How to Help Your Kids Avoid Florida Summer Camp Injuries

How to Help Your Kids Avoid Florida Summer Camp Injuries

by Children Injuries & AccidentsSummer Camp Accidents

How to Help Your Kids Avoid Florida Summer Camp Injuries

Every summer, Floridians look forward to that much needed break that summer camp provides: the kids to get away from the daily grind of the school year, and you to get a little breathing room from them.

Exactly how much of a break would it be, though, if you’re still holding your breath in anticipation of your child getting hurt?

Although some summer camp dents and dings will likely happen, there are measures that can and should be taken to help your child avoid the most common injuries.

What measures?

First and foremost, ask questions before you register and get the answers in writing. Whatever your concern, don’t be afraid to ask.

Here are five simple questions whose answers should leave you breathing easy this summer camp season:

Is the Camp Accredited by the American Camp Association?

Every Florida summer camp has the opportunity to become accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). This organization, in cooperation with Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Ohio State University, and the Association of Camp Nurses, is responsible for monitoring camp-related injuries and illness across the US.

Accreditation signals to you that the camp meets certain standards in providing your child the safety you expect.

How Many Campers Are Assigned to One Counselor at a Time?

As with any activity involving multiple children, the child-to-adult ratio can mean the difference between adequate learning and supervision and nothing more than corralling kids all day.

According to Florida child care laws, the number of children a single staff member is allowed to oversee depends upon age. School age children (age 6 and up) need at least one counselor per 25 children, although less per staffer is always better.

How Are Emergencies, Special Needs, and Issues Like Homesickness Handled?

Most reputable summer camps have doctor-approved health policies and procedures in place, and often they are made available to parents either electronically or by printout.

Often they outline whether or not (and how) camp staff administers medication to campers, and what kind of formal medical training counselors and other camp officials have – CPR, concussion recognition and treatment, swimming, and lifeguarding are a few common certifications.

What’s On the Itinerary?

Look for camps that schedule rest periods between heavy activity. As you would expect, campers get tired, staffers wear out, and incidents simply occur more frequently as the day passes. Downtime can mitigate the issue, ensuring your happy camper stays that way.

Also, chat with your child about all the activities available during camp, so they know what to expect. For example, talk fire safety if there’s going to be any activity around a campfire.

What Type of Equipment Is Required – and Provided?

Additionally, knowing ahead of time what’s on the schedule will allow your child to pack appropriately. Some basics for any Florida summer camp experience include:

 

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat(s)
  • Insect repellant
  • Reuseable water bottle
  • Lip balm
  • Band-aids
  • Antibacterial wipes
  • Help whistle

 

Additionally, you may be required to provide your own safety equipment for the various activities offered – namely appropriate footwear.

According to the ACA, “trips, slips, and falls are the most commonly reported causes of injury in day and resident camps.” Consider the activity, the terrain, and the weather. Half of all camp injuries are a result of events in which protective equipment should be worn or used, but wasn’t.

Florida Child SUmmer Camp Injury Lawyers

Even with the best preparation, however, accidents can happen, and sometimes they result in injuries that end up being far worse than you could have imagined. If you find yourself in this situation, consulting with an experienced Florida injury attorney may be a huge help.

 

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.

Family Trip for Spring Break? How Florida Parents Can Keep Kids Safe

Family Trip for Spring Break? How Florida Parents Can Keep Kids Safe

by Children Injuries & Accidents

Family Trip for Spring Break? How Florida Parents Can Keep Kids Safe

Are you traveling with your children over spring break? Use these tips to keep your kids safe while you enjoy your family vacation.

Prepping for Your Trip

Since a trip to the emergency room is needed in a shocking 25 percent of all family vacations, it’s wise to prepare ahead of time for family safety.

Medical Kit

Make sure to take a medical kit along. If any of you are on prescription medications, it’s important to pack your medicine and dosage information just in case you need to head to the hospital. Any other important information, such as reports of recent illnesses or surgeries and your child’s immunization records, should be packed to help travel doctors in case of injury.

