Protect Yourself from Bike Injuries in Florida with This Safety Gear

Protect Yourself from Bike Injuries in Florida with This Safety Gear

by Bike Accidents

Protect Yourself from Bike Injuries in Florida with This Safety Gear

While you can’t prevent every accident, you can protect yourself from many bike injuries in Florida with the right gear.

In this post, we’ll describe the safety equipment you should be using on your ride to decrease your chance of injury – and of getting into a bike accident in the first place.

Essential Safety Equipment for Florida Cyclists

When riding your bike, the best way to stay safe is to be alert to changing conditions and drivers while making good choices. In combination with that, though, it is important to have the right gear.

Some of the below items will be obvious, but others may surprise you. Ready to dive in?

Helmet

Everyone knows the importance of helmets, yet some riders still don’t use them.

A well-made helmet will protect you against a head injury, which can be life-threatening. The best helmets are snug-fitting and impact-absorbing while being aerodynamic.

You can even purchase helmets that integrate with other accessories like headlamps, cameras, and Bluetooth technology. Choose a helmet in a bright, vivid color to make yourself highly visible.

Lights

Cars have had daytime running lights for years because they’ve proven successful at reducing accidents. Well, the same is true for bicycles.

Using a light on your bike during the daytime can reduce your risk of accident by up to 20 percent. Additionally, a bike light is helpful for low-light times of day, such as sunrise or dusk, and essential for night riding. Make yourself visible to other drivers with a powerful bike light and you increase your chances of coming home safe.

Computer

A bike computer can track your ride and provide navigation – that’s right, it can help you find your way back to the main trail if you get lost. You can even sync your bike computer with your phone to automatically send location alerts to loved ones you choose.

First-Aid Kit

Bike accidents are so common, it’s essential for you to carry along a small first-aid kit to bandage minor cuts and scrapes. Kits made for bikers are lightweight and easy to strap on.

Bell

A bike bell can alert others to your presence. They can be especially helpful if you sense an oncoming collision. Bike bells are inexpensive and may enable you to avoid situations where you could be injured.

Reflective Features

You can purchase reflective stripes for your bike wheels to increase visibility, which may help you avoid an accident.

Clothing

Essential Safety Equipment for Florida Cyclists

Cyclists need clothing that fits snugly to the body while wicking moisture away and offering sun protection. If your clothing is brightly colored and features reflective materials, you’ll be even safer on the road.

Shoes

The best shoes for bikers have lots of traction on their soles and extra reflective coating. Your shoes need a good grip to balance and protect you in case of a fall.

Sunglasses

The best sunglasses for bicyclists fit well with a helmet, shield your eyes from glare, and protect your eyes from UV rays, flying objects, and insects. Guard your eyes from injury with the right pair of sunglasses.

Water Bottle

Staying hydrated while you ride keeps you alert, which can prevent you from getting injured. Look for a water bottle that clips to your bike, so you can easily reach down for drinks while you’re riding.

Mirror

A rear-view mirror can be a bicyclist’s best friend for preventing injuries. Some mirrors attach to helmets or sunglasses, while others attach to the bike’s handlebars.

Emergency Bracelet

If you are injured in a bike accident and can’t speak for yourself, an emergency bracelet can list medical conditions as well as emergency contact information. Don’t leave on a bike ride without one.

What’s Next If You Are Injured on a Bike Ride in Florida

Even if you take every precaution and use the best safety gear, you could still get in a bike accident that can cause significant injuries. If someone else is at fault, you shouldn’t be responsible for your medical bills, lost income, property damage, and other expenses. Reach out to an injury lawyer to learn your options.

These are the most common bike injuries that may qualify as grounds for a personal injury lawsuit:

  • Head injury
  • Neck injury
  • Broken bones
  • Lower back pain
  • Knee pain
  • Numbness in extremities
  • Muscle pain
  • Lack of concentration
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder

What’s Next If You Are Injured on a Bike Ride in Florida

If you are injured while riding your bike, note details at the scene if you are able. Get contact information for all witnesses and take pictures of your injuries, the bike, and the other vehicle if applicable. Don’t forget to file a police report as well. These details will be crucial to your personal injury case.

Most importantly: see a doctor. No matter how minor your injury, it’s important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. You could experience symptoms that require many months of treatment or therapy, but they don’t always show up right away. A doctor will be able to detect problems you don’t even know you have.

 

 

About the Author: 

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.

These Are the Places Floridians are Most Likely to Slip and Fall

These Are the Places Floridians are Most Likely to Slip and Fall

by Slip and Fall

These Are the Places Floridians are Most Likely to Slip and Fall

Slip and fall accidents are no joke – in fact, they frequently land Floridians in the hospital.

