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If My Auto Accident Injuries Don’t Appear Right Away, What Should I Do?

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It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly if you experience symptoms following an auto accident. Seeing a doctor is not only essential for your well-being but also for your personal injury claim. However, what if you feel fine immediately after the collision, only to have symptoms arise later?

This situation is more common than you might think.

As a general rule, it is advisable to undergo a medical examination after a motor vehicle accident, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Neglecting medical care can exacerbate injuries, potentially turning what could have been a short-term injury into a long-term or permanent one.

auto accident injuries

Additionally, it is wise to consult a local car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. The responsible driver’s insurance company will likely reach out to you shortly after the accident, and engaging in conversations with them before seeking advice from an experienced auto accident attorney can be risky.

Below are some types of injuries that may not be immediately apparent after an automobile accident. Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and if you experience any unusual symptoms in the days or weeks following a traffic accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

  1. Head Injuries:
    Head injuries, including concussions and more severe forms of traumatic brain injury (TBI), can go unnoticed immediately after a motor vehicle collision. Several factors contribute to this. Firstly, someone who experiences a headache immediately after a traumatic event like a car crash may attribute it to stress or the jarring impact of the collision. Secondly, a small bleed may not cause immediate symptoms. Thirdly, many people are unaware that concussions can occur without a direct impact to the head. Additionally, some symptoms of TBI, such as dizziness and nausea, may not be immediately associated with a head injury.
  2. Back Injuries:
    Even a significant back injury may not be immediately evident. Sometimes, individuals with back injuries may mistake their stiffness or soreness as a result of the impact and decide to wait a few days to see if their condition improves without medical care. In other cases, the pain may not be noticeable amidst the shock and disorientation following the car crash. Furthermore, some back injuries may initially cause little or no pain but worsen as the injured individual moves around and strains their spine.
  3. Psychological Harm:
    Many individuals who have been injured in automobile accidents, especially severe collisions, may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychological impacts. However, these symptoms may not manifest immediately. For example, someone with PTSD following a motor vehicle crash and hospitalized may not experience symptoms until they attempt to get into a car to go home from the hospital. Additionally, it can be challenging in the initial days to distinguish between the natural emotional and psychological response immediately after the incident and a more lasting psychological issue.
If My Auto Accident Injuries Don’t Appear Right Away, What Should I Do? 1 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

What to Do When You Discover Car Accident Injuries:

Ideally, you should have undergone an examination immediately after the accident and documented any symptoms you experienced thereafter. However, if you did not suspect an injury initially and have not taken these steps, the next best course of action is to act promptly once you realize you were injured.

  1. Seek Medical Assessment:
    The first step is to seek medical attention. Whether you visit your doctor, an emergency room, or a walk-in clinic, make sure to inform the physician about all your symptoms, even if they seem unrelated. As previously mentioned, you may not always recognize the connection between a specific symptom and an injury sustained in the auto accident. Also, inform the doctor that you were involved in a traffic accident and describe any symptoms you have experienced since the collision and when they started.
  2. Document Your Symptoms and Limitations:
    Whenever you sustain an injury, it is advisable to keep a record of the symptoms you are experiencing and how they affect your daily life. Ideally, you should start maintaining this record immediately after the accident. However, if your injuries were not immediately apparent, begin documenting as soon as you realize you were injured. While it may seem that you will remember the details of your condition and its impact on your quality of life, it is easy to forget over time. Maintaining a record will help you provide accurate information to your treating physicians and your car accident attorney, enabling them to offer the best possible assistance.
  3. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer Immediately:
    If you did not immediately realize that you had been injured and may be entitled to compensation, you may have already made mistakes that could affect your personal injury claim. For instance, if you have spoken to the other driver’s insurance company, they may have tried to lead you into saying something detrimental to your car accident claim. Moreover, if you did not seek a medical assessment right away, you may have exacerbated your injury. In such cases, the other party’s insurer will often attempt to prove that your injuries are partly your fault, thereby reducing the available compensation.
If My Auto Accident Injuries Don’t Appear Right Away, What Should I Do? 2 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

The sooner you engage the services of a reputable personal injury lawyer experienced in car accident claims, the better their opportunity to mitigate any damage, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build the strongest possible case on your behalf.

