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

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries

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Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries 1 Personal Injury Lawyer South Florida Injury Law Firm

 

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.

“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

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries 3 Personal Injury Lawyer South Florida Injury Law Firm

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.

car crash home miami dade gardens attorney law firm accident

Car Accidents At Home

by Auto AccidentsAutomobile SafetyChildren Injuries & AccidentsMulti Car AccidentsPersonal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury LawyerProperty DamageWrongful Death

Car Accidents At Home 4 Personal Injury Lawyer South Florida Injury Law Firm

Car accidents can happen anywhere. Especially where you least expect it. Parking lots, driveways, parking garages, and drive-thrus are well-known for accident scenes.
Even your own living room.

 

On Wednesday, August 21st, an accident involving two cars ended up crashing into a Miami Gardens home. One of the drivers was air lifted to a nearby hospital.

The resident, who was inside his home at the time of the crash, stated:

“This isn’t the first time something like this has happened”

 

He’s right.  In just the last few months of 2019, there have been multiple car accidents in South Florida that have also caused damages to a home. In March, a driver smashed into a house in North Lauderdale in the middle of the day.  Another driver was hospitalized in April after crashing into a house in Lauderhill. Another driver attempting to avoid a collision drove straight into a Miami home in May.

 

Unfortunately, these instances are becoming too common throughout Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. It’s important to pay attention while on the road and arm yourself with knowledge, whether you’re the driver or passenger in a car accident or inside a home and have sustained damage or injuries from a car collision.

Know Your Rights

 

Under Florida Law, you may be entitled to monetary damages if you have been injured through the negligence or recklessness of another person. Damages may include reimbursement or compensation for:

 

  • Past and future medical costs
  • Home damage liabilities
  • Pain, suffering, and inconvenience
  • Lost wages or economic opportunities
  • Funeral expenses
  • Grief and suffering

 

A Personal Injury Case Begins Before You Leave the Scene of a Crash

 

While the circumstances behind each of these accidents are different, one fact holds true for all—the time immediately following the crash can be stressful and confusing.

 

Here are the seven most important things to do if you are involved in a South Florida auto accident.

 

  • Remain at the scene.
    If an accident has occurred, it is essential for you to remain at the scene. It is your legal obligation to stop if you collide with anything, even if you do not think there is any damage.
  • Prioritize safety.
    Take steps to ensure the safety of you, your passengers, and other drivers. If your vehicle is causing a major traffic obstruction, move it out of the road to a safe location and turn on hazard lights. Check for injuries and determine if anyone needs major care.
  • Contact the police.
    Even if the accident is minor, call the police. When cops arrive at the scene of the accident, request that a police report be filed and get the names and badge numbers of the cops involved.
  • Document information.
    Document as much information about the accident as you can while limiting discussion of the incident with the other driver.
  • Report the incident to your insurance company.
    Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurers have a policy that requires you to report the accident within a certain time frame in order for the incident to be covered.
  • Seek medical attention.
    Even if you do not notice any serious injuries at first, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is particularly true if you notice any pain or strange effects in the aftermath of an accident, but it’s not uncommon to begin feeling more pain a day or two after a car collision, and you don’t want to wait that long if you can help it.
  • Consult with an auto accident attorney.
    Even if your case seems straightforward, it’s highly advised to consult with a car crash lawyer after an accident. Working with an attorney can improve your odds of obtaining the maximum amount of compensation. If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be ready to take your case to court.

 

Find out more on what do after a car accident in South Florida

 

Help protect your friends and family by giving them the one essential tool they need to drive safely—knowledge.

 

Get The Help You Need

 

If you’ve been hurt in a vehicle accident in a parking lot, drive-thru, parking garage or inside a home where an accident has occurred, you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries. The South Florida Auto Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers understand your needs and dedicated to helping their clients get the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

 

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.

