The danger of carbon monoxide has been recognized in terms of its hypoxic effect for some time. This happens because carbon monoxide binds with the red blood cells or hemoglobin at a rate 240 times greater than does oxygen. This displaces oxygen in the transport to the organs of the body that are so dependent upon the constant replenishment of oxygen supply. The brain and the heart are the two largest consumers of oxygen in the body. It is now becoming recognized that carbon monoxide also causes a cascade of inflammatory effects that damage the brain and heart even after the carbon monoxide or carboxy hemoglobin levels have declined. (more…)
A recent question from a Locks Law blog reader, and answer by Locks attorney Jim Pettit:
Question: If someone is in a car accident, what would they need to look for to decide whether to sue the manufacturer of the vehicle and not just sue the driver who struck them? (more…)
As the cold months of winter embrace the country, particularly in the northern states, it is worth while to remind ourselves of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. Most carbon monoxide deaths and injuries occur from malfunctioning heating systems, improperly vented supplementary heaters, and automobile exhaust.
Carbon monoxide is particularly dangerous because it is odorless and colorless and can fill a house to lethal levels without the occupants being aware of its presence. CO can also come into living spaces at less than lethal levels over prolonged periods of time and cause brain and heart damage. (more…)
