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Can You Sue the Makers of the Earplugs for Hearing Damage?

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While we have been blessed with plenty of senses, hearing has got to be the most special of them all. It allows you to listen to music and engage in conversation with ease. This is why it is extremely important to protect your hearing at all costs. You’ll find that it is always advisable not to listen to music at high volumes because this might cause hearing loss or permanent problems. In extreme conditions, like war, combatants are obligated to wear earplugs to protect their hearing from loud noises that could do some serious damage in the long run. But what if those earplugs were defective? In that case, can and should you sue the makers of the earplugs?

What problems are associated with defective earplugs?

If you are using defective earplugs amid loud noise, you are exposing yourself to several serious complications. Military personnel, in particular, are susceptible to suffering from these problems since the nature of their job puts them around high-decibel sounds like gunshots and explosions. This kind of noise can lead to problems in the long run, like tinnitus. This is basically when you start feeling like there’s noise or ringing in your head, altering your perception of sound and completely distorting the inputs you get. 

Symptoms of tinnitus vary from one person to the other, depending on several factors like age, health, duration of exposure to noise, and others. Most suffering from this condition experience buzzing, humming, hissing, or other sounds in their ears. 

Why are special earplugs essential for military personnel? 

An average person would use earplugs to block out any noise coming from outside sources, to sleep on planes, or to work in crowded places. Unfortunately, this won’t work with a service person, because the kind of noise they are exposed to is much different from the kind you will experience on a plane or a crowded café. Moreover, even if you get a good kind of earplugs, those will block all noise coming from outside sources, which also isn’t very practical for a soldier since they need to hear commands and communicate with other military personnel.

So, military-grade earplugs have a special design that lets all noise in, while blocking out damaging noise like gunfire and explosions. This is important because a soldier will also need to be able to listen to the quieter sounds like an enemy sneaking in from behind them, so the earplugs have to block out only the heavy noise. And that is what makes them essential for members of the armed forces. 

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How do these earplugs malfunction? 

As mentioned earlier, they are supposed to block out all the heavy noise. Unfortunately, in certain cases like the one we’ll discuss further below, the earplugs didn’t serve their function, and they allowed dangerously loud sounds to seep in, causing permanent damage to the people wearing them. 

The problem with these earplugs is the fact that they were too short to fit in all soldiers’ ears. So, with time and action, they would gradually loosen and were hence unable to provide the level of protection those soldiers needed. 

Can you sue the makers of the earplugs? 

In a nutshell, yes. This is what happened with the U.S. military in a case that has attracted media attention for the past few years. Apparently, soldiers who served between 2003 and 2015 were all issued a pair of yellow and green defective earplugs, causing several veterans to sue the makers of the earplugs later on because they started having hearing problems and suffering from tinnitus as well as other conditions. Until this very day, thousands of veterans have filed lawsuits, citing their hearing impairment and the fact that the company issued earplugs that didn’t serve their function. And if you happen to be among the people who were issued those earplugs, then you should also sue for compensation. 

What kind of compensation are you eligible for?

A lot of military service members filed lawsuits against the manufacturer of those earplugs, a company called 3M, as the veterans claimed the company knowingly provided the defective products to thousands of soldiers. So, if you were one of those, you are eligible for some form of compensation. You could receive money for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages in the past or future, permanent or temporary disability, punitive damages, and loss of enjoyment of life. 

To obtain that compensation, you need to get yourself a lawyer to help you sue the company. The first thing you need to figure out is whether the terms of those particular cases apply to you. If that is the case, then you should immediately seek out attorneys to help you reclaim what is rightfully yours and get compensation for the terrible problem you have been inflicted with. 

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How should military grade earplugs fit?

The 3M earplugs were too short, so they ended up causing hearing loss of thousands of soldiers. So, how are military-grade earplugs supposed to fit? For starters, they should be able to easily fit in your ears, making sure they’re completely blocked. If they are indeed the right shape and size, the earplugs will form a kind of seal alongside the skin of your outer ear canal. When that happens, they will give you the ability to hear yourself talk out loud, though the sound will be a bit muffled. They’d also block out any gunfire, aircraft, or explosion noises while letting everything else go in, which will keep your ears protected and safe during combat. 

