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24
Sep

What Happens If I Get into an Accident in a Rental Car?

September 24, 2019

Most of us know what to do when our vehicle is involved in a car accident. However, the steps to follow may not be quite so clear if we get into an accident driving a rental car.

For the most part, many of the same things apply in a rental car as they do for your personal vehicle. For example, you will want to make sure that anyone injured is being taken care of, or that an ambulance is on the way to assist.

You will also want to make sure to move your rental car out of the way of traffic, take pictures of the damage, exchange information with the other driver, call the police, request an accident report and, if feasible, take down names and contact information of any witnesses present.

The At-Fault Party

As with any car accident, the at-fault party will be held responsible. Therefore, the at-fault driver’s insurance is required to cover the cost of the rental car’s repairs. The same holds true for any injuries resulting from the car accident. Whether or not you feel injured at the time of the accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible so that a doctor can confirm that you are okay.

It’s important to note that frequently the costs associated with car accident injuries exceed auto insurance caps. If this is the case, it is important to speak with a personal injury attorney right away. You may be eligible for compensation for any medical bills, lost wages and damages incurred in an auto accident. Even if you were injured while driving a rental car, if the other driver’s negligence caused your injuries, it may be in your best interest to initiate a personal injury claim.

Sometimes, the at-fault party is uninsured. That’s why it is important for every driver to carry uninsured/underinsured insurance. While Indiana requires a minimum of $50,000 for uninsured/underinsured insurance, car accident injury costs can easily exceed that amount. Talk to your insurance provider to see if it is a good idea to add more coverage.

Substitute Vehicle Coverage

Before renting a vehicle, it is important to confirm with your regular car insurance provider that you have substitute vehicle coverage. This will ensure that any rental vehicle you book has the same coverage as your personal vehicle.

Using the Rental Company’s Insurance

Even if personal insurance offers substitute vehicle coverage, it may be worth considering adding the rental company’s insurance options. This could protect you from having to pay large deductibles to your own insurance company in the event of an accident. Additionally, rental car insurance can keep your regular insurance premiums from spiking as a result of an accident.

Adding a Collision Damage/Loss Waiver

Occasionally, rental car companies are not able to rent out vehicles involved in accidents because they have to be repaired. To cover these costs, rental car and insurance companies offer damage and loss waivers to drivers. Without the waiver, the rental car company may try to hold drivers responsible for loss of revenue while the car is being fixed (this is known as “loss of use”). This may include charging a daily fee for the vehicle while it remains under repair. Fees can be as high as the normal rental rate.

Many people who have substitute vehicle coverage with their own insurance providers opt to take the collision damage waiver (CDW) or collision loss waiver (CLW) for the reasons described above. However, many recommend that drivers avoid taking the additional coverage of CDW/CLW. It is best to consult with your own insurance company before accepting or declining CDW/CLW coverage.

For more information about how an Indiana car accident attorney can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart Attorneys at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.

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17
Sep

Truck Accidents 101: Laws in Indiana

September 17, 2019

On average, 3,000 to 5,000 people die each year in vehicle accidents involving trucks. Over three-fourths of those injured in a truck accident are not truck drivers. In spite of stringent federal and Indiana state regulations, commercial vehicles remain the most deadly cause of fatal accidents in the country.

Indiana State Regulations

In the state of Indiana, the Motor Carrier Services Division (MCS) of the Department of Revenue (DOR) monitor and enforce commercial trucking laws and regulations.

The size and weight of the average truck pose a serious threat to the safety of non-commercial drivers. As such, all truck drivers must have an adequate amount of rest and steer clear of any substances that may impair their state of mind. These substances include alcohol, illegal drugs, and prescription drugs.

Additionally, those in charge of loading commercial trucks must adequately distribute the weight in a way that does not prohibit the driver from being able to maneuver the vehicle.

Lastly, not all roads allow commercial trucks. They must adhere to state traffic regulations, which restrict them to roads that give them adequate space.

Federal Regulations

Many federal regulations are similar to those in the state of Indiana. However, when injuries occur in a truck accident, the most strict laws will bear greater authority in a personal injury lawsuit.

