf of people who were made sick from toxic chemicals in their water.
Here is a sampling of our successes on behalf of clients:
