Children Injuries & Accidents Archives | South Florida Injury Law Firm

What Florida Parents Can Do to Keep Their Kids Safe over the Holidays

December 15, 2024

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Children Injuries & Accidents Holiday Safety

No one wants to spend the holidays in the emergency room, but every year about 500,000 US families are forced to do just that because of child injuries.

Unfortunately, child accidents become much more common over the holidays, putting a damper on the season for Florida families, and potentially leading to serious – or even fatal – child injuries.

Why is that, and what can Florida parents to do keep kids safe?

Below, we’ve provided a guide that covers common causes of holiday accidents, and what parents can do to prevent them.

Everyday Mishaps Cause Most Florida Holiday Injuries

Statistics clearly show that more children are injured over the holidays. Interestingly, though, most injuries do not occur due to activities or objects unique to the holidays. Instead, the holidays lead to a dramatic uptick into everyday injuries such as scrapes, trips and falls.

Why?

The holiday environment is exciting for children, meaning that kids may not pay as much attention or be as careful as they otherwise would. Similarly, parental supervision is sometimes compromised during holiday events, as parents are often preoccupied by visiting with other guests.

Before the holidays begin, take some time to talk to your kids about safety guidelines, including any that are unique to specific events you’re attending. Also, always be sure to keep an eye on kids during holiday events.

Help Florida Kids Celebrate Safely

Child injuries are common at holiday parties and other festivities, but you can help make holiday events a safe place for kids by following these guidelines:

Designate an adult to watch the children. Consider hiring a babysitter for the evening. If the party is in your home, you can hire the babysitter to supervise child guests, allowing everyone to enjoy the party.
Make sure that guests safely dispose of dangerous objects such as cigarette butts, toothpicks, and beverage cans and bottles.
Holly and mistletoe are poisonous. Keep them out of the reach of small children.
In fact, hang decorations out of the reach of children in general.
Do not use flame-burning candles.
Keep guests’ coats and purses out of the reach of children. They may contain hazardous items such as prescription medication or choking hazards.

How Florida Parents Can Avoid Toy Injuries

Although product safety has dramatically improved over the years, toys still can and do cause injuries to children. It’s not enough to scour recall lists, either. Although defective products are responsible for some injuries, improper use causes most toy injuries.

In order to avoid toy injuries, we recommend the following guidelines:

Magnetic toys: If children swallow high-powered magnets, it can result in a life-threatening intestinal injury. Avoid high-powered magnet sets that do not meet Consumer Product Safety Commission standards.

Balloons: Children may choke or suffocate on deflated or popped balloons. Keep deflated balloons out of the reach of children, and dispose of broken balloons immediately.

Small toy parts: Small toy parts are a choking and ingestion hazard for young children. Avoid toys with small parts for children under three, and always follow toy age guidelines.

Riding or moving toys: These toys are inherently dangerous, as children can fall off and crash. If you’re considering gifting these items to a child other than your own, be sure to ask the parents’ permission first. Also, include proper safety gear as a part of the gift.

Ultimately, what you need to remember is that while the holidays are a great time for children, they do carry an increased risk of child injuries. For Florida parents to keep their kids safe, they need to use careful supervision and take safety precautions ahead of time.

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.

Close-up shot of a carved pumpkin partially visible from a car window.

Avoid Frights: Halloween Night South Florida Driving Safety Tips

October 25, 2024

by Injury Law Firm Children Injuries & Accidents Halloween Holiday Safety

The statistics are sobering. In 2022 alone, 72 people lost their lives in traffic crashes on Halloween night, with nearly half of these tragedies involving alcohol-impaired drivers. Drunk driving isn’t just a personal choice—it’s a public danger that can have devastating impacts on families and communities.

From 2018 to 2022, 386 people died in Halloween night traffic incidents, with more than half of these victims being drunk at the time of the crash. The highest percentage of fatalities was among young adults aged 21-34, underscoring the need for targeted education and enforcement. These figures illustrate the pressing need for awareness and prevention to ensure that Halloween remains a night of fun rather than tragedy.

The Role of Legal Assistance in Times of Tragedy

At The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we understand the complexities and emotional toll of these incidents. Our team is dedicated to providing the support and legal expertise you need during such challenging times.

