Loni Liss

Exactech Issues Equinoxe Shoulder Replacement Recall

Posted on August 14, 2024October 25, 2024 by Loni Liss

The Yost Legal Group’s Experienced Exactech Equinoxe Shoulder System Lawyers Are Taking Cases

Another device, another recall: “Exactech has initiated a recall to remove Equinoxe Shoulder System devices packaged in the defective bags from facilities’ unused inventory,” reads a banner update on the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) webpage for Exactech’s Equinoxe Shoulder System. We here at The Yost Legal Group are not surprised.

For years, our experienced Exactech attorneys have pursued Exactech lawsuits. The company has a checkered history. Over the last few years, dozens of defective medical devices, such as ankle, hip, and knee implants, have been recalled.

Many of the recalls stem from the same problem: faulty packaging, which leads to unintended oxidization of the parts.

Now, Exactech is recalling its Equinoxe Shoulder System devices. Exactech recall lawsuits are underway for this defective shoulder implant. If you have had shoulder replacement surgery, you may qualify to file a lawsuit.

Call The Yost Legal Group Today for a free consultation about your defective Exactech Equinoxe Shoulder System device. You may have a case if your Equinoxe Shoulder System implant has been recalled.

Exactech Equinoxe Shoulder Replacement Recall Alert

We at The Yost Legal Group wanted to draw attention to this latest Exactech recall because it follows an all-too-familiar pattern of negligence at the company, resulting in defective medical devices.

In fact, Exactech’s website provides a useful database of all its defective and recalled products. That is how common Exactech recalls are. With the latest recall, Exactech now has a defective device from the shoulders all the way down to the ankles.

Did you have a reverse shoulder replacement surgery or a total shoulder replacement surgery? Read about the Exactech shoulder recall in this blog, which will explain the potential risk of needing additional surgery.

Click Here for a List of Recalled Exactech Devices

Seek Legal Advice to Protect Yourself from Exactech’s Defective Devices

Exactech’s negligence affects hundreds of thousands of people who depend upon these devices to maintain or improve their quality of life. Thousands of patients have shoulder joint replacements each year to help them feel better.

Given the dozens of recalls that all stem from the same root cause (defective packaging), Exactech is not taking this very serious issue as seriously as it should. People should feel safe and secure with their implants.

When a shoulder replacement failure occurs, an experienced product liability lawyer and defective medical device lawyer can provide guidance. Medical device company’s failure rates are increasing the risk of requiring additional surgeries for patients.

If you or a loved one has received an Exactech ankle, hip, knee, or shoulder implant that turned out to be defective, you may have a viable legal claim against the company.

Call the experienced Exactech recall lawyers at The Yost Legal Group today for a free consultation and the opportunity to pursue legal justice. We can be reached by phone or text at 410-659-6800.

Exactech Recall Timeline Reveals Negligence Pattern

The pattern of negligence as it pertains to Exactech’s recalled defective medical devices is even more stark when you see some of them laid out in a timeline.

Exactech Recalls for Defective Devices:

April 2024: Equinoxe Shoulder System devices in defective bags – Yet again, Exactech packaged its devices in bags that did not meet specifications, this time because of a missing oxygen-barrier layer.
April 2024: Optetrak Patella components in defective bags – Exactech sold the Optetrak Patella components in vacuum-sealed bags that did not meet proper specifications for medical devices.
June 2023: Shoulder GPS Impactor – “The ball and spring housed within the locking mechanism of the handle can dislodge during disassembly or during impaction.”
August 2022: Hip implants with polyethylene packaged in defective bags – Exactech packed these hip components in “non-conforming bags,” which led to accelerated wear.
February 2022: Truliant knee implants—Like Logic and Optetrak, Exactech recalled the Truliant knee implants because their defective packaging could cause product failure.
February 2022: Optetrak knee implants—By the time Exactech recalled the devices for defective packaging, over 300,000 Optetrak knee implants had been sold globally.
February 2022: Logic knee implants – After selling more than 120,000 units worldwide, Exactech issued a recall because the defective packaging could lead to excessive wear and failure.
June 2021: Connexion GXL hip liner – After 89,050 Connexion GXL hip liners were in the marketplace, Exactech determined there was a risk of edge-loading and premature wear.

This is not nearly an exhaustive list of all of Exactech’s defective implant recalls over the last five years.

How Exactech’s Device Negligence Evolved Over Time

Exactech has several dozens of components and devices in its recalled-products database. Exactech has sold defective products or products that would become defective because of faulty packaging for decades.

Some of these products were sold to hundreds of thousands of people who were just hoping to regain or retain their mobility or the ability to lift their arms over their heads without pain.

If you or a loved one was the recipient of Exactech’s recalled Equinoxe Shoulder System device, The Yost Legal Group’s experienced Exactech attorneys are here to help.

Exactech and the FDA have issued recalls and notices for Exactech’s defective shoulder implant. For a free consultation, call or text us today at 410-659-6800.

How Delayed Exactech Shoulder Replacement Recalls Harm Patients

That is why the experienced Exactech lawyers at The Yost Legal Group are participating in the MDL against Exactech for selling defective ankle, hip, knee, and shoulder implants.

Now, here we are in another year with newer devices and another recall because of defective packaging. Exactech is failing its customers yet again.

These implants are expected to live inside people for years, maybe even decades. People are supposed to trust a company that does not provide its own packaging, right?

What are the signs that your Exactech Shoulder Implant may be failing?

Tens of thousands of people are already in pain because of Exactech’s defective ankle, hip, and knee implants. We can now add the Equinoxe Shoulder System devices to the Exactech lawsuit and recall.

With hundreds of thousands of Exactech devices sold globally over the decades, these devices are like ticking time bombs in people’s bodies.

Exactech seems to have a culture of negligence, which is putting people’s health and well-being at risk.

Symptoms of a defective Exactech ankle, hip, knee, or shoulder implant:

Accelerated component/device fatigue
Bone fractures
Component/device fracturing
Debris production
Instability at the implant site (after the standard recovery window)

This list of symptoms is not complete or comprehensive. However, it gives an idea of some of the major issues related to defective Exactech implants.

Exactech Lawsuit Assistance—Free Consultations Available

If you think something is wrong with your implant, please make sure to seek medical advice from a medical professional. Adverse side effects from a defective medical implant can be severe and life-threatening.

After consulting with a doctor regarding your health, decide if you would like to pursue a claim against Exactech. We can help you file an Exactech lawsuit for your defective Exactech shoulder implant. Our Exactech attorneys can help you figure out if you have a case.

If you or a loved one was the recipient of a recalled Exactech Equinoxe Shoulder System device, you may have a case in the defective Exactech shoulder replacement lawsuit.

The experienced Exactech shoulder implant lawyers at The Yost Legal Group offer free consultations for potential clients.

Contact our experienced product liability attorneys about seeking compensation with a free case evaluation.

There are no legal fees unless we win your case. Call or text us today at 410-659-6800 to learn more.

Reverse Total Shoulder Prosthesis – Reverse Total Shoulder Joint Replacement – Exactech Lawsuit Attorney

Shoulder Replacement Lawyer – Shoulder Replacement Settlement – Medical Device Attorneys

Safe Driving Tips from Truck Accident Lawyers

Posted on August 8, 2024 by Loni Liss

Have you ever seen a semi-truck stopped in the roadway or pulled off to the shoulder and thought, “That doesn’t look safe”? Well, that’s because it isn’t. Semi-trucks stopped on the roadway are like an accident waiting to happen. As truck accident lawyers, we’ve seen it all.

According to the Department of Transportation, 6% of fatal crashes involving large trucks occurred when a truck was stopped in the roadway.

Between 2013 and 2022, in the United States, there were 48,308 reported fatalities in crashes involving large trucks.

In other words, in approximately a decade, close to 2,898 people were killed in collisions where large trucks were stopped in the roadway.