It’s wise to pack pain relievers, allergy medicine, and treatments for colds so you don’t have to make an emergency run. Consider also packing cough drops, bandages, antibacterial ointments, and a thermometer. Motion sickness remedies are a must, along with antibacterial gel, and wipes to keep viruses from spreading.

If you are flying, be sure that everything in your kit will pass inspection. It will help to buy items in pill or chewable form instead of liquid forms when possible.

Research

Check if your child’s pediatrician will be available for phone calls or video chats in case an unexpected situation arises. Your insurance provider may also offer a round-the-clock consultation service, which can come in handy if problems arise overnight.

Also make sure you locate the closest emergency services to your destination. Then you’ll be prepared for the worst and avoid scrambling for answers in a stressful moment.

Travel Insurance

If you or your child ends up needing hospitalization during your trip, travel insurance will cover the days you miss of your vacation. It will also help if you are traveling to an area where medical accommodations may not be up to your standards. Choose a policy with evacuation coverage that will allow you to relocate to an area with improved medical care.

Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer

Health Apps

A health app such as iTriage can give you information on your child’s symptoms if a doctor isn’t immediately available. Check for other apps that can offer you solid information and download them before your trip begins.

Childproofing Items

If you have young children, pack your own outlet covers, doorknob covers, cabinet and toilet locks, and any other childproofing items you use in your own home.

At Your Destination

Safety doesn’t stop when you arrive at your destination. Here are some things you can do.

Fully inspect the area for any obvious dangers. Place breakable items or liquids up high where your child cannot reach them. Secure trip hazards like electrical cords, and make sure that doors and windows remained locked.

When using childcare providers. If you are leaving your child in another’s care, ask many questions about the care provider. Be sure to get the provider’s contact information. Inspect the area, making sure that it looks clean and that the toys are appropriate for your child’s age. Look over the playground and try to find signs that equipment is broken or unreasonably dangerous.

Check with the hotel. If you are staying in a hotel, ask the hotel manager or front desk crew to direct you to an urgent care facility or recommended doctor. The hotel may have basic medical supplies on hand, such as bandages, pain relievers and cough drops.

You may be able to order chicken broth and orange juice from room service, which can help your child recover from an upper respiratory infection faster. Also, let the front desk know you have a sick child so they can take extra precautions from getting sick when they clean your room.

Be Flexible

Minor injuries and illnesses don’t have to ruin everyone’s spring break. You can modify your plans to stay in your room and enjoy the rest by ordering takeout or room service and pay-per-view movies. Break into groups, sending the healthy ones out so your sick child can rest and recover. Take turns caring for your sick child so the adults can each have fun, too.

Be Alert

If you believe your child was injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may have rights to compensation for your child’s medical treatments.

Boca Raton Child Injury Lawyer

For example, if your child became ill after eating room service food that may have been undercooked, the hotel may be liable for your child’s medical care. Other examples include injury due to scalding hot water, protruding sharp objects, or slippery floors.

No one can stop every possible accident or injury from occurring, but by being vigilant, you can decrease your child’s chances of being seriously hurt.

 

 

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.

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

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

by Children Injuries & AccidentsHoliday Safety

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

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.

South Florida CHild Injury Lawyers

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.

 

These are the Most Common Ways That Kids Get Hurt in Florida

These are the Most Common Ways That Kids Get Hurt in Florida

by Children Injuries & AccidentsDrowningSlip and FallSports Venue/Stadium InjuriesSwimming Pool Accidents

These are the Most Common Ways That Kids Get Hurt in Florida

As a parent, you care about your child and you look out for their well-being. However, you may not be aware of which types of injuries occur the most often for Florida kids, and that’s something that can be the difference between avoiding an accident and spending time in the hospital.

Children are treated every day in US hospitals for all kinds of injuries. In fact, over 9 million children visit emergency rooms for injuries each year. In this post, we’re going to detail the most common injuries that happen to kids and what you can do to keep your child safe.

The most likely reasons that your child could need medical care for injuries are:

Choking

Since young children tend to put everything in their mouths as they explore the world, choking injuries are a constant threat in the first few years of life. Babies and toddlers need careful supervision, since unlikely items can get into their mouths in mere seconds. Be sure to keep all small items out of reach.

