Airbag recalls are on the rise. Despite being designed to save lives, faulty or failed automobile airbags can cause serious injuries or even death.

Automobile airbags are designed to save lives, placing an instantaneous, physical buffer between a motorist’s body and a vehicle’s frame. But the sheer force with which airbags are deployed and common changes that can happen over time potentially can cause more harm than help, say auto accident attorneys with Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell.

In 2012, automakers hit a dubious record with 23 airbag-related recalls, according to statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In just the past six months alone, there have been 23 recalls, 15 of them happening in 2013. At this rate, 2013 could be another record-breaking year for recalls.

Among the problems that lead to recalls are airbags that fail to deploy when a collision happens, airbags that deploy prematurely, and problems that arise as vehicles age, including ruptured airbag housing units and airbags with degraded or broken-off parts that can become shrapnel when a bag deploys. Potential consequences can include skin abrasions and lacerations; hearing or eye damage; broken noses, fingers, hands or arms; and head or neck injuries. The root cause of many airbag-related injuries is the force necessary for quick deployment. And studies show that in the United States, airbags typically are more forceful than those in other countries.

Though airbags are credited with saving upwards of 3,000 lives a year, the dangers they pose are real, potentially life-altering and all too common. If you or your dependents have been injured by an airbag’s faulty deployment or its failure to deploy, get medical treatment immediately. Then, call 800-251-1111 and schedule a consultation with an auto accident lawyer with Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell.

Car crashes involving teens rise during prom season and summer break. Auto accident attorneys with Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell offer tips for keeping your kids safe.

The high school prom season is well underway and summer vacation is just around the corner. Both mean more teenagers on the road and many of them throw caution to the wind while in a celebratory mood. Unfortunately, the celebration quickly turns to mourning for family and friends of teens lost in prom night or summer car crashes, often fueled by underage drinking.

The rate of car crashes involving teens rises during the prom season, and hits an annual peak from early June to late August, dubbed the “100 Deadliest Days” for teens on the road. But there are ways to help keep your teenager from becoming a tragic statistic.

• Make sure you know where and with whom your teen will be before, during and after the dance.
• Limit the number of prom-goers in one vehicle if a teen is driving.
• Better yet, splurge for a limo. It’ll impress the kids, and assure that a sober adult is behind the wheel.
• Set a strict curfew. The later teens stay out, the higher the risk of an accident.
• Make it clear that alcohol or drug use will not be tolerated and will result in your teen’s driving privileges being taken away.
• Assure your teens that you’re willing to pick them up if another driver drinks or if other trouble arises. Or, give your teen a list of taxi company phone numbers to call for a safe ride home.
• Remind teens that even if they follow all the rules, others on the road may not.

Prom and summer vacation should be a fun time that teens will remember fondly the rest of their lives. If your child is injured in a car crash, get medical treatment immediately. Then, contact an experienced auto accident attorney with Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell, providing services throughout Northeast Florida, Orlando and South Georgia. Call 800-251-1111 or complete our online case evaluation form.

Florida reports more boating accidents than any other state, and more boating fatalities annually than California and Texas combined, a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission report shows.

Springtime means more boaters on Florida’s waterways. Unfortunately, it also means a rise in boating-related injuries and fatalities, say boating accident attorneys with Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell.

Boating is a popular pastime in Northeast Florida. The St. Johns River, the Atlantic Ocean and multiple lakes and creeks make for plenty of boating options. In fact, Florida leads the nation in the number of registered vessels – nearly 1 million. Sadly, the Sunshine State also leads the nation in the number of boating fatalities annually. Consider these statistics from 2011, the latest year for which the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC) issued a report:

• In 2011, there were 742 accidents on Florida waters, resulting in 431 injuries and 67 fatalities;
• 94% of all fatal accidents in 2011 involved vessels 21 feet and under;
• Alcohol or drug-use played a role in 15% of boating fatalities;
• 51% of the operators involved in reportable boating accidents had no formal boater education.

Florida law requires that anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 complete a boater education course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators prior to operating a vessel powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or more, and that these boaters have in their possession a Boating Safety Education ID card issued by the FFWCC while operating a vessel. Even if you’re not required by law to get the Florida boating license, it’s a good idea to take the boat safety course periodically to keep your skills sharp and to save money on your boating insurance.

