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Spring Break in South Florida: Sunshine and Sandals, But Watch Out for Accidents

by Auto AccidentsDistracted DrivingMulti Car AccidentsPedestrian AccidentsPersonal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury LawyerRental Car AccidentsSlip and FallTruck Accidents

As the warmth of spring begins to bloom, so does the annual tradition of spring break in South Florida. With its inviting beaches, vibrant nightlife, and endless attractions, it’s no wonder thousands flock to the Sunshine State to soak up the sun and make unforgettable memories. However, amidst the festivities and excitement, there’s a darker side that often goes unspoken – the dangers of driving during spring break.

South Florida transforms into a bustling hub of activity during this time, with an influx of tourists and partygoers flooding the streets. While the influx of visitors brings economic prosperity and vitality to the region, it also amplifies the risks on the roads. From crowded highways to distracted drivers, navigating the streets of South Florida during spring break requires heightened caution and vigilance.

The combination of increased traffic, alcohol consumption, and unfamiliarity with local roads creates a recipe for potential accidents. Whether it’s a fender bender or a more serious collision, the consequences can be devastating. Auto accidents can result in severe injuries, medical expenses, and emotional trauma, turning a vacation into a nightmare in the blink of an eye.

Dangers on the Road:

  • Impaired Driving: Spring Break and alcohol often go hand-in-hand. With more intoxicated drivers on the road, the risk of accidents skyrockets.
  • Distracted Driving: Party vibes can be distracting! Passengers, music, and the festive atmosphere can take a driver’s eyes off the road.
  • Traffic Jams: Spring Break brings a surge in visitors, leading to congested highways and frustrated drivers prone to risky maneuvers.
  • Pedestrian and Scooter Traffic: Beachgoers and scooter riders increase significantly, requiring extra vigilance from drivers.

Spring Break in South Florida: Sunshine and Sandals, But Watch Out for Accidents 1 Pedestrian Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

 

Navigating the Dangers of Driving in South Florida During Spring Break

In addition to traditional automobiles, the popularity of scooters and other alternative modes of transportation adds another layer of complexity to the equation. With riders zipping through traffic and weaving between cars, accidents involving scooters are all too common during spring break.

 

So, what should you do if you or a loved one is injured in an auto or scooter accident during spring break in South Florida? Here are the crucial steps to take:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should always be the top priority. Even if you feel fine initially, it’s essential to undergo a medical evaluation to assess any hidden injuries or internal trauma.
  2. Report the Accident: Contact local law enforcement to report the accident. Having an official police report on file can provide valuable documentation for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
  3. Gather Evidence: If possible, collect evidence at the scene of the accident, such as photographs of the vehicles involved, witness statements, and any relevant details. This information can be crucial in building a strong case.
  4. Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident. Be sure to obtain their names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance policy details.
  5. Contact a Reputable Lawyer: In the aftermath of an accident, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with injuries and emotional distress. That’s where a reputable, experienced lawyer can make all the difference.

 

At The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we understand the complexities of personal injury cases, particularly those arising from accidents during spring break. Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to advocating for the rights of accident victims and securing the compensation they deserve.

From negotiating with insurance companies to representing clients in court, we handle every aspect of the legal process with skill and compassion. With our extensive experience and track record of success, you can trust us to fight tirelessly on your behalf.

 

While spring break in South Florida is undoubtedly a time for fun and relaxation, it’s essential to remain vigilant on the roads.
By taking proactive steps to ensure your safety and knowing what to do in the event of an accident, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during this bustling season. And if the unexpected happens, remember that “The South Florida Injury Law Firm” is here to provide expert legal guidance and support every step of the way. Stay safe, and enjoy your spring break responsibly.

Don’t let a Spring Break accident turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Drive defensively, be aware of your surroundings, and in case of an accident, remember – The South Florida Injury Law Firm is here to help you get back on your feet.