If you have recently discovered that you were injured in an auto accident or another motor vehicle crash caused by someone else’s negligence, the next step to protect your rights is to schedule a free consultation with one of the experienced car accident attorneys at The South Florida Injury Law Firm. Call (954) 488-JEFF to take this crucial step.

Riding a Bike to School in Florida: How to Keep Your Kid Safe

Riding a Bike to School in Florida: How to Keep Your Kid Safe

by Bike AccidentsChildren Injuries & Accidents

Florida can be a dangerous place for cyclists, and kids aren’t exactly known for being careful.

However, children need to have some sense of autonomy, and if your kid is fighting hard to ride their bike to school, there are some safety techniques you can teach them to reduce their chances of getting into an accident.

Generally speaking, these can be divided into two categories: finding the best route and bike safety basics.

Finding the Best School Bike Route in Florida

Take a Safe Route

The safest route your child can take is a route with a sidewalk or bike path. This route is the best choice – even if it takes a few more minutes for them to get to school.

If your kid has no choice but to ride on the road, choose the route with the least amount of traffic. Take note of the traffic patterns during the school commute in the morning and afternoon. Routes with lower speed limits are generally safer for your child.

Watch for Intersections

If you have a choice, pick a route with fewer intersections. Your child is more likely to get injured in an intersection than you may realize. Also, practice using intersections when you are with your kid. Teach them to watch for the crossing signals and to make turns after looking both ways.

Look for a Distraction-Free Route

Routes with unrestrained pets, cluttered or cracked sidewalks, poor lighting, and any criminal activity can cause dangerous distractions for your child. Navigate the path with them and point out areas where he or she needs to pay closer attention.

Check with Authorities

Your child’s school or your local law enforcement agency may have helpful suggestions on the best routes for your child to take.

Check with Other Parents

Call the school to ask for a list of other parents who allow their children to ride bikes to school. Your child may be able to ride the same route and experience greater safety while making new friends.

The Basics of Bike Safety

Regular Bike Inspections

Help your child regularly check the bike’s chains, brakes, and tires. If you need to make repairs, don’t delay. A faulty bike can lead to serious injuries that you can easily avoid with regular bike inspections.

Keep the Helmet On

Your child can reduce his or her risk of head injury by at least 45 percent every time he or she wears a bike helmet. Because of this, it’s important to teach your child to never ride a bike without a helmet. Ever.

Wear Highly Visible Items

The right gear matters. Your child should wear light-colored or bright-colored clothing to be highly visible while riding their bike. If possible, choose jackets, shoes, and backpacks with reflective details that increase visibility. You can also add your own reflective tape to your child’s existing items.

Ride with Caution

It’s important that your child rides in a straight line and stays alert while riding. Your child’s risk of injury drops when he or she keeps both hands on the handlebars and eyes on the road. Also, make sure to teach your child the proper hand signals to use when turning and stopping.

South Florida Child Bicycle Accidents

Even after taking these precautions, it’s possible that your child may still be injured in a bike accident due to another’s negligence. However, arming them with these tips gives them the best chance at safely spreading their wings.

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What are your Flood-Related Car Accident Legal Rights?

by Auto AccidentsDistracted DrivingDriverless VehiclesParking Lot AccidentsPersonal Injury ClaimsRental Car AccidentsRide Sharing AccidentsTruck AccidentsUber Accidents

Flooding can be a dangerous situation for drivers. Even a few inches of water can make it difficult to control your car, and deeper water can cause your car to stall or even float away.

If you find yourself driving through floodwaters, it’s important to take precautions to stay safe.

1. Take the situation seriously.

Floodwaters can be deceptive. Just a few inches of water can make it difficult to control your car, and even deeper water may not look as deep as it actually is. It’s important to take flood warnings and advisories seriously and avoid driving through flooded areas if possible.

2. Stay calm.

If you find yourself driving through floodwaters, it’s important to stay calm. Panicking will only make the situation worse. Take a deep breath and focus on driving safely.

3. Respect barricades.

If you see barricades or other barriers in a flooded area, don’t drive around them. They’re there for a reason: to keep you safe.

What are your Flood-Related Car Accident Legal Rights? 3 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

4. Be cautious around standing water.

Even if the water looks shallow, it’s important to be cautious around standing water. You never know what might be hidden beneath the surface, such as potholes, sharp objects, or downed power lines.