In this post, we’ll tell you the most common areas that lead to slip and fall accidents, what kinds of places they are most likely to occur, and what to do if you are injured.

Common Areas for Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall injuries account for over eight million visits to U. S. emergency rooms every year, which is the number one reason for hospital visits. The most common places for slip and fall accidents are:

Cluttered areas

Tripping hazards include area rugs, cords, toys, shoes, books, clothing, and other objects.

Unstable or uneven surfaces

If flooring is not inspected and replaced on a regular basis, the risk of slip and fall injuries rises.

Areas with heavy foot traffic

These areas experience more wear and tear than average areas.

Unsecured heights

High areas should be blocked by barriers, roping, or fencing to prevent slips and falls.

Ladders

Many injuries are due to improper ladder placement and use.

Ramps

Ramps need to be kept clear and clean for safest use.

Stairwells

A narrow, broken, wet, unlit, or cluttered stairwell presents a high risk for slips and falls.

Slippery or wet areas

Freshly mopped or waxed floors must be cordoned off, and spills need to be cleaned up as soon as possible.

If you have a slip and fall accident due to another person’s negligence in any of these areas, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to recoup your expenses.

Common Locations for Florida Slip and Fall Accidents

These are the most common locations with areas that can present slip and fall hazards in Florida.

Workplaces

If you experience a slip and fall injury at work, it may be fully covered by workers’ compensation. However, it’s wise to consult with an attorney to know if you are receiving fair compensation for your injuries.

Private Homes

A slip and fall injury in this situation can be tricky to litigate, so it’s best to consult with an attorney right away.

Rental Housing

In certain circumstances, the rental property owner may be liable for your slip and fall injury sustained in a rental housing unit.

Nursing Homes

Florida is home to many seniors, and numerous slip and fall accidents occur inside nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Hotel or Resort

If a hotel or resort was negligent in a way that caused your slip and fall accident, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.

Small Business

Check with an experienced attorney to see what your rights are regarding a slip and fall at a small business.

Retail Store

Slip and fall accidents in retail stores can present complicated legal challenges. If you were injured in a retail store, you need the help of a knowledgeable lawyer.

Public Space

If a government entity’s negligence caused your slip and fall injury, you may be eligible to file a claim under strict filing regulations. Contact an attorney for more information as soon as possible if your injury occurred in a public space.

SOuth Florida SLip and Fall Injury Lawyers

Watch out for these places and you’ll be less likely to suffer a slip and fall accident. However, even the most careful and prepared individual can stick have an accident if another is negligent, so be prepared to work with a lawyer to fight for your rights if the worst does happen.

 

About the Author: 

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.

 

Floridians' Chances of Dying Increase in These Professions

Floridians’ Chances of Dying Increase in These Professions

by Wrongful Death

Floridians' Chances of Dying Increase in These Professions

Is your job putting you at a deadly risk? Read this post to learn about the deadliest jobs in America, and how someone else’s negligence can put you in danger.

Many employers use strict safety standards to protect employees. However, no matter how many precautions are taken, some jobs are just inherently risky.

If you have been injured on the job, or if your loved one died due to a workplace accident, don’t hesitate to consult with a knowledgeable Florida attorney. You may be eligible to receive compensation due to someone else’s negligence.

These are the types of jobs where you are most likely to become injured or killed.

Logger

Logging carries a high risk of being struck by an object. The intense physical labor and equipment involved in logging also makes it more likely that will be injured or die on the job. Worse, most logging accidents occur in remote areas where emergency medical attention may not be available. Logging is one of the most dangerous working environments in the country.

Commercial Fishing Workers

As with loggers, commercial fishing workers typically work where medical assistance is not readily accessible. Extreme weather and dangerous equipment, along with the physical demands of the job, are factors that increase the risk for injuries or death.

Flight Engineers and Pilots

These workers must work long hours on irregular schedules. The fatigue can reduce their reaction time and lead to a disastrous accident.

Roofers

Since roofers must work on elevated areas, their risk for falls is one of the highest in all industries. They are also more prone to slips and trips than the average worker. Roofers also often work in high temperatures, which can lead to overheating and dehydration. The tough physical demands of the job cause many injuries.

Iron and Steel Construction Workers

These workers must perform at high elevations, putting them at risk for fatal falls. They can also be struck by heavy objects like beams or equipment, which can cause serious injury or death.

Truck Drivers

Truck drivers experience a high risk of vehicle accidents, which can result in injury or death. Many of these workers also put in long hours, which can cause exhaustion that leads to accidents.