To help avoid boating accidents, follow all legal rules and regulations; abstain from alcohol while operating a vessel; steer clear of fellow boaters who are drinking or failing to follow rules or common sense safety precautions; keep an eye on the weather both before and during a boating excursion by using a weather radio and studying maps that pinpoint dangerous underwater hazards.

If you or your dependent are injured in a boating crash or accident caused by the actions of another, contact an experienced boating accident attorney. Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell, practicing throughout Northeast Florida, Orlando and South Georgia, can be reached at 800-251-1111.

If your application for Social Security disability benefits is denied, you have the option to appeal.

If you’re applying for Social Security disability benefits, chances are your first attempt will be denied. Statistics show that 31 percent of applicants receive a “technical denial” of benefits even before the facts of the case are evaluated. Of the 69 percent of applications that make it to the evaluation stage, more than 62 percent are denied.

Technical denials typically are due to one or more of these two most common reasons:

• Your income exceeds the “substantial gainful activity” limit set by the Social Security Administration;
• You have not yet earned enough Social Security credits to be eligible for benefits.

Applications that make it to the initial evaluation phase will be judged according to the type and severity of the claimant’s condition and their ability to continue working the same job or adapt to a new one. Of the more than 62 percent of claimants denied benefits upon evaluation, less than half – 48 percent – appeal.

The appeal process begins with a review of your case by a different disability examiner and medical team with the state’s disability determination service. These evaluators will look at the evidence already submitted, plus any additional evidence you’d like to include. Unfortunately, more than 90 percent of applicants’ initial appeals are denied and of them, just 18 percent continue the process.

Next in the appeal process is a hearing by an administrative law judge who will review documentary evidence and witness testimony. You or your legal representative also can examine witnesses and present arguments. If your application again is denied, you may appeal further and request a review in front of an appeals council who can review or dismiss your application. If denied or refused a hearing, you then can take your case to federal court.

The good news is that more than 81 percent of claimants who appeal all the way to the federal level ultimately see their applications approved and their disability benefits, which potentially may include back pay for benefits lost during the appeal process, finally begin. But the process can be lengthy, confusing and ultimately in vain. To boost your chances of having your claim approved, consult an experienced Social Security disability attorney before filing your initial claim. Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell specializes in helping disabled workers secure the benefits they’ve earned. Call 800-251-1111 to schedule a consultation today.

Triumph Motorcycles is recalling several 2012 and 2013 models including its popular Street Triple due to problems with the turn signal stems.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and its Office of Defects Investigation issued recalls of multiple consumer vehicles earlier this month. Each has a defect deemed potentially dangerous to drivers, passengers and others sharing the roadways.

Ford is recalling certain model year 2012 Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and model year 2013 Explorer vehicles manufactured July 19, 2011, through March 15, 2012. The fuel tanks may have a marginally sealed seam in the side of the tank, which can cause the fuel tanks to leak or to fail in the event of an impact, potentially causing a fire.

Triumph Motorcycles is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Daytona 675, Street Triple, Speed Triple, and Tiger 800 motorcycles. Due to a manufacturing error, the turn signal stems on the front and rear of the motorcycle may crack or break. This means turn signals may not be visible to other drivers on the road, which can boost the risk of a crash.

Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2013 Dodge Challenger vehicles manufactured from December 3, 2012, through January 24, 2013 and equipped with a V6 engine. The battery positive cable at the starter motor may experience an electrical short circuit to ground, which can cause the vehicle to catch fire.

Nissan is recalling certain model year 2013 Titan trucks manufactured from January 22, 2013, through February 20, 2013; and model year 2013 NV vehicles manufactured from December 17, 2012, through February 20, 2013 and equipped with steering column-mounted transmission shift levers. Chemicals used in the manufacturing of the shift lever assembly may cause a malfunction of the brake shift interlock allowing the transmission shift lever to be shifted out of park even without the brake pedal being pressed. The vehicle then could roll away, placing drivers and passengers of other vehicles, as well as pedestrians in danger.