Promoting Safety in Commercial Motor Carriers

There are many ways commercial motor carriers can minimize scenarios when large trucks break down or are carelessly stopped on the roadway.

It is their responsibility to properly train all drivers of big rigs.
It is critical to maintain their vehicles and equipment in top working condition.
They should be engaging in thoughtful and safe route planning.

Promoting safety in commercial motor carriers is a collective effort that requires proper training, vehicle maintenance, route planning, and technology implementation.

By prioritizing safety at every level of operation, commercial motor carriers can reduce the risks associated with large trucks on the roads. They have a responsibility to protect both their drivers and other road users.

Remember – safe driving practices benefit everyone on the road!

Importance of Truck Driver Training

Driver training is vital to ensuring safety in commercial motor carriers. It involves providing drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate large trucks safely on the road.

This includes understanding traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, vehicle maintenance procedures, and emergency response protocols.

Proper driver training can help prevent accidents caused by human error, such as fatigue, distracted driving, or reckless behavior.

It also promotes compliance with federal regulations and industry standards, reducing the risk of penalties and legal consequences for companies.

How Truck Companies Can Minimize Truck Breakdowns on the Road

Commercial motor carriers can minimize truck breakdowns by conducting regular maintenance checks on all vehicles and equipment. This includes checking the tires, brakes, lights, engine components, and other crucial parts of the truck.

By identifying potential issues early on, carriers can address them before they become major problems that could lead to breakdowns on the road.

They must also invest in quality equipment and parts. While using cheap or substandard parts may save money in the short term, they can lead to costly breakdowns and repairs down the line.

By investing in quality equipment and parts from reputable suppliers, carriers can ensure that their vehicles are less likely to experience unexpected failures.

Regularly monitoring vehicle performance data can also help commercial motor carriers identify potential issues before they escalate into breakdowns.

By tracking metrics such as fuel efficiency, engine performance, and maintenance history, carriers can proactively address any anomalies or trends that could indicate impending issues with their vehicles.

Driver Assistance Tools Can Help Prevent Accidents

Implementing technologies such as GPS tracking systems or driver assistance tools can also enhance safety in commercial motor carriers.

These technologies can provide real-time information on vehicle locations, speed, and driving behavior, allowing companies to monitor their drivers’ performance and address any concerns proactively.

Additionally, driver assistance tools like lane departure warnings or collision avoidance systems can help prevent accidents by alerting drivers to potential hazards on the road.

Truck Safety Means Proper Use of Hazard Signals

Sometimes emergencies happen, and a driver may have no choice but to pull their semi-truck off to the shoulder or stop in the roadway.

In those scenarios, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations provide guidance to commercial drivers on exactly what to do to reduce the chances of a collision.

Specifically, under 49 CFR 392.22, whenever a commercial motor vehicle is stopped on the roadway for any purpose other than a necessary traffic stop, the driver SHALL immediately activate their vehicular hazard warning signal flashers. They must also continue the flashing until the driver can place down the appropriate roadway warning devices.

Those warning devices, which consist of three reflective orange triangles, are to be placed behind the vehicle at distances of 10, 100, and 100 feet (for a total distance of 210 feet). This will provide drivers with adequate warning of the hazard created by the stopped truck (See figure below).

Why Hazard Signals Matter for Semi-Trucks

As we navigate the highways and roads of our daily commute, we often encounter tractor trailers sharing the road with us. These massive vehicles play a crucial role in transporting goods across the country.

But, when they fail to activate their hazard warning signals or set up proper warning devices when stopped, they pose a significant danger to all motorists.

The size and weight of semi-trucks make them inherently more dangerous than smaller vehicles on the road. When a big truck stops on the highway or shoulder without activating its hazard warning flashers or setting up warning devices such as reflective triangles, it becomes a hazard to other drivers.

With these visual cues, approaching motorists may realize that the truck is stationary when it’s too late, leading to potential collisions, serious injuries, and fatalities.

When motorists are unable to clearly identify a stopped vehicle as a potential hazard, they may not take appropriate precautions, such as changing lanes or reducing speed.

This lack of awareness can result in dangerous situations where accidents are more likely to occur.

How to Avoid Tractor Trailer Accident Collisions

If you see a stopped semi-truck on the roadway or shoulder that has failed to activate its hazard warning signal flashers, be careful. If a big rig is on the side of the road without the appropriate warning devices, it is putting your life in danger.

By recognizing the risks and dangers posed by unsafe truck drivers, we can work together to hold them accountable and make the roads safer for ourselves and our loved ones.

All drivers must be vigilant and aware of their surroundings while on the road. If you see a stopped semi-truck without its hazard warning flashers activated or proper warning devices in place, it’s crucial to proceed with caution.

Slow down, change lanes if possible, and give the truck plenty of space to prevent potential accidents. Taking proactive measures like these can help mitigate the risks posed by unmarked semi-trucks on the road.

Hire Experienced Truck Crash Lawyers

Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, but when it involves a large commercial vehicle, the stakes are even higher. If you are seriously injured in a car accident with a tractor trailer, seek legal guidance from an experienced Baltimore personal injury lawyer.

Our truck accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the complexities of tractor trailer accident claims. The Yost Legal Group will fight for the justice you deserve.

Truck accident claims are not like regular car accident claims. Commercial vehicles have rules that apply to them. If there is an accident, the truck driver, trucking company, or truck manufacturer could be responsible.

An experienced tractor trailer accident attorney will know how to investigate the accident thoroughly, review all the evidence, and determine who should be held accountable for your injuries.

Our experienced truck collision attorneys have a proven track record of successfully handling complex tractor-trailer accident claims.

We will work tirelessly to seek justice for you and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Call experienced 18 wheeler accident attorneys at 800-967-8529 for a free case evaluation.

Recovering the Right Compensation for your Catastrophic Injury

At The Yost Legal Group, we understand the severe impact a truck accident can have on your life. Despite strict regulations, many people are seriously injured or killed due to driver mistakes, vehicle defects, and company negligence.

Since 1985, our commercial truck accident lawyers have been dedicated to securing fair compensation for those injured in truck accidents. Filing a lawsuit can help you recover compensation for your physical, emotional, and financial hardships.

Let our car accident law firm file a personal injury case on your behalf. We will stand by you every step of the way.

Get Help Navigating Your Truck Accident Claim

Posted on July 26, 2024 by Loni Liss

We congratulate attorney Sam Pulver for successfully completing the Legacy Trucking Course for Lawyers!

Sam has earned an “Education and Training” certificate for completing the “Legacy Trucking Course for Legal and Administrative Professionals.” This intensive program is designed to equip attorneys with the essential skills needed to manage and build strong cases related to serious tractor-trailer collisions.

The course covered critical topics such as accident causation, truck electronics, technology, and the crucial use of electronic data recorders (EDRs).

The course also focused on Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. Participants learned how to understand HOS regulations and tackle associated industry challenges.

Other key subjects included general safety principles, FMCSR/state CDL manual safety rules, the correct use of reflective safety triangles, drug and alcohol regulations, and driver medical examination protocols.

The course also addressed tire failures, preventative maintenance, and the challenges of driver visibility during nighttime driving.

What to Expect from Your Truck Accident Legal Team

This enhanced training further empowers The Yost Legal Group to manage serious truck accident injury claims. We aim to ensure our clients receive the best possible representation and outcomes.

Being injured in a motor vehicle accident is already a stressful and overwhelming experience. The stakes are even higher when that accident involves a large commercial vehicle like a tractor trailer.

Handling a tractor trailer accident claim is significantly more complex than a typical car accident claim. Numerous factors make these cases more challenging, from determining liability to navigating federal regulations.

This is why seeking guidance from an experienced truck accident law firm is crucial to handle your big truck injury claim.