Mealtimes present choking hazards to children of all ages. You must avoid giving hard foods like candies, raw carrots, or nuts to children under the age of six, since those foods present particular dangers for children without molars. Until your child can cut his or her own food into small pieces, do that job for them.

Drowning

With all the access to water in Florida, it’s essential for parents to train children in water safety from a very young age. Drowning is the number one reason for death among children between the ages of one and four years. You must be vigilant any time your child is near water, no matter how shallow the water may be.

Even an inch of water is enough for a small child to drown in. Do not allow your young child to be near water without constant supervision. Make sure that pool gates and doors are locked and not able to be opened by a child. Also lock pool covers when the pool is not being used, because even older children can drown if they get trapped under the cover.

Boca Raton Swimming Pool Accidents

As soon as your child is old enough, sign him or her up for swimming instructions. Kids must always wear a vest when on a boat, and you must supervise them closely when you are out on the water. Teach your child water safety habits to minimize the risk of drowning.

Falls

Children love to climb, whether it’s on playground equipment or trees. Many love to ride bikes and explore the outdoors. Unfortunately, these childhood times of delight also present countless falling dangers. Since falls are the top reason for injuries to children under the age of 15, it’s important to teach your children safety measures to prevent falls.

Start inside your home. You can prevent slip and fall injuries by removing loose rugs and keeping floors free from clutter.

When outdoors, choose playgrounds with a bouncy surface to minimize injury. Insist that your child wear a bike helmet on every ride.

You can greatly reduce the risk of serious injury with these precautionary measures.

Poisoning

The family medicine cabinet is a common source of poisoning in Florida homes. Keep your medicine cabinet secured and monitor its contents on a regular basis.

Household chemicals can also poison children. Place toxic chemicals out of your child’s reach and make sure they are clearly labeled as hazardous. Teach your child which chemicals must be avoided to prevent poisoning.

Sports Injuries

Your child will likely experience minor injuries like bruises or sprains while playing sports at some point. Some sports injuries, like concussions or ligament tears, can require physical therapy, surgery, or other ongoing treatments. It’s important to seek medical treatment for sports injuries, whether they’re major or minor.

Your child will be safer if he or she is hydrated and well-rested before engaging in any strenuous physical activity. Make sure that your child has frequent breaks and takes time off between seasons to prevent injuries.

Suffocation

Babies under one year of age are in the highest risk group for suffocation. You must properly place your child in a crib with no blankets, toys, or other objects to prevent suffocation.

It’s also essential to keep plastic bags away from babies and toddlers, who can suffocate in mere moments if not supervised.

Boca Raton Child Injury & Accident Attorney

Obviously, these are just some of the many, many different ways kids can get hurt. Toys can be defective and result in harm. They can be in car crashes. The list goes on and on. All you can really do is be aware of the most likely injury scenarios and prepare both yourself and your children so that they engage in safe practices.

 

 

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.

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 1 Children Injuries & Accidents 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 2 Children Injuries & Accidents 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.

Common Amusement Park Dangers Florida Parents Should Beware

Common Amusement Park Dangers Florida Parents Should Beware

by Amusement Park AccidentsChildren Injuries & Accidents

Common Amusement Park Dangers Florida Parents Should Beware

This story has been in the news a lot lately, so there’s a good chance you already know about it. If not, brace yourself. It’s not pretty.

 

In 2016, a 10-year-old boy was decapitated as his raft went airborne and struck an overhead loop at the world’s tallest waterslide in Kansas City, Kansas. A sad, horrible tragedy, but every once in a while things like that happen… right?

 

Well, it turns out there’s more to this story. Recently, the co-owner, designer, and private construction company of Schlitterbahn Waterparks were indicted on charges of reckless second-degree murder as well as 17 additional felony offenses, including aggravated battery.

 

Why? The indictment alleges that the men designed the slide without proper engineering skills or technical expertise. Essentially, they rushed the project, cut corners, and were aware of the fact that doing so posed serious risks.

 

The allegations are a terrifying, disgusting tale of greed and power run amok, though it should be noted that the company says they will fight the charges because the accidents were unforeseeable.

