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Personal Injury Cases – Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone
Legal News and Personal Injury Publications provided by The Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone

Massachusetts motorcycle accidents skyrocket. Are you street smart?

Posted on | September 21, 2010 | Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone

Motorcycles have never been more popular. In 1998, there were 3.8 million motorcycles on the road. By 2008, that number had skyrocketed to 7.7 million motorcycles. Sadly, the number of fatal motorcycle accidents has more than doubled during the same time period. In 1998, motorcycle accidents killed 2,294 people and injured more than 49,000 nationwide. In 2008, 5,290 died and more than 96,000 people were injured in motorcycle accidents.

The sharp rise in the number of motorcycle accidents has been linked to the dramatic increase in the number of inexperienced riders on the road. But there may be another reason for this increase. During the same time period, many states relaxed their motorcycle helmet laws.

Helmets drastically reduce the likelihood of dying in a motorcycle accident. Riders wearing helmets are 37 percent less likely to die in a crash than riders without helmets, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That’s why many states still require motorcyclists to wear helmets. In Massachusetts, all motorcyclists are required by law to wear helmets.

Unfortunately, accidents happen. In Massachusetts, a total of 41 motorcyclists died in accidents in 2008.  Just recently, a 28-year-old Worcester motorcyclist was killed in a motorcycle accident.

What would you do if you were injured in a motorcycle accident? Who would you call? Who would you trust? You need someone in your corner that will fight for your rights. You need someone who will work tirelessly to make sure you’re fully compensated for your injuries. You need the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone.

The Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone has years of experience defending the rights of motorcycle accident victims in Massachusetts. We understand the law and know how to get results. We also realize insurance companies often blame motorcyclists for causing the accident, even if it wasn’t their fault.

Don’t leave your future to chance. Take action. Contact Mark E. Salomone today. We’re on your side.

Two DePuy Hip Implants Recalled – Learn About Your Rights

Posted on | September 10, 2010 | Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone

No one who receives hip replacement surgery wants to go through a second operation. But a stunningly high number of people with hip replacement products manufactured by DePuy Orthopedics Inc. are in need of a second procedure due to the failure of the products.

DePuy, a division of Johnson & Johnson, is recalling two of its hip implant products because they are prone to early failure: ASR XL Acetabular System (launched in 2004) and DePuy ASR Hip Resurfacing system (launched in 2003).

DePuy has informed the Food and Drug Administration of the recall, which involves removing the dangerous devices from hospital shelves. Johnson & Johnson has had 11 recalls since September, according to reports. The FDA also has warned DePuy that the firm was marketing the TruMatch Personalized Solutions System and the Corail Hip System without the required marketing clearance or approval, in violation of FDA rules.

How does a recall work with a device already implanted in the body? DePuy recommends patients speak with the orthopedic surgeon who implanted the device. A doctor can scan or X-ray the hip to see how the device is performing. A blood test may be required to look at any metal particles that may indicate a problem. If a serious problem is detected, surgery may be required to replace the defective medical equipment.

DePuy has posted an FAQ about the recall on its website.

The implant may be loose or there may be a bone fracture around the device or dislocation of the implant’s ball and socket. Signs that your hip replacement device may be failing include the following symptoms:

  • Pain
  • Difficulty walking
  • Swelling in the hip area

About 12 percent of people getting the hip resurfacing system and 13 percent getting the Acetabular System needed corrective surgery within five years. Women are more likely to need surgery than men, according to reports. DePuy says no more than five percent of patients should need a replacement within five years.

Did you or a loved one receive hip replacement surgery since 2003? If a doctor implanted one of the DePuy products in your body, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone for a free and confidential consultation. A delay may affect your rights.

Serving Boston, Springfield, Worcester and communities throughout Massachusetts, the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone puts experience and resources to work for victims of defective medical devices. Turn to an aggressive advocate. Tell them you mean business!