Being involved in an accident caused by an impaired driver can lead to serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Navigating insurance claims, medical bills, and potential legal battles can be overwhelming. This is where our legal expertise becomes invaluable. We are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve, ensuring that justice is served and that you can focus on your recovery.

Our firm has a proven track record of handling cases related to impaired driving incidents. We work tirelessly to gather evidence, build strong cases, and advocate for our clients’ rights. Our goal is to alleviate the burden on victims and their families, providing them with the legal support they need to move forward with their lives.

Why Choosing the Right Legal Partner Matters

Choosing the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we prioritize our clients’ needs and work diligently to achieve the best possible results.
Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in personal injury law and have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by victims of impaired driving accidents.

We offer personalized attention and compassionate support to each client, ensuring they feel heard and valued throughout the legal process. Our commitment to justice and our clients’ well-being sets us apart as a trusted partner in navigating the aftermath of a tragic incident.

Preventive Measures for a Safer Halloween

This Halloween, let’s commit to making safety a priority. If you plan on drinking, arrange for a sober ride home. Encourage friends and family to do the same. By taking these precautions, we can help reduce the risk of impaired driving accidents and protect our communities.

Education and awareness are key components in preventing tragedies. Share the message of the “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving” campaign with others and emphasize the importance of responsible behavior. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.

Halloween should be a time of joy and celebration, not sorrow and loss. By understanding the risks and taking proactive measures, we can ensure that this holiday remains safe for everyone. If you or a loved one has been affected by an impaired driving accident, The South Florida Injury Law Firm is here to provide the legal support and guidance you need.

Let’s make this Halloween a night of fun and safety, not tragedy.

Keep Your Kid Safe in a Florida Crash with the Right Car Seat

June 10, 2024

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Auto Accidents Child Safety in Cars Children Injuries & Accidents

Not sure which car seat is right for your child?

You have an important job as a parent—providing a safe experience for your child while he or she is riding in a vehicle. Thousands of children are injured or killed in Florida car crashes each year, and the right car seat can protect your child from getting hurt.

Choosing the right car seat is essential for keeping your child safe, but with so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which seat is the right one – something that is based on your child’s age, height, weight and other needs.

In this guide, we’re going to go over the different types of car seats available, offer tips on knowing when children are ready to graduate from one stage to the next, and go over proper installation techniques.

Consider these guidelines based on your child’s individual characteristics.

Infants and Toddlers

Rear-facing seats are required for infants and smaller toddlers. These seats are safest for children until they have outgrown them. A rear-facing seat may be static, or it may convert to a forward-facing seat.

Check the car seat manufacturer’s recommendations for height and weight limits. A rear-facing seat secures the child in a five-point harness and is normally rated for toddlers up to 35 pounds.

Some infant car seats have a base that stays in the vehicle while the car seat can move in and out. Not only can these types of seats be carried around with you, often they will pair with a stroller, so you can safely move your child from one to the other without disturbing them.

You can purchase more than one base for use in multiple vehicles.

If your baby slouches or leans inside the seat, you can roll up two blanket and use it to stabilize your child on both sides. You should not place any padding behind or under your baby for safety reasons.

A convertible seat can be used for an infant and then switched to a forward-facing seat for when your child exceeds the rear-facing weight limit. They do not come with a base that allows the seat to be removed and carried with you.

These seats typically have a higher weight limit of up to 50 pounds, though some go higher.

You can also purchase a 3-in-1 seat that transitions from a rear-facing seat to a forward-facing seat, then to a booster for an older child. These seats are larger than others, so make sure they fit in your vehicle before you purchase one.

It is important to note that both convertible and 3-in-1 seats typically have separate weight limits for rear-facing and forward facing, and that often they are rated for higher rear-facing weights.

Why does this matter? Because studies have shown that children are safer (at any weight) when in rear-facing seats. The longer you can keep your child facing the rear, the safer they will be.

Toddlers and Preschool Children

As mentioned above, children who are too big for a rear-facing car seat can use a forward-facing seat with a harness. The harness will keep them safer than a seat without a harness.

Use this type of seat until your child outgrows the height and weight restrictions as listed by the car seat manufacturer. Typically, these seats are used until a child is at least four years old – but remember that weight and height limits matter face more than age. Many parents make the mistake of putting their kids in “older” seats before they’re ready.