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

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

by Personal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury LawyerVacation Injuries

 

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

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

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

Injury Risks Floridians Face While on Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hurt on Vacation in Florida? What to Do Next to Protect Yourself 5 Personal Injury Lawyer South Florida Injury Law Firm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boca Raton Personal Injury Attorney

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

 

 

About the Author:

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

St. Paddy's Slip and Fall Injury? How Floridians Can Fight Back

St. Paddy’s Slip and Fall Injury? How Floridians Can Fight Back

by Personal Injury LawyerSlip and FallSt. Patrick's Day

St. Paddy's Slip and Fall Injury? How Floridians Can Fight Back

Did your St. Paddy’s Day weekend get ruined by a slip and fall injury? You’re not alone.

 

On St. Patrick’s Day in 2017, Megan Keefe, 20, was celebrating the holiday at the Spirits Restaurant and Bar in Cleveland, Ohio. Bartender Carisa Buehner, 29, served three alcoholic drinks to the underaged Keefe.

 

Keefe proceeded to the second-floor balcony and fell when it gave way. She hit her head on a granite surface and suffered severe head injuries as a result.

 

Now Keefe’s family has filed a lawsuit against the bar, building owners, and security guards, alleging that their negligence has caused injuries that resulted in over $1 million in medical bills.

 

Sadly, there are lots of stories like this.

 

In this post, we’ll give you examples of common reasons for St. Patrick’s Day slip and fall accidents, and how you can fight for compensation if your accident was due to another’s negligence.

 

Reasons for St. Patrick’s Day Slip and Fall Accidents

 

There are all kinds of reasons why people fall and hurt themselves on St. Patrick’s Day, and many of them may be due to the actions – or inactions – of another. This is particularly common in “party” venues like bars and clubs.

 

Here are several ways that a venue’s actions can lead to a slip and fall injury:

 

  • Spills or leaks were left on the floor and not cleaned up in a reasonable amount of time
  • Wet floors were unmarked
  • The dance floor was slick due to too much wax
  • The floor was cluttered
  • Floor tiles were broken or loose

 

Any of these could be reasons that your slip and fall accident occurred, but there are specific legal requirements that must be met. Check with an experienced personal injury lawyer regarding the details of your unique situation to see if you have a viable case.

 

Holding Someone Responsible for Negligence in a Florida Slip and Fall Case

 

You can win a slip and fall case if your attorney is able to prove that the potential hazard, such as a spill, was known, yet not corrected in time, and that the hazard in question caused your accident. State law requires that the entity knew about the situation ahead of time but failed to correct it.

 

In other words, you can’t file a lawsuit for spilling a drink and immediately falling because of it.

 

Florida Statute 768.0755 reads:

 

“Premises liability for transitory foreign substances in a business establishment.—
(1) If a person slips and falls on a transitory foreign substance in a business establishment, the injured person must prove that the business establishment had actual or constructive knowledge of the dangerous condition and should have taken action to remedy it. Constructive knowledge may be proven by circumstantial evidence showing that:
(a) The dangerous condition existed for such a length of time that, in the exercise of ordinary care, the business establishment should have known of the condition; or
(b) The condition occurred with regularity and was therefore foreseeable.”

 

If your case meets these conditions, you may be able to file a lawsuit.

 

Get compensation for your injuries

 

If you are ready to hold an individual or entity responsible for your St. Patrick’s Day slip and fall accident, a knowledgeable Florida personal injury attorney can help.

 

Personal INjury Lawyers in Boca Raton

Don’t wait, though – the statute of limitations in Florida says that people have four years from the time of the incident to file a case. Call today for a free consultation with an experienced slip and fall attorney.

 

 

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.

Boca Raton Personal Injury Attorney

Personal Injury? Why You Should Hire The South Florida Injury Law Firm

by Personal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury Lawyer

You might think that Florida personal injury lawyers are a dime a dozen. But while there are certainly a lot of us in the Sunshine State, it’s a lot harder to find an experienced, knowledgeable professional you’re willing to trust with your future.