The Heavy Truth: Why Tractor Trailer Accidents Are More Complex

One of the main reasons tractor trailer accident claims are more complex than car accident claims is the sheer size and weight of these commercial vehicles.

A fully loaded tractor trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making it much more dangerous in a collision. Determining liability in these cases can be highly challenging. Multiple parties may be involved, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and even third-party contractors.

In addition to liability issues, tractor trailer accidents are subject to specific federal regulations that do not apply to regular passenger vehicles.

Truck drivers and trucking companies must adhere to strict rules regarding hours of service, maintenance of their vehicles, and proper loading procedures.

Violations of these regulations can significantly impact the outcome of an accident claim and require specialized knowledge to navigate.

Trucking Accident Claims Are Different (Here’s Why)

Another factor that complicates tractor trailer accident claims is the potential for catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

Due to the size and speed of commercial vehicles, accidents involving tractor trailers are more likely to result in severe injuries or death.

A serious truck accident can result in very severe injuries, including:

– Traumatic brain injury claim

– Spinal cord injury claim

– Paraplegia injury claim

– Wrongful death claim

This means that medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages can be much higher in these cases than in car accidents.

Only an experienced truck accident law firm will have the resources and expertise to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

Navigating the Legal Maze: Liability in Tractor Trailer Accidents

In these cases, hiring a skilled personal injury lawyer who can investigate the incident thoroughly to determine how it happened and who was at fault is essential.

A great lawyer for personal injury will leave no stone unturned in their investigation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

So, what exactly will a truck accident lawyer investigate to uncover the truth behind the truck accident?

Gather evidence to prove your truck accident claim.

The first step a truck accident attorney takes in investigating a truck accident is gathering evidence. This includes obtaining:

police reports
witness statements
photos of the accident scene
any other relevant documentation.

An experienced truck collision attorney may also visit the accident scene to gather additional information that could help determine what happened.

Review Trucking Company Records

In many truck accidents, the negligence of the truck driver or trucking company may be to blame. A skilled personal injury law attorney will review the trucking company’s records.

It is crucial to determine if there were any violations of federal regulations, such as hours-of-service violations or improper vehicle maintenance.

These records can provide crucial evidence to prove liability.

Examine the Driver’s History

Another important aspect of the investigation process is examining the driver’s history. This includes:

looking into their driving record
any previous accidents they may have been involved in
whether they had any prior citations for reckless driving or DUIs.

This information can shed light on whether the driver was negligent or unfit to operate a commercial vehicle.

In truck accident cases, determining if the driver was driving under the influence or was distracted while driving is essential.

A Baltimore truck accident lawyer with experience with commercial truck accidents can file a lawsuit to recover compensation.

Personal injury cases are all very unique and require the knowledge only a lawyer for semi truck accidents has.

Consult with Experts

Personal injury lawyers often work with accident reconstruction experts and other professionals to help piece together how an accident occurred.

These experts can analyze factors such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions to determine speed, braking distances, and other crucial details that can help establish liability.

Negotiate with Insurance Companies

Once all evidence has been gathered and analyzed, a skilled personal injury lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. This will ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

An injury lawyer for car accidents will use their findings from the investigation to build a strong case.

Building a solid case will prove why you deserve the maximum recovery for your car accident case. Our accident lawyers in Baltimore will fight tirelessly for your rights.

Why The Yost Legal Group Should Handle Your Truck Accident Claim

When it comes to handling a tractor trailer accident claim, contact The Yost Legal Group at 800-967-8529 for a free case evaluation. We will listen to what happened and explain your rights.

Filing a personal injury claim for compensation will help you recover all damages incurred from the accident and for pain and suffering.

The complexities involved in these cases require specialized knowledge and resources that only a seasoned attorney can provide.

By entrusting your big truck injury claim to professionals who understand the intricacies of commercial vehicle accidents, you can rest assured that your rights will be protected and you will receive the compensation you deserve.

If you need help navigating this challenging process, contact our reputable semi-truck accident law firm today for a free consultation.

200,000+ Traumatic Brain Injury Related Hospitalizations Annually

Posted on July 16, 2024August 5, 2024 by Loni Liss

Harmed by negligence and suffering from a TBI? Seek help from a TBI lawyer today.

Over 200,000 hospitalizations a year are attributed to traumatic brain injuries in the United States. And almost 70,000 people die from TBI-related injuries annually. At The Yost Legal Group, we take TBIs seriously and want to keep you informed.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a serious and often life-changing type of injury that can result from a sudden blow or jolt to the head.

In Maryland, like in many other states, TBIs are a major concern due to their potential for long-term medical conditions. Understanding the causes of TBIs is crucial for prevention and early intervention.

If you or a loved one has experienced a traumatic brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact a brain injury lawyer. Filing a personal injury claim can be a vital step in securing the care and support you need. Reach out to the compassionate and experienced traumatic brain injury lawyers at The Yost Legal Group for assistance.

To get started, call 1-800-967-8529 for a free consultation. It’s important to protect your rights swiftly when faced with such life-altering circumstances. The financial burden of long-term care after a TBI can be overwhelming for any family. Don’t wait—get the support you deserve today.

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries Beyond Physical Blows

Many people assume a TBI requires a heavy, physical blow to the head. Those types of impacts can absolutely cause TBIs, of course.

People in car accidents can hit their heads on the dashboard, a window, or a windshield. People who slip and fall can hit their heads on the ground. Attack victims can be assaulted by blows to the head.

What people do not often consider, however, is that a traumatic brain injury simply requires the brain to make an impact on the skull. This adverse contact can damage brain cells, which do not repair once dead.

Traumatic brain injuries caused without impacts to the head are the result of “whiplash injuries.”

People most commonly associate whiplash with neck and back pain because of strained ligaments, tendons, or nerves.

The brute force that can cause a whiplash injury can also shake the brain in the skull. This sudden loss of momentum can make the brain hit the skull’s interior. Potentially, this can lead to a mild traumatic brain injury (concussion) or something more severe.

Whiplash to TBI: Understanding the Serious Consequences of Neck Injuries

Whiplash injuries are commonly associated with car accidents, but did you know that they can sometimes lead to traumatic brain injuries (TBI) as well?

This connection is not well-known to many people, which is why it’s important to understand the potential risks and consequences of a serious whiplash injury.

We can use an example of a car crash victim. The seatbelt may prevent hitting the head on the dash or windshield, but it still causes whiplash due to force. That person might have a TBI.

Someone might slip and fall and catch themselves to prevent their head from hitting the ground, but the change in momentum can cause whiplash.

Another example is American football players, who often face situations that might cause whiplash when they get tackled. They wear helmets to protect their heads, but the helmets can’t fully protect what’s happening inside the skull.

American football is not the only sport linked to traumatic brain injuries. Concussions in hockey and soccer are well-known and studied, but not as much as in American football.

The Overlooked Impact of Whiplash on Brain Health

Whiplash injuries occur when the neck is forcefully jerked back and forth, usually as a result of a sudden impact such as a rear-end collision.

While most whiplash injuries are considered mild and resolve on their own with time and conservative treatment, severe cases can have long-lasting effects.

In some cases, the force of the impact that causes whiplash can also result in a traumatic brain injury. This occurs when the brain is jolted inside the skull due to the sudden movement of the head, causing damage to brain tissue.

In Maryland, car accidents and falls are, unfortunately, a common occurrence. If you experience traumatic brain injury symptoms following a car accident or injury that caused whiplash, seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms may include:

Neck pain
Persistent headaches
Memory problems
Changes in mood or behavior
Dizziness or numbness.

Do not delay in seeking medical help if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. A healthcare provider will determine if you may have a TBI in addition to your whiplash injury.

The Silent Threat of Whiplash-Related Traumatic Brain Injuries

While not every whiplash injury will lead to a TBI, it’s essential to take any potential head injury seriously. TBIs can have significant consequences on cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.