What happened to 3M?

A case was filed in 2018 against them, and it was settled with the government for millions of dollars. Unfortunately, the veterans didn’t see any of the money. This is why you should file a separate lawsuit if you’re certain you were issued these earplugs and are indeed suffering from hearing problems. 

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It is your right and obligation to sue for damages if you have suffered because of those defective earplugs. The case might take months, even years, but that shouldn’t stop you from demanding your rights. With the right attorney and the adequate amount of evidence, you will eventually get the proper compensation that you’re entitled to.

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People & Lifestyle

Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s Reign

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Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's Reign

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign as the Asantehene, the King of the Ashanti Kingdom.

The celebrations, which began with spectacular fireworks witnessed by Otumfuo himself, will culminate in the Silver Jubilee anniversary on Akwasidaekese on June 12 at Dwabrem, Manhyia Palace.

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This milestone is a testament to Otumfuo’s impactful leadership, dedication to the Asante people, and contributions to education and research as the Chancellor of KNUST.

The event is being celebrated across Ghana, with well-wishes and congratulations pouring in from various quarters, highlighting the significance of this occasion for Asanteman and Ghana as a whole.

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Mr. Beast in Ghana: Surprising Visit Sparks Excitement

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Mr. Beast

World-renowned YouTuber Mr. Beast, known for his philanthropic acts, has been spotted in Ghana, specifically in Accra and Tema, sparking excitement among locals.

His visit has led to discussions about his choice of Ghana over other African countries, with some suggesting that the country’s popularity as a tourist destination played a role.

Mr. Beast’s presence in Ghana is part of his global outreach, as he recently gifted a Ghanaian $25,000 as part of his X (Twitter) giveaway.

Read Also: Producers of 'Beast of No Nation' return to filming in Ghana, causing upset in parliament

The YouTuber has been seen exploring the country and interacting with locals, with many expressing their desire to meet him and participate in his charitable endeavors.

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Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan in MP race for Ayawaso West Wuogon

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Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan

Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is set to enter the political fray by rubbing shoulders with notable personalities in the upcoming general elections.

The former Juventus midfielder is believed to be lacing his boots to face the likes of John Dumelo and the incumbent member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency Lydia Alhassan.

While Dumelo and Alhassan represents the NDC and NPP respectively, Appiah is expected feature in the elections as an independent candidate.

This was revealed by the Spokesperson of the Ayew family Fiifi Tackie via X on Friday afternoon.

“Stephen Appiah to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency as an independent Parliamentary candidate,” he wrote.

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If Stephen Appiah affirms the reported news, he will be following in the footsteps of other renowned figures in Ghana football who have indulged in politics recently.

Earlier this year, all-time top scorer of the Black Stars Asamoah Gyan was appointed as the sub-committee chair of Youth and Sports in the campaign committee of Dr Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party.

In acceptance of the appointment, Gyan emphasised the need to share hos ideas garnered through experience in the game.

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‘I have enough experience to contribute to sports – Asamoah Gyan reacts to political appointment
“I always ask myself, how do we create change if we don’t want to change? How do we spectate without being on the bench, and how do we score without being on the field?… All I know and will ever know, all I love and will ever love is SPORTS.” he stated.

Another figure in Ghana football who recently announced his intention to engage in partisan politics is Kwesi Nyantakyi, former Ghana Football Association (GFA).

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The former football administrator showed up as one of the candidates to contest in the NPP primaries for the Ejisu constituency following the demise of incumbent John Kumah.

However, it didn’t pan out well for the former Wa All Stars owner as he lost disappointingly.

He garnered a paltry 35 votes after close to 1,081 delegates had cast their votes in the parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held in the Ejisu Constituency on April 13.