Federal regulations address how often a truck driver must inspect all the equipment in their vehicle. Brakes, tires, hitches, and more must meet federal requirements. Those who manufacture the equipment parts must also maintain minimum quality standards to make sure they are not endangering the truck driver and other drivers on the road.

All federal regulations pertaining to commercial vehicles are moderated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration(FMCSA) within the US Department of Transportation.

Liable Parties in Commercial Trucking

If you or someone you love is injured in a truck accident, you should speak with a personal injury attorney right away. You are entitled to compensation for your injuries, but liable parties may try to coerce you into accepting responsibility for the truck accident.

In a traditional vehicle accident, only the drivers involved are potentially liable for injuries and property damage. In a truck accident, however, several organizations and individuals may share the blame for injuries and property damage. The truck driver may be liable. Both state and federal regulations place a greater burden of care upon them, and they are required to take adequate breaks and maintain their vehicle equipment.

The company that hired the driver may also be liable. They are ultimately responsible for the negligence of their drivers. The loaders may also be liable. Whether it’s a loading company or a few individuals, they are expected to follow state and federal regulations when it comes to weight distribution. Lastly, the vehicle parts manufacturers may be liable for defective parts.

There could be as many as four different individuals or organizations that share liability for your injuries. Because each of these groups knows the gravity of the situation, companies will be eager to put the issue to rest before having to present their negligence to a courtroom.

Seeking Compensation After a Truck Accident

Speaking with an Indiana truck accident attorney will help you take on personnel representing the truck driver. Also, your attorney can help you seek compensation for hospital bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

For more information about how an Indiana truck accident attorney can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart Attorneys at 800-333-3529, or visit our website.

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10
Sep

Highway Safety Tips for Motorcycle Riders

September 10, 2019

In a year, nearly 15% of those killed in motor vehicle accidents are motorcyclists. Notably, a motorcycle is not as protected as other vehicles on the road, leaving riders exposed in the event of a crash. Nearly all accidents that involve a motorcyclist result in major injuries to the motorcyclist.

If you or someone you love is injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, you may be eligible for compensation if the other driver was negligent in any way. Having said that, those who ride motorcycles should exercise the following safety tips to avoid accidents or serious injury.

Always Wear a Helmet

According to Indiana State law, all motorcycle riders age 18 and under must wear a helmet. However, smart motorcycle riders of all ages wear strong helmets. Even a “fender bender” at a traffic stop can send a rider flying through the air and result in a concussion or even death. 

When shopping for a helmet, never buy used. It is best to look for helmets displaying a DOT (Department of Transportation) sticker. This means that they are best suited to withstand strong impact and protect your head from injuries in an accident.

Motorcycle riders that wear helmets are 70% less likely to suffer head injuries and nearly 50% less likely to be killed in a motorcycle accident. In contrast, riders that neglect to wear helmets can suffer brain damage as a result of a minor accident.

Never Stop Improving Your Ability to Maneuver

While motorcyclists are not structurally protected in the same way as those who drive cars, they do have one major advantage over other vehicles: they can maneuver through tight spaces and take sharper turns.

This advantage, of course, should never be used to chase danger or drive aggressively. On the contrary, becoming acquainted with the maneuverability of a motor bike can help you avoid or dodge potentially dangerous traffic situations. Make sure to select a bike that is appropriate to your skill level, and then work to improve your skills with driving courses and time on smaller roads.

Understand that Many Drivers Don’t See You and Aren’t Vigilant

Even though most laws in Indiana are there to protect motorcyclists from car driver negligence, many vehicle operators simply do not pay attention because they drive distracted. Motorcycles can fit perfectly in other cars’ blind spots. A lot of motorcyclists get hurt when they attempt an illegal pass and a car abruptly changes lanes and runs them off the road.

Avoid dangerous moves like lane splitting. Numerous motorcycle injuries have been caused by car doors opening and colliding with motorcyclists trying to cut their way through traffic.

Smart motorcycle riders drive defensively, anticipating unexpected moves from other drivers. 