5. Know your car’s limitations.

Not all cars are created equal when it comes to driving through floodwaters. If you have a low-riding car, it’s best to avoid driving through flooded areas altogether.

6. If you must drive through water, do so slowly and carefully.

If you must drive through water, do so slowly and carefully. Don’t accelerate or brake suddenly, and avoid making sharp turns. If your car starts to hydroplane, take your foot off the gas and steer in the direction of the skid.

What are your Flood-Related Car Accident Legal Rights? 4 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

7. If your car stalls, get out and get to safety.

If your car stalls in floodwaters, don’t try to restart it. Get out of the car and get to safety as quickly as possible. If you can’t get out of the car, call for help.

8. Get your car checked out after driving through floodwaters.

Even if your car doesn’t stall, it’s important to get it checked out by a mechanic after driving through floodwaters. Water can damage your car’s engine, transmission, and electrical system.

9. Get an attorney.

An attorney can help you understand your legal rights. After a flood related car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, property damage, and lost wages. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and ensure that you receive the full amount of compensation you deserve.

Insurance companies are often more willing to settle with an attorney than with an individual. An attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance companies. If you are unable to reach a settlement with the insurance companies, you may need to file a lawsuit. An attorney can represent you in court and fight for your rights.

By following these tips, you can help keep yourself safe if you find yourself driving through floodwaters. Contact the experienced flood related car accident attorneys at South Florida Injury Law Firm. We can provide valuable legal guidance and support after a flood-related car accident. We can also help you understand your legal rights and options, and work to ensure that you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.

What Injuries Should Florida Pedestrians Expect If Hit by a Car?

What Injuries Should Florida Pedestrians Expect If Hit by a Car?

by Pedestrian Accidents

Every day, Florida pedestrians are injured by car drivers. Some injuries are minor, yet some can be life-threatening. Here, we’ll tell you the types of injuries you can expect if you get hit by a car, and what you can do to fight back and get the compensation you need and deserve.

Stats You Should Know about Pedestrian Accidents

Here are several facts about the frequency of pedestrian accidents in the U.S.:

  • Every year, over 60,000 pedestrians are injured and 4,000 are killed.
  • A pedestrian is injured every eight minutes. A pedestrian is killed every 113 minutes.
  • Elderly people, children, and people of lower socioeconomic classes are the most frequent victims in pedestrian fatalities.
  • Females are less likely to be injured or killed than males.
  • Non-Hispanic Caucasians are less likely to be killed in a pedestrian accident than minorities.
  • The hours between 6:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. are the most likely times for pedestrian accidents to occur.
  • Intoxicated pedestrians are involved in nearly 40 percent of pedestrian fatalities. Drunk drivers cause about 18 percent of pedestrian fatalities.
  • Twenty-five percent of pedestrian fatalities occur inside an intersection.
  • Urban areas account for two-thirds of pedestrian fatalities.

These facts show just how frequent and dangerous pedestrian injuries can be. If you are injured, it’s in your best interest to consult with a knowledgeable Florida injury attorney to understand your rights.

Some of the Most Common Pedestrian Injuries in Florida

These are the most common types of injuries pedestrians can expect if they are hit by a car.

Lower extremity damage

The first impact between a pedestrian and a vehicle occurs when the pedestrian’s lower leg touches the front bumper of the vehicle. Because of this, half of all pedestrians experience injuries to their lower extremities. Common manifestations include the following:

  • Bone fractures
  • Lacerations
  • Muscle damage
  • Ligament damage
  • Broken pelvis

All of these injuries may require surgery, ongoing physical therapy, or other medical treatments. If you were injured in these ways in a pedestrian accident, you shouldn’t be responsible for your medical bills due to someone else’s negligence.

Head, face, and neck problems

After the impact with the lower extremities, pedestrians often strike the vehicle’s windshield or hood. Nearly 40 percent of pedestrians experience injury to their head, face, and neck in these types of collisions. These are the injuries that may result:

  • Skull fractures
  • Jaw fractures
  • Concussions
  • Lacerations
  • Neck injuries
  • Vertebrae damage
  • Shoulder displacement

A head injury can cause life-altering or life-threatening conditions. Neck injuries and vertebrae damage can require months of physical therapy or chiropractic care. It’s important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney if you experience a head, face, or neck injury as a pedestrian to seek compensation for your losses.