Some vehicles are equipped with built-in forward-facing seats. These built-in seats should not be used unless your child is at least two years old. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for information about height and weight restrictions.

School-Aged Children

Children of elementary school age can use a booster seat once they have outgrown a forward-facing seat. Again, this means checking height and age requirements. Booster seats are recommended for children who are under 4’ 9” and are typically younger than 12 years of age. Booster seats should always be placed in the back seat of the vehicle.

Older Children

Older children must use lap and shoulder seat belts once they are tall enough to wear them. Children younger than 13 years of age should still ride in the back seat for maximum safety.

Installing a Car Seat

Car seats can be installed with the existing seat belts or the LATCH system, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. If your vehicle was made after September 1, 2002, it is likely equipped with two lower anchors between the seat cushions and one upper tether behind the seat, on the ceiling or on the floor.

Both seat belt and LATCH systems provide security in a car accident. It’s best to use only one system unless the car seat manufacturer recommends using both seat belts and LATCH. Seat belts must be tightly adjusted for safety.

Lower anchors are approved for a maximum combined weight of 65 pounds, which includes your child and the car seat. Check the car seat manufacturer’s recommendations to know if a certain seat is appropriate for your child.

When you follow these tips for proper car seat use, you can protect your child from injury or death in a Florida auto accident.

What Florida Kids Should Know to Avoid Back to School Car Crashes

July 26, 2023

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Auto Accidents Children Injuries & Accidents

School is starting again. Morning commutes now include stopping for crossing guards and children on their way to class. If you are a parent in Florida, this time of year is both exciting and frightening.

Why? Because car crashes caused 41% of all unintentional injury deaths of children under the age of 18 in 2021. Of these deaths, 19% were pedestrians who may have been walking to or from school.

Whether your children are moving to a new school or just changing grades, be sure to remind them of road safety as they walk, bike, or ride the bus or car to class. Teen and adult drivers have to be extra careful when they are driving around school zones, but that doesn’t give kids freedom to run, hide, or do whatever they want around cars.

What should they do?

Stay Focused

No matter how your kid gets to school, they should stay alert and remove any distractions from their eyes or ears. Distracted driving or walking is a leading cause of car crashes. Tell your kids to put away their phones and remove their earphones while they are on the road. The less distracted they are, the easier it will be for them to see cars turning around the corner or backing out around them.

Walk Slowly and With Intention

Cars may not see children playing hide-and-seek or running around parking lots. Let your child know that it is not appropriate to play around parking lots with parked cars. A good rule of thumb is to ask children to make eye contact with drivers that may be sitting in their cars nearby as they walk through the parking lot. Even if a child thinks they are being seen, the driver may be distracted, or the child may be in their blind spot.

Make Sure Adults Are Present

Before you let your child walk or ride their bike to school, walk the route with them. If you do not see crossing guards at busy intersections, reach out to your child’s school about ways that you can make the roads more safe.

If your child is under the age of 10, recruit an adult or older student around the neighborhood to walk with them every day. Research shows that children under the age of 10 cannot properly judge the speed and distance at which a car is coming.

Make sure that adults are present if your teens are learning how to drive. Florida teenagers can get their learner’s permit at the age of 15, but that does not mean you should let your child get a ride with a 22-year-old driver. While the teenager still has their Florida learner’s permit, they have to drive with an adult over the age of 21. If the adult is not present, your child should not be their passenger.

Biking? Wear the Right Gear

Bicycles are a great way for your kids to get exercise and save on fuel emissions as they head to school, but they also pose a risk for crashes and other accidents. In order to keep your child safe, give them the right gear to wear while riding.

Kids should wear bright and visible clothing so they can be seen by cars and pedestrians. If your child goes to after school events after sundown, make sure they have lights and reflectors on their bike so they can be seen in the dark.

Helmets are the most important piece of safety gear for cyclists. Make sure your child’s helmet is strapped on and snug when placed directly on the top of their head. If you are not sure whether or not the helmet fits properly, or if the bike is the right size for your child, consult the employees at a local bike store.