Never Drink and Drive

In spite of obvious dangers when drinking and driving, nearly 30% of motorcycle deaths occur because the rider consumed alcohol. Instead of taking your motorcycle to and from parties where you suspect there will be alcohol served, take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service like Uber instead. Even better, save some money by hitching a ride with a non-drinker.

Alcohol isn’t the only substance that impairs drivers. The same goes for other drugs and medications. As mentioned above, your advantage with a motorcycle is maneuverability and other drivers are often not paying attention. Any delay to your reactivity or motor skills can mean the difference between life and death.

Ride with Safety-Conscious Motorcyclists

Another common reason motorcyclists are injured or killed in an accident is they ride with other aggressive riders. If you choose to ride in a group, make sure the other members are responsible riders. Peer pressure has shown to have a major impact on one’s approach to driving on open roads, highways, and interstates.

Smart motorcyclists know that trying to keep up with reckless motorcyclists is a recipe for disaster.

For more information about how an Indiana motorcycle accident attorney can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart Attorneys at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.

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30
Aug

What is the Difference Between Veteran Disability Benefits & Social Security Disability?

August 30, 2019

The primary difference between veteran disability and social security disability is that one only serves veterans, while the other serves any citizen of the United States who qualifies for disability benefits.

The Department of Veterans Affairs administers disability ratings and payments to any veteran who suffered an injury during their time of service. In addition to taking care of service members, VA disability prevents veterans from being denied coverage for “preexisting conditions.”

The Social Security Disability Program seeks to help any eligible citizen who is physically incapable of reasonable employment. The program is also more complex than the VA disability process.

Veteran Disability Ratings

For any injuries sustained or initiated (bodily wear and tear) during a soldier, sailor, airman, or Marine’s time in service, the Department of Veteran’s Affairs assigns a disability rating for monthly payout.

Ratings are given as a percentage, both on individual injuries and as a total combination of injuries. While the rating system can be complex depending on the number of injuries and the severity of each, the final disability rating lies somewhere between 0-100%, which merits a specific benefits amount.

VA disability is an obligation from the government to assist injured veterans as long as they suffer from injuries they endured while in military service.

A significant privilege to VA disability is the opportunity for the disabled veteran to continue earning a livable wage while receiving disability compensation. Naturally, disabled veterans are encouraged to improve their health and exercise discernment when re-entering the workforce.

Social Security Disability

Technically, social security disability is a payout on an insurance plan. If you’ve paid social security taxes (which are required), then you pay into social security benefits.

The social security administration does not assign a rating to those eligible to receive disability benefits. You either qualify for all of it or none of it.

While those eligible for social security disability compensation might be able to work some, the key is that they are unable to acquire “gainful and substantial” employment. As such, those who have qualified to receive social security benefits does not mean they magically achieve “gainful and substantial” employment while also receiving disability pay.

Specifically, those qualifying and receiving social security disability are limited in their working income to approximately $9,000 a year.

Changes in Disability Law After 2017

Prior to 2017, veterans receiving high disability ratings (usually 100%) with the VA were fast-tracked in qualifying for social security disability.

Each agency must perform its own investigation prior to awarding benefits. Before 2017, a veteran qualifying for full benefits at one agency pushed another agency to do the same.

Changes in social security regulations in 2017 allowed these agencies to work more independently. Therefore, each agency examines the evidence submitted by the other agency but may still make their own decision.

In short, as a disabled veteran, you may qualify for social security disability benefits in addition to your VA benefits. Discussing your injuries and current VA disability rating with an attorney will help you know your options and next steps to receiving adequate benefits.

For more information about how a disability attorney can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.

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25
Aug

What Can I Do If I Am Affected by Water Contamination?

August 25, 2019

With increased industries and population, there is an increase in waste and pollution. In the 21st Century, first-world countries are still fighting to make some drinking water safe for the greater population.

Even in the United States, water becomes contaminated in spite of federal regulations and the Clean Water Act. Thankfully, safety standards provide a means of holding responsible parties accountable.

With more information, you and your loved ones can take steps to find out sooner rather than later if your water is contaminated, and to seek medical assistance and justice for your injuries.