Some of the Most Common Pedestrian Injuries in Florida

Upper extremity damage

If a pedestrian is thrown over the vehicle or lands on the vehicle’s hood, his or her upper extremities can be injured. Almost 30 percent of pedestrians experience upper extremity injuries in an accident with a vehicle. Muscle injuries or bone fractures in the arms, wrists, and hands are common. Chest or abdomen injuries can threaten internal organs.

Now, pedestrians are twice as likely to experience a head injury over a chest or abdomen injury. However, whether the injury is to the head, chest, or abdomen, the risk of serious or life-threatening conditions rises.

If you have injuries to your upper extremities in a pedestrian accident, it’s essential that you seek emergency medical care to rule out serious problems. Your medical records can be the best evidence to prove that you deserve compensation for your injuries.

Factors in a Florida Pedestrian Injury Case

If a pedestrian is hit by a car, the extent of injuries depends on several factors. These factors include the following:

  • Vehicle size
  • Vehicle design
  • Speed at which the vehicle was traveling
  • Pedestrian height
  • Pedestrian weight
  • Pedestrian center of gravity
  • Angle of impact between car and pedestrian

Due to all these variables, it can be difficult to prove whether someone else is at fault for your injuries. A skilled attorney with years of experience representing pedestrian injury cases will know exactly what to look for in the evidence. Your attorney will use the facts of the case to seek the best possible compensation package for your medical bills, lost income, property damage, and any pain and suffering you may have experienced from the accident.

Factors in a Florida Pedestrian Injury Case

It all starts with getting medical help as quickly as possible, though. While these are the most common types of injuries, they are not the only types of damage a pedestrian can sustain – and you might not realize that you have a problem on your own.

The best way to know for sure is to get checked out by an experienced physician. Then, make sure everything is thoroughly documented.

 

t The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we have extensive experience helping clients who have been injured in pedestrian related accidents. We understand the unique challenges that this time of year can present, and we are dedicated to helping our clients get the justice and compensation they deserve.

miami broward spring break 2023 accident attorney

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida

by Auto AccidentsChildren Injuries & AccidentsDUI AccidentsMotorcycle AccidentsMulti Car AccidentsParking Lot AccidentsPersonal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury Protection (PIP)Ride Sharing AccidentsUber AccidentsVacation Injuries

As personal injury attorneys in South Florida, we know that spring break can be a time of fun and relaxation for many people. Unfortunately, it can also be a time of increased risk on the roads, as more tourists and party-goers flock to the area.

According to a study conducted by the University of Miami, the 14 most popular spring break destinations, including South Florida, saw a 9.1% increase in auto accidents

Here, we’ll take a closer look at the issue of car accidents during spring break in South Florida and what you can do if you are involved in an accident.

Why Are Car Accidents More Common During Spring Break?

Spring break is a time when many college students and tourists come to South Florida to enjoy the warm weather and beach parties. While this can be a fun time, it also means that there are more people on the roads, and many of them may not be familiar with the area or local driving laws. This can lead to a higher risk of accidents, particularly if drivers are distracted, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or simply not paying attention to the road.

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida 5 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Common Causes of Car Accidents During Spring Break

At South Florida Injury Law Firm, we have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of car accidents during spring break. Here are some of the factors that can contribute to car accidents during this time of year:

Increased traffic

With more people on the roads during spring break, traffic can be heavier and more congested than usual. This can lead to more accidents, especially in areas where there are a lot of tourists and visitors who may be unfamiliar with the local roads.

Impaired driving

Unfortunately, spring break is also a time when many people engage in excessive drinking and drug use. This can lead to impaired driving, which is a leading cause of car accidents during this time of year.

Distracted driving

With so much to see and do during spring break, it’s easy to become distracted while driving. This can include texting or using social media, taking photos or videos, or even just looking at the sights and sounds around you.

Road construction

There is a number of ongoing road construction and maintenance being performed on major roads throughout South Florida and is also a common time for road construction projects to begin, which can lead to traffic disruptions and increased risk of accidents.

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida 6 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Driving under the influence

Many people come to South Florida to party, and unfortunately, this often leads to an increase in drunk driving accidents.

