Cohen Kuvin Breaking News

We provide these breaking news alerts to ensure consumers are protected and educated in hopes that this information will keep you safe and aware of threats to your families' well-being. National Highway Transportation Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) and Food & Drug Administration (FDA) announce new Recalls & Alerts:

Pelvic Surgical Mesh found defective and ineffective On July 13, 2011, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) issued an update to Health Care Providers and the public at large warning of the serious health complications caused by surgical mesh, a medical device implanted in a patients' pelvic area.  The mesh is most often used to address Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP), a condition that occurs when the tissues that hold the pelvic organs in place become weak or stretched, or to treat urinary incontinence.     Concern regarding the surgical mesh emerged in 2008 when the FDA issued a Public Health Notification raising the issue.  Almost 4,000 cases have been reported with a host of adverse effects that can significantly decrease a patient's quality of life including infection, severe pain, urinary problems and recurrence of prolapse and/or incontinence. There were also reports of bowel, bladder, and blood vessel perforation that occurred during the actual procedure. The final insult to injury for those suffering complications is that studies have revealed that this procedure may not be an effective form of treatment.  Unfortunately for these consumers, this mesh is one of many medical devices entered into the market without patient testing.  The proliferation of untested, defective medical devices has a grave impact on patients who don't have the luxury of simply returning it for a refund if and when a recall is issued.  The FDA urges patients to be vigilant in their post operation follow up care and report any adverse effects immediately.    For more information on this defective medical device, contact Spencer Kuvin.  Dodge Ram Recall Chrysler has issued a recall of approximately 242,000 Dodge vehicles due to a defect in the Tie Rod assembly.  The following class of vehicles are subject to the recall.  2008-2011 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 4x4, manufactured from 02/14/08 - 03/28/2011 2008-2011 Dodge Ram 3500 Cab Chassis 4x2, manufactured from 02/14/08 - 03/28/2011 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Mega Cab 4x4, manufactured From 02/14/08 - 08/15/08  2003-2008 Dodge Ram 2500/3500, vehicles may have received the defective part as a replacement during normal service. The left tie rod ball stud may fracture during low speed tight turn maneuvers resulting in the potential loss of directional stability in the left hand front wheel and increasing the risk of a crash. The recall schedule has not been confirmed, but once issued dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge.  Owners may contact Chrysler directly at 1-800-853-1403 and reference safety recall No. L16. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V350000. Toyo Tire Recall ITR USA has issued a recall of approximately 51,000 Shandong Yongtai Negotiator commercial H/T tires for failure to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 139. Certain size LT265/75R16 and LT235/85R16 tires produced from April 2009 through May 2011 may experience blistering or bubbles on the tire's sidewall. This could result in sudden loss of tire pressure and significantly increase the risk of tire failure and crash.  Consumers should check the sidewall of their vehicle tires to confirm if they are riding on defective tires.  The recall is expected to begin on or around July 2011 though manufacturers' have not confirmed the remedy plan.  Owners may contact ITR USA directly at 1-818-715-7080. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11T006000.     Kawasaki Motorcycle Recall Kawasaki has issued a recall of approximately 2,500 motorcycles due to a defect in the electrical wiring system.  Certain 2011 Ninja ZX-10R/ZX-10R ABS bikes may contain a wiring malfunction that can cause a short between wires and the frame or within wires.  If this occurs while the bike is in operation, it can suddenly stall, significantly increasing the risk of harm to the rider.  The recall schedule has not been confirmed, but once issued dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge.  Owners may contact Kawasaki Consumer Services Department directly at 1-866-802-9381. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V363000. Ford Truck Recall Ford has issued a recall of approximately 26,000 vehicles for failure to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108.  The following class of vehicles are subject to the recall:  Ranger trucks built from 01/25/11 - 04/25/11 Service parts distributed to dealers for certain 2002-2005 Excursion vehicles Service parts distributed to dealers for certain 2002-2007 F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 trucks Service parts distributed to dealers for certain 2004- 2011 Ranger trucks  A multi-function switch with a deformed slider may malfunction causing the turn signal, tail lights, hazard warning signal flashers and/or brake lights not to activate.  The loss of these indication lightsdeprives drivers of critical alerts, increasing the risk of crash.  The recall is expected to begin on or around August 15 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicles and perform the necessary service free of charge.  Owners may contact Ford directly at 1-866-436-7332 and reference safety recall No. 11C18. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V352000. Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding these or any other recalls or safety campaigns.

Breaking News Alert - Motorcycle Recalls

We provide these breaking news alerts to ensure consumers are protected and educated in hopes that this information will keep you safe and aware of threats to your families' well-being. National Highway Transportation Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) announces new Recalls & Alerts:

<><><> Indian Motorcycles issues Two Recalls Polaris has issued 2 recalls affecting approximately 700 Indian Motorcycles, model year 2009-2011.  The first recall is issued for failing to conform with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 123 regarding "motorcycle controls and displays."  The recall concerns the side stand which may not fold rearward and upward as required, affecting driver control and increasing the risk of crash.  The recall is expected to begin on or around August 2011 and dealers will inspect the motorcycle and perform the necessary service free of charge.  Owners may contact Indian directly at 651-408-7579. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V344000. The second recall affects the Body Control Module which can malfunction if the headlight switch is slowly moved from one position to another (high beam to low beam).  During the transition, both beams may be on simultaneously causing the module to interpret a system overload that automatically turns off the headlight.  In the event this occurs, driver visibility is impaired, increasing the risk of crash.  The recall is expected to begin on or around August 2011 and dealers will inspect the motorcycle and perform the necessary service free of charge.  Owners may contact Indian directly at 651-408-7579. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V343000.     Yamaha Brake Defect Yamaha has issued a recall of approximately 260 FJR1300 motorcycles due to a break light switch defect.  Certain 2011 bikes manufactured between January 2011 and April 2011 may contain a malfunction that prevents the brake light from illuminating when the front brake is applied.  In the event this occurs, other drivers will not receive the proper alert indicating that a rider is slowing down, increasing the risk of crash and injury.  The recall is expected to begin on or around July 2011 and dealers will inspect the motorcycle and perform the necessary service free of charge.  Owners may contact Yamaha directly at 1-800-962-7926. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V340000.     Ducati Equipment Defect Ducati has issued a recall of approximately 964 Diavel Motorcycles due to an equipment defect.  Certain 2011 bikes manufactured from September 23, 2010 through May 12, 2011 may contain a malfunction that can cause the rear license plate holder to loosen during operation.  If this occurs, the plate could interfere with the motorcycles rear wheel rotation, increasing the risk of crash.  The recall is expected to begin on or around July 2011 and dealers will inspect the motorcycle and perform the necessary service free of charge.  Owners may contact Ducati directly at 1-800-231-6696. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V336000. Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding these or any other recalls or safety campaigns.

Breaking News Alert

We provide these breaking news alerts to ensure consumers are protected and educated in hopes that this information will keep you safe and aware of threats to your families' well-being.

National Highway Transportation Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announce new Recalls & Alerts:

Cadillac Side Roof Rail Airbag Defect

General Motors has issued a recall of approximately 47,000 Cadillac vehicles due to non-compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 208 regarding "Occupant Crash Protection." Certain 2011 SRX vehicles may contain a defect that causes the right side roof-rail airbag to turn off if a sensor determines that the front passenger seat is unoccupied. In the event of an accident, the right rear occupant may not be protected, increasing the risk of severe injuries.

The recall is expected to begin on June 17, 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Cadillac directly at 1-866-982-2339 and reference GM'S recall number 11162. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V308000.

Honda VT 750 Motorcycle Defect

Honda has issued a recall of approximately 3,000 motorcycles produced from June 25, 2009 - March 28, 2011 due to a defect in the electrical system. The bank angle sensor in certain 2010 and 2011 VT750 bikes may be incorrectly manufactured creating the possibility of an erroneous reading which can cause the engine to stall and increase the risk of crash.

The recall is expected to begin on or around June 20, 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Honda directly at 1-866-784-1870 and reference Honda's safety recall number R80. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V310000.


Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding these or any other recalls or safety campaigns.
American Girl Jewelry Kit Recalled for Excess Lead Levels
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall of approximately 75,000 American Girl Crafts Pearly Beads & Ribbon Bracelets kit. The surface coating on some of the beads contains excessive levels of lead, which is prohibited under federal law.

The recalled kit is identified by SKU number 30-585331, located on the back of the package in the lower right corner. The jewelry kit contains 56 pieces including pink, blue, orange and white beads, and various colored ribbons. Some pink beads have darker pink butterflies imprinted on them. The kits were sold at Michaels Stores and other retailers nationwide from September 2009 through June 2011 for about $8.

Consumers should immediately take the recalled kits and any finished bracelets made from the kits away from children and contact the company for a full refund. For additional information, contact EKSuccess Brands toll-free at (855) 535-2099 or visit the firm's website at www.eksuccessbrands.com

Toy Helicopters Recalled for Laceration Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall of approximately 24,000 toy Military Copters, manufactured in China. The plastic blades of the helicopter can detach during operation, posing a laceration hazard.

The recalled toy Military Copters are have model #9009935 and UPC number 680108044474 printed on the back of the package near the bar code. These toys were sold exclusively at Rite Aid Corporation stores nationwide from January 2011 through May 2011 for about $7.

Consumers should immediately take the recalled helicopters away from children and return the product to any Rite Aid store for a full refund. For additional information, contact Excite USA toll free at (866) 791-4754 or visit the firm's website at www.Excite-Limited.com

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. Consumers are encouraged to obtain more details on recalls and general safety information by logging on to CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov.

- Spencer Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/

Spencer Kuvin Featured Speaker at FJA Annual Convention

Delray Beach - Spencer Kuvin, a shareholder with Cohen & Kuvin, P.A. was a featured speaker during the Florida Justice Annual Convention on June 15, 2011. Mr. Kuvin gave a lecture on Motions in Limine during the Evidence Program. The FJA Convention was hosted at The Breakers in Palm Beach.

Mr. Kuvin practices in the area of catastrophic injury and wrongful death with a special concentration in claims involving complex medical issues. Among his accomplishments are landmark settlements against the Florida Department of Children and Families that changed State law for vulnerable adults, Tampa Electric Company, as well as substantial verdicts against GEICO Insurance, Safeco Insurance and Nationwide Insurance. He was most recently distinguished in the 2011 South Florida Legal Guide as a Top Up & Comer.

Mr. Kuvin is currently President of the Palm Beach County Justice Association.
He has achieved an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell and lectures statewide.


- Spencer Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/

Breaking News Alert

We provide these breaking news alerts to ensure consumers are protected and educated in hopes that this information will keep you safe and aware of threats to your families’ well-being.