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Rebecca Osam: A Champion for Women’s Empowerment in Africa

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In a heartfelt social media post, Rebecca Osam, Managing Director of Reflo Company Limited, Reflo’s TV, and Femme Fatale Productions Limited, has pledged her full commitment to empowering young women.

Rebecca expressed her desire to move beyond mere inspiration and instead build a deeper connection with young women, offering guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.

Her passion for women’s empowerment stems from her experiences growing up in Africa, where she witnessed firsthand the oppression and lack of opportunities faced by women. This drove her to co-found The Florence Mensah Foundation with her mother, aiming to empower African women and girls, and encourage them to recognise their worth, strength, and potential.

Through her foundation and personal endeavors, Rebecca seeks to provide a supportive platform for young women to thrive. She aims to be a relatable figure, offering mentorship and encouragement to help them overcome challenges and achieve success on their own terms.

Rebecca’s dedication to empowering young women proves her leadership and commitment to creating positive change in her community. Her efforts serve as an inspiration to others, highlighting the impact one person can have in driving gender equality and women’s empowerment.

As Rebecca continues her work, her message resonates with young women across Africa: “Anything is possible, and I am here to support and cheer you on every step of the way.”

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Caradise Ghana Car Rental Facilitates Transportation for Global Christian Forum held in Accra

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Caradise Ghana Car Rental has once again successfully facilitated the transportation of over 240 participants from 60 countries across the globe for the recently ended Global Christian Forum in Accra, Ghana.

Numerous buses hauled the various participants from the Airport to their designated hotels from the 12th to 15th of April, 2024. Participants were then transported from their hotels to the conference grounds daily for the gathering of devoted Christians from the 16th to the 19th of April, 2024.

The forum began with a vibrant, joyful worship service held at Accra Ridge Church. The Rev. Dr. Casely Essamuah welcomed participants to Ghana and to the Fourth Global Gathering, and participants spent the day sharing their faith stories with one another across the litany of differences represented. 

The forum was climaxed with a dinner and 25th anniversary celebration at the Action Chapel Internation Church hosted by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams.

After the forum, the participants took the opportunity to visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum where they learnt about the great Pan-Africanist, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Ghana’s journey to inpendence.

The participants also spent a day in Cape Coast where they learnt about the millions of enslaved, dehumanised African men, women, and children at the Cape Coast Castle. Witnessing first hand how Africans were forcibly taken captive to the Americas, Caribbean, and Europe as objects of lucrative trade.

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DJ Khaled Announces Second Annual We The Best Foundation Golf Classic On June 12 & 13 in Miami Beach !

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GRAMMY® Award-winning, global megastar DJ Khaled proudly announces the return of his annual WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC for the second year in a row.

For 2024, the mega-popular charity event expands to two days on Wednesday June 12 and Thursday June 13 in Miami, FL. Given the demand by countless superstar artists, A-list athletes, and entertainers to participate, he needed to stretch the proceedings over two days!

Once again, the event will be sponsored by Jordan Brand, and all proceeds support the We The Best Foundationand its numerous efforts to bolster education. Stay tuned for the multitude of exciting confirmed guests, and more.

Khaled created a cultural groundswell and personally appeared on ESPN’s SPORTSCENTER to break the news of the second installment of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC today. Watch HERE.

Regarding the return of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC, he commented, “Last year, the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC brought out so many friends and family to make a difference, play some great golf, and have an incredible day for a great cause. This year, we’re going even bigger, and we thank everyone for their continued support. TEE UP AND BLESS UP!”

Last year, the inaugural WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC hosted Serena Williams, pro golfers Michael Block and Bubba Watson, Odell Beckham, JR., Shannon Sharpe, Victor Cruz, Jalen Rose, Terrell Owens, Marcus Jordan, Jeezy, Quavo, The-Dream, Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, Fat Joe, Cedric The Entertainer, Joey Fatone, and more. The foundation raised over $500,000 which benefited the enrichment of children and youth through educational programming, scholarships, and extracurricular activities.

More guests and partners for 2024 will be unveiled soon.

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