What is most important is that you seek medical attention if you are experiencing sickness. Additionally, thanks to the EPA and state-sponsored efforts, you can get your water tested and clean to prevent further injury.

The Clean Water Act (1972)

The Clean Water Act (CWA) forbids unregulated releasing of waste and pollution into any bodies of water, natural or otherwise.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency’s website, “Under the CWA, the EPA has implemented pollution control programs such as setting wastewater standards for the industry. They have also developed national water quality criteria recommendations for pollutants in surface waters.”

To violate EPA regulations in the CWA is to violate Federal laws that protect the drinking water of Americans.

Getting Your Water Tested

In the state of Indiana, everyone is allowed to request a drinking water test from the Indiana State Department of Health. Simply complete the order form and pay a fee of approximately $40 online.

The ISDH will send you a sterilized bottle with instructions for gathering a water sample and shipping it to the ISDH labs for testing. The state of Indiana recommends that residents test their drinking water once a year.

If your water is found to be contaminated, you can begin disinfecting your water by boiling it for at least one minute. If you are financially able, you might also consider purchasing clean water at the store until local organizations can isolate and correct the problem.

Seek Medical Treatment

If you or someone you love has been suffering from chronic health issues, and you find that your water is contaminated, you and your family should see a doctor right away. Bring with you the test results from your ISDH drinking water test so that your doctor can properly diagnose any health issues.

If you had a family member who recently passed away due to disease, that death could be connected to water contamination. Water contamination has been responsible for fatal outbreaks of pathogens, cholera, typhoid, Legionnaires disease, and more.

Statute of Limitations

After discovering that your drinking water has been contaminated, the contamination could have occurred as a result of individuals or organizations violating the Clean Water Act.

If you discover that you or someone you love has been hurt or died as a result of contaminated water, you may be eligible for compensation in a personal injury claim.

You should consult an experienced attorney to help you find out who may have been responsible for your contaminated drinking water. These individuals are also responsible for you and your family’s illnesses.

Indiana statute of limitations gives you two years to file your personal injury claim from the time that it was discovered contaminated water caused illness or death to your family.

In a personal injury case, you could be awarded compensation for medical costs, lost wages, funeral costs, and pain and suffering.

For more information about how a local Indianapolis personal injury attorney can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.

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20
Aug

What Can I Do if I Have Been Exposed to Roundup?

August 20, 2019

The distribution and marketing practices of Roundup represent one of the most egregious attacks on human health by herbicide companies in history.

As more evidence surfaces about the dangerous effects of Roundup exposure, victims and their families are taking steps to hold Roundup and other glyphosate herbicide companies responsible for their injuries. With the excessive and rampant use of Roundup by farmers and organizations seeking to clear vegetation from large tracts of land, it is almost impossible not to become exposed to glyphosate.

For many, Roundup exposure over time can lead to devastating health issues.

Diseases Caused by Glyphosate

Roundup uses an active ingredient known as glyphosate. This is a well-known toxic herbicide that keeps certain plants from being able to grow. Most commonly used by farmers in the Midwest, it is effective at killing unwanted plants, but it is also raising major health concerns.

Glyphosate does not simply wash away with water or disappear once produce treated with it reaches the grocery store. Once ingested, residual doses of glyphosate can lead to the dissipation of healthy bacteria in the stomach and intestines.

Additionally, those living near glyphosate-treated fields may come into contact with the herbicide via the skin or airways.

Roundup exposure neither leads to disease immediately nor in every individual. However, ongoing exposure has been known to lead to various forms of cancer, Parkinson’s disease, liver and kidney disease, lymphoma, and more.

What’s more is that scientists have also noticed that exposure to glyphosate can gather aluminum in the brain, leading to neurological diseases such as autism, ADHD, and Alzheimer’s disease.

How to Detox from Roundup Exposure

The best way to protect yourself from Roundup exposure is to avoid it as much as possible. If you garden at home, consider non-glyphosate alternatives to Roundup.