National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announce new Recalls & Alerts:

Toyota Airbag Sensor Malfunction Recall

Toyota has issued a recall of approximately 307,000 vehicles due to a defect affecting the frontal airbag sensors. Certain 2008 Highlander, Highlander Hybrid and 2007-2008 RAV4 SUVs may contain a malfunction in the airbag sensors designed to detect the vehicle roll angle. This can prevent the roll detection system from properly activating, significantly increasing the risk of enhanced injury during a crash.

The recall is expected to begin in mid-May 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Toyota directly at 1-800-331-4331. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V245000.

Salt and Snow Intrusion Steer Nissan Recall

Nissan has issued a recall of approximately 195,000 vehicles due to a defect affecting the steering column. Certain 1997-2003 Pathfinder and 1993-2004 Infiniti QX4 vehicles that are exposed to snow, water and salt may be at risk for a steering column malfunction, caused by these elements entering the assembly location hole in the upper strut housing. This snow/water and salt intrusion may result in corrosion of the strut tower housing causing cracks, and a potential break in the steering column. These factors can lead to loss of steering control, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.

The recall is expected to begin on or before May 16, 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Nissan directly at 1-800-647-7261. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V244000.

Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding these or any other recalls or safety campaigns.


Kiddieland Trikes and Scooters Recalled for Laceration Hazards

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall of two different children’s toys manufactured by Kiddieland Toys Limited due to various laceration hazards.

The first recall involves approximately 9,000 “Disney Princess Plastic Racing Trikes” which pose a laceration hazard due to a plastic castle display and princess figures protruding from the top of the handle bars. The trikes are pink and fuchsia with a purple seat and wheels and "Disney Princess" is printed on the label in front of the trike just below the handlebar. The trikes were sold at Target, JCPenney, Meijer and H.E.B. stores nationwide and on the Web at www.target.com from January 2009 through April 2011 for about $50.

Consumers should immediately take the trikes away from children and contact Kiddieland for a free replacement handlebar with an enclosed rotating display. For additional information, contact Kiddieland at (800) 430-5307 anytime, or visit the firm's website at www.kiddieland.com.hk

The second recall involves approximately 16,000 Kiddieland “Lights and Sounds” three-wheeled scooters including a red Spiderman, a blue Thomas & Friends™ and a pink girl’s scooter. A child’s finger can get caught in the hinge mechanism between the steering column and the platform, posing a laceration hazard. The scooters have buttons on the handle that play music and sounds. “Kiddieland” is molded on the back of the steering mechanism. Spiderman or Thomas & Friends™ are found on the steering mechanism and platform. The girl’s model has butterflies on the platform. The scooters were sold at Toys R Us and JCPenney from January 2009 through February 2011 for about $40.

Consumers should immediately take the recalled scooters away from children and contact Kiddieland for a free repair kit. For additional information, contact Kiddieland toll-free at (800) 430-5307 or visit the firm's website at www.kiddieland.com.hk

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. Consumers are encouraged to obtain more details on recalls and general safety information by logging on to CPSC's Web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/.

Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
Spencer T. Kuvin
stk@cohenkuvin.com
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/

Breaking News Alert

We provide these breaking news alerts to ensure consumers are protected and educated in hopes that this information will keep you safe and aware of threats to your families’ well-being.

National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announce new Recalls & Alerts:

Ford Inadvertent Air Bag Recall
Ford has issued a recall of approximately 1,325,000 vehicles due to a defect affecting the front airbags. The clockspring jumper wiring in certain 2004-2006 F-150 pick up trucks and 2006 Lincoln Mark LT vehicles may become chafed, creating a short circuit which can lead to the driver front airbags inadvertently deploying. These circumstances can significantly increase the risk of an accident, loss of vehicle control and enhanced injures.

The recall is expected to begin on or before May 9, 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Ford directly at 1-866-436-7332 and reference Ford’s recall campaign number 11S18. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V107000


MV Agusta Motorcycle Recall
MV Agusta has issued a recall of approximately 200 F4 motorcycles due to a defect affecting the rear subframe. Certain 2010 bikes may have been manufactured with weak fixture points which can result in the subframe cracking or failing. The stability of the rider and any passenger is significantly jeopardized, if this occurs, especially while the bike is in operation.

The recall is expected to begin in April 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact MV Agusta directly at 1-215-830-3300. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V232000

Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding these or any other recalls or safety campaigns.

Spencer T. Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
stk@cohenkuvin.com
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/

Cohen & Kuvin - Breaking News Alert

We provide these breaking news alerts to ensure consumers are protected and educated in hopes that this information will keep you safe and aware of threats to your families’ well-being.

National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announce new Recalls & Alerts:

Steering Wheel Separation Recall

General Motors has issued a recall of approximately 2,100 Chevrolet Cruze vehicles for a manufacturing defect affecting the steering column. The steering wheel in certain 2011 cars may have been improperly fastened and can detach from the steering column. If this occurs, the driver may lose the ability to steer the vehicle, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.

The recall is expected to begin on or before April 8, 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Chevrolet directly at 1-800-630-2438 or visit www.gmownercenter.com. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V221000

Mercedes Cruise Control Malfunction

Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall of approximately 136,000 vehicles for a defect affecting the cruise control system. Certain 2000-2002 M-Class and 2000-2004 M-Class AMG vehicles may not automatically disengage the cruise control when the brake pedal is tapped. Other methods for disengaging such as using the cruise control stalk are not affected and will remain an option for deceleration in the event the brake does not disengage. A delay or difficulty disengaging the cruise control can increase the risk of crash.