Remember to teach your children basic bike safety rules, including hand signals and how to properly maintain their bike. Florida classifies bicycles as vehicles that have to obey the same traffic laws as motor vehicles. If your child is biking, they will most likely end up in the road and have to drive alongside other vehicles.

Teach Children What to Do If They Get Hurt

Unfortunately, motor vehicle crashes and pedestrian accidents do happen. Have an emergency plan in place if your child gets hurt. Tell your child what information they need to gather (license plate numbers, what they were doing at the time of the accident, etc.) and what information they need to give out (your contact number, their address) if they get into an accident. If your child can give authorities a full account of what happened during the accident, they can get proper care.

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

April 25, 2023

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Bike Accidents Children 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.

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.

miami broward spring break 2023 accident attorney

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida

March 21, 2023

by Injury Law Firm Auto Accidents Children Injuries & Accidents DUI Accidents Motorcycle Accidents Multi Car Accidents Parking Lot Accidents Personal Injury Personal Injury Claims Personal Injury Protection (PIP)Ride Sharing Accidents Uber Accidents Vacation 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 2 Children Injuries & 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 3 Children Injuries & 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 4 Children Injuries & 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 5 Children Injuries & 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.

Halloween Dangers and How Florida Parents Can Help Keep Kids Safe

October 7, 2021

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Children Injuries & Accidents Halloween Holiday Safety

It’s hard to believe that Halloween is already upon us. Children of all ages look forward to Halloween all year, and sometimes parents may even join in on the fun. However, Halloween fun also comes with particular hazards that parents need to watch out for to ensure that their kids stay safe.

A lot of people jump immediately to tampered candy when they think of Halloween danger. Your parents no doubt inspected your trick-or-treating loot before you were allowed to dig in, and you likely do the same for your kids. However, studies have shown that candy tampering is very rare, and in fact a 30-year study failed to identify a single loss of life from tampered candy.

The real hazards on Halloween stem from specific activities, costumes, and decorations. Read on to learn how to avoid these common Halloween dangers and keep your kids safe.

Trips and falls

Slips, trips, and falls are very common on Halloween, and can result in serious injury. What causes them?

Long, trailing costumes can make children fall during trick-or-treating or other Halloween events. It is also very common to wear ill-fitting shoes or high heels with a costume, which can increase the risk of trips and falls as well. To avoid costume-related trips and falls, make sure that your child’s clothes do not drag on the ground, and that he or she wears proper footwear.

If you’ll be trick-or-treating after dark, a flashlight can also reduce the risk of tripping over objects in the dark.

To prevent trick-or-treaters or partygoers from tripping and falling on your property, make sure that your walkway is well-lit, and clear away any debris. Also make sure that any decorations are kept clear of your walkway.

Fires and burns

When we think of Halloween, the smell of candles burning inside jack-o-lanterns may come to mind. However, these and other candle decorations present a fire hazard. Kids can also be burned by candles, particularly if wearing a long, flowing costume that catches fire.

To prevent these accidents entirely, use battery-operated candles or glow-sticks instead. If you do use a candle, exercise caution by lighting the candle once it’s inside your jack-o-lantern and keeping it well away from trick-or-treaters and small children.

To keep your kids from sustaining burns from others’ decorations, avoid long, flowing costumes, and make sure that costumes are flame-retardant. Also make sure that kids know how to stop, drop, and roll in the event that their clothes do catch fire.

Pedestrian hazards

Auto accidents are the leading cause of death for kids in the US, and kids are twice as likely to be hit and killed by a car on Halloween than they are on any other day of the year. Unsurprisingly, most of these accidents occur during trick-or-treating.

To keep your kids safe, add reflective tape to costumes and treat baskets and give them flashlights so that they’re more visible to passing cars, and teach them appropriate pedestrian safety practices. It may also be advisable to trick-or-treat in neighborhoods with sidewalks. Because drunk driving is unfortunately very common on Halloween, it’s also wise to head home early in the evening.

Choking hazards

Small, detachable parts on costumes may present choking hazards to very young children, as can many kinds of candy. For toddlers and very young children, be sure to avoid hard candies. Chewy candies such as taffy, gummy candy and caramel can also present choking hazards, so small children should also be closely supervised when eating these candies.