 

Were they? Only time will tell.

 

What parents need to understand, though, it that amusement park accidents occur all the time:

 

  • In 2017, one teenage boy died and seven others were injured when the Fire Ball ride broke apart at the Ohio State Fair.
  • In 2016, a mechanical malfunction was the likely cause for a Ferris Wheel accident in Tennessee, when a basket tipped over and seriously injured three girls.

 

Every year, thousands of people visit the emergency room with amusement park injuries. Thousands more never seek medical treatment for their injuries.

 

Obviously you can’t control everything, but there are certain types of accidents and injuries that happen more frequently that others. Knowing what to watch out for may help you to avoid it.

 

Common Amusement Park Injuries

 

These are the most common injuries that occur at amusement parks:

 

  • Cuts and bruises
  • Broken bones
  • Torn ligaments
  • Head injuries
  • Neck injuries
  • Back injuries
  • Stroke
  • Brain aneurysms
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Drowning

 

Amusement park rides and water slides hurt more than 8000 people each year, with about half of those injuries occurring to children. Most of the injuries occur to children between the ages of 10 and 14 years old, and the most common type of injury occurs when a person either falls from a ride or is suddenly ejected.

 

Reasons for Amusement Park Injuries

 

Several factors make amusement park injuries more likely to occur. They include the following:

 

Failure to follow instructions

Passengers can get hurt if they do not follow the rules. Standing up, unbuckling a seatbelt, or sitting improperly can result in injuries.

 

Improper ride operation

Abrupt stops and starts can cause injury. If seatbelts and restraints are not properly fastened, people can be ejected from rides.

 

Inherent dangers

Rides move at fast speeds, which may trigger various injuries in susceptible people. Headaches, dizziness, and concussions can result.

 

Mechanical failure

If the ride is not properly maintained, or if a part of the machine or the design is defective, injuries can result.

 

If Your Child is Injured Due to Amusement Park Error

 

If you experience injuries at an amusement park that are the result of someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.

 

Unfortunately, holding a responsible party accountable for your child’s injuries is a tricky process – especially if that party is a giant, wealthy corporation that runs amusement parks.

 

Fort Lauderdale Child INjury Lawyers

To give your family the best chance at winning the compensation you need and deserve, your best bet is to enlist the help of an experienced Florida personal injury attorney. Call us for a free consultation today and we will determine whether you have grounds to file a claim.

 

 

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.

Top Child Accidents - What Florida Parents Should Really Worry About

Top Child Accidents: What Florida Parents Should Really Worry About

by Children Injuries & Accidents

Top Child Accidents - What Florida Parents Should Really Worry About

 

As a concerned parent, you worry about your child’s safety pretty much all the time. However, it is important to know that there are certain things that you should be more worried about than others.

 

When is your child at the highest risk of danger in Florida? Every year over 9 million children are treated for injuries in U.S. hospitals. In this post, we’ll tell you the most common childhood accidents, give you tips on accident prevention, and let you know what to do if your child is injured due to someone else’s negligence.

 

Drowning

 

Florida has beautiful waterways, easy access to beaches, and an abundance of swimming pools. Not surprisingly, all this water means that children have elevated risks of drowning here. In fact, for kids between the ages of one and four, drowning is the top cause of death. That’s why it’s so important to be vigilant when your child is near water.

 

A small child can drown in only an inch of water. You must keep a constant eye on small children when they are close to a water source. Ensure that pool covers are locked when not in use, and that gates and doors to a pool cannot be opened by a small child.

 

It’s also smart to sign your child up for swimming instructions as soon as possible, make sure he or she wears a life vest when out on the water with you, and to teach them good water safety habits at a young age.

Falls

 

Children are natural explorers. Most kids enjoy climbing trees and playground equipment, riding bikes, and navigating the outdoors. All of these behaviors pose falling risks. Falls are the number one reason for injuries to children under 15 years old.

 

How can you encourage your child’s exploration skills while also promoting safety? Secure furniture to the walls and keep windows and doors locked. Keep your floors free from clutter to prevent tripping. Take your child to play at a newer playground with a soft surface that will cushion falls. When your child rides a bike, always make him or her wear a bike helmet.