The recall is expected to begin in September 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz directly at 1-800-367-6372. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V208000

Reverse Controls Result in Matrix Motorcycle Recall

E-Ton is recalling approximately 25,000 Matrix motorcycles for a defect affecting the ignition switch and failure to comply with the federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 213 regarding "motorcycle controls and displays." The following models are included in this recall: Model year 1999-2010 50CC and 150CC, Beamer I, Beamer II, Beamer III, and model year 2007-2010 50CC and 150CC Matrix motorcycles. The engine on/off switch should be located on the right side handlebar and the high/low beam light switch should be located on the left handlebar. These switch locations are reversed on the models listed above. The reverse locations may cause the driver to get confused while operating the bike, increasing the risk of a crash.

The recall schedule has not been set, but owners will be notified, and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact E-Ton directly at 1-866-224-3318. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V189000

Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding these or any other recalls or safety campaigns.

Pampers Pacifiers Recalled For Choking Hazard
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall of approximately 29,000 Pampers Natural Stages Infant Ortho and Bulb Pacifiers. The pacifiers fail to meet federal safety standards and pose a choking hazard for young children.
The pacifiers come in yellow, pink or blue colors and "Stage 1" and "Ortho" or "Bulb" are printed on the package. The recalled pacifiers have an oval-shaped mouth guard and "Pampers" molded on to the handle side of the mouth guard. The product comes two per package and were sold in retail stores nationwide from April 2010 through February 2011 for about $6.

Consumers should immediately take the recalled pacifiers away from infants and contact Key Baby for instructions on returning the product for a full refund or $10 coupon toward the purchase of any Pampers® Natural Stages products. For additional information, contact Key Baby toll-free at (800) 447-1224 anytime, or visit the company's web site at www.key-baby.com
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. Consumers are encouraged to obtain more details on recalls and general safety information by logging on to CPSC's Web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/.

Spencer T. Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
stk@cohenkuvin.com
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/

Breaking News Alert

We provide these breaking news alerts to ensure consumers are protected and educated in hopes that this information will keep you safe and aware of threats to your families’ well-being.
National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) announces new Recalls & Alerts:

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Seat Belt Safety Recall

Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall of approximately 3,400 Sprinter vehicles due to non-compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 208 and 209 addressing occupant protection in interior impact and seat belt assemblies respectively. The issue affects 2008-2011 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with an optional three seat bench in the passenger compartment. In the event of a crash, the safety belts in these vehicles may not provide the appropriate level of restraint, increasing the risk of injury or death.

The recall is expected to begin during May 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz directly at 843-695-5000. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V210000

Volkswagen Jetta Fuse Malfunction Recall

Volkswagen has issued a recall of approximately 71,000 brand new Jetta vehicles manufactured between March 2010 and March 2011. This recall is due to a defect affecting the converter box fuse which may also be connected to the signal horn and anti-theft alarm system. The electrical wiring and fuse layout is defectively designed in that a blown fuse may affect the power supply and cause the engine, lighting and wipers system to shut off. These factors can occur without warning while the vehicle is in operation, greatly increasing the risk of crash.

The recall is expected to begin during May 2011 and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Volkswagen directly at 1-800-822-8987. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V196000.

Volkswagen Toureg Tire Safety Recall

Volkswagen has issued a recall of approximately 256 new Toureg Hybrid vehicles manufactured between July 2, 2010 and February 3, 2011. This recall is due to non-compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 110 because the certification labels on certain vehicles contain incorrect tire pressure information. Incorrect tire pressure information could lead to an owner improperly inflating the vehicle tires which can lead to premature tire wear and increase the risk of crash.

The recall is expected to begin on or before April 29, 2011 and dealers will provide an overlay containing the correct tire pressure information free of charge. Owners may contact Volkswagen directly at 1-800-822-8987. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V195000.

Minotour School Buses Tire Safety Recall

Daimler Trucks has issued a recall of approximately 526 Thomas Built Minotour School Buses built on Ford and GM Chassis between April 17, 2000 and August 29, 2008. This recall is due to non-compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 110 because the certification labels on certain vehicles contain incorrect tire pressure information. Incorrect tire pressure information could lead to an owner improperly inflating the vehicle tires which can lead to premature tire wear and increase the risk of crash.

The recall is expected to begin on or before May 28, 2011 and dealers will provide an overlay containing the correct tire pressure information free of charge. Owners may contact DTNA directly at 1-800-547-0712 and reference campaign number FL-602 if they wish to replace the label themselves. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V204000.

Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to http://www.blogger.com/www.safecar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding these or any other recalls or safety campaigns.

- Spencer T. Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
561-665-8020
stk@cohenkuvin.com
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/

Toyota Tire Pressure & Honda Odyssey Window Defect

Breaking News Alert

We provide these breaking news alerts to ensure consumers are protected and educated in hopes that this information will keep you safe and aware of threats to your families’ well-being.
National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announce new Recalls & Alerts:

Toyota Tire Pressure Detection Defect
Toyota has issued a recall of approximately 1,400 vehicles for failing to comply with federal motor safety standard no. 138 regarding tire pressure monitoring systems. Certain 2011 FJ Cruiser and 2009-2011 Tundra vehicles may not have been properly calibrated preventing a low tire pressure warning from illuminating if the tire pressure is too low. Drivers will not receive a warning from the tire pressuring monitor that one or more tires are underinflated increasing the risk that a vehicle will be driven with one or more underinflated tires and increasing the risk of a tire failure that may lead to a crash.