Speeding

With so many people on the roads, drivers may feel pressure to get to their destination quickly, which can lead to speeding and reckless driving.

Inexperienced drivers

Many tourists and college students may not be familiar with the area or local driving laws, which can lead to confusion and accidents.

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida 7 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

What Should You Do If You’re Involved in an Accident During Spring Break?

If you are involved in a car accident during spring break in South Florida, it’s important to take the following steps:

Call the police

Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to call the police and have them document the accident. This can be important if you need to file a claim with your insurance company or if you need to pursue legal action.

Seek medical attention

Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention to make sure that you don’t have any hidden injuries. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.

Gather evidence

Take photos of the accident scene, get contact information from any witnesses, and make note of any relevant details about the accident.

Exchange information

Be sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident.

Contact an attorney

If you’ve been injured in an accident during spring break, it’s important to contact a personal injury attorney who can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for your injuries.

How Can You Stay Safe During Spring Break?

If you’re planning to visit South Florida for spring break, there are several things you can do to stay safe on the roads, including:

Avoid distracted driving

Put your phone away and avoid other distractions while driving.

Don’t drink and drive

If you plan to drink, make sure that you have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.

Obey traffic laws

Follow the speed limit and other traffic laws to avoid accidents.

Be aware of your surroundings

Pay attention to other drivers and pedestrians on the roads, and be aware of any hazards or obstacles.

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida 8 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Spring break can be a fun and exciting time in South Florida, but it’s important to remember that the roads can be dangerous during this time. By following the tips outlined in this blog post and staying aware of your surroundings, you can help reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident. If you are injured in an accident during spring break, be sure to contact an experienced personal injury attorney.

At The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we have extensive experience helping clients who have been injured in car accidents during spring break. We understand the unique challenges that this time of year can present, and we are dedicated to helping our clients get the justice and compensation they deserve.

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How Florida Motorcycle Accidents are Caused by Cars

by Motorcycle Accidents

Although we often first think of losing control in the rain or taking a surprise backroads curve too sharply, but many Florida motorcycle accidents are actually caused by passenger cars.

In a previous post, we shared that, at the time, four of the five most common motorcycle accidents involved a passenger vehicle, and a quick online search today will show that the consensus is that “vehicles turning left in front of you” is still the number one cause of motorcycle crashes.

Despite best efforts to educate, according to data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles the number of motorcycle accidents continues to creep up each year.

If you or a motorcyclist you know has recently been involved in a crash, keep an eye out for developing injuries – you have four years from the date of the accident to file a claim with the help of a personal injury attorney. In the meantime, let’s take a look a few other common ways cars can cause you to wreck on your bike.

When You Can’t Tell Them to Stay in Their Lane

Those drivers who don’t use turn signals, are daydreaming (or worse, device-using) drifters, or split-second road-ragers – they are all completely oblivious to your bike, and they’re all changing lanes without warning.

Unfortunately, most drivers simply aren’t programmed to seek out motorcyclists, and the vast majority don’t have experience riding one themselves. Governmental and other safety organizations continue to work on that from an education perspective, but when you’re the one taking the biggest risk on the roadways, you’ve got to take the extra measures to keep yourself self out there.

Rule of Thumb: If you can’t see them, they can’t see you. Check their mirrors. If and when you’re out of their sights, maneuver the bike until you’re confident they know you’re there.

Rear-Ends – Yours and Theirs

Just like with any fender-bender, when the vehicle driver behind (or in front) of you isn’t paying attention to the road, the chances of an accident increase.

If a distracted driver looks down at their phone, say, and a light begins to turn before they return their attention to the road, they may need to slam on the brakes. Unfortunately for motorcycle riders, this can mean flipping over the top of your bike. Or perhaps the opposite situation happens. You’re stopped in front of a passenger vehicle at a light and it changes. If they react faster than you and weren’t really paying attention (maybe that just noticed the light change out of the corner of their eye), you may end up sprawled across their hood.

Remember, you don’t have the same amount of “fender” to bend, so you’re more likely than they are to sustain a serious injury.

Rule of Thumb: Create your own crumple zone. Pull over to the outer limit of your lane, preferably toward the shoulder.