Medical treatment for whiplash injuries and TBIs early is important for better outcomes for those who have them. In Maryland, there are doctors who specialize in treating these injuries and can give personalized care to each person.

The Impact of Car Accidents and Falls on Concussions in the US

Concussions are a common type of traumatic brain injury that can occur from a variety of causes. Car accidents and falls are two of the leading causes.

Many people may not realize the extent to which these incidents lead to head injuries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 1.7 million traumatic brain injuries occur each year in the US.

Car accidents are responsible for approximately 14% of all traumatic brain injuries. While falls account for over 40% of such injuries.

When it comes specifically to concussions, studies have shown that car accidents and falls together contribute to tens of thousands of cases each year.

There are other important factors to think about when it comes to head injuries. Research shows that people who have had a concussion before are more likely to have another one in the future.

This is particularly concerning given that repeated concussions can lead to long-term cognitive issues and even permanent brain damage.

When injured in a serious car accident, it’s important to contact a top car accident injury lawyer. They will file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf. A good accident lawyer will seek compensation to cover all medical costs, long-term physical therapy, and any future medical issues.

Concussions and Cognitive Health: What You Need to Know

Many people may not be aware that concussions can have a wide range of symptoms beyond just headaches or dizziness. Some individuals who sustain a concussion may experience:

Changes in mood or behavior
Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
Sensitivity to light or noise
Sleep disturbances

Symptoms can vary in severity and duration depending on the individual and should be taken seriously.

Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to concussions from car accidents and falls due to their developing brains. Studies have shown that younger individuals may take longer to recover from a concussion compared to adults. And could be at greater risk for long-term effects on brain function.

This underscores the importance of taking precautions, such as wearing seat belts in cars or installing safety gates on stairs to prevent falls.

Protect Your Rights After a Traumatic Brain Injury

Concussions and other severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are serious. Any moderate or heavy blow to the head or whiplash incident should be closely monitored.

If you’re experiencing symptoms like sensitivity to light, brain fog, or headaches, it’s crucial to see a medical professional immediately. Every brain injury needs proper attention and care.

If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI due to someone else’s negligence, contact our experienced TBI lawyers for a free consultation.

A TBI injury or serious whiplash injury caused by another’s actions requires legal help. These cases can be complex and demand a traumatic brain injury attorney with extensive knowledge of medical issues.

You need the best personal injury lawyer with experience handling such cases. When you hire top-rated injury lawyers to handle your personal injury case, you’ll recover the compensation you deserve.

Call or text The Yost Legal Group at 410-659-6800.

Thomas Waxter Juvenile Detention Center Child Sexual Abuse Claims

Posted on July 15, 2024July 15, 2024 by Loni Liss

It is a heartbreaking reality that child sexual abuse occurs in juvenile detention centers across Baltimore. Vulnerable young individuals should be protected against molestation in juvenile jails, but often they are not.

The trauma of child sexual abuse in Baltimore juvenile detention centers is being addressed through legal action, advocacy, and support services.

By law, DJS is a child-serving agency responsible for assessing the individual needs of referred youth and providing intake, detention, probation, commitment, and after-care services.

The mission of Thomas J.S. Waxter Children’s Center was to provide a high standard of services, including education, mental health, substance abuse, and recreation, within a safe and secure environment. The state-owned facility closed in 2022.

Former residents of the Thomas Waxter Juvenile Detention Center have reported instances of staff members sexually abusing children for years. These claims include inappropriate touching, coerced sexual acts, and other forms of child exploitation.

Exposing the Hidden Abuse in Juvenile Detention Centers

Many survivors have shared their stories and are seeking justice for the trauma they endured while in the facility.

They are speaking out about their experiences and advocating for accountability. The survivors are seeking legal action to hold the facility responsible for the harm they experienced.

They are determined to seek justice for the trauma they suffered while under the facility’s care. These claims are not isolated incidents. They are part of a larger issue of abuse in juvenile detention centers nationwide. This problem is widespread and affects many facilities across the country.

Holding Those in Power Accountable for Abuse in Juvenile Facilities

In these facilities, vulnerable youth can be targeted and exploited by those in charge because of power dynamics. This cycle of abuse must be addressed, and accountability must be held for those responsible.

For survivors of child sexual abuse at the Thomas Waxter Juvenile Detention Center, seeking support and healing is crucial. There are resources available, such as therapy, support groups, and legal assistance, to help individuals navigate their experiences and seek justice. It is important for survivors to know that they are not alone and that there is help available to them.

One of our clients had a horrifying experience at Thomas JS Waxter Children’s Center. His experience serves as a stark reminder of the horrors that take place behind closed doors. We must stop rape in juvenile detention centers.

Survivors who want to share their stories to help others.

When our client was ten years old, he was incarcerated at Thomas Waxter Children’s Center. After he arrived, a staff member named Mr. Smitty subjected him to repeated sexual abuse in 1989. He would pull our young client into his sleeping area and rape him.

Mr. Smitty then began to bring in another gentleman named Mr. Rogers. Our client was subjected to serious physical injuries as a victim of sexual assault.

Eventually, Mr. Smitty went on to work at Shake and Bake, a local roller skating rink in Baltimore.

Repeated sexual assaults at the juvenile detention center ruined our client’s life. His experience at such a young age highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform within Baltimore’s juvenile detention system.

The trauma inflicted upon our client had long-lasting consequences, leading to struggles with incarceration, substance abuse, and trust issues. Our sexual abuse lawyers are committed to breaking the cycle of child abuse through legal action and support for survivors.

Are You a Survivor of Child Sexual Abuse?

The prevalence of child sexual abuse in Baltimore juvenile detention centers is a systemic issue that demands attention and action from both the city and state authorities. Survivors deserve justice, validation, and compensation for the unimaginable harm they have endured.

The Maryland Child Victims Act of 2023 offers hope for survivors to come forward, seek legal recourse, and hold perpetrators accountable for their heinous actions. The Child Victims Act removes the statute of limitations for sexual assault victims.

If you are a survivor of child sexual abuse in a Baltimore juvenile jail, know that you are not alone.

The Yost Legal Group is here to provide compassionate legal representation and support as you navigate the path toward justice and healing. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of these cases.

We will fight tirelessly on your behalf to ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are upheld.

Coming forward to tell your truth can start the healing process.

Your story matters, your pain is valid, and you deserve justice. By reaching out to us at 1-800-Yost-Law, you can take the first step towards reclaiming your power. Men and women have come forward to understand the legal process.

You can seek accountability and justice for those responsible for your suffering. There is no cost to speak with us; we work on a contingency fee basis. We only get paid if we secure a successful recovery on your behalf.

At The Yost Legal Group, we have experienced attorneys for child sexual abuse. They will work with you at your pace and within your comfort level. All information is held completely confidential, and your case can be filed confidentially.

If you suffered abuse as a minor in a juvenile jail, we can file a sexual abuse case for you. A sexual assault lawyer will work closely with you to file a lawsuit.

We’re holding Baltimore Juvenile Detention Centers accountable.

Survivors have the right to seek justice, heal from their wounds, and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

By standing together as a community of survivors and allies, we can create a safer future for all vulnerable individuals who enter the juvenile justice system.

Call our sexual abuse attorneys at 800-967-8529 for a free consultation. We will explain your rights under the Maryland Child Victims Act and let you know what to expect when we file a claim on your behalf.

A child abuse lawyer will stand by you during the entire process. Contact us today so we can work to seek compensation for you.

We proudly and passionately defend sexual assault survivors. Your story matters – let us help you rewrite it with strength, courage, and resilience.

Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Sexual Abuse Lawyers Near Me – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Personal Injuries – Medical Treatment – Pain and Suffering

Cheltenham Youth Detention Center Child Sexual Abuse Claims

Posted on July 7, 2024July 7, 2024 by Loni Liss

Cheltenham, previously called Boys Village of Maryland, ignored years of child sexual abuse claims against staff and guards.