Agricultural Workers

Agricultural workers have an increased risk of falls, slips, and trips, which can result in injury or death. Since they often work with heavy equipment or large vehicles, they also have an elevated risk of harm from those things. Finally, they have a higher risk of being struck by objects.

Construction Workers

Like roofers, construction workers often work on high levels, and falls are a constant risk. Heavy equipment and inherently dangerous tools like nail guns or saws present a high risk of injury or death. Construction workers often experience injury to their limbs or backs.

Bocs Raton Construction Accident Injury Lawyer

Electricians

Since electricians work directly with a power source, they are at a high risk of electrocution injuries. They also have an elevated risk of burns or falls, depending on where they work.

Grounds Maintenance Workers

These workers are required to perform heavy lifting, bending, and carrying large loads. They often work in hot weather, which can lead to heat-related injuries. Working with sharp tools increases the risk of cuts and stabbing injuries, and working with water can cause slip and fall injuries.

Building Maintenance Workers

Anyone who works on or repairs buildings is at an elevated risk for falls, slips, trips, and electrocution injuries. They often must perform a variety of tasks that involve risks to their safety, such as working on heights and being exposed to wiring.

Utility Workers

Those who install and repair power or telecommunication lines work on heights and are at risk for electrocution injuries or death. An injury may require a lengthy recovery period.

Road Construction Workers

Both supervisors and laborers on road construction crews are at a high risk of being struck by a vehicle while working. These accidents can be deadly or can cause long-lasting injuries. Other risks in this field are falls and being struck by objects.

Law Enforcement Officers

These public servants are injured or killed most often by shootings or vehicle accidents. They also experience injuries when handling arrests. Law enforcement officers typically work long hours, and they are more likely to be injured at the end of their shifts when fatigue is a factor.

Material Collectors

Anyone who collects refuse or recycled items works with an elevated risk of slips, trips, and falls. They can also be injured or killed by other vehicles on the roadways.

Boca Raton Wrongful Death Lawyer

Obviously, these are not the only jobs that people can get hurt or killed doing. Even though working in an office may seem relatively safe, there are risks all around us, and if our employer does not do their job to keep the area well-maintained, anything can happen.

That being said, if you or someone you love is in any of the above professions, it’s important to be aware of the risks.

 

 

About the Author: 

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.

 

Hurt Due to Bad Conditions at a Florida Hotel? You Can Fight Back

Hurt Due to Bad Conditions at a Florida Hotel? You Can Fight Back

by Hotel Accidents

Hurt Due to Bad Conditions at a Florida Hotel? You Can Fight Back

If you are injured at a hotel, you may be entitled to compensation if you can prove negligence.

That’s what happened for one 75-year-old woman. After an unfortunate accident, she sued a Days Inn hotel in Bradenton and recently won $675,000 in her lawsuit against them.

What happened?

The woman slipped in a hotel bathtub and broke her leg. Her attorney claimed that it occurred because the bathtub lacked safety features like grab bars and slip-resistant surfaces, and the hotel failed to warn guests of the risks. This negligence led to the woman’s injury.

Though the hotel argued that the bathtub was properly maintained, and the woman failed to exercise reasonable care, the company representatives decided to settle out of court.

Why were they held responsible? Below, we’re going to explain how a skilled Florida injury attorney can use the laws of our state to help you receive the benefits you deserve.

Hotel Premises Liability in Florida

According to Florida premises liability law, hotels are responsible to provide a reasonably safe experience for guests. This means, in part, that hotels are accountable for warning guests against reasonable dangers. If they fail to adequately provide safety or reasonable warnings, they can be held liable for resulting injuries to those invited onto their property, including guests.

A personal injury attorney can help you if you are injured while staying in a Florida hotel by helping ascertain the cause of your injury and let you know if they believe you are entitled to compensation.

Examples of breaches in hotel responsibilities include the following:

  • Failure to clean up or mark off a slippery surface, which can lead to slip-and-fall injuries
  • Failure to inspect, maintain, and repair appliances, such as lamps
  • Failure to regulate the water temperature to prevent scalding

In a premises liability lawsuit against a hotel, you must be able to prove that the hotel’s breach of duty to you directly caused your injury, which resulted in financial losses.

However, note the special stipulations outlined in this section of Florida law:

“Premises liability for transitory foreign substances in a business establishment.—

(1) If a person slips and falls on a transitory foreign substance in a business establishment, the injured person must prove that the business establishment had actual or constructive knowledge of the dangerous condition and should have taken action to remedy it. Constructive knowledge may be proven by circumstantial evidence showing that:

(a) The dangerous condition existed for such a length of time that, in the exercise of ordinary care, the business establishment should have known of the condition; or

(b) The condition occurred with regularity and was therefore foreseeable.