When One Door Opens

Fort Lauderdale Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer

You know the comedy scene in the movie – the motorcycle rider drives down the road a little too close to a row of parked cars and – bam! – Joe Schmoe in the land yacht swings his door wide open without looking, pulling the equivalent of a vehicular clothesline.

Only when it happens to you, you’re not a stuntman, and that bike isn’t a prop. Did you know there’s actually a name for the door’s-width space between parked cars and the lane of traffic? It’s called “The Death Zone.”

Rule of Thumb: Avoid driving in this area if and when possible. When it is absolutely unavoidable, go extra slow. Riding at low speed and being vigilant in watching for signs of activity inside the parked cars can save you from serious injury.

Between the Lines

How Florida Motorcycle Accidents are Caused by Cars 9 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Speaking of riding between cars, The American Motorcyclist Association reports that Utah recently legalized filtering motorcyclists between lanes of stopped traffic. As this type of legislation continues to expand across the nation, it’s important to keep in mind: just because you can doesn’t mean you should ride between lanes. If and when you do, all we can say is to be extremely careful.

Again, it comes down to the fact that car drivers don’t always know you’re there. When they aren’t aware, there’s no reason for them to leave much space between their vehicle and the one in the next lane over, leaving all the risk on you. Riders end up easily being knocked into oncoming traffic by drivers merging too quickly or without signaling. Even slight swerves can cause you to react poorly.

Rule of Thumb: Unless you are absolutely unable to avoid it, don’t ride the lines, stay between them.

Of course, sometimes you can be as careful as humanly possible and a negligent driver will still cause you to get hurt in a crash. If this happens to you, remember that you should never have to pay for their mistake. Florida has personal injury laws to protect people in exactly these situations – use them.

When you’ve suffered a serious injury, the medical bills begin to accumulate quickly. If your injuries were caused by the negligence of another driver or other responsible party, you may be entitled to substantial compensation.

When you consult with an accident attorney in South Florida, your personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case and the specifics of your motorcycle accident to determine the extent to which you are due financial remuneration.

Conveniently located for residents of Boynton Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, West Palm Beach and South Florida, The South Florida Injury Law Firm are in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. However, if you have the need, your South Florida personal injury attorney can visit you in your home or, if necessary, in the hospital. To contact an  injury lawyer with The South Florida Injury Law Firm you can call 954-488-JEFF anytime 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Or fill out the convenient online form for a free case evaluation. Remember, the consultation is free and you will owe nothing until recovery of benefits is made.

Florida Drivers Cause Bicycle Injuries -- Here's How

How Florida Drivers Cause Bicycle Injuries

by Bike Accidents

Cycling is not only a convenient and healthy way to get around in Florida, but it’s widely accepted as an effective means of reducing congestion on the road and improving the quality of our environment.

However, the relationship between drivers and cyclists in Florida has always been tinged with antagonism. Motorists often complain that cyclists don’t follow traffic laws. Conversely, cyclists feel that drivers are inconsiderate and unwilling to share the road, causing bicycle injuries.

While obviously this is not true across the board for both groups, it is absolutely true that many bicycle-car crashes in Florida can be attributed to reckless and negligent drivers. Unfortunately, when drivers engage in reckless or negligent behaviors, it is bicyclists’ safety that becomes the most compromised, with a high percentage of accidents resulting in serious injuries — and even death.

Given the fact that cyclists are surrounded by much larger, faster, and stronger vehicles, it’s no wonder that this is the case. How bad is it? In 2019, for instance, over 840 bicyclists in the US died in accidents with automobiles.

How are drivers responsible? Any person operating a motor vehicle on Florida roads has a duty of reasonable care to other road users — including cyclists.

Therefore, a driver who fails to act with reasonable care by, for instance, violating traffic laws can be charged with negligence if they hit a bicyclist as a result.

There are many different ways a driver’s negligence can cause a bicycle accident in Florida.

Bicycle Injuries Caused By Intoxicated Drivers

Intoxication with either drugs or alcohol impairs a person’s driving capabilities in numerous ways. Intoxicated drivers are also less aware of other road users like bicyclists. It’s thus very easy for a drunk driver to drive right into a bicyclist on the road.

Making Dangerous Turns

Some drivers make the mistake of turning in front of an oncoming cyclist at an intersection. This can easily result in a crash — especially if the driver misjudged the speed of the cyclist.