We are still talking about the bad conditions in Maryland‘s juvenile detention centers. Today, we are looking at the Cheltenham Youth Detention Center. Many people have made claims of rape and sexual abuse for years, but authorities did not take them seriously.

Teenagers will make mistakes sometimes. It is normal for them to mess up. Sometimes, they might even make serious mistakes that qualify as actual crimes, leading to forced detention.

Youth detention centers are meant to help young people change for the better and make amends for their actions.

Young people who end up in juvenile detention have often experienced trauma. It is important to give them a chance to learn from their mistakes and grow. This will help them overcome their past experiences and move forward positively. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network notes:

Children who are abused or experience violence are at a higher risk of engaging in criminal behavior. They are also more likely to experience mental health issues and substance abuse problems.

Additionally, these children may be more prone to attempting suicide. Youth who witness family or community violence are also more like.”

Seek Justice for Child Sexual Abuse Survivors

Many minors in Maryland youth detention centers have experienced abuse, assault, and trauma.

Were you or a loved one raped or sexually abused as a minor at Cheltenham Youth Detention Center or any other Maryland juvenile jail?

The Child Victims Act allows you to file a child sexual abuse lawsuit against the facility no matter how long ago the abuse occurred.

Even if you were abused 50 years ago, you may file a claim. Call or text our Maryland sexual abuse lawyers today for a free consultation. Our compassionate childhood sexual abuse survivor lawyers will get started on your case immediately.

Exposing the Abuse in Maryland’s Youth Detention Centers

Minors in youth detention centers are vulnerable. They are away from home in an unfamiliar and unwelcoming environment. They are often scared and lonely. All this happens on top of already potentially suffering from traumatic experiences that led to the offending crime.

Abusers in Maryland’s youth detention centers, like the Cheltenham Youth Detention Center, use their positions of power as doctors, nurses, and guards to take advantage of scared, traumatized, vulnerable minors.

It was despicable behavior these predators engaged in. What is worse is that the people in charge often did nothing, as reports of abuse were levied against staff members. At worst, facilities like Cheltenham Youth Center engaged in cover-up missions.

In this way, Maryland’s juvenile detention center network behaved like the Archdiocese of Baltimore and the Catholic Church.

They ignored the allegations until they could no longer do so, and only then did they move an offender to another post, sweeping the actual issues under the proverbial rug.

Predators in Power Exploiting Minors in Maryland’s Detention Centers

Just as we are holding the Catholic Church accountable thanks to the Child Victims Act, it is now time to take the state of Maryland and its abusive juvenile and youth detention centers to task.

To do that, we must file cases against detention centers such as Cheltenham. Decades of unchecked sexual abuse will no longer be ignored.

We must hold the youth detention centers and the state of Maryland accountable for their inaction while abusers and predators ran rampant. Many guards have sexually abused children in Baltimore juvie detention centers.

If you or a loved one was sexually abused while at Cheltenham Youth Detention Center, let us help you fill a sexual abuse case to seek financial compensation.

You have a safe place to come to share your sexual abuse claim in Maryland. Call or text us today at 410-659-6800 for a free consultation. There is no fee unless we win your case. Our experienced sexual abuse attorneys will work with you with compassion and respect.

The Hidden Horrors of Cheltenham Youth Detention Center

Like the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School, which we reported on recently, the Cheltenham Youth Detention Center opened in the second half of the 1800s and has undergone several name changes over its 150-year history.

Located in Prince George’s County, Cheltenham’s current name was founded in 2016. However, from 1949 to 1992, the youth detention center was known as the Boys’ Village of Maryland.

And as with Hickey, decades and name changes could not erase its sordid history.

In 2004, the United States Justice Department released a report on its 20-month investigation into Hickey and Cheltenham. The findings were as sickening as they were illuminating.

Over the report’s 51 pages, the U.S. Justice Department detailed several unprofessional, unethical, and illegal practices and procedures conducted by the Cheltenham staff.

For the purposes of this litigation, we will highlight “Article III: Findings, Section A: Protection from Harm, Clause 5: Other Abusive Practices, a.: Inappropriate Staff-Youth Relationships.”

“Our investigation revealed incidents of misconduct at both facilities in which female staff were found to have engaged in inappropriate relationships with male youth residents as young as 14 years old. For example, in June 2003 … the staff member admitted.”

These were not “relationships.” Adults with positions of power at a juvenile detention center raped and sexually abused minors—some as young as 14 years old.

Abuse Allegations Ignored How Maryland Failed Its Vulnerable Youth

Minors and prisoners cannot give consent. The vulnerable youth at Cheltenham and other juvenile detention centers were both.

This particular passage only outlines a few instances of sexual abuse at Cheltenham. However, there are dozens of public lawsuits filed by former youth inmates of Cheltenham alone.

We at The Yost Legal Group are already representing dozens of Maryland youth detention center childhood sexual abuse survivors, some of whom spent time at Cheltenham. Unfortunately, we expect to receive inquiries from many more people.

Please remember that you are not alone. We are here to listen. We are here to help.

Contact our Baltimore sexual abuse lawyers today for guidance. We will listen to what happened and file a claim for child sexual abuse.

If you are a survivor of child sexual abuse at a Baltimore juvenile detention center, call for a free, confidential consultation.

Survivors of childhood sexual abuse can come forward confidentially to seek justice.

If the Baltimore Department of Juvenile Services failed to protect you as a minor, we can file a sex abuse case on your behalf. Now, because of the Child Victims Act of 2023, you can file a lawsuit.

The experienced child sexual abuse survivor attorneys at The Yost Legal Group are ready to fight to get the justice you deserve. Call or text us at 410-659-6800 for a free consultation.

Child Sexual Abuse Claims Maryland – Maryland Juvenile Sex Claims – Juvenile Jails Sexual Abuse

Police Officers Charged with Child Sexual Abuse Crimes

Posted on July 5, 2024July 5, 2024 by Loni Liss

The Yost Legal Group Is Representing Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse Committed by Maryland Police Officers

The Washington Post recently reported that 1,800 police officers were charged with child sexual abuse crimes between 2005 and 2022. These officers were accused of committing crimes involving sexual abuse against children.

The report highlights a concerning trend within law enforcement agencies across the country. The findings shed light on the issue of abuse of power and trust within the police force.

The information for “Abused by the Badge” is from Bowling Green State University’s Henry A. Wallace Police Crime Database. This database is known as the most comprehensive collection of police arrests in the United States. The introduction for the site reads:

“The Police Crime Database includes summary information on 16,563 criminal arrest cases from the years 2005-2018 involving 13,600 individual nonfederal sworn law enforcement officers, each of whom was charged with one or more crimes.

The arrested officers were employed by 4,766 state, local, and special law enforcement agencies located in 1,831 counties and independent cities in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.”

Were you or someone you love sexually abused as a minor by a police officer in Maryland? Thanks to the Child Victims Act of Maryland, you can now file a claim regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred.

This groundbreaking bill has removed the statute of limitations on reporting childhood sexual abuse.

The compassionate and experienced prison abuse attorneys at The Yost Legal Group are ready to listen and support you. We’re here to help you seek the justice you deserve.

Call or text a prison sexual abuse lawyer today at 410-659-6800.

Explore 17,000+ Police Arrests in the BGSU Database

With the Police Crime Database, users may search for arrests by location, crime, and victim. Researchers at BGSU discovered over 17,000 state and local officers charged with a crime from 2005 to 2022. The search tool they developed will be helpful for accessing this information.

While large amounts of data can be difficult to parse, the team at BGSU has done a wonderful job designing the website.

They even provide very helpful meta resources such as How-To (video tutorials), Glossary (definitions of common terms), and FAQ (frequently asked questions) sections. Finally, supporting The Post’s claim that this database is the most comprehensive one available, the team at BGSU even provides an in-depth Methods section to explain “How we built the Henry A. Wallace Police Crime Database.”