 

These simple precautions will minimize fall dangers for your child.

 

Choking

 

Young children are especially prone to choking hazards because they tend to put everything in their mouths. You must be vigilant with babies and toddlers, keeping small items out of reach and paying close attention to what they put in their mouths.

 

During mealtimes, cut all food into small pieces before giving it to your child. Avoid giving your child hard foods such as nuts and raw carrots until they have developed a sufficient number of molars to properly chew.

 

Suffocation

 

South Florida Child Injury Lawyer

 

Children under the age of one year are at a high risk for suffocation. Many suffocation cases are due to improper sleeping placement. The risk of suffocation rises when a baby co-sleeps with an adult, so make sure to place your baby in a crib or bassinet. Place your baby on his or her back in the crib, and make sure that no other objects, toys, or blankets are in the crib with the baby.

Also remember to keep plastic bags out of baby’s reach. They may love hearing the crinkly sound, but a plastic bag poses a serious suffocation risk.

 

Poisoning

 

Children are known to get into Mom and Dad’s stuff without permission. When they get into the family medicine cabinet, they can end up accidently poisoning themselves. Always monitor your medicine cabinet, no matter the age of your children. Keep prescription drugs locked up for maximum security.

 

Another poisoning source is household cleaning chemicals. Make sure these chemicals are labeled as poisonous and teach your child to avoid those products. Also keep the chemicals in an out-of-reach shelf or cabinet so your child can’t have access to them.

 

Sports Injuries

 

Children who love to play sports will likely experience a sport injury sooner or later. Sports injuries can be relatively minor, like sprains and bruises, but they can also be incredibly serious, as in the case of broken bones and concussions.

 

Keep your child well-hydrated during sports events and encourage him or her to take frequent breaks. It’s important to take your child to the emergency room if any injury occurs so that treatment can prevent further issues.

 

Boca Raton Child Accident Injury Attorney

 

If your child is injured due to someone else’s negligence, consult with a knowledgeable Florida personal injury attorney to see if you have grounds for a lawsuit. Get in touch today.

 

 

 

 

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.

Fight Back If Negligence Caused Your Child to Fall at a Florida School

Fight Back If Negligence Caused Your Child to Fall at a Florida School

by Children Injuries & Accidents

Fight Back If Negligence Caused Your Child to Fall at a Florida School

Kids can be wild. They can be careless and clumsy.

 

However, if your child falls at school and is seriously injured, don’t assume it is your child’s fault. The school still has a duty of care, and if their negligence led to your child’s injury, Florida law says that you can hold them accountable. In this post, we’re going to show you what to do.

 

How a School Injury Can Occur Due to Negligent Actions

 

Let’s say your child was injured at recess when another child threw a rock at them, causing them to slip and fall. The fall resulted in a concussion, and now your child has ongoing cognitive function loss. Can someone be held liable in this situation?

 

Possibly. This isn’t an easy answer. It may potentially involve more than one responsible party. Let’s break it down:

 

  1. The school could possibly be held at fault for having rocks available on the playground in the first place.
  2. The teaching staff or administrators could be held liable for the other child’s aggressive behavior if it had a pattern of going unchecked and no discipline was given.
  3. You may also have grounds to sue the school district if the children were not properly supervised.
  4. Finally, you may be able to file suit against the other child’s parents for medical damages. An experienced attorney will know which details of your case will point to the party or parties who are liable.

 

Other situations may be less complex. If a broken tile in the school or a crack in the playground pavement caused your child to slip and fall, the school district could be held liable under premises liability. Schools have a duty to keep their properties free from unsafe conditions, and the crack could be grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.

 

However, it is important to note that a slip and fall lawsuit against a privately-owned entity is quite different from a slip and fall suit against a public one.

 

How Lawsuits against Public Entities Work in Florida

 

If your son or daughter attends a public school, the lawsuit must follow certain procedures since the school is owned and operated by the government. In particular, filing procedures are strict and must be followed carefully, or your case will be dismissed.

 

A notice of claim is the first step in filing a lawsuit against a school district. It describes the incident, the wrongful action, the injuries, and a request for financial compensation. Normally you have only 60 to 90 days after the incident to file the notice of claim.