If you own one of these recalled vehicles and have not been injured as a result, head to your local dealer to find out what can be done to repair your vehicle and make it safe. You also can contact the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

If you or a dependent are injured by one of these recalled vehicles, seek medical attention immediately, then contact an experienced personal injury or product liability attorney with Jacksonville-based Harrell and Harrell. We have offices throughout Northeast Florida and in Orlando, and serve Brunswick and other areas of Southeast Georgia. Reach any of our offices at 800-251-1111.

A lawsuit filed by chiropractors, acupuncturists and massage therapists challenges the controversial new PIP law.

A controversial new Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law passed by legislators last year may be set for an overhaul, say personal injury attorneys in Jacksonville.

In a sternly worded ruling, Leon County Circuit Judge Terry Lewis placed a temporary injunction on the law, saying that it severely limits care. The state filed an appeal with the First District Court of Appeal the next day and managed to get the injunction stayed. But the legal wrangling over this highly restrictive law is far from over.

Lewis’ ruling came by way of a case filed by a group of chiropractors, massage therapists and acupuncturists arguing that the law violates their ability to contract to earn a living; violates due process; and violates victims’ access to courts, among other issues.

In effect as of January 1, the law limits payment for chiropractic treatment and disallows coverage for massage and acupuncture treatment altogether for auto accident victims. It requires victims to receive initial treatment of injuries within 14 days after the date of the accident – a requirement that makes sense for victims with obvious and urgent injuries such as broken bones, punctured organs or internal bleeding, but can further harm victims of soft tissue injuries, which don’t show up on X-ray images and may not be fully felt for weeks. The law also cuts potential benefits, capping payment for emergency medical conditions at $10,000 and non-emergency conditions at $2,500.

Also known as Florida’s no-fault law, PIP dates back to the 1970s and was designed to assure victims benefits and keep auto accident cases out of the state’s courts. But those taking advantage of the system in fraudulent ways, such as staging fake accidents and submitting bogus claims, sparked reform efforts. While the need to weed out fraudsters is a legitimate one, personal injury attorneys believe the current law too severely limits victims’ ability to secure fair and adequate compensation.

If you or your dependents are injured in a car crash, contact an experienced personal injury and auto accident attorney with Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell at 800-251-1111.

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits? Having an attorney on your side can help.

Social Security disability benefits are meant to help you financially if you are permanently disabled and subsequently out of work.  They are similar to insurance policies in that they are contractual, which means that each party must meet specified terms for the agreement to remain valid. These terms include specific medical standards for disabling injuries or illnesses, and not everyone who believes they have a valid claim will qualify.

The top three questions you’ll have to answer in your claim for social security benefits are:

1. Are you working?
2. What medical conditions prevent you from working?
3. Can we prove your disability through medical evidence?

Your answers to these basic questions, and many supporting inquiries, will determine whether you are awarded or denied disability benefits. While multiple factors ultimately will be considered, the most simplified premise is that if you are able to perform your previous duties or adapt to new ones, you may be denied benefits, or your benefits may be limited to a set amount of time.

The Social Security benefit claims process can be confusing and cumbersome. To assure that you get the benefits to which you’re entitled, contact a Social Security disability attorney. Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell specializes in helping clients secure the help they need after a disabling injury or illness. Reach us at 800-251-1111.

Several popular LED light bulbs have been recalled after reports of damage and fire hazards.

LED light bulbs popular for their eco-friendly design have been voluntarily recalled because they can overheat and separate during use, posing a fire hazard. About 554,000 units are affected, after 68 reported incidents of product failures, eight of which were accompanied by visible smoke or fire conditions including damage to light sockets, melted fixtures, burned rugs and flooring, and damage to a lamp and a circuit.

Though none have been reported, there exists a risk of personal injury, attorneys say.

Satellite, Florida-based importer Lighting Science Group recalled the 120-volt LED bulbs, sold as 6- 8- and 9-watt bulbs marketed under the brand names Definity, EcoSmart, Sylvania and Westinghouse.  The model numbers A19, G25 and R20/PAR20 are found on the packaging and on the light-colored circular neck above the base of the bulb where the date code is also printed. The letters “CH” or “MX” may follow these affected date codes: L4010, L4110, L4210, L4310, L4410, L4510, L4610, L4710, L4810, L4910, L5010, L5110, L5210, L0111, L0211, L0311, L0411, L0511, L0611, L0711, L0811, L0911, L1011 and L1111.