Nearly 18,000 police officers—entrusted with authority, power, and weapons, sworn to protect and serve—have been charged with crimes like assault, drug offenses, and impaired driving. This is truly shocking.

But The Post dug deeper. There was an even bigger story here, and they found it.

Thousands of Police Officers Accused of Sexual Abuse Against Minors

“The Post found that 1 in 10 of those officers were charged with a crime involving child sexual abuse.”

And that is how we get to the fact that 1,800 police officers were charged with the sexual abuse of a minor between the years of 2005 and 2022.

The number is hard to fathom: 1,800 individual officers in just 17 years of accounting. Even if the same number of offenders showed up in data over twice or thrice as many years, it would still be unacceptable.

It is also worth noting that not every officer was a first-time or one-time offender when officially charged.

What is worse, as The Post points out, is that Bowling Green’s data is technically limited in that they have only tracked new reports, but “not all arrests are reported in the news media.”

As USA TODAY exposed in “Behind the Blue Wall of Silence,” police have a history of protecting themselves and the fraternal order.

Who Polices the Police? Uncovering Abuse Within

When a person needs to report rape or sexual assault, they need to go to the police. But what happens when the person who committed the crime is a police officer? CNN writer Harmeet Kaur explored that question in “Why Some Police Officers Rally Around Their Colleagues – Even When They’re Accused of Committing Crimes.”

Even when officers are charged, tracking criminal cases of police officers can be difficult because other parts of the justice system can get in the way.

As The Post reported, “Some cases were impossible to track because prosecutors struck deals that allowed officers to accept responsibility for their crimes without a conviction being placed on their record. Others were permitted to have their criminal records sealed after meeting certain conditions.”

The Washington Post‘s investigators found that almost 40% of officers convicted of child sex crimes did not go to prison.

Police officers, correctional officers, and guards all have a duty to protect the people in their care. All correctional facilities have a duty to protect inmates.

If you are a victim of sexual abuse while in police custody or in a correctional facility, call us. Victims of child sexual assault can file a failing to protect inmates claim. Sexual assault cases like these, cases involving sexual abuse in prisons, must stop.

Victims of sexual assault in prison can now report abuse, regardless of when it occurred, to pursue justice and compensation.

Justice Awaits Survivors of Maryland Police Sex Abuse

We must hold the police accountable for their crimes, especially when they are using their authority and power to abuse and groom minors.

Bowling Green’s database included the following Maryland officers accused of abusing, grooming, raping, or soliciting minors:

Cpl. Tristan Thigpen, Prince George’s County
Pfc. Nicholas Christopher Bonsall, Baltimore City
Pfc. Christopher B. Dunkes, Montgomery County

But this short list is not close to exhaustive for officers charged with child sex crimes in Bowling Green’s Police Crime Database. Not all sexual abuses committed by police are reported or investigated.

The Yost Legal Group thanks writers Jessica Contrera, Jenn Abelson, John, D. Harden, Haydon Godfrey, and FOIA specialist Nate Jones for their collaborative effort on “Abused by the Badge.”

Are You a Survivor of Police Sexual Abuse in Maryland?

Were you or a loved one raped or sexually abused by a Maryland police officer or guard? The Yost Legal Group is here to support survivors like you. Our prison abuse lawyers will help you file a sex abuse lawsuit.

If you are ready to share your story, our experienced child sexual abuse lawyers are here to listen. You are not alone, and you are not to blame.

Call or text 410-659-6800 for a free consultation. Justice is within your reach.

We have spoken with many survivors of child sexual abuse claims and family members. If we file a sexual abuse claim on your behalf, our inmate abuse lawsuit lawyers will stand by you every step of the way.

Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We never charge upfront fees. In fact, it costs you nothing upfront for us to handle your case.

We are paid after we settle your case. And if there is no recovery, there are no fees or expenses due.

New York Times Finally Covers Hair Relaxer Litigation

Posted on June 26, 2024October 11, 2024 by Loni Liss

After 8,000 Hair Relaxer Lawsuits Filed, Mainstream Media Pay Attention to Cancer Risk

Earlier this month, on June 13, 2024, New York Times Magazine contributing writer Linda Villarosa published “The Disturbing Truth About Hair Relaxers.” Her expansive 6,300-word article was the ripe fruit born from over a year of research about hair relaxer lawsuits.

She interviewed dozens of scientists, government officials, legal experts, and, most importantly, hair relaxer users. Her findings, while shocking to some, were no surprise to us here at The Yost Legal Group.

We have been covering the hair relaxer litigation for two years. Unfortunately, we are all too familiar with the dangers, cancers, and deaths caused by chemical hair straighteners.

The sub-head continues: “They’ve been linked to reproductive disorders and cancers. Why are they still being marketed so aggressively to Black women?”

The easy answer is “Money.” Cosmetics companies like Avlon, L’Oréal, and Revlon have made hundreds of billions of dollars on the heads of Black women without any regard for the effects upon people’s lives.

Hair Straighteners Linked to Uterine Cancer in Black Women

Women who used hair straighteners (mostly Black) were 2.5 times more likely to develop uterine cancer. Black women are more than twice as likely to die from uterine cancer than other racial and ethnic groups studied in 2022 by The Journal of the American Medical Association Oncology.

All peer-reviewed studies we have seen show that chemical hair relaxers and straighteners are carcinogenic, yet cosmetics companies continue to market and sell them. It is time to hold them accountable.

Have you been diagnosed with endometrial cancer (not to be confused with endometriosis), non-serous ovarian cancer, or uterine cancer? Have you used chemical hair relaxers or chemical hair straighteners regularly for years? Contact The Yost Legal Group today at 410-659-6800.

Our lawyers for personal injury will help you understand your rights to file a hair relaxer lawsuit. If you used a dark and lovely relaxer and were diagnosed with any of these cancers, we can file a dark and lovely lawsuit on your behalf.

There is a direct connection between hair relaxers and cancer. Click here for hair relaxer lawsuit update information.

Urgent Warning for Black Women Using Hair Straighteners

If you have never used chemical hair relaxers or lived with someone who did, it might be easy to underestimate how prevalent they are among Black women.

According to a 2019 study published by the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology (and cited in Villarosa’s New York Times Magazine article), 89% of Black women studied reported having used chemical hair relaxers/straighteners at least once.

In 2011, the United States hair-relaxer market generated $71 million just from sales to salons and other professionals. That revenue dropped to $30 million by 2021. However, those figures do not account for the many products sold off-the-shelf directly to consumers.

If you have been diagnosed with uterine cancer and have used hair relaxers regularly, you should consider filing a product liability lawsuit. The toxic chemicals in chemical hair straightening products increase your risk of cancer.

Although the harmful chemicals in these products were known to be carcinogenic, manufacturers continued to use them in their hair products. Multiple studies show the risk of developing uterine cancer with prolonged use of hair straighteners or relaxer products.

Hold Cosmetics Companies Accountable for Carcinogenic Hair Products

Hair Relaxer Brands Linked to Reproductive-Organ Cancers:

· African Pride

· Avlon

· Bantu

· Carson

· Dark and Lovely

· Just for Me

· L’Oréal

· ORS Olive Oil

· Revlon

· Strength of Nature

Hair-straightening products have been on the market since the 1950s. In many families, brand loyalty has become a tradition. Mothers passed their products onto their daughters, who would eventually pass the products onto their own daughters, and so on and so forth.

Some women have decades of chemical hair relaxer use. The blatant disregard for the health and well-being of women of color by these manufacturers is evident. Now, a light is shining on the truth.

Higher Uterine Cancer Risk Linked to Hair Straightening Chemicals, NIH Study Reveals

A recent study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has found that women who use chemical hair straightening products face a higher risk of developing uterine cancer than those who do not use these products.