(2) This section does not affect any common-law duty of care owed by a person or entity in possession or control of a business premises.”

Florida courts will examine the foreseeability of your situation. If your attorney can prove that the situation was foreseeable and therefore preventable, you may have grounds for a premises liability lawsuit.

Why You Should File a Florida Premises Liability Lawsuit

Remember how much compensation the woman in the above example received? $675,000.

Why would the hotel be made to pay that much for a simple slip in the bathtub? Because it’s not a “payout.” The money is meant to cover the specific damages the woman incurred. Medical bills. Lost income. Transportation costs. Any pain and suffering she may have experienced.

Why You Should File a Florida Premises Liability Lawsuit

Expenses for even “minor” injuries can add up quickly, and if you’re forced to pay for it all on your own, it can be just as devastating as the accident itself – if not more so. Filing a premises liability lawsuit and winning compensation is a way to keep you from falling into a financial hole due to something that wasn’t even your fault.

Don’t you owe it to yourself and your family to avoid paying for another’s mistake?

 

About the Author:

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.

Here's Why So Many Florida Kids Get Hurt in Bounce Houses

Here’s Why So Many Florida Kids Get Hurt in Bounce Houses

by Bounce HousesChildren Injuries & Accidents

Here's Why So Many Florida Kids Get Hurt in Bounce Houses

Kids love bounce houses. If they see one at a party, they go running. If the thought of this makes you want to start nervously biting your nails, don’t feel like a helicopter parent.

Why? Because the reality is that bounce houses may be more dangerous than we think.

Quick Stats about Bounce House Injuries

We don’t want to scare you, but the facts are the facts. Bounce house injuries are on the rise, causing harm to tens of thousands of children every year:

  • About 90% of inflatables-related ER visits have to do with bounce house injuries.
  • In 2010, a child got injured on a bounce house once every 46 minutes.
  • A third of these injuries included children under the age of six. (The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that children under the age of six should stay out of bounce houses altogether.)
  • Half of all states do not have government regulations concerning bounce houses. In 2016, an investigation conducted by WFTV-9 revealed that Florida is one of these states.

Why Do Florida Children Get Hurt in Bounce Houses?

Too many children are present (or not enough adults)

Bounce house injures include concussions, broken noses, and even spinal trauma. A lot of bounce house injuries occur when two children knock or fall into each other.

Bounce houses often have instructions that recommend the number of children allowed in a bounce house at one time, or how much weight the bounce house can hold. If there are too many children in the bounce house, it is always best to wait until some leave before letting your child play.

Additionally, you need to make sure that adults are watching children as they play. If children get too rowdy and start to do flips or somersaults, the risk of injuries could be even higher. Bounce house manufacturers may also print instructions for what children can and cannot do inside a bounce house, and adults who are standing by should be aware of these rules.

Children or adults enter the bounce house with dangerous objects

We’re not talking about knives here – or even pointy sticks. These “dangerous objects” mostly wouldn’t even be considered dangerous outside of a bounce house: keys, beer bottles, glasses, and so on. If any of these objects fall out of a person’s pockets or hands and a child slips or steps on them, they may face increased injuries.

Make sure that you, your child, and other bounce house attendees take off their shoes and glasses before they enter the bounce house. Attendees should also empty their pockets and place any items that may be hanging off their person aside.

Bounce houses are not secured properly

Bounce houses flying away in the wind. The image may sound amusing, but it really does happen, and it can cause serious injuries. Bounce houses have been known to fly dozens of feet off the ground because they were not properly secured.

If your child is at a party that has a bounce house, check with the homeowners about what they have done to secure the house. The same rules apply if you are at an amusement park or other business that has a bounce house present. If you are renting a bounce house, make sure that you read instructions very carefully.

Also, be sure that you check the weather before you rent or enter an outdoor bounce house. If the weather includes heavy winds or thunderstorms, it’s best to leave the bouncing for another day.

Was Your Child Injured in a Florida Bounce House?

Unfortunately, accidents do happen, but there are many steps along the way that can prevent most bounce house injuries. If your child was injured in a bounce house and medical bills are piling up, you may be entitled to compensation. Even though Florida does not have government regulations regarding bounce houses, you may still be able to file a personal injury case against the parties responsible for your child’s injuries.