If you must use Roundup or live near crops that use Roundup, consider wearing shoes that completely cover the foot, as well as long pants and long-sleeve shirts.

At the grocery store, organic produce avoids glyphosate completely. Buying only (or mostly) organic produce can limit your and your household’s exposure, thus minimizing the risk of disease.

Lastly, drinking apple cider vinegar (1-2 teaspoons in a cup of juice) can neutralize the negative effects of glyphosate on the body.

Injuries Sustained from Exposure to Roundup

For many, detoxing the body from the negative effects of Roundup comes too late. It is in the food we eat and the air we breathe.

Roundup and other glyphosate herbicide companies have been known to interfere with lab test results seeking to measure the negative side effects of glyphosate on human beings. Additionally, they’ve been proven to use deceptive advertising techniques to minimize public awareness of the risks of Roundup exposure.

If that were not enough, the World Health Organization noted in 2015 that glyphosate is likely responsible for carcinogenic effects on the human body, leading more specifically to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Seek Legal Aid with Stewart & Stewart

If you or someone you love is suffering as a result of the negative effects of Roundup, you may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, funeral costs, and pain and suffering.

By discussing your situation with an experienced attorney, you and your family can seek justice against these companies. 

For more information about how a drug injury attorney in Indianapolis can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.

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15
Aug

How Do I Receive Veteran Disability Benefits?

August 15, 2019

If you served in the United States Armed Forces and received an Honorable Discharge, you are likely eligible for a disability rating with Veteran Affairs.

No matter how severe the injury was, if they originated while you were in service, it is important that you make those injuries known to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Doing so involves filing a disability claim with the VA.

While the process can feel arduous, it is crucial that every veteran takes stock of their injuries and file disability claims. For many veterans, it is best for them to work with a veteran disability attorney. Doing so can lighten their load of paperwork as well as keep the VA from trying to deny claims that should be approved.

Create an eBenefits Account

The first step to filing and managing your disability benefits is to set up an online account with eBenefits.va.gov.

During registration, the government will confirm your identity and give you an online profile to track your benefits and/or apply for more benefits. In addition to assistance with your disability benefits, eBenefits offers a host of other benefits for veterans, including tuition assistance, vocational training, VA home loans, and more.

Make Copies of Your Service Record

Locate your service record, including your DD-214. Make copies of these documents so that you can send copies to the VA while filing your claims. If you are working with a veteran disability attorney, they will ask you for copies or make copies for you.

Do not ever surrender your original documents to the VA. They have been known to misplace your records.

Make Copies of Your Medical Records

You should also make copies of all your medical records, both during and since your time in the military. This process can be overwhelming, so you may want to ask for help from friends and family.

If you’re seeking medical treatment from a VA medical facility, then you should also set up an online account with My Healthy Vet. Doing so will grant you access to all of your medical records at the VA hospital/outpatient clinic.

Identify Your Injuries

Name every part of your body that has noticeably deteriorated because of your time in service. If you suffered a severe injury while in the military, that injury should be claimed. For example, if your knees were in pain just after getting out of the military, and your knee pain is directly related to things that occurred during your time in service, your knees should be claimed.

It can be helpful to solicit help from your spouse while itemizing your injuries. Don’t forget to take stock of mental and emotional injuries, such as poor sleep, irritability, or difficulty focusing. These are common side effects of anxiety disorders or PTSD and likely resulted from your military service.

File Disability Claims

Once you’ve identified what injuries you would like to claim, you can apply for disability compensation.

Because each veteran’s claims file can be different in terms of what evidence must be submitted, it is a good idea to seek assistance from a veteran disability attorney. They can help you complete the application and submit the appropriate documentation.

The VA will do their best to claim that your injuries are not connected to your service. If this is the case, a veteran disability attorney can help you challenge the VA’s decision and approve your claim.

Once your claim is approved, you will be given a disability rating which will designate the amount of disability you receive each month. You will be able to manage your benefits online through your eBenefits account.

For more information about how a veteran disability attorney in Indiana can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.

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10
Aug

5 Signs Your Water May Be Contaminated

August 10, 2019

It’s easy to take clean water for granted. Unfortunately, our advanced civilization still produces waste in large quantities, which can lead to water contamination.