The research, which drew data from 33,497 U.S. women aged 35-74 participating in the Sister Study, highlighted an increased risk, particularly among Black women, who reportedly use these products more frequently.

According to the findings, women who used hair straighteners more than four times in the previous year were more than twice as likely to develop uterine cancer compared to those who did not use the products.

Notably, the study did not find any associations between uterine cancer and other hair products such as dyes, bleach, highlights, or perms.

Key Findings from the Study:

Women who never used hair straighteners had a 1.64% chance of developing uterine cancer by age 70.
Frequent users (more than four times a year) faced a risk that increased to 4.05%.
During nearly 11 years of follow-up, 378 uterine cancer cases were diagnosed among the participants.

Dr. Alexandra White, head of the NIEHS Environment and Cancer Epidemiology group and the study’s lead author, emphasized the significance of these findings. “This doubling rate is concerning. However, it is important to put this information into context—uterine cancer is a relatively rare type of cancer.”

Despite accounting for about 3% of all new cancer cases, uterine cancer remains the most common cancer of the female reproductive system, with an estimated 65,950 new cases in 2022.

Alarmingly, studies indicate that the incidence rates of uterine cancer have been rising in the United States, especially among Black women.

This study underscores the importance of further research and awareness about the potential risks associated with chemical hair straightening products, particularly within communities that use these products more frequently.

Holding Cosmetics Companies Accountable for Product Safety

As the awareness of the potential risks associated with chemical hair relaxers continues to grow, it is crucial for individuals, especially Black women, to educate themselves about the products they use.

Seeking alternative hair straightening methods that do not contain harmful chemicals can help reduce the risk of developing serious health issues. Additionally, holding cosmetics companies accountable for the safety of their products is essential in ensuring the well-being of consumers.

By staying informed and advocating for safer hair care options, individuals can protect themselves and their loved ones from the dangers linked to chemical hair relaxers.

This prevalence over many decades greatly explains the 8,000+ cases that people have filed so far. In the Hair Relaxers Marketing, Sales Practices, and Products Liability Litigation (MDL-3060) in the United States Judicial Panel of Multidistrict Litigation docket.

The Hidden Dangers of Hair Relaxers for Black Women Exposed

It is nice to see a mainstream media organization like The New York Times finally give this cause the attention it deserves. Hair products that cause cancer should be removed from the market.

Black women have been suffering from preventable endometrial, non-serous ovarian, and uterine cancers likely caused by their chemical hair relaxers for far too long without proper recognition.

If you used chemical hair relaxers or chemical hair straighteners regularly and were diagnosed with endometrial cancer (not to be confused with endometriosis), non-serous ovarian cancer, or uterine cancer, call The Yost Legal Group.

We will file a hair relaxer lawsuit to seek financial compensation for you and your family. Our attorneys for personal injury will fight to seek a hair relaxer settlement.

Our experienced hair relaxer lawyers will work to help you get the justice you deserve. Call or text us at 410-659-6800 for a free consultation.

Urgent Exactech Recall of Defective Hip Liner

Posted on June 19, 2024October 25, 2024 by Loni Liss

Exactech Recall Lawsuit; Connexion GXL Hip Replacement Liner

Exactech, a Florida based medical device manufacturer, has issued an FDA Exachtech recall of a number of its medical devices. The recall list includes:

Optetrak
Optetrak Logic
Truliant knee replacement products
Vantage ankle replacement products
Connexion GXL Hip Liner

The hip implant recalls are prompted by the plastic in these products wearing out much faster than expected and causing the devices to fail. Most of these products were marketed to last 15 to 20 years but are failing much earlier.

The failure leads to pain and complications that usually require additional revision surgery to correct the problems caused by these defective products. Exactech lawsuits are being filed for victims injured by the recalled products.

“Enhanced” Polyethylene Wears Out Causing Bone Damage and Potential Hip Replacement

Exactech uses a special type of polyethylene in its products known as UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene). Exactech claimed that this “enhanced polyethylene” enabled its products to wear less and last longer than the standard polyethylene used by other orthopedic implant manufacturers. The opposite has proven true.

The industry standard for orthopedic implants is cross-linked polyethylene. Cross-linked plastic is treated with gamma or electron beam irradiation, creating harder, stronger, and more wear-resistant plastic.

Vitamin E was added to the material in the mid-2000s, further improving hip liner longevity. This design has been patented, leading some manufacturers, such as Exactech, to design their own version of this plastic to avoid paying patent fees.

This is where Exactech’s Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene comes into play. Exactech created this as a way of saving money. However, due to poor manufacturing, the actual resulting polyethylene was not treated the way the patented cross-linked polyethylene was during production.

This resulted in the existence of free radicals on the plastic’s surface, making it more susceptible to oxidation. The oxidation then led to knee implant failure and hip implant failure. Thus leading to hip replacement complications and knee replacement complications.

Exactech’s Cost-Cutting Measures Lead to Critical Hip Replacement Failures

Exactech claimed that the product’s packaging caused early oxidation. However, the product is meant to be resistant to oxidation since it will still encounter oxygen while implanted inside the body.

The failure of this plastic, and by association- Exactech products, is the result of cutting corners to save money. This could have been avoided had Exactech used the patented cross-linked polyethylene that has proven to be highly successful in orthopedic implants.

Instead, countless individuals suffered harm and had to undergo a hip replacement simply to save the company a couple of bucks.

Many patients have to undergo a revision hip implant surgery and a revision total knee revision surgery. The cost-cutting measures created range of motion problems, soft tissue problems, and diminishing quality of life for many.

Exactech Connexion GXL Hip liner lawsuit

Exactech’s Connexion GXL hip implant is a medical device used in total hip replacements. It is a “metal on plastic” hip implant featuring a polyethylene plastic acetabular liner. These implants are failing due to the polyethylene liners deteriorating.

The deterioration exposes the metal, causing the metal components within the implant to rub together and break down prematurely.

Studies by orthopedic surgeons of the Exactech Connexion GXL liner published in medical journals have shown that this defective liner is prone to early failure.

When the plastic wears out, it causes severe bone damage called osteolysis, which often requires hip liner replacement surgery.

The Yost Legal Group is filing hip replacement lawsuits for individuals across the country. If you require a revision surgery of your joint replacement device, protect your rights by filing a lawsuit.

Symptoms of the Device Failure include:

Difficulty walking
Loosening of the implant
Joint Stiffness
Swelling and inflammation
Possible bone degeneration: osteolysis
Extreme Pain

High Failure Rates Lead to FDA Recall

In June 2021, Exactech recalled the Connexion GXL liner. This was because the medical community had concerns about its high failure rates from wear, which were leading to severe osteolysis.

This recall affected roughly 90,000 patients with the Connexion GXL Liner. Exactech also sent doctors an “urgent communication” letter warning about the higher failure rates.

In fact, Exactech recommended that Connexion GXL patients follow up with their doctor if they had received their hip implant in the last six years and had not had a follow appointment in the past 12 months.

Optetrak, Optetrak Logic, and Truliant Knee Implants

Along with the Connexion GXL Liner, the recall also included:

60,926 Exactech Optetrak knee implants
60,518 Exactech Optetrak Logic knee implants
24,727 Exactech Truliant knee implants
impacting nearly 150,000 patients with these products.

The same defective polyethylene inserts were also used in 1,561 Exactech Vantage ankle replacement systems, which have also been recalled.

The Optetrak, Optetrak Logic, and Truliant Knee replacement systems are considered metal-on-plastic devices.

Polyethylene cushions the joints between the metal components. When the polyethylene oxidizes, the device breaks down, debris breaks off into the body, bone loss occurs, and more.