Was Your Child Injured in a Florida Bounce House

Before you file, though, reach out to a Florida personal injury lawyer. The following factors could affect how you go about the case:

  • Who was “in charge” of the bounce house (amusement park, party hosts renting from manufacturer, etc.)
  • The warnings on the side of the bounce house
  • Any liability waivers you signed before entering the bounce house
  • The injuries that occurred
  • Any reckless behavior your child engaged in before entering the bounce house.

You can’t stop every accident from happening – especially when dealing with the negligence of others – but you can protect the rights of your child and your family by fighting back and holding responsible parties accountable.

 

About the Author:

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.

Ways That a Florida Funeral Home Can Act Negligently

Ways That a Florida Funeral Home Can Act Negligently

by Funeral Home Negligence

Ways That a Florida Funeral Home Can Act Negligently

Losing a loved one is one of the most painful life experiences that we as humans endure. The bereaved often rely on the support of physicians, clergy members, and funeral home staff to make the process of losing a loved one easier.

The majority of funeral homes operate responsibly, treating the deceased with dignity and the survivors with compassion. Nevertheless, funeral home negligence is a growing problem in the United States. Becoming the victim of funeral home negligence makes the experience of losing a loved one much harder for the bereaved, and it is as unethical as it is unnecessary.

When you have just lost a loved one, you are vulnerable. You may be left in shock or feel numb, making it difficult to keep track of what’s going on. You may also be more easily coerced by predatory funeral home practices when you are in an emotionally vulnerable state. Unfortunately, some funeral homes take advantage of this vulnerability by failing to treat the deceased as promised, or by engaging in unethical business practices with the bereaved.

There are a number of negligent and unethical practices that funeral homes may engage in. Below, we’re going to discuss common forms of funeral home negligence and signs to look for in order to ensure that you and your loved ones do not become the victims of funeral home negligence.

If you feel that you may have been the victim of funeral home negligence, consult with a Florida personal injury attorney to help evaluate your case and learn what options are available to you.

Improper Cremation Practices

Because families of the deceased receive unidentifiable cremains after cremation, improper cremation practices are harder to catch and therefore a common form of funeral home negligence.

Funeral homes may mishandle cremations by cremating the wrong body, losing cremains, mingling the cremains with another person’s ashes, or giving the wrong cremains to the family. In some cases, funeral homes have even failed to cremate bodies at all, and presumably given mislabeled or false cremains to the family.

It can be very upsetting to find out after the fact that your loved one’s cremation was mishandled. Worse, funeral homes may attempt to cover up cremation mistakes or deliberate mishandling by cremating the body early, or by cremating the body without the family’s permission.

Improper Body Transport or Storage

By entrusting your loved one’s remains to a funeral home, you are trusting that the funeral home will treat your loved one with respect and dignity throughout the burial practice. However, some funeral homes may cut corners by failing to transport or store the body properly.

This could include misplacement of corpses, dropping bodies during transport, transporting multiple bodies together, or failing to store bodies properly, allowing decomposition to set in.

Florida Funeral Home Negligence Lawyer

Theft

Funeral home employees may steal personal property from the bodies they are entrusted with, including jewelry, gold teeth, and prosthetics.

Even more disturbing is the practice of illegally selling bodies or body parts. Cadavers and body parts are used for medical research and training, and they can be sold for a substantial amount of money in the so-called “body trade.”

A number of funeral homes have been caught illegally selling cadavers and body parts without the permission of family members. One notable funeral home even ran a body brokerage firm from the same facility as the funeral home and facility, and was investigated by the FBI.

If you suspect that you or your deceased loved one could have been the victims of theft, consider speaking with local law enforcement and an attorney.

Overcharging for Burial Procedures or Services

Funeral homes may take advantage of grieving relatives’ vulnerability by selling services that aren’t really needed, or by overcharging for their services. For example, if embalming is not necessary for a private family viewing of the body and the funeral home states that it is, this could constitute funeral home negligence.

Failure to Provide Contracted Services or Goods

Some funeral homes may cut corners by failing to provide services or goods that family members have paid for. For example, the funeral home may provide a cheaper casket without the family’s knowledge, or they might fail to perform services related to the embalming and preparation of the body for viewing. Alternatively, the funeral home may fail to provide the grave marker or headstone after the burial.

Failure to Provide Grave Maintenance

In many cases, the family of the deceased will purchase a grave maintenance contract with the funeral home or cemetery. Under this contract, the facility is generally charged with keeping the grave site clean and free of debris, and with making reasonable security efforts to protect the grave from vandals or grave robbers.

Boca Raton Funeral Home Negligence Attorney

Failure to follow through on these services could lead to upsetting mishaps such as accidental corpse exhumation or vandalism of the grave site, which would be grounds for a funeral home negligence claim.