 

At The South Florida Injury Law Firm, it is our mission to make sure Floridians get the settlement they deserve and that the liable parties are brought to justice. Whether you’ve been injured in a car accident, on a cruise, at work, because you used a faulty product or prescription drug, or any other scenario involving negligence, you deserve to be compensated for your injuries and your pain and suffering. Just as importantly, the responsible people or businesses should be held accountable for their actions so that others won’t be harmed in the same way.

 

With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our lawyers have successfully handled every possible type of personal injury case. This is important, because when you choose The South Florida Injury Law Firm, you know your case will be in qualified hands.

 

We Have the Experience You Need for Great Results. Our lawyers have distinct backgrounds that have prepared them with the skills necessary to get you your rightful compensation. We have a former public defender who can use that knowledge to your case’s advantage. One of our attorneys formerly worked for insurance companies, which means we know the best strategy and tactics to beat them at their own game. And we have accident lawyers who have exclusively practiced injury law and have been successfully helping victims since the beginning of their careers.

 

We Will Give Your Case the Attention It Deserves. Every personal injury claim is different. While you want an attorney who has experience with similar cases, you also want someone who will listen to the particular facts of your case and give you personalized attention and suggestions. Since we are a mid-sized law firm, we can give both you and your case our dedicated attention.

 

We Know Florida Injury Law. Besides attention, The South Florida Injury Law Firm will also provide an in-depth understanding of Florida injury law and how things work in Florida overall. We have been representing injury victims in Florida for decades, so we know what will work for your case for the best possible outcome. Our knowledgeable injury attorneys will be able to decipher the nuances of your case and build an effective strategy to ensure you will be well compensated for your damages.

 

South Florida Work INjury Lawyers

Honesty is Our Best Policy for Injury Claims

 

When you hire The South Florida Injury Law Firm as your attorneys, you can be sure that we will always be honest with you. We will give you an honest review of your case and tell you which factors will work in your favor and which factors might hinder your case’s outcome. We will also tell you what we believe your case is worth and how we can help you get the settlement you need to be able to return to your regular life.

 

For 25 years, we have been Florida residents’ go-to personal injury law firm. We have a proven track record of success, and would be honored to add you and your case to that ever-growing list. If you have been wrongfully injured and want to recover damages in order to move on from this emotional and stressful time, contact our experienced and dedicated accident attorneys today.

 

 

5 Reasons to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

5 Reasons to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

by Personal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury Lawyer

5 Reasons to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

Imagine you’ve been in an accident where you were injured due to someone else’s negligence. Now you’re stuck dealing with insurance companies who are clearly trying to lowball you with a pay out that doesn’t even begin to cover the cost of your recovery.

 

You know you’re going to be dealing with this for days and months to come, repeatedly calling insurance adjusters, dealing with doctors, and generally just feeling helpless. You’re missing work, and you’re starting to stress. Regardless of what kind of negligence led to your injury, you have the right to fair and just compensation. A skilled personal injury attorney can help you in a number of ways.

 

Evaluation. The best personal injury attorneys are really good at what they do, and they know when something should be pursued further and when to let it go. If you’ve recently been in an accident or injured on the job or a specific property, fill out a case review form to see if your insurance claim deserves more attention. This can help with a lot of stress and can cut down on wasted time and money if nothing is going to come of the claim. Injuries happen, but a personal injury attorney will tell you if a claim is truly worth considering.

 

Insurance. As mentioned above, sometimes insurance claims and payments can be difficult and frustrating. In some cases, insurers act in bad faith and you may never see a dime, and in others you are not paid what you’re rightfully owed. A personal injury attorney can make sure that you file your claim properly, and they will deal with the insurance companies in your stead so you can focus on getting better. The people who earn the largest settlements after an injury are those who are represented by a personal injury attorney, but if you’re unable to win your case most personal injury attorneys do not charge fees unless they earn you a settlement.

 

Mediation. Often times, you will only request an attorney well after your injury occurs. In this case, you will probably believe that the insurance company, or whichever establishment was involved in your injury, owes you restitution. When you bring in a personal injury attorney, this allows further discussions on payment, restitution, and opens the door for mediation and alternatives to meeting in court. Odds are the insurance agency or other involved organization has their own lawyers, and you will be on an “even playing field” with your own personal injury attorney working for you.