The recall is expected to begin sometime in April 2011, and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Toyota directly at 1-800-444-1074. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V185000

Honda Odyssey Window Presents Clear Concern
Honda has issued a recall of approximately 2,800 new vehicles for a defect affecting the driver and front passenger door power windows. Certain 2011 Honda Odyssey vehicles may experience a failure in which the window may come off the track causing the window to become inoperative and preventing it from being rolled up or down or causing it to drop into the door. If this occurs, the window may shatter into the passenger cabin increasing the risk of injury to the vehicle occupants.

The recall is expected to begin on or before April 51, 2011, and dealers will inspect the vehicle and perform the necessary service free of charge. Owners may contact Honda directly at 1-800-999-1009 and reference Honda’s safety recall no.R73 & R74. Additional details can also be found by referencing NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V181000

Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding these or any other recalls or safety campaigns.

Second Infant Death Prompts Second Announcement of Crib Recall
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is re-announcing the 2008 recall of more than 985,000 drop-side cribs with "Crib Trigger Lock and Safety Peg" hardware due to a second infant death. Missing safety pegs can create a situation where the crib's drop-side rail disengages from the track. This can create a hazardous space in which an infant can become entrapped and suffocate.

The cribs were originally recalled in October 2008 after one infant death, but another death of a 7 month old child from Colorado Springs has prompted this additional alert. The crib was purchased secondhand and re-assembled without safety pegs in the bottom tracks."Buying or accepting cribs second hand can be risky," said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. "Second hand cribs may not come with all of the necessary parts that are needed to make sure your baby is safe. We urge parents and caregivers to use caution and to be aware that new rules established by CPSC will bring safer cribs to the market this summer."

This announcement includes the following 49 crib models with "Crib Trigger Lock with Safety Peg" drop-side hardware which were sold at major retail stores including Kmart, Target and Walmart between January 1995 and December 2005 (through September 2007 for model 4624) for about $100. Click here for a complete listing of recalled model numbers.
CPSC urges parents and caregivers to immediately stop using cribs that are missing a safety peg on either leg of the drop side and contact Delta to receive a free, easy-to-install repair kit. Call Delta toll-free at (800) 816-5304 or visit the firm's website at www.cribrecallcenter.com to order the free repair kit. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to find a safe, alternative sleep environment for their child until the repair kit, with new safety pegs, is safely installed on the recalled cribs.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. Consumers are encouraged to obtain more details on recalls and general safety information by logging on to CPSC's Web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/.

Spencer T. Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
561-665-8020
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/
stk@cohenkuvin.com

Top 10 Animals that Cause Car Wrecks

Check out the Top 10 animals that cause car wrecks.

http://www.satellitedish.org/blog/2011/top-10-animals-that-cause-car-wrecks/
Thank you to Satellite Dish for this information.

We have all had it happen to us… It’s late at night and you are driving on a country road or maybe even a highway in the middle of nowhere and then all of sudden something crosses the road in front of you. A near miss and also a notice to be on the lookout as generally animals travel in packs and that probably wasn’t the last animal you are going to encounter. If all goes well we make it out of a tense driving situation without any roadkill (sorry that is a common term whether you like it or not). It’s far from the intentional slaying of animals utilizing your vehicle, these are accidents where animals just happened to get in the way of your car driving down a perfectly good road. It happens a lot more than you might think. Here are the top 10 animals that cause car wrecks:

Deer. For some reason, deer really do find solace in staring at oncoming headlights. Whether they are aware of the threat or not, they seem to prefer standing firm, getting the full force of the vehicle, even taking lives in the mix. There are many lives lost to these types of accidents due to the size and weight of the animals, with many hooves and antlers causing great injury.
Wild turkey. If you are in one of the many areas that carry wild turkeys, you will find that these animals often find their way into the roadway, especially along the highway. This can be extremely dangerous if you are riding at a high rate of speed and attempt to avoid the animal, however, impact isn’t going to be as dangerous as with deer.
Squirrels. There have been commercials mimicking the behaviors of sneaky squirrels that find their way onto the street just as you are passing by. With such small creatures, you often see them only as you advance closer, often leaving you dodging an animal too late and causing many serious car accidents.
Ducks. There are duck crossings everywhere, but unfortunately, not everyone minds them and not all ducks do either. Some ducks can be found astray, while some people may ignore the duck crossing and attempt to go through the cross quickly, often colliding with the animals or flipping the vehicle attempting to avoid collision.
Dogs. There are so many people out there that are great dog lovers, but these friendly creatures can still find themselves led astray by vehicles that lead them elsewhere. As so many people find great pals in dogs, they often try their best to avoid hitting a dog, leading to many accidents.
Cats. There is a similarity between dogs and cats, and that is the love for each by so many. With cats, they are typically quicker, but end up sitting their lazy butts on the street as cars try to go by. In many cases, however, people aren’t given fair warning as cats love to dart out quickly, leading to accidents of all severity.
Birds. While it isn’t as common, there have been many car accidents associated with birds flying upon the windshield or into the windshield, blocking vision and causing a wreck. This is a very dangerous accident, especially if the driver’s vision is impaired by the animal.
Raccoons. There are many areas that are prominent with raccoons that seem to have the same love for the street as many other animals, sometimes finding their way in line with an oncoming animal. For so many people who find these animals to be cute and loving, they often try their best to avoid hitting them, causing an accident instead.
Bunnies. Yes, bunnies, not rabbits, because when they are on the road, everyone is yelling “don’t hit the bunny!” Unfortunately as you are trying not to hit the bunny, there are other vehicles on the road that can crash into you unaware of what you are doing.
Opossum. Opossums are blind naturally, giving them keen hearing but poor ability to navigate around safely when it comes to roadways. With roads often going off into wooded areas and sections, it is easy to find these animals on the road, often causing accidents as people avoid hitting them.
Whether you accidentally hit the animal or crash avoiding the animal, these animals are the most dangerous animals when it comes to car accidents. Hey, let’s be careful on the roads out there!