A dangerous left-hand turn could potentially cut off the cyclist’s path and cause a collison. A right-hand turn, on the other hand, could easily knock over the cyclist or force him or her into the path of another oncoming vehicle. Either way, such dangerous turns may end up causing bicycle injuries or even killing the cyclist.

Refusing to Yield

Some drivers seem to think that they do not have to yield to bicyclists at all. Others neglect to yield because they were looking out for other vehicles on the road rather than bicycles. Either way, refusing to yield can lead to a crash.

Passing Dangerously

Many drivers do not give bicyclists enough space when passing their bicycles on the road. Consequently, the cyclist may be side-swept by the vehicle’s side-view mirror. Also, if the vehicle is an unusually large one, it may cause a strong draft force that pushes the cyclist off the road or into traffic.

South Florida Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Not Looking in the Mirror as They Back Up

Sometimes, drivers pull out of their driveways or parking spaces without looking in their mirrors — or even over their shoulders. Such a driver may fail to see an oncoming bicyclist and end up hitting and injuring them.

Disregarding Dedicated Bicycle Lanes

When driving in Florida, you always have to watch out for bicyclists if you’re driving near bicycle lanes. In particular, extra care is needed at intersections and driveways.

Carelessly Opening Car Doors

When drivers park their vehicle parallel to the road, one of the things they’re supposed to do is check to see if there are any approaching bicyclists. If there are any, drivers must wait for them to pass before opening their door.

Unfortunately, inattentive drivers may barely glance into their mirrors before opening their car doors. A bicyclist who comes in hot will inevitably ride right into the open door. If the cyclist tries to swerve to avoid the door, they may end up swerving into oncoming traffic and causing an accident with a different vehicle.

Boca Raton Injury Attorney

Regardless of what happened in your particular situation, if you were injured in a car-bike accident due to the negligent actions of a driver, you owe it to yourself — and other cyclists — to fight for the compensation you need to recover and get back on the road. Do not allow yourself to simply become another statistic in Florida’s ever-growing number of bicycle crashes. File an injury lawsuit and you can shine a light on bad driver behavior and potentially keep others like you from having to endure a similar fate.

If you’ve been involved in an accident, our South Florida attorneys are ready to defend your rights. The South Florida Injury Law Firm legal team will invest time, energy, and resources to help you get the settlement you deserve – ideally without ever having to go to trial. However, our lawyers will not hesitate to take your case to trial if it becomes necessary to obtain the compensation you need to move forward with your life.

How Florida Drivers Cause Bicycle Injuries 10 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm
Contact the Injury of Law Firm of South Florida to speak to a skilled attorney now.

Teaching Teens to Drive Safely

Teaching Teens to Drive Safely

by Distracted Driving

Few things are scarier than a teenager who has just gotten his or her driver’s license. But if that teenager is your son or daughter, they’re going to be looking to you to teach them how to drive safely.

Statistics show us that teaching teens to drive safely is crucial not just to keep them safe, but also to make sure that others don’t get hurt. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 2,800 teens in the United States ages 13–19 were killed and about 227,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes in 2020.

And even though people 15-24 years old only represent 14 percent of the U.S. population, they account for 30 percent ($19 billion) of the total costs of car accident injuries among males and 28 percent ($7 billion) of the total costs of car accident injuries among females.

That’s why safe driving is an invaluable skill for teens to learn and practice. And what better way to learn than from their parents?

If you are currently trying to teach your teen to drive safely or will be doing so sometime in the future, here are a few things you should make sure they learn.

The value of seatbelts.

Seatbelts are always required! But besides “Click It or Ticket,” seatbelts are also lifesavers. In 2021, only 56 percent of teens involved in fatal car crashes were wearing seatbelts, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And only about 80 percent of teens even admit to wearing seatbelts – the lowest percent of any age group.

Since seatbelts can reduce serious injury and death from a crash by nearly half, make sure your teen knows that seatbelts aren’t optional – even if they’re just driving a short distance.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving

Many teens love the freedom that comes with driving, but often forget about the responsibility that comes with it. Teens – and anyone who is behind the wheel – should focus solely on driving and ignore distractions. That includes texting, eating, drinking, playing with the radio, putting on makeup, and even talking to passengers.