 

Child Injury Attorney Fort Lauderdale

The school district will then investigate and either deny your claim or offer a settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will continue to court. In the state of Florida, you cannot file a lawsuit until 180 days have passed after the notice of claim is filed with the school district and the state’s Division of Financial Services. Moreover, you must file your claim within three years of the incident.

 

Here are the specific limits from the Florida statutes on tort claims. The compensation limits are $200,000 per person or $300,000 per occurrence. Only further acts of the state legislature can approve higher payouts.

 

Since school lawsuits are so complicated, your best bet is to enlist the help of an experienced Florida injury attorney. Call today for your free consultation.

 

 

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.

 

Are Waterparks Safe

Are Waterparks Safe?

by Children Injuries & AccidentsPremises Liability

Are Waterparks Safe

When it comes to fun in the water, Florida has most other states beat. Not only do we boast some of the country’s most beautiful beaches and lush lakes, we are home to some of the world’s most renowned waterparks.

 

Abounding with towering slides, colorful fountains, and lazy rivers, waterparks can be the perfect place to cool down on a steaming hot summer afternoon. However, like all recreational activities, visiting a waterpark does come with its share of risks and dangers.

 

Fortunately, the vast majority of waterpark accidents and injuries can be avoided for visitors who are informed and prepared. Below, we’ve listed some of the most common examples of waterpark accidents and injuries, along with preventative measures you can take to avoid them.

 

  1. Drownings

Florida sees more drownings among children under the age of five than any other state. Children can drown in minutes in less than two inches of water, so the risk of drowning is present in even the shallowest wading pool. Throw massive waterslides and crowded wave pools into the mix, and the risk of drowning only heightens. To make matters worse, most waterparks are staffed by teens who are unqualified to supervise children or save lives.

 

What you can do: Always watch children closely—a good rule of thumb is to keep them in arm’s length of you at all times. Even if there are lifeguards or ride attendants present, remember that these personnel are responsible for the care of hundreds of patrons, and may not be able to take notice or act quick enough to prevent a tragedy.

 

  1. Slip and falls

In a venue where splashing, spraying, and giant cannonballs are encouraged, you can be certain that the floors are going to get a little slippery. Slipping and falling can be particularly dangerous in a waterpark, where floors are often hard concrete or tile. The risk of slip and fall accidents only increase when negligent staff fail to clean up splashes in a timely manner.

 

What you can do: Encourage your kids to walk slowly and carefully, while teaching them never to run under any circumstances. If you spot any dangerous spills or splashes, alert a staff member immediately.

 

  1. Sunburn

You may be well aware of the importance of applying sunscreen before prolonged sun exposure. But what you may not have considered is the importance of wearing sunscreen even while visiting an indoor waterpark. Indoor waterparks often have roofs designed to allow sunshine in, which can result in unexpected and painful burns.

 

Boca Raton Premises Liability Lawyer

What you can do: Whether you are visiting an indoor or outdoor waterpark, you should apply sunscreen to yourself and your children at least 15 minutes before entering the water. You should continue to reapply sunscreen every three to four hours.

 

  1. Waterborne Illness

Recent outbreaks of waterborne illnesses at waterparks have raised some concerns about the safety of these venues. Cryptosporidium, E.coli, and giardia often lurk in the deceptively blue pools and attractions at waterparks, causing unwanted symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.

 

What you can do: Discourage your children from swallowing the water or exposing their buttocks to the spray of water, since this can make them more vulnerable to germs and illnesses. Always shower or bathe before going in the water to help control the spread of illness yourself.

 

While you can work to prevent waterpark accidents among you and your children, you cannot eliminate the risk of harm if waterpark management or staff are negligent, or if attractions are not properly constructed, maintained, and inspected. If you, a family member, or someone you care about has been injured at a waterpark due to the negligence of another, contact a top Florida personal injury attorney.  Your attorney can help you hold the guilty party accountable for their actions, and secure compensation for medical bills, recovery costs, and overall pain and suffering.

 

About the Author:

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his 22-year 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.