It’s also a good idea to wait until you’ve returned home and checked through all of your kids’ trick-or-treating loot before allowing them to dig in. This can help you identify candies that could be a choking hazard. Moreover, kids are more likely to choke on candy while they’re on the move and distracted by trick-or-treating.

Food allergies

If your child suffers from food allergies, Halloween can be a difficult time, as many well-meaning adults will hand out allergen-containing foods to kids during trick-or-treating or other Halloween events.

If your child has a food allergy, be sure to inspect all trick-or-treating candy before your child indulges. If your child has severe food allergies, you may need to replace trick-or-treating candy with purchased candy, as even eating food that has been in contact with allergens can cause a reaction in severely allergic children.

If your child is allergic and will be attending any Halloween parties or events, make sure that the organizers are aware of his or her allergy, and can provide alternatives to any allergen-containing foods that may be handed out.

Holidays such as Halloween are fun for the whole family, but unfortunately can cause an uptick of child injuries. Following these safety tips can help protect your kids, and make sure that the fun isn’t spoiled.

How to Keep Your Kids Safe as They Head Back to School

Back To School Time: How to Keep Your Kids Safe

August 23, 2021

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Children Injuries & Accidents Uncategorized

The school year started with in-person classes in Broward County and Miami-Dade County today. In Miami, 350,000 students and about 18,000 teachers, including 300 new hires, returned to classrooms on Monday for their first day of the 2021-22 school year. In Broward, 257,000 students and 1,040 new teachers were hired for this school year.

“Today is the day, as I often say, is the equivalent of reawakening the sleeping giant from its summer nap: return to school,” superintendent Alberto Carvalho said Monday.

A new school year means a lot of different things for both kids and parents. Kids get to experience new teachers. Learn new things. Fret over changing social situations. Parents get to watch their kids continue to grow. Reclaim some of their time. Come up with new ways to make sure homework and studying are being done.

There’s one big thing about going back to school that impacts both kids and parents, though:

Safety.

We spend inordinate amounts of time making sure we have the correct school supplies and clothes. The right kinds of food for lunch. That we get out the door early enough to make it to school on time.

Compared to these things, safety tends to get the short shrift – and that’s a mistake.

While generally speaking schools tend to be fairly safe, there are still all kinds of ways that kids can get hurt either in class or going to and from school.

The best way to avoid injuries related to common back-to-school accidents is to know what they are and how they happen.

To and From School

Bus Safety

If your child rides the bus, make sure that they know how to behave in and around them. Never walk toward a bus unless it has come to a complete stop. Always cross in front of a bus rather than behind, and make sure you are at least 10 feet ahead to ensure the driver can see you. Stay in your seat whenever the bus is moving. Don’t stand up to get off until the bus has come to a complete stop. Keep your body parts in the bus at all times.

Caution for Pedestrians

The first rule of walking safety is that kids should never walk to school alone until they are old enough to do so. At a minimum, this means that they should be at least 10 years old. Even then, you should plan a walking route with your child and practice it together. Make sure that this route sticks to sidewalks as much as possible and avoids intersections. If possible, have your child walk with other children who also walk to school. Older kids should also be reminded that part of safe walking involves being alert – that means keeping their head up and their ears free to hear what’s going on around them instead of losing themselves in their phones or music.

Automobiles and Teens.

For both younger kids and teens, car crashes are the leading cause of death. If you or friends drive your children to school, make sure that everyone involved understands the importance of using appropriate child safety restraints at all times. Older kids and teens need to continue wearing seatbelts, and teens who drive themselves to school should have a refresher on safe driving techniques.

While at School

Playground safety.

Over 20,000 kids visit emergency rooms each year for playground accidents. Teach your kid to play safely and watch out for other kids while running around and climbing. Part of this is choosing age-appropriate equipment to play on. Not only does this mean they need to be old enough to engage in “big-kid” activity, but also the opposite – it can be dangerous for bigger kids to play on equipment meant for little ones. Also show them how to watch for potentially dangerous items, such as hooks and bolts that are sticking out or equipment that has rusted.

Sports Safety.

Hundreds of thousands of kids are injured in sports-related incidents every year, and many of these occur in school-sponsored sporting events. Many of these are freak accidents that would have been difficult to avoid, but it is still valuable to teach your child about potential dangers and how to protect their bodies, particularly as they relate to head injuries, such as concussions.

Health safety.

Schools are like giant petri dishes where illnesses grow and blossom quickly. While it is almost guaranteed that your child will end up sick at some point over the course of the year, there are still things you can do to minimize the risk. Make sure they know to wash hands frequently, especially before eating and after going to the bathroom. Teach them to cover coughs and sneezes. Get them vaccinated.

Follow these tips and your child is far more likely to get through the school year relatively unscathed – at least as far as illnesses and injuries are concerned. In the event that your kid gets hurt due to another’s negligence, learn what you can do to hold them accountable and fight for compensation.

COVID-19 Auto Accidents in South Florida

June 30, 2020

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Auto Accidents Automobile Safety Children Injuries & Accidents Multi Car Accidents Personal Injury Personal Injury Claims Personal Injury Lawyer Property Damage Wrongful Death

COVID-19 has created a dramatic shift in all of our lives and even on our South Florida roadways. With residents holed up at home, working remotely and running fewer errands than ever, rush hour traffic has dipped considerably. Shuttered bars and restaurants has meant fewer drunk drivers on the roads and less auto accidents.

Those who must and do go out may be under the impression that the roads are safer due to this dip in traffic congestion we’ve seen throughout the state. They have evidence to support that belief too.

Florida drivers were involved in 9,469 crashes in June compared to 31,128 in 2019.

However true, that belief for many drivers contributes to the most serious and fatal auto accidents that can happen.

The Need For Speed

A recent report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) stated that many drivers across the U.S. are pushing the needle to speeds greater than 100 mph. FHP have also reported drivers are traveling at speeds of 20-40 mph over the posted speed limit on average.

“Law enforcement officials have the same mission as health care providers — to save lives. If you must drive, buckle up, follow the posted speed limit and look out for pedestrians and bicyclists. Emergency rooms in many areas of the country are at capacity, and the last thing they need is additional strain from traffic crash victims,” said GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins.

Caution Your Confidence

The roads may appear empty and safe for you to push the pedal a little further. Just a few MPH over the speed limit is no big deal, right?

Out of the 9,469 crashes in June, 54% were speed related and 37% of those were fatal.

Due to distracted driving, unsafe road conditions and a myriad of circumstances we’ve seen can happen here at The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we know the roads are never as safe as they may seem.

It’s difficult to foresee auto accidents, the injuries that can come from them and the lifelong effects they have. It can put even a bigger dent in finances that COVID-19 have already burdened so many with. It is even worse when you know somebody else through their negligence caused you suffering, and that’s why you need to fight hard to get compensated for your loss. Be cautious and remember these steps we’ve put together for you to be better prepared:

What to do at the scene of an auto accident during this time of COVID-19

Get medical attention for those who are injured.
Still Practice Safe Distance. Stay 6 feet away from the other driver.
If you are able to without discomfort, pay mind to and keep your mask on.
Get the name and the driver’s license of the driver of the car that caused the collision.
If the driver leaves, get the license plate number of the car. If this is not possible, at least get a description of the car including the make, model, color, and any descriptive information you can.
Call the police. If the car leaves, do not endanger yourself by following or chasing it. The police will do their best to track down the culprit.
Wait in a safe place for the arrival of the police.
If there are witnesses, try to get their names, contact information, and statements.
Take photos of the scene of the accident as well as of the damage to your car.

As soon as possible with auto accidents, make your own written statement about what happened. Include as many details as you can about how the accident occurred. Note exactly where the accident occurred, whether there were traffic lights or a stop sign, what you observed the other driver doing, and any other information that seems relevant.

If someone sustains a head wound, broken arm or puncture wound, the injuries are obviously serious, and medical assistance should be sought immediately. But many times, accidents result in aching or overall soreness. It can be tempting to shrug this soreness off, as the pain may even subside over the following days. Not seeking medical attention can be a major mistake.

Get an Attorney

When searching for the best personal injury lawyers in South Florida, or if you have experienced an auto accident or injury, be sure to check for experience, track record, and reviews from their past clients.

Our team have 100+ years of combined legal experience, so we’ve handled just about every kind of injury and accident case you can imagine. We also come from diverse legal backgrounds that help us when preparing for cases, counting a former public defender and a lawyer who worked for insurance companies and knows their tactics among our partners.

During this time, we urge you to be safe on the road and if you have been in an accident, know that you deserve to be compensated for your pain and suffering – and those responsible deserve to be held accountable for their actions. That was The South Florida Injury Law Firm’s goal when it was founded in South Florida in 1991, and it has remained the centerpiece of the firm’s mission ever since that time.

Construction cranes of high-rise residential buildings in the big city, view of the evening sky

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries

September 11, 2019

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Children Injuries & Accidents Construction Accidents Hurricane Property Damage Insurance Claims Parking Lot Accidents Personal Injury Personal Injury Claims Personal Injury Law Suit Personal Injury Lawyer Premises Liability Property Damage Work Related Injuries Workers Comp Wrongful Death

Imagine sleeping soundly in bed and then a loud crashing crane comes through your roof.
It was a scene that happened this week in North Miami Beach, where a crane that was being used to repair a seawall slid off a barge and struck the roof of a condominium building.

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries 7 Children Injuries & Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

“I was very lucky because that crane was in front of my apartment two days ago.” said by C. Spetsiotas, a resident of the condo.

Eight units of the building are now off-limits while structural engineers assess the safety of the building. The U.S. Coast Guard is also investigating, along with OSHA

Crane accidents have happened in the past, with unfortunately worse outcomes. In Hallandale Beach, a 27 year old was killed when a crane toppled over. One man died and two others were left injured in Hollywood when the scaffolding collapsed.

Causes of Construction Accidents

Florida construction sites are littered with hazards at every turn. To execute dangerous tasks that these projects require, heavy construction equipment and tools are used, many of which are performed at great heights and under extremely hazardous conditions.

Although federal and state laws that require employers to maintain a safe workplace, some do not. There are instances where contractors take shortcuts to turnaround projects faster and reduce expenses, posing a risk to people who work on the sites and the local pedestrians.

Some common causes of construction accidents include:

Cranes, ladders and fixtures falling from buildings and walls
Toxic substance exposure
Defective construction and tool equipment
Improper use of equipment
Improper or insufficient training
Misuse of tools and other equipment
Poor safety precautions and oversight

Construction Site Safety and Your Rights

Safety measures on construction sites are supposed to be followed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. There are clear standards for cranes, crane operations, crane training, fall protection, scaffolding, ladders, hazard communication, machinery, and many other aspects of a construction site project and operations. A party’s failure to abide by OSHA standards may be evidence of negligence if that failure caused an accident.

If you or someone you know have suffered any construction related injuries, or others that are not listed, compensation may be awarded and should contact our experienced Florida construction accident lawyers at South Florida Injury Law Firm today to discuss your legal options with our Free Case Review

Also, you may be entitled to recover more money than a workers’ compensation claim alone could provide. You may also have claims for medical bills, pain and suffering, permanent limitations and past and future lost earnings.

Because of the numerous contractors, subcontractors and other parties often involved in construction sites, it can be difficult to determine exactly who should be held responsible for your injuries or the death of a loved one.

Types of Available Compensation

Workers’ Compensation
Almost every employer is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. These benefits can help an injured worker cover medical expenses and lost wages and are available to a worker regardless of the circumstances surrounding an accident that causes injury.

Personal Injury
Although a worker cannot file an injury lawsuit against their employer, it may be possible to file a claim against a third party whose negligent actions led to your injury. A personal injury claim is also available to non-workers who are injured on a construction site.

Product Liability
If a defective product caused your injuries, it may be possible to bring a claim against the manufacturer, retailer or wholesaler of that product.

Wrongful Death
If you have lost a loved one in a construction accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for your loss.

Construction Related Accident and Injury Help

With decades of experience handling these types of complex cases, our South Florida Injury Law Firm construction accident lawyers have the skills and the resources needed to conduct a thorough investigation. You can rely on us to put your interests first and will work to help you recover the maximum compensation you are entitled.

Schedule a free consultation by calling (954) 488-JEFF (Fort Lauderdale), (954) 488-JEFF (Boca Raton & West Palm Beach), or 877-566-8759 (toll-free). You can also fill out this online form to set up your case evaluation. We’re a dedicated team of personal injury lawyers who work on a contingency basis and will take your calls at any time, on any day of the week.