Judge Dylina started out today by explaining that he believes he was selected to be the judge for the San Bruno Fire cases because of his experience with complex cases and also his experience as a settlement judge. No surprise there. But then he made clear that the San Bruno Fire cases are the court’s first
California Supreme Court Hears Argument in Howell v. Hamilton Meats
When a wrongdoer causes injury, he must pay the victim’s hospital bills. If the victim happens to have insurance, the insurance company will often settle those bills before trial. Should the wrongdoer be required to pay the victim for the full amount of the hospital bills? Or only the amount the insurer paid to settle the bills? That was the
HHS Recognizes Four California Hospitals for Progress Toward Eliminating Healthcare-Associated Infections
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has recognized 37 U.S. hospital and health care facilities for their efforts to prevent hospital-associated infections (HAIs), a leading cause of death in the United States. The awards recognizes individuals and institutions for their efforts to reduce ventilator-associated pneumonia and bloodstream infections associated with central intravenous lines.
Hospital Associated Illnesses: Pneumonia, Bloodstream and Urinary Tract Infections
Health care facilities – whether hospitals, nursing homes, or outpatient facilities – can be dangerous places. One risk is “hospital-associated illnesses,” also called "hospital-acquired illnesses." 1.7 million patients contract HAIs each year. In 2002, nearly 100,000 patients died from HAIs. The fatalities broke down as follows:
36,000- pneumonia,
31,000 – bloodstream infections,
13,000 – urinary
Botox Manufacturer Must Pay for Brain Injuries Caused by “Off-Label” Use
The wrinkle reducer, Botox is approved by the FDA for very narrow uses only. But Allergan, its manufacturer, has promoted it to doctors all over the country for other uses, including muscle spasms. A doctor’s use of a drug for a purpose not approved by the FDA is often referred to as an “off-label” use.
The Dangers of PG&E’s Underground Utility Vaults Back in Public Eye
In July 2009 — more than a year before the San Bruno explosion — we warned about the dangers to the public posed by PG&E’s aging underground infrastructure. Back then, we were focusing on the utility vaults hidden beneath the streets and sidewalks of San Francisco and other urban areas. They have a long history
The Independent Contractor Rule and a Homeowner’s Responsibility for Injuries to Construction Workers
Usually, a homeowner who hires an independent contractor can delegate the responsibility for safety to the contractor. The theory behind the rule is that when an owner hires an independent contractor—or when a prime contractor hires a subcontractor—the responsibility for the safety of the contractor’s employees belongs with the independent contractor, not with the person