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

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

by Pedestrian Accidents

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

Stats You Should Know about Pedestrian Accidents

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

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

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

Some of the Most Common Pedestrian Injuries in Florida

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

Lower extremity damage

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

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

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

Head, face, and neck problems

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

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

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

Some of the Most Common Pedestrian Injuries in Florida

Upper extremity damage

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

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

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

Factors in a Florida Pedestrian Injury Case

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

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

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

Factors in a Florida Pedestrian Injury Case

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

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

 

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

wilton manors accident

Deadly Car Accident at the Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade

by Auto AccidentsDriverless VehiclesMulti Car AccidentsPedestrian AccidentsPeoplePersonal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury LawyerProperty DamageWrongful Death

It was early Saturday evening in Wilton Mantors when a white pickup truck struck two people just before the Stonewall Pride Parade was set to begin. The 2011 white Dodge Ram was the lead vehichle that had lined up with other floats when it accelerated and ran over two men standing by to take part in the parade around 7 p.m. on Wilton Drive near 16th Street.

 

The driver of the truck that plowed into the two victims was a 77-year-old man, who police say had physical ailments that prevented him from walking the parade route and because of it, was selected to be the lead vehicle of the parade. A DUI test showed no signs of impairment on the driver’s behalf.

wilton manors parade sceneFirst responders within the crowd quickly helped the two men who were hit, performing CPR. One of the victims was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. The second victim is expected to survive.

 

“It was bad,” said Keith Witusik, a mechanic at the Fort Lauderdale Garden Center. “I was like, ‘Oh my God. I can’t believe this is happening.’”

Deadly Car Accident at the Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade 2 Pedestrian Accidents South Florida Injury Law FirmFlorida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried, who was at the Stonewall Pride Parade event, along with U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Ted Deutch, confirmed the incident on Twitter and said the driver was in custody.

Wasserman Schultz said “I am deeply shaken and devastated that a life was lost and others seriously injured at tonight’s Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade. My staff, volunteers and I are, thankfully, safe. I want to thank our first responders for their heroic efforts as both police and emergency medical personnel stepped into action quickly. We’re praying for the victims and their loved ones as law enforcement investigates and I am providing them with whatever assistance I can. I am so heartbroken by what took place at this celebration. May the memory of the life lost be for a blessing.”

Deadly Car Accident at the Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade 3 Pedestrian Accidents South Florida Injury Law FirmWilton Manors Vice Mayor Paul Rolli said Sunday that the early investigation shows it was an accident. It has been confirmed that the driver of the truck and the victims are all members of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus.

 

Those are a lot of unfair hurdles the survivor will have to overcome.

Car accidents victims are expected to take care of this process on top of the added stress of being injured, spending time in the hospital, and/or missing time from work. That’s simply not fair to car accident victims – and that’s why we are here to help you get through it together.

All car accidents are serious. Even minor collisions can lead to costly car repairs, medical treatment, and lingering injuries. Stress and financial costs associated with car accidents can quickly spiral out of control. Without proper representation, you may find yourself left holding the bag without anyone to help you.

 

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a car accident in South Florida, you will want the right law firm and attorneys that can maximize the amount of money you receive for the harms and losses you have suffered. The lawyers at The South Florida Injury Law Firm have exceptional experience in dealing with all types of automobile collisions, as well as an in-depth knowledge of Florida car insurance coverage and liability laws.

 

Conveniently located for residents of Boynton Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, West Palm Beach and South Florida, the Law Offices of The South Florida Injury Law Firm are in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. However, if you have the need, your Boynton Beach personal injury attorney can visit you in your home or, if necessary, in the hospital. To contact a Boca Raton injury lawyer with The South Florida Injury Law Firm you can call 954.764.7377 anytime 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Or fill out the convenient online form for a free case evaluation. Remember, the consultation is free and you will owe nothing until recovery of benefits is made.

south florida thunderstorm rain auto accidents

Keeping Safe While Driving In South Florida Rain

by Auto AccidentsDistracted DrivingDUI AccidentsMedical MalpracticePedestrian AccidentsPersonal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsVacation Injuries

Living in South Florida, it’s inevitable to deal with rain. According to statistics by US Climate Data, the West Palm Beach alone area receives 62 inches of precipitation annually. When researchers ranked the top 10 wettest cities to live in, two of which are in South Florida (Miami and West Palm Beach).

 

Driving  in South Florida is a dangerous and even deadly situation to be in under wet conditions. More than 7 thousand people lose their life in weather-related auto accidents.
According to statistics by US Climate Data, the West Palm Beach area receives 62 inches of precipitation annually.
When researchers ranked the top 10 wettest cities to live in, two of which are in South Florida (Miami and West Palm Beach).

