New Haven Medical Malpractice Law Blog

New mothers' health risks: Serious infections after childbirth

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. on Wednesday, June 20, 2018.

The birth of a child is joyful experience for a family. In the days that follow, they will learn how to handle some major life adjustments. A downside is that some women are at risk for developing an infection in the days and weeks following childbirth.

It is imperative that new mothers work with their health care providers to keep an eye on the healing process. In the postpartum period in the hospital, nurses examine obstetric patients; during this process, they check for any signs that something is amiss. Unfortunately, they may miss critical signs of postpartum infections.

Hospital patients deserve a safe environment

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. on Wednesday, June 6, 2018.

Patient safety in hospitals must be a priority. These institutions must have measures in place to ensure that anyone who is admitted or undergoes outpatient tests and procedures can remain safe. In hospital settings, even one small error or a single employee who doesn't do their job correctly can cause catastrophic results for patients.

The burden for patient safety falls on the facility, not the patient. It is up to the hospital administration to make sure all workers have a good understanding of what is necessary to keep patients out of harm. Here are some common obstacles to patient safety.

Plan ahead for parties to avoid drunk driving charges

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. on Monday, June 4, 2018.

Outdoor parties and barbecues are commonplace this time of year. For many, these come with adult beverages that can liven things up a bit. Unfortunately, many people fail to make safe travel plans for getting home if they've had too much to drink.

Not everyone who spends time with friends and family members will drink alcohol. Try to find one of these individuals who will agree to remain sober and drive you home. It is important to do this in advance to avoid the situation of a "designated driver" leaving early or consuming alcohol during the gathering.

Summertime fun around water must be carefully monitored

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. on Friday, June 1, 2018.

One of the hallmark activities of summer is spending time in the water. No matter where you choose to do this, you need to ensure that you are being as safe as possible. Drownings and near drownings can put a halt on the summertime fun in an instant.

Anyone who is going to spend time near water this summer should learn a little bit about drownings so that they are aware of what can happen. This might help them to remain vigilant as they are enjoying the day.

For teenagers, summer joyriding can end in tragedy

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. on Thursday, May 24, 2018.

During the summer months, young people take to the roads to spend time in the lovely weather. Unfortunately, the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor day are the deadliest of the year for teenage drivers. This coincides with an uptick in the time that these new drivers are on the roads due to a decrease in the time they are in school.

It may shock you to learn that fatal crashes involving teens account for about 1,000 deaths nationwide in these 100 days. According to the CDC, many of of these deaths are attributed to distracted driving. The biggest challenge lies in how difficult it is to stop teens from being distracted behind the wheel.

Distracted driving kills and injures innocent people

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. on Monday, April 30, 2018.

Distracted driving can permanently affect the negligent driver and change the lives of everyone around them. If you are operating a motor vehicle, you need to pay attention.

When motorists send text messages, use phone apps, "multitask" or participate in other dangerous activities behind the wheel, the results can be deadly. If you notice that another driver is distracted, you should do your best to avoid that vehicle because you never know what is going to happen.

Brush up on the common causes of car crashes

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. posted in blog on Thursday, April 19, 2018.

Car crashes claim lives and lead to very serious injuries. Before you head out on the road this spring and summer, make sure you remember some of the most common causes for auto accidents. The information could help you avoid being in a serious wreck.

The spring and summer months are especially troubling for traffic because more people, including many new drivers, are getting out and about than during the frigid winter months. Here are a few hazards to consider as you hit the road.

Field sobriety tests: They're not all the same

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. posted in blog on Tuesday, March 27, 2018.

Many things happen when cops stop motorists on suspicion of drunk driving. The entire stop can be an unnerving experience for anyone, even those who are fully sober.

At some point during a traffic stop, a law enforcement officer may ask the driver to take a field sobriety test. These tests come in a variety of forms, but not all of them are able to accurately gauge whether a driver is intoxicated.

Can I make a malpractice claim after my baby's traumatic birth?

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. posted in blog on Wednesday, March 14, 2018.

Having a baby should be a wonderful experience, but childbirth can be a complicated undertaking. The responsibility of doctors and hospital staff is to make sure that all medical possibilities are accounted for.

Unfortunately, not all deliveries go smoothly. Complications and unexpected problems can heighten the risk of injury to both the mother and the baby. Many complications can be avoided by competent providers who have assessed all the conditions and possible outcomes.

You should protect yourself when seeking medical care

On behalf of Marisa Bellair of Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, P.C. posted in blog on Wednesday, February 21, 2018.

Seeking proper medical care is essential, especially when you are concerned about a serious condition for yourself or a family member. It is important to trust the doctors and nurses to make decisions that are in your best interests. But while you might be tempted to follow their advice without any question or doubt, you should also take steps to protect your own health.

Medical professionals aren't infallible; they can make mistakes. It is smart to double check the information you are being given in order to prevent medical errors. While patients can only do so much for themselves, it might give you peace of mind to know that you are prepared. Here are some tips to consider.