- Spencer T. Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
stk@cohenkuvin.com
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/
561-665-8020

Why Don't School Buses Have Seatbelts?

Posted by: Cohen & Kuvin
February 09, 2011
Topic: Seatbelt Safety

Every year vehicles are manufactured boasting innovative features and safeguards designed to protect drivers and passengers. Yet, we have seen very little innovation in school bus safety, starting with the absence of seatbelts.

There are a host of studies that claim school buses are one of the safest modes of transportation, so federal law only requires seatbelts in buses under 10,000 pounds. However, 80% of the nations' school bus fleet exceeds that weight limit, and in those cases, the decision to provide seatbelts is up to the individual states.

Current safety standards in schools buses are characterized by compartmentalization, a system of tightly spaced seats covered with 4-inch-thick foam to form a protective bubble. The high seat backs also serve as a buffer to prevent a child from being launched in the air.

The reality is that installing seatbelts in every school bus is extremely cost prohibitive and may pose another hazard of kids whacking each other with the straps. Further, who is to say that fidgety kids will wear the belt, and who is responsible for enforcing them?

According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an average of 7 school-age passengers are killed in school bus crashes each year. These numbers make it difficult to justify a $117 million per state price tag. In fact, NHTSA said its research suggests that the benefits are "insufficient to justify a federal requirement for mandatory installation of such belts" in larger buses.

Florida is one of 6 states that now requires seat belts or another restraint system that meets federal standards on newer buses and requires passengers to use them. For now, the best tip for a safe ride is encouraging children to practice good safety etiquette on the bus including: remaining seated during the entire bus ride or until the driver says otherwise, keeping aisles clear of backpacks and belongings, talking quietly and politely and always following the driver's directions during an emergency.


- Spencer Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, P.A.
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/
stk@cohenkuvin.com

Could Crib Tents Become a Regulated Product?

Reprinted with Permission from Safety Record Blog, Copyright Safety Research Stategies, 2010

http://www.safetyresearch.net/

On December 27, 2008, the strangulation death of Noah Thompson by a Tots In Mind crib tent became the first to be investigated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission involving this unregulated product. Eighteen months later, in July, the commission and the manufacturer finally announced a recall featuring a repair remedy for the attachment clips.

The Thompson case underscores two continuing weaknesses in the regulatory framework meant to ensure the safety of juvenile products: long gaps between the time when a product is deemed hazardous and a recall, and the difficulty in dealing with baby products that fall outside of the CPSC regulations and are not manufactured to any voluntary or mandatory standard.

The CPSC says that the Tots In Mind recall may only be the first action it takes to protect toddlers from the design deficiencies of crib tents.

“CPSC’s Safe Sleep team is reviewing incidents with crib tents to determine the best approach to take with this product class to ensure the safety of young children,” says Scott Wolfson, the CPSC’s Director of its Office of Information and Public Affairs.
In the meantime, Crib Tents continue to be manufactured without regard to established safety standards and marketed under the presumption that they are safe to use with vulnerable populations in situations where adults are absent.

Safety Research & Strategies, which investigated the safety of cribs tents after a Virginia toddler suffered a lifelong brain injury caused by a crib-tent strangulation, turned its findings over to the CPSC. SRS President Sean Kane doesn’t believe that the recall goes far enough.

“We understand that the CPSC is restricted by their regulations in pressing the recall of an unregulated product, but the reality is that there are inherent problems with the design that are not being addressed by the recall.”

The Long Road to a Recall

Thompson was only two years old when he attempted to climb out of a play yard covered by a crib tent – a mesh-covered dome placed over a crib or a play yard to prevent toddlers from climbing out. These mesh domes are affixed to the play yard base with plastic clips. Those intended for use in a crib are all-in-one units that sit inside the crib and attach to the crib’s side rails with a hook and loop system. Parents can place or remove their toddlers in or from the enclosure via a zippered side.

According to the CPSC, Thompson was found “hanging with his neck entrapped between the play yard frame and the metal base rod of the tent that had been partially tied by pieces of nylon rope and partially attached by clips.” The Thompsons had improvised the nylon ties, because “the child was able to pop off the clips,” the CPSC said.

The commission said that it was aware of three other incidents in which children were “able to remove one or more clips and place their necks between the tent and the playard,” but were freed without incident.
The July 15 announcement recalled 20,000 Cozy Indoor Outdoor Portable Playard Tents Plus Cabana Kits, manufactured by Tots In Mind of Salem, N.H., the only U.S. manufacturer of crib tents. The remedy was free replacement clips supplied by Tots In Mind. While Thompson’s death was amply reported by the print and broadcast media, the recall received little coverage.