 

Boca Raton Personal Injury Lawyer

Court Case. If your case does have to go to court, it is definitely ideal to hire a personal injury attorney. He or she will know to work within court standards, will be familiar with how to deal with a jury (if there is one), and will be able to present your case in a much more professional manner. Self-representing injury cases very rarely make it to court, and if they do, they almost never win.

 

Stress. While many people may be concerned about the costs associated with hiring a personal injury attorney, odds are that the cost is greatly outweighed by the benefits. Not only will you have an expert handling your personal injury case who will have won countless cases like this before – you’ll have someone else handling it period. When you hire an attorney, it becomes his or her job to work through the details and obstacles that arise, rather than having it all placed on you while you attempt to heal, work, and deal with everyday life.

 

 

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.

 

A Journey through the History of Personal Injury Law

A Journey through the History of Personal Injury Law

by Personal Injury Lawyer

A Journey through the History of Personal Injury Law

The roots of personal injury law run all the way back to ancient Greek and Roman times, when legal processes were introduced to allow citizens to plead grievances against a guilty party.

 

To help them to present their case, plaintiffs were permitted to enlist the aid of a companion who was knowledgeable about local laws. Although traditionally these early examples of personal injury lawyers were not allowed to accept money for their services, this rule was often overlooked, and was eventually abolished by the 1st century AD.

 

In the centuries that followed the fall of Rome, personal injury lawyers began sprouting up in other nations, and “attorney” came to be a recognized and trusted professional in many cultures. By the 1600s, many civilizations had introduced some sort of legal system that allowed victims to pursue compensation for losses that resulted from the negligence or wrongdoing of another.

 

Early forms of workers compensation claims became slightly more common in the years following the Industrial Revolution, when lawmakers drafted legislation designed to protect workers from powerful corporations.

 

In the 1900s, the case of Donoghue vs. Stenson resulted in important changes to personal injury law, helping to set the stage for personal injury lawsuits as we know them. In the infamous case, the plaintiff, Mrs. Donoghue, became ill after accidentally consuming a dead snail found in the bottom of a bottle of ginger beer. The manufacturer was charged with negligence for failing to uphold safety standards—thus, the principles of common law negligence as we know them took root.

 

Personal Injury Law Today

 

South Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

Personal injury laws have continued to evolve over the last century or so, as new laws are enacted and the different types of injuries facing the modern-day individual grow and change shape. However, the fundamental principles remain the same—when you are harmed by the actions of another, you have a right to fair compensation for the losses you suffer as a result. The purpose of such laws are to hold the guilty party accountable, to help prevent others from being harmed in the same scenario, and to provide the victim with the compensation they need and deserve.

 

Under contemporary personal injury laws, victims seek compensation for a variety of damages, including:

 

Medical costs. This could include past and future bills and expenses for doctor’s appointments, trips to the ER, ambulance rides, and medication.

 

Lost wages. If your injuries prevented you from working, you may be able to recover damages representing the amount of past and future wages you would have earned had you not been injured.

 

Pain and suffering. In many cases, you may be able to obtain compensation for past and future pain caused by your injury. The amount you receive may depend on factors such as the severity and longevity of your injury.

 

Emotional hardship. Similarly, you may be able to pursue compensation for the mental and emotional repercussions of an injury, such as anxiety, grief, shock, and humiliation.

 

Loss of companionship. If a loved one was killed due to the negligence or recklessness of another, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim for loss of companionship, guidance, and comfort.

 

Personal injury laws exist to protect the interests, health, and emotional well-being of all. If you or a loved one was injured or harmed due to the wrongdoing or negligence of another, you should stand up for your right to fair compensation for the grievances you have suffered. Consult with a personal injury lawyer, who can guide you through the legal process with compassion and integrity.

 

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.