Although all other activities should halt when driving, using a smartphone is the biggest distraction because it can use up to 37 percent of your brain power – which is 37 percent of your brain not focused on driving.

Passengers

Driving with one passenger for 16- and 17-year-olds has been shown to increase the likelihood of a crash by close to 50 percent. For this reason, you should limit the number of passengers your teen is allowed to have in their car. As they gain experience and confidence, you could loosen your restrictions. The more people in a car, the more distractions that are available.

Night driving

Driving at night is riskier for teens than driving during than day due to visibility issues in the dark, slower response times, and simple lack of experience. So you should limit your teen’s night driving when they first obtain their license.

Our state also recognizes the risk in night driving and has set restrictions based on age. For the first 3 months of having a license, a 22-year old can only drive during daylight hours. After 3 months, they are allowed to drive until 10 p.m. Sixteen-year-olds can drive until 11 p.m. and 17-year-olds can drive until 1 a.m. Once someone turns 18, however, there are no restrictions.

Rules of the road

When anyone has a license, they are consenting to follow the rules of the road. This means that they have to brake at stop signs and red lights, use signals to turn, drive within the speed limit, and follow any other road signs or regulations. By adhering to the rules of the road, the chance of an accident is greatly reduced. So if your teen is caught breaking any of these rules by a police officer, they should know not only will they have to deal with the traffic ticket, but they will also have to deal with consequences at home.

 

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Drinking and driving. Although anyone under age 21 is not allowed to consume an alcoholic beverage, many teens still do. With this in mind, it’s imperative make sure your child knows the dangers involved in driving while under the influence of alcohol or any drug. DUI accidents, unfortunately, are often the most serious and potentially fatal accidents and your teen should never drive if they’ve been drinking. Tell them that regardless of the time or where they are, they should always call you for a ride instead of choosing to drive home.

Teens love the independence that comes with being able to drive, but as a parent, you should remind them that driving is a privilege. And if they break the rules or don’t drive safely, teens should know that their driving privilege could be taken away for the safety of themselves and everyone else on the road.

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Car Accidents in South Florida: How to Find the Right Attorney

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South Florida is known for its heavy traffic and busy roads, which can unfortunately lead to a high number of car accidents. There are a number of reasons why accidents occur, including:

  • Heavy traffic: South Florida is known for its busy roads, which can lead to congestion and long commutes. Many do not pay attention as well in heavy traffic, creating avoidable accidents.
  • Inclement weather: South Florida is prone to hurricanes and heavy rain, which can make driving conditions treacherous. Wet streets and limited visibility can easily cause a wreck.
  • Distracted drivers: With the increased use of cell phones and other electronic devices while driving, distracted driving has become a major concern on the roads and responsible for a number of accidents throughout Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties each year.
  • Aggressive drivers: Some drivers in South Florida are known for their aggressive driving habits, which can increase the risk of accidents.
  • Poor road conditions: Some roads in South Florida may be in poor condition, with potholes, construction, or debris that can be dangerous for drivers.
traffic accidents in miami dade county

It’s important to be aware of these potential hazards when driving in South Florida and to take appropriate safety precautions such as wearing a seatbelt, obeying traffic laws, and avoiding distractions while driving to prevent being an accident statistic.

According to data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, in 2021, there were over 400,000 car accidents in Florida, which resulted in over 250,000 injuries and over 3,000 deaths.

car accident in broward county

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident, it’s important to have the right legal representation on your side. But with so many car accident attorneys to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.

First and foremost, you want to make sure that the attorney you choose has experience handling car accident cases. Ask about the attorney’s track record in terms of settlements and trial verdicts, and look for testimonials or reviews from past clients.

Secondly, it’s important to find an attorney who is a good fit for you and your case. Some attorneys may specialize in specific types of accidents, such as truck accidents or motorcycle accidents, while others may have experience handling cases involving serious injuries or wrongful death.

Car Accidents in South Florida: How to Find the Right Attorney 11 Auto Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Another important consideration is the attorney’s fee structure. Some attorneys may work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win your case. Others may charge an hourly rate or a flat fee. Make sure you understand the attorney’s fee structure and are comfortable with it before moving forward.

Finally, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with the attorney to discuss your case and get a sense of their communication style and approach.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident in South Florida, it’s important to take the time to find the right attorney for your case. By doing your research and being selective, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome.