Car accidents are a significant public safety concern across the United States, and Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, is no exception. Understanding the patterns and statistics related to local car accidents can help residents and local authorities address the problem more effectively. By analyzing these figures, residents can better comprehend the causes of these accidents, where they are most likely… The post What do car accident statistics reveal about Des Moines, Iowa? first appeared on Galligan Law ..read more

As most adults age, their need for specialized medical care increases over time. Unfortunately, they also face an increased risk of misdiagnosis the older they get. Certain biological changes complicate the diagnostic process as the human body ages. And, some symptoms of underlying conditions may mimic physiological changes that physicians expect as the body naturally ages. When an older adult… The post Older adults are frequently misdiagnosed, specialized care can help first appeared on Galligan Law ..read more

Few things can be as liberating as cruising down an open Iowa highway on a motorcycle. Most biking enthusiasts may agree that feeling the wind rush around them and the sun on their faces induces a feeling of pure freedom. However, before throwing on a helmet and hitting the road, safety should be at the top of any motorcyclist’s mind. This is because while the Hawkeye State offers stunning landscapes to explore on two wheels, troubling trends in motorcycle fatalities necessitate a renewed focus on safe riding practices. As stated in a recent press release by the Iowa Department of Public Safet ..read more

As of mid-December, Des Moines had only received about three inches of snow. As of this writing, the forecast wasn’t promising for having a white Christmas. But we all know that slick roads and decreased visibility are likely sooner rather than later, as our average snowfall is about three feet each winter. Keeping yourself and others safe depends on knowing how to handle winter driving hazards. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when the cold and snow arrive. Driving in cold weather First, if you want your vehicle nice and toasty before hitting the road, never warm it up in an enclosed space ..read more

Medical malpractice claims often result from missed or mistaken diagnoses. The AARP says research shows that roughly 12 million Americans are misdiagnosed in outpatient settings each year. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says thousands of unreliable laboratory medical tests contribute to this problem. The agency is proposing a new rule forcing more tests to undergo FDA reviews. The 10 most commonly missed or delayed diagnoses The medical journal BMJ says research shows nearly 800,000 Americans die or suffer severe disabilities due to misdiagnosis annually. Another study published in JAM ..read more

The growth of telehealth has grown exponentially since the advent of the pandemic. A 2017 study reported that only 18% of Americans used online technology for medical purposes. But COVID-19 changed all that. Spending on telehealth services exploded from $306 million in 2019 to $3.7 billion by the end of 2020. Many people are quick to point out the benefits of telehealth: expanding access, especially for those in rural areas, reduced patient wait times, and increased physical safety. But new data shows an alarming increase in medical malpractice claims. A government-funded study outlined the th ..read more

When traversing the picturesque state of Iowa, one might not immediately think of treacherous roads. However, just like any other place, the state has its share of challenging roadways that require a driver’s utmost attention and caution. Below are some of the most dangerous roads that demand extra vigilance. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler passing through, understanding the hazards that these routes pose can significantly contribute to safer journeys. Interstate 80: The cross-country highway Interstate 80, the iconic cross-country highway traversing the state, showcases the deli ..read more

Although working in medicine is one of the best-paid professions, it is also an incredibly demanding career. Professionals need to commit years of their lives to higher education before they can ever secure a license and then have to work very demanding jobs in most cases. The higher the standards for a position, the fewer people are likely to work to meet those standards. Therefore, many medical facilities in the last few years have had to confront a lack of adequate physician staffing and look into alternative ways to provide support for patients. One of the solutions embraced by numerous or ..read more

In May, Governor Kim Reynolds signed new limits into law that protect trucking companies. First, the law shields them from lawsuits claiming they negligently hired a driver who was involved in a crash. Second, the new law limits compensation for the pain and suffering victims experience in crashes with big commercial trucks. Now, crash victims will only be allowed to receive up to $5 million for their pain and suffering. However, they can still receive compensation for all of their economic losses, including lost wages due to the accident and all related medical expenses. In some cases, they m ..read more

Iowa has joined a host of other states limiting cash awards to victims of medical malpractice. Gov. Kim Reynolds signed the bill in mid-February, placing a $2 million limit on noneconomic damages awarded by juries in cases involving hospitals. The cap is $1 million for awards against independent clinics. The restrictions apply to pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of chance, loss of consortium and other so-called “noneconomic” damages. The cap does not apply to economic damages, which include medical costs, lost wages, physical therapy and other potential financial losses for victims. Ac ..read more