None of these things are acceptable, and you should not have to endure them in silence. Hold the responsible parties accountable by filing a mortuary negligence lawsuit.

 

 

About the Author:

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.

Hurt on Vacation in Florida - What to Do Next to Protect Yourself

Hurt on Vacation in Florida? What to Do Next to Protect Yourself

by Personal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury LawyerVacation Injuries

 

Most seasoned travelers have at least one crazy story of a mishap or injury that occurred while traveling. Unfortunately, vacation injuries and illnesses are relatively common, and they are particularly difficult to deal with in an unfamiliar place.

If you are injured on vacation, you may be forced to cancel the rest of your vacation, and could even be left with debilitating injuries. Fortunately, you can mitigate these risks by being aware of common causes of vacation injuries, and by knowing what to do in the event of an injury.

Below we discuss common causes of vacation injuries and how to avoid them, as well as how to protect your rights if you are injured.

Injury Risks Floridians Face While on Vacation

When vacationing, you are in an unfamiliar locale, possibly with other tourists from all over the world. Vacationers also tend to let their guard down to relax, and may also indulge in alcohol. These factors lead to an increased risk of accidents, and also make tourists an ideal target for criminals looking to take advantage of the situation.

Below are just some of the most common injuries and accidents people experience on vacation.

Car Accidents. Car accidents are the leading cause of death among healthy travelers. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that as many as 25,000 tourists worldwide are killed in car accidents annually, and many more are seriously injured. Car accidents become more likely on vacation because you’re driving in an unfamiliar place, and may be unaware of local driving laws and practices.

To decrease the risk of car accidents, use ridesharing services whenever possible. That way the driving is taken care of, and there’s also no need to worry about parking. If you do drive, be sure to pay full attention to the road – let your spouse answer the ever-present “Are we there yet?” coming from the back seat.

Slips, Trips and Falls. Thousands of people are admitted to U.S. emergency rooms annually due to slip, trip, and fall injuries, which can be quite severe. Slip, trip, and fall injuries are more likely while on vacation because you’re in an unfamiliar place, and due to hazards such as poorly maintained beaches, slick spills in restaurants and hotels, poorly maintained flooring, or uneven carpeting.

Illnesses. When you’re traveling, you’re coming in contact with other tourists from all over the country and world, so are likely to be exposed to all kinds of nasty bugs. This is especially true on cruise ships, where travelers are living in close quarters, and typically enjoy buffet-style meals. Cruise ships are particularly notorious for outbreaks of norovirus, especially if proper food safety and sanitation practices are not in place.

Hurt on Vacation in Florida? What to Do Next to Protect Yourself 1 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

To help avoid the risk of illness, make sure that you get the recommended immunizations before going, and are aware of hazards such as insect-borne illnesses endemic to the region. Finally, check the traveler’s health report for your destination before you leave.

Theft and Negligent Security. Unfortunately, tourists make easy targets for petty thieves and con artists. If your accommodations do not have appropriate security practices in place to mitigate hazards unique to the locale, these incidents become more likely.

What to Do if You’re Injured on Vacation in Florida

If you or a family member are injured on vacation, it’s important to take the right steps as soon as possible to ensure your family’s safety – and to protect your rights.

Notify. If you are hurt, notify the appropriate people as soon as possible. If you are injured in a place of business, notify an employee. If you get in a car accident or fall victim to crime, call the local authorities right away, and do not leave the scene of the incident if possible.

Document. Vacation accidents often happen in the blink of an eye, and may cause you to become flustered and miss crucial details. Fortunately, it’s much easier to document an accident in the era of smartphones. Take as many pictures as you can of the scene, your injuries, and any possible factors that could have contributed to the accident.

Collect information. Take down the contact information of witnesses or anyone involved in the incident. If you are injured in a place of business, ask the manager for their contact information. If you see a physician, be sure to collect their contact information as well, such that you can access your medical records later if needed.

Seek Medical Care. If you are injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you don’t feel that your injuries are severe. Adrenaline masks pain, so it’s likely that you’re hurt worse than you know. A physician can also look for injuries such as internal bleeding that may not be readily apparent at the scene of the accident. Seeking medical attention is also important in documenting your injuries.

Boca Raton Personal Injury Attorney

Seek Compensation if Appropriate. In many cases, vacation accidents and illnesses could have been prevented by appropriate safety precautions. If you are injured as the result of someone else’s negligence, consider holding them accountable by seeking compensation. Keep in mind that any lawsuits will be filed locally, so you will need to contact a local personal injury attorney. An experienced Florida injury lawyer will also be familiar with local liability laws.

 

 

About the Author:

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.

Swimming Pool Injuries: The Many Ways Floridians Can Be Hurt

by Swimming Pool Accidents

Swimming Pool Injuries: The Many Ways Floridians Can Be Hurt 2 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

As the weather heats up, time in the pool becomes a necessity for many people. Nothing feels better than cooling off in a pool, whether you’re at your local swimming club or at a friend’s home. Unfortunately, swimming pools come with big risks, and Floridians should keep the potential for injury in mind before taking a dip.

As an experienced Florida personal injury lawyer, I’m well aware of the many different ways that people can get hurt in pools. Here are six ways you could potentially be hurt in a swimming pool this summer. Remember, the more you know, the more accidents you can prevent.

Diving Injuries

Diving is a fun way to show off and get into the pool, but shallow waters can cause life-threatening injuries. Swimmers should be cautious of the depth of the pool they are diving in. Above-ground pools, for example, are always too shallow for divers. Over half of all diving injuries occur in water that is four feet deep or less.

If a swimmer hits their head while diving or jumping into a pool, they should be sent to a doctor immediately. Even if the swimmer appears fine throughout the rest of the day, they may be at risk of a traumatic brain injury (TBI.) Over 1.7 million people suffer from a TBI each year, but half of these cases are not recognized or reported. These injuries only get worse if they are unchecked.

Disembowelment

This isn’t one many people think of – or realize – when thinking about pool injuries, but it can happen – particularly if kids aren’t careful. How?

If a young child is sitting near a pool’s skimmer box, the connected suction pump could eviscerate them. This is an especially gruesome and impactful injury. Evisceration can result in the victim needing their food to be administered through an IV, colostomies, or even death.

Other Drain Injuries

Pool drains and suction pumps can cause injuries apart from disembowelment. This area of the pool can create a suction that moves up to 500 pounds of force, so swimmers of all sizes should avoid the area. Suction from a pool drain may cause:

  • Loss of jewelry and accessories, or these items being pulled from and injuring or choking the swimmer
  • Loss of fingers, toes, hand or feet
  • Other organ damage

Skin Irritations from Chemicals

Swimming Pool Injuries: The Many Ways Floridians Can Be Hurt 3 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

Conversely, if a drain is not properly working, injuries can still occur. Drains and suction pumps move chemicals throughout the pool to kill bacteria and keep the area clean. If the drain is malfunctioning, or the owner of the pool is not properly maintaining it, a variety of injuries can occur.

The presence of bacteria and a high concentration of bacteria-killing chemicals could cause:

  • Skin and eye irritation
  • Stomach problems and infections
  • Further injury to existing cuts or lacerations (infections)

Lacerations and Cuts

Proper pool maintenance also involves checking the pool for potential risks of lacerations or cuts. Over the years, pool lining can get ripped or torn. If these materials have sharp edges, swimmers can get cut while they are playing or running. Inground pools that are surrounded by concrete also pose a big risk for swimmers.

Even a small cut poses a big risk. As we mentioned earlier, a cut can become seriously infected if it comes into contact with the wrong bacteria or chemicals. If you notice that a loved one has suffered cuts while swimming in a pool, take proper care to treat the cut and remove the person from that area until the cut is healed.

Drowning

Drowning is one of the most common and serious pool injuries. Nine people drown in America every single day. Children are at an especially high risk – drowning is the second-leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1-14.

Drowning doesn’t just occur when inexperienced swimmers get in the water, though. All it takes is lying face down in 30 mm of water for someone to drown. A victim may drown because of an injury that occurs in the pool, horseplay, or overcrowding. Stay alert for signs of drowning to keep your loved ones safe this summer.

Being Alert to Swimming Pool Dangers Can’t Always Save You

These aren’t the only possible injuries that you might experience at a pool. Your best way to stay safe is to remain alert at all times and prepare ahead of time.

Swimming Pool Injuries: The Many Ways Floridians Can Be Hurt 4 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

Unfortunately, even the most prepared people cannot account for the negligence of others, and if you or someone you love is hurt, you owe it to your family to hold them accountable

Reach out to a Florida personal injury lawyer today about your options for compensation.

About the Author:

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.