If you or someone you love begins demonstrating symptoms that don’t seem to go away, your household water may be contaminated. If a water-contamination test confirms your suspicions, you should speak with a personal injury attorney right away.

Because water contamination often results from neglect by those tasked with properly disposing of toxic chemicals and pollution, you and your family may be eligible for compensation in a personal injury claim.

Contaminated Water Typically Has a Distinct Smell

Distinct smells coming from the tap and showers could be an indication that your water is contaminated. The most common smells are bleach, metal, fish, or rotten eggs.

While none of these smells confirm that your water is contaminated, it might be a good idea to order a water test, especially if the smell is new. Clean water has no perceptible scent at all.

Contaminated Water Typically Has an Unpleasant Taste

Just as with odors, clean water will not usually have a distinct taste. However, contaminated water often does.

If you taste something different in your water, chances are that something is off. Even a change in texture—such as a greasy or oily feeling from the tap—is a sign that your water is not sanitary.

Contaminated Water Might Look Cloudy

Contaminated water frequently looks cloudy as a result of chemicals or toxins. In extreme circumstances, it will appear almost muddy.

If your water appears cloudy, it is best to stop drinking the tap water until a water test determines it’s safe to drink.

Contaminated Water Might Leave Stains

When copper starts to contaminate your drinking water, you will see blue and green stains form on metal parts of the tap that are exposed to the water. This could happen inside your home at the sink or outside on a water spigot.

Bear in mind that some hoses and hose parts use copper. Therefore, if you see green/blue stains outside, but you do not see any stains in your sink, the water is probably fine. Excess copper in your drinking water will also have a metallic taste.

Contaminated Water Can Result in Lower Water Pressure

If toxic minerals and chemicals begin infiltrating your water system, build-up inside the pipes often accompanies the contamination. As a result, it will feel to you and your household that the water pressure is gradually decreasing.

These signs often indicate that your water is hazardous to use and drink. It is always best to stop using the water in your home until a test confirms that it is safe.

If you have no choice but to use water from the tap, you should boil any water before bathing or drinking it. Make sure that the water remains at a full boil for at least 60 seconds before cooling and using.

For more information about how a local, Indianapolis personal injury attorney can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.

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5
Aug

Can I Sue After Complications from Testosterone-Boosting Products?

August 05, 2019

Depending on the circumstances in which you took any testosterone supplements or drugs, and depending on the effects of those drugs, you may be eligible for compensation in a product liability case or drug injury case.

If you or someone you love has suffered adverse effects after taking testosterone-boosting drugs, talk to your doctor before continuing use.

Additionally, you should consult a local drug and personal injury attorney to discuss your eligibility for compensation.

Not only have testosterone-boosting products often fail to produce results, but they have also led to severe physical side effects that endanger the lives of the men and women who take them.

Why Men are Using Testosterone Supplements

While some women take these supplements, it is usually middle-aged to older men who are seeking to boost their testosterone levels. There are a number of reasons why one would take testosterone-boosting drugs, from doctor prescriptions, to public marketing, to trying to privately remedy erectile dysfunction.

As men age, it is common that their testosterone level decreases, and possibly their sex drive and muscle tone does as well. Men often use products to “boost” their testosterone to address one or more of these concerns.

Unfortunately, “low T” is not a well-defined symptom or diagnosis. Doctors might prescribe these drugs with little or no thought. Men might also self-diagnose and try a variety of testosterone-boosting products on their own.

Those who create and sell testosterone-boosting products often employ marketing on the basis of trying to help men feel more youthful and appealing.

Known Adverse Effects of Using Testosterone-Boosting Products

More and more reports have surfaced indicating a strong connection between testosterone-enhancing drugs/supplements and severe health complications.

These complications include heart attacks, blood clots, stroke, and even breast cancer in men.

The FDA is attempting to issue proper warnings and regulate the testosterone-boosting industry, but unfortunately, many of the sellers and manufacturers have not stopped marketing their products.