 

The AMA (American Meteorological Society) published a study that highlights the increase of dangerous road conditions and the elevated risk involved.

 

“[Scott] Stevens, a data analyst and meteorologist at the North Carolina Institute for Climate Studies, and colleagues looked at 125,012 fatal car crashes in the Lower 48 states from 2006 to 2011, factoring in how many cars are on the road, to calculate the risk of a fatal accident. While other studies have used police reports and the nearest weather station to calculate rain and snow conditions, Stevens said his is the first study to use more precise weather radar data. It was able to distinguish how hard the rain or snow was falling to come up with results showing an increase in fatal crashes even in rain of less than one-tenth of an inch per hour.”

 

All the evidence points to the same: when the road is wet, your chance of being involved in an accident can drastically increase. As the visibility level lowers due to rain and how the road becomes slippery when water has accumulated on it.

Hydroplaning becomes an issue when rain is especially heavy – a common occurrence in Florida. Hydroplaning refers to a situation when a car starts to slide uncontrollably because of the tires encountering more water that it can scatter. As the water carries the car, the brakes and other controls become useless. Quick turns and movements on wet roads can also cause the vehicle to hydroplane as well.

 

 

The Hazard of Hazard Lights

You may see other drivers with hazard lights flashing to indicate they are moving slower than surrounding traffic during stormy conditions. But in Florida, it’s actually illegal to use hazard lights while driving unless you are part of a funeral procession. Flashing lights were designed with the express purpose of indicating a hazard to other drivers, and they should only be activated when your vehicle is a hazard on the side of the road. Using them under any other circumstance is not only unnecessary, but it also causes confusion. If it’s raining, the only lights you should turn on are your headlights.

Rainy weather may make driving more difficult, but it does not relieve drivers of their responsibilities behind the wheel. With proper vehicle maintenance, knowledge of local laws and a bit of common sense, you can travel safer during a downpour along with a helpful tips to keep in mind.

 

 

Keeping Safe While Driving In South Florida Rain 4 Pedestrian Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

5 Tips to avoid an auto accident
in slippery road conditions

Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Tires with weak tread may not grip a wet road as well as newer tires with thicker tread. Make sure your tires are safe for the roads.
Before setting out when rain is present or forecasted, it is even more important than normal to make sure your tires are in good shape and have adequate tread depth since bald tires can increase the risk of hydroplaning.

Gust Awareness
Drive at a speed that compensates for high speed gusts that can otherwise impact your vehicle.
Watch out for larger vehicles.
Larger vehicles are much harder to control when it is windy and can have difficulty staying in their lane.

Maintain Distance
Maintain a large distance with the car in front of you. Cars may have difficulty stopping due to wet conditions. Brake earlier than usual, and apply less force to increase the stopping distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you while also alerting the driver behind you that you are reducing your speed.

Know Anything Can Happen
Often times during storms, other drivers fail to drive safely. Make sure to watch around you and drive defensively.

Get There Safe, Not Fast
Getting to your destination without an accident is more important than keeping a schedule. Maintain a safe speed limit and be sure to obey all traffic rules and signals. Drive more slowly, take turns slowly, and be sure to give your fellow motorists ample following distance.

In other words, when it rains, whether heavy or light, slow it down. The most important thing you can do to protect yourself and others when driving in the rain is adjusting how you drive according to the current weather conditions.

 

 

Keeping Safe While Driving In South Florida Rain 5 Pedestrian Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Have you been involved in an
auto accident under rainy conditions?

Sadly, even riders who follow the above tips can still end up hurt by a reckless or distracted driver.
Determining which driver is at fault for an accident requires an investigation of the collision. The investigation involves the review of all pieces of evidence that are available, such as photographs or video surveillance of the accident, testimony from any witnesses to the accident, and a digital reconstruction of the accident that incorporates all relevant factors, such as the rainy weather.

If you were hurt in an auto accident because of a drunk, distracted, or otherwise reckless driver, you can call The South Florida Injury Law Firm anytime at (954) 488-JEFF – we’re available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Complete our online form to get a free case evaluation and our team will assist with the legal aspects of your claim so you can focus on your health . Remember, the consultation is completely free! That means you don’t owe us anything until we recover for you.