The year-and-a-half lag between the Thompson death and the recall occurred because the commission was not satisfied with the company’s first proposals for corrective action.

“There were numerous proposals by the company which CPSC staff did not accept due to the concern of the safety of a child being at risk with the proposed corrective action,” Wolfson said “We had to be sure new clipping system addressed the concerns that we had. Repair kits must be submitted to the CPSC, where they are reviewed and approved by CPSC engineers.”

Lengthy investigations and negotiations with the manufacturer– conducted out of the public purview by law – is a continuing source of frustration for safety advocates says Nancy Cowles, executive director of Kids in Danger.

“The CPSC is always pushing to get the company to agree to do a recall, and that’s part of the reason why I think they take so long,” Cowles said. “Also, so much of what the commission does is secret, so we don’t know at what point they had all the information to do a recall.”

The CPSC has other ways to alert the public about dangerous child products, says Don Mays of Consumers Union. He pointed to the commission’s recent move to get out ahead of a March recall on the Infantino Sling Rider and Wendy Bellissimo baby slings.

“There was one product responsible for three infant fatalities, but while negotiating the recall, the CPSC issued a public warning about slings and putting infants in slings, and that put the warning shot out there, instead of waiting for the remedy to be developed. I would like to see more of that, especially if they can’t fast-track a recall.”

The Problem with Crib Tents and Other Unregulated Baby Products

The greater challenge will be addressing the more general hazards associated with crib tents. Like many juvenile products, the crib tent was invented to address a specific problem that may be short-lived, but is very frustrating to parents. Caregivers may regard a crib tent as something that will prevent a fall, while ignorant of the suffocation and strangulation hazards it presents.

About a year before Thompson’s death, another toddler, Nicholas Blanco, suffered a severe and permanent brain injury when he became entrapped and strangled by a Cozy Crib Tent. On October 5, 2007, Blanco was in the crib when one of the fiberglass rods supporting the dome type cover broke and fell into the crib, pinning the boy between the support rod and the side of the crib. His mother discovered her son hanging on the outside of the crib with his neck stuck under the rod of the crib tent.

During the course of its investigation, SRS found stories of an unconfirmed death and other potential tragedies involving crib tents. Parents described the mesh tearing at the seams or at other points or the entire structure collapsing – either pulled down by the toddler or inverting under the weight of a pet. In some cases, the parent discovered the child entangled and was able to free it before an injury occurred.

SRS not only shared these complaints with the CPSC, and wrote and wrote an article on the dangers of crib tents (see Crib Tents: Another Hazard from the World of Unregulated Child Products)

The July recall does not address these hazards and Mays says that juvenile products add-ons – such as crib tents – present “all sorts of compatibility products not foreseen by the manufacturers – it might not fit all units.”

“And when that happens, a child’s safety is at risk. If you talk about sleep environments, it becomes particularly risky,” he says.

Cowles of Kids in Danger had more specific concerns:

“My problem with this recall is that they are saying it’s a safe product and it’s not,” she says. “The commission only counts the incident involving the play yard tent. They have other reported breakages with the crib tents. This recall doesn’t say how many parents complained to Tots in Mind and how many products failed.”

Crib Safety and the CPSC

This year, the CPS began rulemaking on new mandatory standards on cribs that could include provisions covering drop side hardware, mattresses, loose and fragile components, such as crib slats. The new rule may effective ban one of the most common designs: drop-side cribs. The proposal was developed by the commission’s Safe Sleep Team, in conjunction with juvenile products manufacturers and ASTM International, the manufacturing standards-setting body, after studying infant incident and injury data.
CPSC’s Safe Sleep team is also charged with coordinating all crib recalls, developing consumer education on product registration and safe sleep practices.

At last month’s CPSC meeting on Agenda and Priorities in fiscal year 2010, Ami Gadhia, on behalf of Consumers Union, Kids in Danger and the Consumer Federation of America, urged the commission to extend their safe sleep effort to other products such as crib tents, sleep positioners, and infant comforters and pillows.

“We are aware of deaths associated with each of these products, some of which have been recalled due to the hazard they pose to infants,” she said.

Crib tents currently are outside the express outlines of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, which requires the establishment of standards and certificates of compliance for durable juvenile products that fall into 12 categories: cribs; toddler beds; high chairs, booster chairs, and hook-on chairs; bath seats; gates and other enclosures for confining a child; play yards; stationary activity centers; infant carriers; strollers; walkers; swings; and bassinets and cradles.

But, says Wolfson:

“The staff at the agency is considering another dozen juvenile products to turn into mandatory standards. We have not ruled out that this could be a product we might consider under section 104 of the Act.”

-- for more information on this story you can contact Safety Research & Strategies, 340 Anawan St., Rehoboth, MA 02769 (508) 252-2333

Spencer T. Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/
stk@cohenkuvin.com

BREAKING NEWS - FORD WINDSTAR RECALL

Ford Windstar

Ford Motor Company (Ford) has announced a voluntary recall of 575,000 model year 1997 – 2003 Windstar minivans for rear axle fractures from corrosion due to the design. Axle fractures on both the right and left side have been identified and affect vehicle handling, which increases risk of crash, injury or death. The recall was instigated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) after it opened a preliminary investigation in May 2010. The federal regulators had received over 200 reports of rear axle fracture due to the design, which had resulted in 2 crashes; however, the amount of complaints has now risen to 950.

The recall for the Windstar – which is no longer in production – applies to vehicles in 21 states (Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin), the District of Columbia and Canada where road salt corrosion is thought to be more common.

Ford will notify affected owners in the very near future and ask them to bring their vehicles to their local dealers for inspection and any necessary repairs. Ford dealers at no charge to customers will reinforce the axles of the affected vehicles as parts are available. If it’s determined the axle can’t be reinforced, it will be replaced as soon as parts are available. Ford will provide for rental vehicles for customers until the rear axle of their vehicle has been replaced.

Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding this or any other recall or safety campaign.

Spencer Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/
stk@cohenkuvin.com

Toyota Recalls More Vehicles

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that it will conduct a voluntary safety recall involving approximately 1.13 million 2005-2008 Model Year Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix vehicles sold in the United States to address some Engine Control Modules (ECM) that may have been improperly manufactured. On vehicles equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine and two-wheel drive, there is a possibility that a crack may develop at certain solder points or on the electronic component used to protect circuits against excessive voltage (varistor), on the ECM’s circuit board. In most cases, if a crack occurs at certain solder points or on certain varistors, the check engine may illuminate, harsh shifting could result, or the engine may not start. In limited instances, if cracking occurs on particular solder points or varistors, the engine could stop while the vehicle is being driven.

As part of the recall, the ECM on involved vehicles will be replaced at no charge to the owner. Beginning in mid-September 2010, Toyota will mail an interim notification to advise owners of this recall and the fact that they will receive a future notice when parts become available to complete the repairs. Owners who have previously paid for replacement of the ECM to address this specific condition should refer to the owner letter for reimbursement consideration instructions.

Detailed information and answers to questions are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331, Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., or Saturday 7 a.m. through 4 p.m. PDT. Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding this or any other recall or safety campaign.


- Spencer T. Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/
stk@cohenkuvin.com

Location:Toyota Recalls 1.3 Million Vehicles, GM Recalls 200K Toyota Built Vehicles

GM Recalls More Cars

General Motors (GM) is recalling approximately 207,000 certain model year 2009-2010 Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook vehicles. The second row seat side trip shield restricts the upward rotation of the safety belt buckle when the seat back is returned to a seating position after being folded flat. If the buckle contacts the seat frame, additional effort is required to return the seat to a seating position. If sufficient force is applied, the buckle cover could be pushed down on the strap, exposing and partially depressing the red release button. As a result the safety belt may not restrain the occupant as intended during a crash, thus increasing the risk of injury or death to the occupant.

Dealers will modify the second row seat side trip shields. If a safety belt buckle is damaged, dealers will replace it free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on or before August 31, 2010. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438; Buick at 1-866-608-8080; GMC at 1-866-996-9463; and Saturn at 1-800-972-8876.

GM’s Recall Number is N100243. Owners are encouraged to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov, with any questions or concerns surrounding this or any other recall or safety campaign.

Spencer T. Kuvin
Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
stk@cohenkuvin.com

Cohen & Kuvin July 2010 Newsletter

Hotels.com, Expedia implement settlement and launch new website features to assist disabled travelers


Public Justice, America's public interest law firm, was one of several law firms that helped to allow disabled travelers to search for and reserve hotel rooms that have accessible accommodations on hotels.com and Expedia, Inc. websites.
Travelers who need accommodations such as wheelchair accessible pathways, roll-in showers, Braille signage and/or telephone equipment for the deaf can now use hotels.com and expedia.com websites to search for lodgings offering these features. Requests will be reviewed by the company's customer service personnel who will contact the hotel to attempt to reserve a room that fits the bill. Travelers will then receive an email either confirming the reservations have been made or offering to help locate an equivalent room at another hotel. The website improvements were negotiated last year in a settlement of a class action lawsuit, Smith v. Hotels.com, LP. The Plaintiffs and their attorneys, Public Justice and others, allege that hotels.com's failure to accommodate the needs of disabled travelers was a discriminatory practice which violated California law.


Sony Recalls VAIO Laptop Computers Due to Burn Hazar


The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Sony Electronics Inc. of San Diego, Calif., announced a voluntary recall on June 30, 2010 of the various models within the VPCF11 and VPCCW2 series Notebook computers. The computers are available in many colors and have "VAIO" on the front outside panel. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. This recall effects about 233,000 computers. Sony has received 30 reports of units overheating resulting in deformed keyboards and casings. No injuries have been reported at the time of the recall; however, CPSC is interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell CPSC about it by visiting https://www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/incident.aspx


The Mission of the CPSC and It's Role In Consumer Safety

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from thousands of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. The CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.
To report any dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (301) 595-7054. To join a CPSC e-mail subscription list, please go to https://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx. Consumers can obtain recall and general safety information by logging on to CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov.


Toyota Motor Corp. Has Recalled 270,000 Vehicles Worldwide

Toyota Motor Corp. has recalled 270,000 vehicles worldwide to fix faulty engines. The recall includes seven models of luxury Lexus sedans. The recall centers around the problem of defective engines that can stall while the vehicle is moving. Leading to the recall was the fact that Toyota has received over 200 complaints regarding the faulty engines.

Cohen & Kuvin, LLC
Delray Beach, FL
http://www.cohenkuvin.com/
stk@cohenkuvin.com
561-665-8020