 

Boca Raton Personal Injury Laweyer

Is the Personal Injury Stigma Stopping You from Fighting?

by Personal Injury Lawyer

Boca Raton Personal Injury Laweyer
Does seeing a personal injury ad on TV make you suspicious? Maybe the face of a lawyer on a billboard makes you cringe. If you’re hesitant to trust personal injury attorneys, it’s okay—you’re not the only one. Unfortunately, personal injury law is often one of the most stigmatized areas of legal practice, and personal injury attorneys are sometimes considered conniving thieves who only have their own best interests in mind.

 

But as anyone who has been injured in a personal injury case can attest, personal injury is a legitimate and very serious area of law that requires finesse and capability, and personal injury lawyers—as hard as it might be to believe—really do have the public’s best interest at heart.

 

What is Personal Injury Law?

 

Personal injury law refers to the legal disputes that arise after somebody suffers an injury as a result of someone else’s misconduct. Personal injury cases are some of the more common cases that people see or hear about, but this is simply because there are so many opportunities for individuals to be injured at the hands of others. Some injuries that may be eligible for personal injury lawsuits include those that result from:

 

 

The specific damages that qualify as “personal injuries” are just as numerous. In fact, personal injury damages can include such a wide array of grievances that it’s almost impossible to list them all. Some of the more common injuries include:

 

 

It is important to understand that the prevalence of personal injury cases in no way detracts from their severity. Personal injury cases are serious and require the utmost respect and professionalism when dealing with them.

 

West Palm Beach Personal Injury Lawyer

The Secret Lives of Personal Injury Lawyers

 

Sure, there is a lot of negative propaganda out there about personal injury layers. But the fact is that lawyers like myself and others do a lot of good that the public does not always see.

 

As BizJournals recently pointed out, it was a personal injury lawsuit that is credited with exposing the ignition switch issue that resulted in the major GM automobile recall in 2014. Had it not been for that one personal injury case that was held following the death of a victim, the issue might not have been brought to light at all and many more deaths may have resulted.

 

In fact, personal injury lawyers are often to thank for major recalls like this, and we contribute to consumer safety in a number of other ways as well.

 

  • Providing a system of checks and balances for major (and not-so-major) corporations.
  • Giving companies an extra incentive to move forward with product improvements such as better-quality safety belts and airbags in cars and the placement of warning labels on potentially dangerous products.

 

It would be nice if businesses did these things out of the kindness of their hearts, but it’s just not true. Most of the time, these changes only come about following successful legal proceedings in which lawyers fight tirelessly to defend their clients.

 

In cases like these, when personal injury lawyers are going up against huge corporations with mammoth legal teams on their sides, they need to fight vigorously and often to the point of exhaustion. However, the lawyers’ determination and belief in their clients’ claims push them forward. Personal injury lawyers put it all on the line not only so that their own clients receive the compensation and recognition that they deserve, but also so that major corporations must make necessary changes to make their products safer for everybody. Without these lawyers’ resolve, major corporations may never be held accountable.

 

South Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

Don’t Hold Yourself Back

 

Do not let other people’s negative portrayals of personal injury lawyers stop you from getting the defense that you deserve. The truth is that personal injury lawyers are here to protect you and will do everything it takes to make sure that your voice is heard and your suffering does not go unnoticed.

 

By failing to equip yourself with a smart attorney, you are allowing a negligent individual (or company) to evade responsibility for something that they should not be allowed to get away with. Responsible persons should be held accountable for their mistakes, especially if those mistakes cost you your or your family your peace of mind.

 

If you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, defend yourself. Don’t let negative media portrayal of personal injury lawyers prevent you from fighting for what you deserve. Contact a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer today.

 

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.

 

Watch Out for Holiday Dangers at Stores

Watch Out for Holiday Dangers at Stores

by Personal Injury Lawyer

Watch Out for Holiday Dangers at Stores
Anyone who has gone to the mall on a Friday evening knows how dreadful and even downright threating the crowds can be—groups of teenagers everywhere, 20-somethings plowing through the crowds to grab the latest fashions for the weekend, parents shopping for whatever relatives have birthdays or parties coming up.

 

But now that holiday season is in full swing, running the mall gauntlet is riskier than ever. At this time of year, it’s important for consumers and storeowners alike to remember that stores are responsible for the safety of their shoppers—if accidents happen on company property, the storeowner or manager could be held accountable.

 

Problems to Look Out For

 

During the holidays, the decorative lengths that some stores will go to for the sake of festivity can sometimes be outright hazardous. Because of this, shoppers should be on their guard even more than usual, and should look out for potentially dangerous situations. Some of these situations include:

 

Crowds. Of course, there are always crowds in malls and stores. Around the holidays, though, the crowds are bigger, stronger, and more excitable than at any other time of the year. With so many people crammed into such small spaces, it can be easy for consumers to become disoriented and wind up injured. In addition to being hazardous in and of themselves, crowds can be distracting and can divert peoples’ attention away from other potential hazards in the store.

 

Boca Raton Slip and Fall Lawyer

Potential for slips and falls. Around the holidays, the risks of slip and fall accidents seem to be everywhere. Decorations that some stores place on their floors (e.g., confetti or fake snow) can make floors more slippery and therefore more dangerous. Furthermore, winter weather can sometimes lead to slippery patches on steps or in doorways, which can be extremely risky.

 

Oversized displays. Certain stores seize the opportunity presented by the holiday season to go above-and-beyond with decorations like giant Christmas trees, oversized menorahs, or enormous “Happy Holidays!” signs spanning entire ceilings. Often, these decorations can be delightful for shoppers and store employees alike—they can be beautiful, fun, and fill shoppers with holiday spirit. But as nice as they are, they can be dangerous as well. If decorations are improperly rigged or positioned incorrectly, they can cause injury to shoppers.

 

Given all the potential hazards that surround shoppers during the holiday season, it’s important for customers to always be aware of their surroundings and remain on their guard.

 

What If You’re Injured in a Store?

 

“Duty of care” laws state that retail stores are required to take all possible measures (within reason) to ensure that their customers are kept safe. In the unfortunate event that you sustain injuries in a store, this means that storeowners or managers can be held accountable.

 

If you are injured in a retail store and decide to take legal action against the storeowner, the first step will be to prove negligence.  To do so, you must prove that the following elements were in place:

 

  1. Your injuries were caused by dangerous conditions in the store
  2. The store was aware, or should have been aware, of these conditions
  3. The store acted negligently in addressing these dangerous conditions
  4. Your injuries were not your own fault
  5. Your injuries were caused as a direct result of the store’s dangerous conditions
  6. Your injuries are legitimate

 

Because of the complexities of going to legal battle with stores, store owners, or corporations, it’s always best to consult with a qualified lawyer before taking any action.

 

Of course, it is best to try to avoid these dangerous situations entirely. While perusing stores this holiday season, remember to use caution. Wear shoes that are easy to walk in, be careful when navigating through the crowds, be on the lookout for potentially unsafe areas that might be slippery, and stay away from decorations that look dangerous, like overly large signs or displays that could fall.

 

Boca Raton Accident Injury Claim Compensation

Sometimes, though, no matter how careful you are, accidents can find you—even during the holidays and even at major retail stores where things are supposed to be safe and welcoming. Remember that all retailers are responsible for the safety of their shoppers.

 

If you sustain an injury as a result of a storeowner’s negligence, don’t just assume that the business will do the right thing and pay for your medical expenses while taking steps to ensure something like this doesn’t happen again. Make sure that others are protected and you get the justice you deserve by contacting a qualified legal professional at The South Florida Injury Law Firm as soon as possible.

 

Transportation Workers: Most Exposed to Injury and Death

by Auto AccidentsPersonal Injury Lawyer

A report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that auto accidents kill more than 40,000 people every year in the United States. Among them, people who drive for a living – truckers, school bus drivers, and cab drivers – are the most exposed to injury and death. Here we take a look at some alarming statistics regarding fatal work injuries caused by transportation incidents.