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Risks Associated with Tracheotomies

A tracheotomy or tracheostomy is a surgical procedure, whereby a doctor opens up the windpipe, or trachea. A tracheotomy may be performed for several reasons, including a blocked windpipe, a swollen windpipe, severe injury to the neck or mouth, paralysis of the throat muscles, or a tumor. Tracheotomies should only be used in critical situations, however,

SSA Calls for Independent Review of Federal Disability System

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently commissioned an independent review of the federal disability system due to concerns that the SSA awards benefits to those who may not be eligible for benefits and denies benefits for those who are eligible.  The study is expected to focus on the approximately 1,500 administrative law judges who hear appeals of

Did You Know?
  • If you are injured at work you may be able to recover compensation through a workers’ compensation claim as well as by filing a personal injury claim against responsible third parties.
  • A signed liability waiver may not be enough to bar your personal injury claim if willful acts or negligence caused your injuries.
  • Some SSDI claims qualify for expedited processing, allowing claimants to obtain approval in a matter of days or weeks.

What Is a Tracheotomy?

A tracheotomy is a surgical procedure, whereby a doctor opens up the windpipe (or trachea) in an emergency situation. A tracheotomy may be performed for several reasons, including a blocked windpipe, a swollen windpipe, severe injury to the neck or mouth, paralysis of the throat muscles, or a tumor. There are two types of tracheotomies. One type

SSA Decides Not to Inform Claimants of Assigned ALJ Before Hearing

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently instituted a policy that it will no longer provide prior notification of the Administrative Law Judge assigned to preside over an applicant’s social security disability hearing. The new ruling, which took effect December 19, 2011, has been met with much criticism among social security disability professionals. The ruling may have

Road Construction Safety Hazards

It is often said that there are two seasons in Chicago: winter and the road construction season. With several road construction projects underway in and around Chicago, it is important to be aware of various road construction safety hazards such as: Narrower lanes Reduced number of lanes Reduced visibility Cones, barriers, and other obstructions Presence

NCAA Seeks Dismissal of Antitrust Lawsuit

The college football season is in full swing and the NCAA is facing battles both on and off the field. Not only has the NCAA been sued by two sets of plaintiffs in class actions regarding handling of concussions and other head injuries, but it is also involved in an antitrust lawsuit with several current and former