If you or your dependents have been injured by one of these light bulbs, seek medical treatment immediately. Remove all bulbs from their sockets and keep the damaged parts and packaging intact, as they may be used as evidence should you file a personal injury or product liability claim. Expert personal injury attorneys Harrell and Harrell, with offices throughout Northeast Florida and Orlando, have successfully handled many such cases. Contact us at 800-251-1111 or via our online form.

The  Safe and Efficient Transportation Act is anything but safe, according to critics. If it passes, legal weight limits for tractor trailer trucks could rise to 97,000 – a major concern for drivers in Jacksonville, truck accident attorneys say.

Sharing the road with them can be nerve-wracking. Now, a new bill introduced in the House of Representatives may significantly increase the legal weight of tractor trailer trucks from 80,000 pounds to 97,000 pounds.

Introduced last month by Rep. Michael H. Michaud (D-ME), the Safe and Efficient Transportation Act (H.R. 612) is getting support from trucking companies and organizations like the Washington-based Coalition for Transport Productivity, who say the increased weight allowances will help boost productivity, while maintaining safety. They point to restrictions included in the proposed bill that requires trucks to be equipped with at least six axles and limits the weight of axles to 20,000 pounds for a single axle; 34,000 pounds for tandem axles; and 51,000 pounds for groups of three or more axles.

But others are crying foul on supporters’ claims. The Arlington,  VA-based Truck Safety Coalition opposes any weight limit increases, citing a federal study that shows a boost in fatal crash rates in Vermont and Maine after those states allowed heavier trucks on interstates for a year.

A heavy truck is defined as one that’s in excess of 10,000 pounds, in reality, most weigh between 50,000 and 100,000 pounds – even those with empty trailers. Cargo loads can significantly increase a truck’s weight and its potential for danger. Just one sudden maneuver to avoid a collision or correct a drift can cause a truck to jackknife, or its cargo to shift and overturn the entire rig.

Tractor trailer trucks are involved in upwards of 500,000 accidents a year, killing some 5,000 Americans. Of those victims, nearly 37,000 are drivers or passengers of vehicles that happen to be traveling the same road. Statistics suggest that these figures may climb with increased weight limits, say truck accident lawyers. Jacksonville residents are at particular risk, considering our vast port and logistics operations.

If you are injured or your loved one is killed in a collision involving a large commercial truck, an experienced truck accident lawyer can help secure the compensation you deserve. Contact Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell at 800-251-1111.

Did you know that the sun’s heat can boost alcohol’s effect on your body and your BAC levels? Harrell and Harrell offers tips for a safe spring break.

March marks the beginning of the all-American tradition of spring break – a week of fun, sun and, unfortunately, a yearly spike in auto accidents and personal injuries, attorneys with Florida’s Harrell and Harrell say.

Statistics show that auto accidents spike in spring break markets during the March-April period. Driving those stats are accidents that involve alcohol or drugs. In fact a study at the University of Wisconsin showed that 75% of college males and 43% of college females have reported being intoxicated on a daily basis during spring break. Keep in mind that three of the top spring break locations are in Florida – Fort Lauderdale, Daytona Beach and Panama City Beach.

Other alcohol-fueled injuries common during spring break are results of falls or fights, and criminals often target inebriated spring breakers, as their ability to fend off attackers is limited.

Many don’t realize that high-temperature weather and hot tubs, popular in spring break hotels, can boost the effectiveness of alcohol. So, drinking even a small amount can cause your blood-alcohol level to be higher than in normal circumstances.

Whether you’re a spring breaker yourself or live in a popular spring break area, take precautions during the next few months. Steer clear of known partying areas, limit your own alcohol intake, and never get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking. Travel in groups, designate a non-drinking driver and be wary of strangers. And if you or a dependent are injured by another’s actions during spring break, contact an experienced personal injury or auto accident attorney immediately.

Harrell and Harrell have offices in several popular spring break locations including Jacksonville Beach, Fernandina Beach and Orlando. Reach any Harrell and Harrell office at 800-251-1111.