In the meantime, the number of testosterone-drug victims merits suspicion that these products are not worth the risk.

Even if your doctor were to advise you to take testosterone-boosting drugs, you should discuss the possible severe side effects before using drugs to address low testosterone.

Basis for a Lawsuit

Many lawsuits have already been filed against testosterone drug and supplement companies.

Not only have testosterone-boosting products shown time and time again to harm their users, but there has not been concrete evidence to support that these products actually work.

Anyone seeking justice and compensation against one or more organizations creating and selling testosterone-boosting products would file a lawsuit on the basis of product liability.

There are currently thousands of motions seeking to address the claims that testosterone drug companies have been negligent and misleading customers.

If you or someone you love feels that they are suffering from “low t” (low testosterone), they should first consult with their doctor to confirm that is the case. If after taking any testosterone-boosting products you begin to experience major discomfort, such as chest pain, you should notify your doctor of your symptoms and that you have already used these products.

Studies have shown that using testosterone drugs and supplements can increase your chances of having a stroke or heart attack.

If you or someone you love has suffered a stroke or heart attack after taking testosterone-boosting products, you should seek assistance from a personal or drug injury attorney right away. You may be eligible for compensation for medical bills and other damages.

For more information about how a drug injury attorney in Indianapolis can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.

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30
Jul

5 Low Testosterone Treatments that Can Lead to Heart Risks

July 30, 2019

Since increased reports of low testosterone (particularly in men) is a relatively new concern in the medical community, solutions have sprung up quickly and come with unknown risks.

More and more men have begun using different forms of low T treatments, but some negative side effects are starting to emerge. The FDA and other accountability groups are demanding more tests and urging doctors and patients to proceed with caution.

Some of the more serious side effects include attacks on the cardiovascular system, such as blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks. In rare cases, the extended use of testosterone-boosting drugs can lead to breast cancer in men.

If you or someone you love feels that they may be suffering from low testosterone, you should consult with your doctor to verify the condition before self-medicating with over-the-counter solutions.

If a doctor prescribes you testosterone to treat your symptoms, make sure to discuss the possible risks associated with the drug and any family history of heart conditions.

Here are some of the common forms of low T treatments that have been known to lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks.

Oral

Often in pill form, oral low T treatments are common. They can also be consumed as a legal form of anabolic steroids.

While testosterone pills come with directions for how often you should take them, this kind of treatment is often abused or overused.

Injections

Also known as testosterone shots, these are considered the most potent form of low T treatment. Some men inject themselves in the thigh area, or a doctor can inject them on one side of the buttocks.

Those who are on low T therapy may be directed to take a shot once every 1-3 weeks.

Mouth Patch

Two times a day, patients can apply a patch to the top of their mouths, typically on the gums near the teeth, just to the left or right of the center of the mouth.

Throughout the course of the day, the patch releases testosterone orally into the blood.

Skin Patch

For skin patches, doctors typically prescribe the appropriate testosterone levels according to the amount of low T therapy required. Patients can wear them on their arms, legs, back, or abdomen (as directed by instructions).

Gels

Testosterone gels are perhaps the most common and easily-obtained low T treatment available. Patients apply the gel to parts of the arms covered by a short-sleeved shirt. Other gels recommend an application to shoulders, back, thighs, and abdomen.

While packages typically recommend one use each day, patients have been known to over-apply or apply directly to the penis. In addition to the negative side effects of low T treatments, testosterone gel misuse can lead to even more severe health complications.

Another danger of testosterone gel occurs when the gel comes into contact with others. Even a casual brush can cause another person to absorb testosterone from the gel. Women and children have experienced numerous negative effects, including unusual hair growth and accelerated puberty.

If anyone you know begins to demonstrate these symptoms after coming into contact with a testosterone-treated area, encourage them to seek medical attention and to inform their doctor that they came into contact with testosterone gel.

If you or someone you love has already experienced blood clots, stroke, or heart attack after using one or more of these treatments, you should consult with a drug injury attorney right away. You may be eligible for compensation for any medical bills and damages associated with your heart condition.

For more information about how an Indiana drug injury attorney can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.