Symptoms of a failing knee or ankle system present complications, including:

Pain
Swelling around the joint
Accelerated wear
Component fatigue
Component fracturing
Debris production
Osteolysis (bone loss)
Bone Fractures
Instability in the knee or ankle
Inability to bear weight

If you have an Exactech knee or ankle implant and are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

Exactech Attempts to Limit Rights of Patients

After the recall, Exactech hired a company, Broadspire, to contact individuals who had received the recalled products. They wanted to see if these individuals were experiencing any problems and if they might require additional surgery.

Broadspire offered minimal compensation for those suffering from complications, only to cover the cost of the revision surgery.

In return for a small payment, people had to give up their right to sue Exactech in the future. This meant they couldn’t get money for the pain they went through.

Exactech hired Broadspire to save the company money. They are looking out for Exactech, not the people harmed by their defective devices.

If you have any of the recalled Exactech products and are suffering from complications, DO NOT sign an agreement with Broadspire. Doing so will waive your right to claim full compensation for the pain and suffering caused by this Exactech defective product.

You May Have a Claim for Compensation

If you or a loved one have a total knee replacement that has failed, you may qualify to file a lawsuit for financial compensation.

If you have one of the hip replacement recall devices, you may qualify to file a lawsuit.

If you had any joint replacement surgery that required being removed and replaced, call The Yost Legal Group to learn about your rights.

Do not sign anything from Exactech or Broadspire without speaking with an Exactech lawyer first. Doing so could limit your right to sue for full and fair compensation.

If you have questions, call The Yost Legal Group at 1-800-YOST-LAW (1-800-967-8529) today. We will provide a free case evaluation, or email us at info@yostlaw.com.

Our experienced Exactech attorneys can help you pursue your Exactech claim. We are investigating claims for individuals who are seeking Exactech settlements. There is no fee or expense unless you recover.

Charles H. Hickey School Juvenile Detention Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

Posted on June 11, 2024November 12, 2024 by Loni Liss

Formerly Known as the Maryland Training School for Boys, This Juvenile Detention Center Has a History of Rape and Sexual Abuse of Minors

Maryland Juvenile detention centers have been irresponsible in their duties to protect the vulnerable minors in their care. Youth detention centers, like the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School, ignored reports of rapes and sexual assaults for many years. These reports were not taken seriously by the centers.

Many juvenile prisoners experience incarceration due to traumatic experiences, poor family relationships, and untreated mental health issues. These can lead to poor decision-making and a move toward acts of crime. We are talking about minors, people who have very little control over where, how, and with whom they grow up.

Serving time in a juvenile detention center is supposed to be a minor’s “payment of debt to society.” The incarceration is the punishment. Minors should not experience cruel and unusual punishment beyond that.

Children in juvenile detention centers should never experience rape, sexual abuse, or assault by the adults in charge.

If you or a loved one is a survivor of childhood rape or sexual abuse while incarcerated in a Maryland juvenile detention center, you are not at fault, and you are not alone. The experienced attorneys at The Yost Legal Group are representing survivors of childhood sexual abuse that happened in Maryland’s youth detention centers.

If you are ready to talk, we are here to listen. Call or text today at 410-659-6800.

Uncovering the Horrors Inside Maryland’s Youth Detention Centers

These young people were raped and assaulted in juvenile detention. They did not deserve to be mistreated, no matter the reason they were locked up. They should not have been ignored or made fun of. They were talking about the bad things that happened to them in Maryland’s youth detention centers.

These facilities and the state of Maryland that oversees them have a responsibility to ensure the safety of the minors in their care. All parties involved with the management of these juvenile detention centers failed in their duties to protect vulnerable minors.

Now, thanks to Maryland’s Child Victims Act, survivors have a chance to advocate for themselves, to come forward, to pursue legal action against the facility where they were harmed.

Survivors Find Their Voice Thanks to Maryland’s Child Victims Act

The Child Victims Act has invigorated thousands of survivors to come forward, speak their truths, and seek justice. The Archdiocese of Baltimore alone is facing over 700 lawsuits from survivors who reported their childhood sexual abuses.

These brave and resilient survivors are going to help make sure these abusive institutions are held accountable for their complacency in the malice treatment of minors.

We here at The Yost Legal Group believe the next step is taking on Maryland’s juvenile and youth detention centers where rape and sexual abuses went unchecked for decades.

By February of 2024, there were already over 200 survivors who were suing Maryland’s juvenile justice agency. The lawsuits alleged abuse at 15 juvenile detention facilities. But it is believed there are far more cases than those.

Sexual abuse in juvenile detention centers turns into so many young victims of sexual abuse. One of our child sexual abuse lawyers can help you seek justice. Rape in juvenile jails has a going on for years and we are working to hold the department of juvenile services accountable.

There is an extensive list of Maryland’s juvenile detention centers you can find at this link. Some of the facilities are defunct, others are still active. No matter the operational status, if you or a loved one was raped or sexually abused as a minor in one of Maryland’s juvenile detention centers by an employee or contractor, you may have a case.

If you or a loved one was raped or sexually abused as a minor in a Maryland juvenile detention center and you are ready to tell your truth, contact The Yost Legal Group today.

Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School Sexual Abuse Claims

The Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School is one juvenile detention facility of note. Not only did the Hickey School come up in the earliest lawsuits against Maryland’s youth centers, we here at The Yost Legal Group are representing several “John Doe’s who are suing the school.

Formerly known as the Maryland Training School for Boys, the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School has technically been in operation since 1850 when it was first called the House of Refuge.

The original building stood on Frederick Avenue in Baltimore City. The House of Refuge was the very first facility in the state of Maryland to function with the sole purpose of housing minor offenders to keep them away from adults.

Logically and on paper, it is a good idea to keep minors away from adult prisoners.

Unfortunately, the so-called adults in charge were not particularly “innocent” themselves.

Maryland School for Boys Sexual Abuse Claims

After changing its name to the Maryland School for Boys, the juvenile detention center moved in 1910 to its current location near Loch Raven. Then, in 1918, the facility changed its name again, this time to the Maryland Training School for Boys.

The juvenile detention center would operate under that name for decades until adopting its current name of Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School in 1985, in honor of a Baltimore County sheriff who passed away the year prior.

However, several name changes and relocation cannot hide or erase decades of reported sexual abuse. To be exact, the very first reports of maltreatment date back over 160 years to when the facility still had its very first name, the House of Refuge.

Maryland Survivor Breaks Silence on Juvenile Detention Abuse

As mentioned, we are representing several “John Doe”s who were held at the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School. One such client was there in the 1980s and shared accounts of being groomed and sexually abused by two different guards.

Our client was a teenaged minor. He was incarcerated. There is no such thing as “consent” in either situation. The adult guards, one man, one woman, used their position of influence and power within the facility to rape and sexually abuse our client during his incarceration.

Beyond the personal failings of the guards, there are also clear logistical and systemic failures on the part of Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School’s administration that made it possible for guards to discretely sexually abuse the minors in their care.

Now, our client must deal with the aftermath of horrific psychological trauma. He suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and behavioral issues on top of the traumas that led to his being incarcerated in the first place.

We must hold these abusive individuals, the institutions that harbored them, and the state of Maryland accountable. The Maryland Department of Justice should not allow rape in juvenile detention centers.

Maryland’s Youth Detention Crisis: Survivors Seek Justice

Unfortunately, a lawsuit will not get anyone their time back. It will not undo the damage that has been done. It will not make the memories go away. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse in a juvenile jail by a guard or staff member call us to talk.

However, pursuing legal action against these institutions can help secure a monetary win that can be used to pay for therapy and medical bills, help your family, etc. Also, holding these abusive institutions accountable can help ensure these atrocities do not happen to the next person.

If you were in a Baltimore juvenile detention center and were sexually abused as a minor while at the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School or any other Maryland juvenile detention center, we are here to listen. We are here to help. Contact the compassionate sexual abuse survivor attorneys at The Yost Legal Group today. Call or text us at 410-659-6800.