Helping mariege Women

by Uncategorized

When, while the lovely valley teems with vapour around me, and the meridian sun strikes the upper surface of the impenetrable foliage of my trees, and but a few stray gleams steal into the inner sanctuary, I throw myself down among the tall grass by the trickling stream; and, as I lie close to the earth, a thousand unknown plants are noticed by me: when I hear the buzz of the little world among the stalks, and grow familiar with the countless indescribable forms of the insects and flies, then I feel the presence of the Almighty, who formed us in his own image, and the breath of that universal love which bears and sustains us, as it floats around us in an eternity of bliss; and then, my friend, when darkness overspreads my eyes, and heaven and earth seem to dwell in my soul and absorb its power, like the form of a beloved mistress, then I often think with longing, Oh, would I could describe these conceptions, could impress upon paper all that is living so full and warm within me, that it might be the mirror of my soul, as my soul is the mirror of the infinite God!

O my friend — but it is too much for my strength — I sink under the weight of the splendour of these visions! A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine.

I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now.

When, while the lovely valley teems with vapour around me, and the meridian sun strikes the upper surface of the impenetrable foliage of my trees, and but a few stray gleams steal into the inner sanctuary, I throw myself down among the tall grass by the trickling stream; and, as I lie close to the earth, a thousand unknown plants are noticed by me: when I hear the buzz of the little world among the stalks, and grow familiar with the countless indescribable forms of the insects and flies, then I feel the presence of the Almighty, who formed us in his own image, and the breath of that universal love which bears and sustains us, as it floats around us in an eternity of bliss; and then, my friend, when darkness overspreads my eyes, and heaven and earth seem to dwell in my soul and absorb its power, like the form of a beloved mistress, then I often think with longing, Oh, would I could describe these conceptions, could impress upon paper all that is living so full and warm within me.

Injuries at Florida Summer Camps – How to Protect Your Kids and Family

by Children Injuries & AccidentsSummer Camp Accidents

Injuries at Florida Summer Camps – How to Protect Your Kids and Family 5 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

Summer camp is a great way for children to enjoy time off from school and enjoy the outdoors. However, injuries do occur at summer camps and because of that you have to be careful about where you choose to go and protect yourself as much as possible.

How?

In this post, we’ll outline common injuries and what you can do to make sure that both you and your child are protected.

Common Summer Camp Injuries

Here are the most common types of summer camp injuries your child may experience.

Rashes and bites

Being in the great outdoors means your child could be exposed to poison ivy or poison oak, which cause painful rashes. Your child could get stung by a flying insect or bitten by an animal. If you know your child is allergic to bee stings or certain plants, make sure to inform the camp of your child’s allergy and pack necessary medication.

Bone fractures

Your child may take a fall while playing sports, climbing a tree, or navigating a hiking trail. Any of these accidents and dozens more can cause fractures.

Fractures can also occur for slip and fall injuries due to wet or cluttered floors. If the camp doesn’t do a reasonable job of keeping floors safe, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim.

Concussions

A concussion is a serious brain injury that can have long-lasting effects like seizures, impaired concentration, and even paralysis. It can result from a slip and fall injury or blunt force trauma to your child’s head.

If your child is engaging in activities where a fall is more likely, protective headgear must be worn. The camp is responsible to make sure your child is always wearing protective gear when the situation is warranted.

Burns

Campfires are a popular way to enjoy food and camaraderie at summer camp. However, many children every year are burned by campfires, hot coals, or hot food, and if yours is hurt due to negligence, you may be able to sue for compensation.

Water Injuries

Summer camp is an ideal place to enjoy the water, but water-related accidents  often result in serious injury or death. Camp staff members should supervise children during water play and be trained in rescue and resuscitation efforts. If the camp fails to perform their duties, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.

Ways to Make Sure Your Child – and You – are Covered in the Event an Accident Occurs

Check accreditation. Every camp has to be licensed – that’s not an option. What they don’t have to be is accredited, and that’s often what sets the truly good, safe camps apart from the fly-by-night operations that may not be able to cover the cost if your child is injured and it’s their fault.

Ask about insurance. Insurance should be a requirement as well, but it’s always good to confirm that a camp is actually insured and learn exactly what their insurance covers and how much it covers.

Get insurance – if necessary. That’s right. Many people don’t realize it, but it’s possible to get insurance that covers the possibility of camp injuries. Check to see if your insurance will cover accidents and injuries that occur at camp, and if it doesn’t, do some research into how to get camp insurance.

Fight Back If Your Child Is Injured at a Florida Summer Camp

You may have signed a waiver that says the camp isn’t liable if something happens. However, a waiver is not necessarily ironclad.

Injuries at Florida Summer Camps – How to Protect Your Kids and Family 6 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

If your child has been injured, consult with an experienced Florida child injury attorney. We will provide a free case review to determine whether you are able to file a claim to receive compensation. 

About the Author: 

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.