South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog

A bill that proponents say is intended to curb auto accident insurance fraud is gaining steam in the Florida House of Representatives, with Gov. Rick Scott firmly behind the measure.

It's known as HB 119, and it's something to which every motorist should be paying close attention because if it passes, it's likely to negatively impact your rights as a patient and a citizen.

It comes down to this simple fact: Florida lawmakers are preparing to give a handout to hospitals and insurance companies, at the expense of accident victims.

Under the proposed bill, drivers involved in a car accident in Boca Raton or elsewhere in the state would not only be required to seek medical treatment within 72 hours, but that treatment would be required to be provided by a hospital - and only with select few doctors who would be, of course, approved by the insurance company.

Chiropractors and massage therapists would not be considered appropriate medical professionals to treat accident victims, under the new legislation, according to a recent report by The Miami Herald.

This takes the decision out of your hands.

You have a right as a consumer, a patient and an American to obtain medical treatment as you see fit.

By requiring auto accident victims to obtain expensive and potentially unnecessary treatment, lawmakers would be lining the pockets of the health care and insurance industries, with blatant disregard for the choices of the consumer. In other cases, they would be denying an accident victim necessary medical treatment.

Champions of HB 119 bill claim that insurance fraud is a huge problem that is propelling everyone's insurance rates skyward.

At a rally earlier this month, Gov. Scott hyped a crowd of about 100 supporters convened at a press conference, saying Floridians are tired of scammers and attorneys taking advantage of consumers. HB 119 would also cap attorney fees.

But of course those in the insurance and medical industries would want to cap attorney fees - personal injury attorneys are the ones who go up against these behemoth companies to fight for YOUR rights. Our Fort Lauderdale car accident attorneys make sure you are properly compensated in the event of an accident. By attaching the attorney fee issue to the legislation, lawmakers are also attempting to make it awkward for attorneys to protest the bill on behalf of accident victims.

Here is the truth you won't hear from the insurance companies: While insurance fraud should be a concern for all consumers, it comprises only a very small percent of overall auto insurance claims.

Rates for consumers do continue to climb, but that's more because the insurance companies want more money, not because the industry is struggling.

If the industry was in such dire straits, how is it they can afford huge advertising budgets and continually solicit new customers at initially lower rates (only to jack them up later)?
As it stands now, registered drivers in Florida are already required to purchase $10,000 of personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This basically means that no matter who is at fault in a Florida car accident, the person's own PIP will pay for their medical expenses and lost wages.

Saying no to this measure is about saying yes to choice. You have the right to decide whether you need medical treatment following an accident. If you do choose to seek medical treatment, you deserve to have the right to decide what form that will take.

We believe you deserve better than HB 119.

To contact your house representative, and urge them to vote NO on HB 119, visit http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Representatives/representatives.aspx.

Continue reading "Bill to Combat Florida Auto Accident Fraud Would Diminish Patient Rights " »

A young Florida boy lost both his father and grandmother earlier this month in a horrific crash just a few hours north of Naples.

The Tampa Bay Times reported the 6-year-old survived the tragedy, in which his relatives drowned after the family's sport utility vehicle rolled over into a canal.

As the water flooded into the vehicle, the child was pulled to safety. He then watched, desperate and helpless, as the vehicle sunk, two of those closest to him inside.

While investigators continue to try to learn what happened, this devastating accident spotlights how critical it is for motorists in South Florida and throughout the state to drive with the utmost caution around our many bodies of water.

Pristine beaches and serene waterways are a magnet not just for tourists, but for the millions of people who call Florida home.

But our Naples car accident attorneys know that like most aspects of nature, behind that beauty are hidden dangers, particularly for auto travelers.

As Florida is a peninsula, it is surrounded by water. But in addition to the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, Florida drivers must be cautious when navigating in areas with nearby lakes and intertwining canals. In South Florida, for example, the city of Cape Coral has more than 400 miles of inland canals, which have been the site of a number of submerged vehicle accidents - too many of those with deadly consequences.

The tragic case out of North Florida illustrates why drivers must use extreme caution.

According to the Times, the boy's grandmother was driving northbound on Shoal Line Boulevard when she began to drift to along the shoulder. Troopers say she over-corrected, crossed into the south lane and plunged into a nearby canal, where it became overturned and sunk.

After emergency crews pulled the child safely from the wreckage, they tried to save his father and grandmother. Sadly, they did not survive.

The newspaper reported the boy's mother is in prison, so his 26-year-old brother assumed custody of him.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that when motorists crash into water, panic quickly sets in. But it's important to keep your cool.

Our South Florida car accident attorneys urge you to heed the following tips to improve your chance for survival in a submerged vehicle:

--Always wear your seat belt. This will ensure that you will be kept in place during the initial impact. Some people worry they will not be able to free themselves from the seat belt if they crash into water. But this isn't true. Further, not wearing your seat belt puts you at risk for head injuries. If you lose consciousness, you can't help yourself or your passengers.

--Try not to panic.

--Unbuckle your seat belt.

--Check on your other passengers, and unbuckle them too.

--If the vehicle is sinking slowly, roll down the window. You should be able to crawl out the window and swim to safety.

--If you are sinking rapidly, you need to wait for the water pressure inside the vehicle to equalize. Stay calm. Allow the vehicle fill with water. Take off your shoes and any other bulky clothing items. When the water is half way up the window, begin rolling down the window. When the water begins to rush in, try your best to stay in the air pocket at the top off the car. Then take a breath of air and swim to safety.

--Keep a hammer in your vehicle. If you have electronic windows, you may not be able to roll them down. Having this tool within reach could be your best option for survival. It probably won't work on the front windshield, but it may work on the back or side windows. Swing at the bottom of the window, and push out.

Continue reading "Two Die When Car Crashes Into Florida Canal; Learn How to Improve Your Changes for Survival in a Sinking Car" »

Cell phone use in cars is quickly becoming a hot topic of debate in Florida.

Lawmakers continue to wrestle with whether the state needs tougher mandates to prevent distracted driving crashes.

In particular, strong opinions are being expressed on the issue of whether texting behind the wheel should be outlawed.

Florida is one of the few hold-out states on the issue. Thirty-nine others have passed some form of restrictions on sending texts while driving.

Our West Palm Beach car accident attorneys know that sometimes it's impossible to avoid a traffic crash. But we also understand that texting in the driver's seat has been known to increase the risk of a crash by 23 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The Miami Herald recently reported that a bill to ban Florida motorists from texting is gaining momentum, Just this month, it was approved by a second state senate committee. That means it has just one more stop before landing on the senate floor for final debate.

It's the third time such a bill has been brought before Florida legislators. Previously, support for two similar bills fizzled.

Meanwhile, a similar bill in the state house of representatives is moving a bit slower.
If Republican state Senator Nancy Detert is successful in her bid to pass the bill, texting while driving would become a secondary offense in Florida. That means that police couldn't perform a traffic stop solely based on whether a person was believed to be texting. But if someone is stopped for violating another traffic law and law enforcement believes they were also texting, he or she could be charged for that offense as well.

Some say the measure doesn't go far enough. For example, Republican Sen. Miguel Diaz de la Portilla was quoted by the Herald as saying he would also push for an amendment to the ban that would impose additional punishment for texting while driving in a school zone.

"Schools should be safe havens, and that includes the area where people drop off their children or where children walk to school," he told the paper.

There are others, though, who question whether the law would be difficult to enforce.
Republican Sen. Joe Negron stated that first of all, there are already laws on the books to address reckless driving.

Secondly, he wondered how police would determine the difference between whether a motorist is actually texting or, say, dialing a phone number.

Still, one would be hard-pressed to find someone who disputes the fact that distracted driving is dangerous.

A recent study by Carnegie Mellon found that drivers who used a cell phone displayed a 37 percent loss of concentration. That's especially concerning when considering that car accidents in Boca Raton and elsewhere can unfold in fractions of a second.

Young drivers are particularly at risk, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, which reports that 16 percent of all teens killed in car accidents were distracted. Further, traffic accidents are the No. 1 killer of teens in America.

That's why many states have passed texting bans specifically geared toward younger drivers.

Continue reading "Florida Lawmakers Debate: DN'T TXT N DRV " »

For the sixth straight year, fatal car accidents in South Florida and across the state have plummeted.

In a new report announced by the Florida Highway Patrol this month, statistics show that last year, law enforcement and health officials reported the lowest number of crash fatalities since 1978.

This is quite a feat, given that the state's population has doubled in those 33 years.
Florida motorists, educators and law enforcement are to be commended for this accomplishment in making our roads safer to travel.

But the work isn't over.

That same report indicates that more than 2,370 people lost their lives on Florida's roadways, bringing the total over the last two years to nearly 5,000.

Our Boca Raton car accident attorneys believe that is simply far too many.

Tragically, many of the victims are young. In fact, the highway patrol reports that traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 4 and 34.
These are sons, daughters, mothers, fathers and dear friends - gone long before they even begin to approach old age.

Perhaps most frustrating is that often, these fatal accidents could have been prevented.

Col. David Brierton, director of the state's highway patrol, said that while law enforcement remains committed to helping reduce the number of deadly crashes, the public has a responsibility too. And that involves buckling up, driving sober and never taking your eyes off the road.

Under Florida Statute 316.193, drunk driving is defined as getting behind the wheel when your blood alcohol level is higher than 0.08. The first violation alone carries a minimum fine of between $500 and $1,000 (depending on how drunk you are) and a possible jail sentence of six to nine months. All that is assuming you haven't seriously injured someone. The punishments get stiffer from there.

Seat belt use, another primary factor in the survival of a crash victim, has been increasing in recent years, with the National Safety Council reporting that as of two years ago, 88 percent of drivers regularly buckle up. That's an increase of almost 20 percent in 10 years. The council also indicates that seat belts have saved an estimated 75,000 lives just between 2004 and 2008.

But again, it's not enough, as the council reported that 42 percent of passengers killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2007 weren't wearing a seat belt.

Another factor in many fatal crashes is distracted driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, not paying attention while you're driving is just as dangerous as if you were drunk.

The top distraction, and perhaps one that is garnering the most media attention recently, is texting. Considering that texting increases your risk of a crash by 23 times, this is valid.

But other forms of distraction can prove equally deadly. These include eating and drinking, talking to passengers, grooming, reading (this includes maps), using a navigation system, watching a video or adjusting your radio, CD player or MP3 player.
Teens are considered to be the most vulnerable to these types of distractions. In fact, 16 percent of all teens who died in car accidents in 2009 were believed to have been distracted.

The truth is, you can't always avoid a car accident in Boca Raton or anywhere. But you can reduce your risks by vowing to be a safer driver in 2012.

Continue reading "Florida Fatal Crashes Fall for Sixth Straight Year; Drivers Still Cautioned" »

As we recently reported on our South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, there were hundreds of people across the country who were predicted to die in traffic accidents over the 2011 Christmas and New Year's holidays. The National Safety Council (NSC) predicted that nearly 600 were going to die on roadways across the U.S. during these holidays. During this time, the Florida Highway Patrol was out in full force on our state's roadways, busting irresponsible drivers to create safer roadways and help reduce the numbers of some of these predictions.

According to recent released preliminary results, the FHP is reporting that its participation with the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" anti-drunk driving campaign was a huge success. During the 18-day holiday period, FHP beefed up its efforts with an emphasis on impaired drivers. During this time, officers also issued nearly 40,000 traffic citations to drivers for speeding, failing to buckle up, etc.

Our Boca Raton car accident lawyers understand that FHP officers handed out roughly 13,000 tickets to speedy drivers and nearly 3,000 for motorists who failed to wear a seat belt. According to law enforcement agencies across the state, there were more than 110 people who died in traffic accidents during the two and a half week campaign. Holidays produce heavy traffic on our roadways and usually more accidents, injuries and fatalities. As we head into the New Year, drivers are asked to be cautious on our roadways, holiday period or not.

The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is organized by the U.S. Department of Transportation and is used as a deterrent program to keep alcohol impaired individuals from behind a steering wheel. The campaign couples heightened public awareness with high-visibility enforcement.

Motorists are reminded that they can call *FHP (*347) if they spot an aggressive driver of if they need any type of roadside assistance.

Preliminary results for enforcement efforts over the recent holidays:

-Number of traffic citations: More than 35,700.

-Drivers arrested for DUI: More than 500.

-Tickets written for speeding: Nearly 13,000.

-Tickets written to motorists who failed to buckle up: Nearly 3,000.

-Motorist assists: More than 11,200.

Florida Highway Patrol officers would also like to use this announcement to remind drivers in the state that the law requires drivers to move over a lane or to slow down to 20 mph when approaching any authorized emergency vehicle or wrecker with lit flashing or rotating lights that is stopped on the side of a roadway.

It's a brand new year, and we would like to ask all motorists to keep safe driving habits as a top New Year's resolution. You can take the first step to make our roadways safer. Be cautious and alert on our roadways to avoid a potentially fatal accident. Remember to be patient while we head through the congested traffic from seasonal residents. Increased volumes of traffic should cause increased safety precautions behind the wheel.

Continue reading "FHP Boosts Efforts over Holidays to Help Curb Car Accidents in Boca Raton: Preliminary Results Released" »

It's a New Year and everyone's going hard on their New Year's resolutions. We're asking you to fit in one more New Year's resolution to help to make our roadways safer. We're asking all residents to pledge to practice safe and cautious driving habits through 2012 to help reduce the risks of car accidents in Boca Raton. To make the roadways safer for everyone, we're asking drivers to curb the distractions, to always driver sober, to abide by speed limits, to be cautious at intersections and to be on the lookout for pedestrians and bicyclists.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there were nearly 235,000 car accidents in the state in 2010. In these accidents, there were more than 338,000 drivers involved. This means that there were nearly 650 car accidents every single day in Florida.

Our Boca Raton car accident attorneys understand that there were nearly 2,500 people killed in car accidents in Florida in 2010. In addition to these fatalities, there were more than 195,000 people who were injured in these accidents. If that's not bad enough, there were 108,350 accidents that only damaged property. Make one of your 2012 New Year's resolutions to be a safer driver to help reduce these statistics. The change starts with you. Lead by example.

Traffic Accident Stats - Florida 2010:

-Alcohol-related fatalities: Nearly 800.

-Drug-related fatalities: More than 100.

-Pedestrian fatalities: Nearly 500.

-Bicyclist fatalities: Nearly 100.

-Motorcyclist fatalities: Nearly 400.

-Teenage driver fatalities: Almost 100.

In January of 2010, there were more than 190 people killed because of car accidents in Florida. Another 19,100 people were injured during this time period. Drivers are asked to put on their game face when climbing behind the wheel to help make our roadways safe and to reduce the risks of accidents.

Safe Driving Tips:

-Put down the distractions. Distracted drivers contribute to about a third of accidents on our roadways. When you're behind the wheel, place all your focus and attention on driving.

-Obey the law. Abide by all posted speed limit, traffic signs and road laws.

-Get in the mood. Never drive when you are angry, stressed, anxious or upset. You always want to drive with a clear and calm mind to help to keep your thoughts from wandering off the roadway.

-Buckle up! Seat belts can save your life in the event of an accident.

-Stay sober. Never drink and drive. Always have a sober ride home or a safe place to stay. Drinking and driving can land you in jail, in a hospital or even in a casket.

-Eye on the weather. Always adjust your driving to the current weather conditions. If it's rainy or foggy, be sure to slow down.

-Defense! Be a defensive driver. Expect the unexpected and keep an eye out for other travelers. Don't always assume that other travelers will abide by the law. Be on the lookout and ready to react.

-Shape up. Keep your car in tune. Check the battery, the windshield wipers, the conditions of the tires and the fluid levels often. Keeping your car in good-working order can help to reduce the risks of a roadside emergency.

Continue reading "New Year's Resolutions to Minimize Risks of Car Accidents in Boca Raton" »

Earlier this month, Mothers Against Drunk Driving recognized the recent drop in the number of fatalities resulting from drunk driving car accidents in Boca Raton and elsewhere in the last year. As we recently reported, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced in its new 2010 traffic accident report that the number of fatalities from alcohol-related accidents had in fact decreased from roughly 10,800 in 2000 to roughly 10,300 in 2010. This is a near 5 percent drop in just one year.

"One life impacted by this terrible crime is one life too many, as there are still more than 10,000 drunk driving fatalities and hundreds of thousands of injuries every year," said Jan Withers, MADD national president.

Our Boca Raton car accident attorneys understand that were expecting to see an increase in the number of drunk-driving car accidents over the next week. The Christmas and New Year's holidays are common holidays for drivers to go out drinking and then to get behind the wheel and attempt to drive home. Experts are predicting that roughly 600 people will die on our roadways over these two holiday periods.

Floridians are asked to be extremely cautious on our roadways through the remainder of the year. Our roadways will be crowded with both residents and tourists. Consider following these safety tips to avoid a serious car accident.

Safe Driving Tips from the Florida Safety Council:

-WEAR A SEAT BELT: Seat belts have been proven effective in saving lives in motor vehicle accidents. Start making a habit of buckling up. Drivers should make sure that everyone is buckled up during every car ride.

-CURB DISTRACTIONS: Turn off your cell phone, text messaging devices and other portable electronic devices before starting your vehicle. Make sure pets and children are properly restrained and that your full attention is on the road.

-NEVER DRINK AND DRIVE: Always designate a sober driver before heading out to any holiday gatherings. DUIs aren't only costly, but they can be deadly. Keep an eye on your loved ones too. Don't let anyone get behind the wheel after drinking.

-REST UP: You never want to drive when you're feeling drowsy. Get at least eight hours of sleep before heading out on your holiday road trip. Take frequent breaks in driving to get out and stretch your legs.

-CHECK THE CAR: You should get your vehicle inspected before heading out just to make sure that everything is in good-working order. Check to make sure that all lights work properly, that your tires are properly inflated and that your fluids are full.

Drivers are urged to be on their best behavior behind the wheel through the holidays to help to avoid a serious accident. Be safe and alert to enjoy a safe and happy holiday!

Continue reading "Busy Roadways Increase Risks for Car Accidents in Boca Raton and Elsewhere through Holidays" »

There have been numerous attempts to make talking on a cell phone and texting at the wheel illegal for drivers across the nation. Previously, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced a final rule to prohibit bus and truck drivers from using cell phones at the wheel. This rule included hand-held phones but not hands-free phones. This was one of the most recent attempts to curb driver distraction, until the latest proposal from the NTSB that we recently discussed on our South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog.

Under the most recent federal proposal, the NTSB urged state and federal lawmakers to prohibit the use of all portable electronic devices, including hands-free devices, to help stop the alarming rate of distraction-related car accidents in Boca Raton and elsewhere. Florida is one of only a few states that has not enacted a law to prohibit or regulate the use of these devices by and or all drivers.

Our Boca Raton car accident lawyers understand that if the federal government can pass a law prohibiting bus and truck drivers from using a cell phone or a text messaging device at the wheel then more prohibitions are possible. It's only a matter of time. It may not be anytime soon though as Florida has already demonstrated its hesitation for such bans through a number of rejected proposals in recent years.

According to House Speaker Dean Cannon, R-Winter Park, enforcing these types of laws is difficult because there are already so many distractions that can't be regulated by law enforcement officers. He says there's really no use in enacting a law to prohibit some behavior and not all of them.

"I've heard evidence that eating fast food, or men fixing their ties, or women fixing their makeup...is just as distracting, perhaps more so, than sending someone a text message," Cannon said.

In 2010, there were approximately 3,100 people killed in traffic accidents that involved a distracted driver. These accidents are preventable. All it requires is a little bit of driver awareness and responsibility. Drivers need to be held accountable for their decisions behind the wheel. Until residents are able to recognize the dangers associated with driver distractions, our roadways will continue to be plagued with these unnecessary accidents.

"When drivers...take their eyes off the road for even a few seconds, the outcome can be deadly," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

As we are well into the holiday travel season, transportation officials would like to remind you to voluntarily give up the distractions at the wheel. The New Year's and Christmas holidays are two of the most dangerous times to be on our roadways. Last year, there were more than 400 fatal accidents that occurred during the second half of December. Be cautious and alert on our roadways when traveling to holiday gatherings with friends and family members to avoid a potentially fatal accident.

Continue reading "Officials Continue Push to Curb Distraction-Related Car Accidents in Boca Raton, Nation" »

A number of national organizations has been using their time and effort to help to educate motorists about the dangers, risks and consequences associated with distracted driving. Recently, on our South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, we reported about the U.S. Department of Transportation's (USDOT) efforts to spread this word among teenage drivers in the country. The USDOT recently launched its "OMG" campaign to target teen drivers, who are most likely to engage in distractions while driving.

Now, Distraction.gov is stepping up to the plate in an attempt to get drivers to halt the distractions while operating a motor vehicle to help reduce the risks of fatal car accidents in Boca Raton and elsewhere. Distraction.gov is the official U.S. government website for distracted driving. The website has launched a new campaign to get drivers to take the pledge to help eliminate these accidents. With voluntary cooperation from drivers around the country, we can all do our part to achieving safer roadways.

Our Boca Raton car accident lawyers understand that distraction-related car accidents took the lives of nearly 3,100 people across the United States in 2010. These accidents also injured another 2.4 million people. While this statistic illustrated a decrease in these types of accidents from the previous year, these accidents are still taking the lives of far too many people. The truth of the matter is that distraction-related car accidents are completely preventable.

Florida is one of only a few states left that has yet to enact any sort of law to regulate driver distraction. Drivers in Florida are allowed to make phone calls, surf the web, check their e-mails and use text messaging services.

According to Distraction.gov, the fight to stop distracted driving car accidents starts with you. The organization is asking all drivers to take the anti-distraction pledge.

Take the pledge to stop distracted driving:

-Help to make our roadways safer by pledging to not talk on a cell phone or to text message while operating a motor vehicle.

-Pledge to be a good passenger and call out a driver who is navigating our roadways while engaging in distractions.

-Help to spread the word to friends and family member about the pledge and about the dangers associated with driver distractions.

As we recently reported, distractions are not limited to the use of portable electronic devices. Driver distractions cover a plethora of activities that a driver can participate in where attention is taken from the task at hand -- driving.

Distractions can also include:

-Eating.

-Smoking.

-Applying makeup.

-Drinking.

-Messing with the radio or CD player.

-Talking with other passengers.

-Dealing with children or pets while driving.

-Handling maps.

Please curb distractions behind the wheel, and urge your friends and family members to do so as well. These types of accidents are completely preventable. Be a responsible driver and help others to ring in the New Year safe and injury free! Happy Holidays!

Continue reading "Take Pledge to Help Curb Distraction-Related Car Accidents in Boca Raton!" »

The holidays make for a dangerous time on our roadways. The risks for car accidents in Lauderdale Lakes and elsewhere increase significantly as we see more and more drivers on the road during the Christmas and New Year's holidays. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), the National Highway Transportation Administration (NHTSA), the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and many other safe-driving advocates are all working together to increase road safety through the remainder of the busy holiday season.

Our Lauderdale Lakes car accident attorneys understand that enforcement and educational efforts are all underway to help raise awareness among drivers about the dangers we'll be facing during the rest of holiday season. The National Safety Council (NSC) has recently launched its predictions for roadway fatalities for the 2011 Christmas and New Year's holidays. Drivers are urged to be cautious on our roadways to help to reduce these risks.

2011 Christmas Day holiday:

The NSC considers the Christmas holiday period as the time from Friday evening on December 23rd through Monday evening on December 26th. During the 3.25 holiday period, the Council is predicting that there will be nearly 300 roadway fatalities and another 29,000 injuries that will require professional medical attention.

Each year, the number of fatalities decreases during this holiday period. Still, in 2009 there were nearly 250 people who died on U.S. roadways during this short holiday.

The NSC asks all motorists to wear a seat belt during the Christmas holiday, regardless of how far they'll be traveling. The council says that these safety devices are nearly 50 percent effective in preserving lives in the event of a traffic accident. About 100 lives may be saved because of these devices. Another 75 people could be saved if all motorists were to buckle up during the holiday period.

2011 New Year's Day holiday:

The NSC considers the New Year's Day holiday period as the time from Friday evening on December 30th through Monday evening on January 2nd. During the 3.25 holiday period, the council is predicting nearly 300 fatalities and another 30,000 injuries that will require professional medical attention.

The number of actual fatalities during this time decreased from 2005 to 2006 to 2007, but then again increased in 2008 and 2009. In 2009, nearly 460 people died because of traffic accidents during this short holiday.

The NSC again asks all motorists to wear a seat belt during the New Year's holiday regardless of how far you'll be traveling. The council says that these safety devices are nearly 50 percent effective in preserving lives in the event of a traffic accident. About 110 lives may be saved because of these devices. Another 75 people could be saved if all motorists were to buckle up during the holiday period.

Continue reading "Hundreds Expected to Die in Car Accidents in Fort Lauderdale and Elsewhere During Holidays" »

The number of drunk driving car accidents in Boca Raton and elsewhere throughout the state typically spikes through the Christmas and New Year's holiday season. For this reason, Governor Rick Scott has dubbed the entire month of December "National Drunk and Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month," according to News Channel 5.

Florida's anti-drunk driving campaign is used to assist the nationwide drunk-driving campaign, "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," which takes place from the 16th of December through the 2nd of January. During this time, about 40 percent of all traffic accidents are alcohol-related. This year's campaigns are being used to help reduce these numbers and to help make our roads safer for all motorists.

Our Boca Raton car accident attorneys understand that the holidays are used as a time to spend some time away from work and school and to get together with the ones we love. Drivers are asked to be extremely cautious when traveling throughout during this time. The Florida Highway Patrol and other local law enforcement agencies are out in full force on the hunt for impaired drivers.

"Impaired driving continues to be a priority for law enforcement in the state, and the Florida Highway Patrol will be intensifying enforcement during the holidays," said FHP Director, Col. David Brierton. "Our goal is to create the safest possible driving environment by modifying driver behavior - and helping drivers make better decisions."

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood recently announced the national kickoff for the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign. Alcohol-related traffic accidents continue to account for one out of every three roadway fatalities in the country.

"Safety is our focus year round at DOT. But this holiday season, we're stepping up our efforts to get drunk drivers off our roads and reminding Americans 'drive sober, or get pulled over,'" said LaHood. "We're making gains in our fight against drunk driving, but we cannot and will not let up."

The "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign recruits the help to thousands of law enforcement departments across the U.S. It also includes a $7 million Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over advertisement that is being used to alert drivers around the country about the enforcement efforts and to educate them about the dangers and risks associated with driving under the influence.

We would like to remind residents and visitors to go out with a plan. If you'll be drinking, be sure to designate a sober driver before events begin. If you can't find a driver, call a friend, a family member or a cab to come get you. If none of that works, get a hotel room or stay the night at a friend's house. There is no good reason to get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol. Be safe and responsible this holiday season to ring in the New Year safely.

Continue reading "FHP Launches Campaign to Help Curb Drunk Driving Accidents in Boca Raton and Elsewhere through Holidays" »

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is calling on local and state lawmakers to enact a strict ban on portable electronic devices for drivers. Florida is one of the few states left in the country that has yet to enact any laws regulating the use of cell phones or text messaging devices, and it doesn't look like it's going to happen any time soon without a federal ban. But Florida House Speaker Dean Cannon, R-Winter Park, said there are already a number of distractions that can't be regulated by lawmakers and there is no sense in adding another unnecessary layer of prohibitive behavior. Distraction-related car accidents in Boca Raton and elsewhere are going to happen whether or not there are laws governing the use of electronic distractions, according to The Palm Beach Post News.

"I've heard evidence that eating fast food, or men fixing their ties, or women fixing their makeup, or talking to screaming kids in the back of the van -- as I've done from time to time -- is just as distracting, perhaps more so, than sending someone a text message," said Cannon.

Our Boca Raton car accident attorneys understand that the laws of various states used to govern distracting behavior have fallen short of their goal. In a majority of states across the U.S., drivers have the green light for talking on cell phones but are still prohibited from texting at the wheel. Not only are enforcement efforts struggling, but when they're carried out it's difficult for officers to determine if a driver was using the phone to make a call or typing to send a text. A federal ban against these distracting habits could help to get the nation on the same page, to help increase enforcement efforts and to make roads safer for everyone. But much of Florida isn't on board with the suggestion.

The NTSB met earlier this month to discuss the dangers of distraction-related accidents in the U.S. Of particular note was the discussion of an accident in Gray Summit, Missouri, in 2010 in which two people died and more than three dozen were injured. The driver blamed for this accident failed to abide by Missouri's laws because he was texting and making phone calls just before the accident.

According to Cannon, the Republican-dominated and conservative Legislature in Florida may be hesitant to agree to the "government-regulating private behavior."

But the chairwoman of the National Transportation Safety Board thinks otherwise.

"Needless lives are lost on our highways, and for what? Convenience? Death isn't convenient," said Deborah Hersman. "So we can stay more connected? A fatal accident severs that connection."

Nearly every year since 2002 Florida has seen a number of proposals to regulate this behavior, especially among novice drivers. These bills have been filed by both parties, but none has been able to pass through.

"Making citizens safer is one of the most important roles of government," said Janet Froetscher, president of the National Safety Council. "We are hopeful that legislators across the nation will recognize the value of NTSB investigations and recommendations and take the necessary actions proposed ... to make our roadways safer for everyone."

Rep. Irv Slosberg, D-Boca Raton, says that the state is backpedaling when it comes to taking action to make our roads safer. Just to get seat belts to be mandatory in our state, the feds had to step in and threaten to take away millions in transportation money. Only then were seat belts made mandatory.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently announced that distracted driving has doubled over the last tear. Distraction-related accidents killed almost 3,100 people on our roads in 2010. A federal ban may be the only hope in making roads safer in Florida.

Continue reading "Florida Lawmakers Wary of National Ban Aimed at Reducing Risks of Car Accidents in Boca Raton and Elsewhere" »

As we recently reported on our South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, Florida lawmakers are debating yet another bill that would make texting while driving illegal in Florida. Florida is one of the few states that has yet to enact a law to regulate this dangerous habit among drivers.

Well, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is swooping in with its "OMG" public service announcement (PSA) campaign to stop teen drivers who text at the wheel. Teen drivers are more likely than any other age group to get into a distraction-related car accident in Boca Raton. For this reason, the two PSAs that the USDOT has created aims to educate these young, inexperienced drivers about the dangers of texting while driving.

Our Boca Raton car accident attorneys understand that these two PSAs will be airing at more than 525 Regal Cinema theaters on more than 5,500 movie screens, on gas station pump-top screens and on the Distraction.gov website throughout December. As the approach the holidays, our Florida roadways are expected to overflow with vacationers and resident drivers heading to holiday gatherings. The increase in traffic greatly increases our young drivers' risks of a car accident. Parents are urged to talk with teen drivers about the risks they'll inevitable face during this time of the year.

In these PSAs, USDOT officials added in some popular texting lingo, like "L8R" and "LOL," to effectively spread the message to teenage drivers across the country. USDOT officials also thought that by using the gas station pump-top screens, movie theaters and online as the medium for the PSAs that these messages would effectively reach these young drivers. Nathan Gill, of Outcast's PumpTop TV, says that he hopes these short PSAs will reach our young, on-the-go drivers and potentially make a difference in the safety of everyone on our roadways through the holiday season and well beyond.

In 2010, there were nearly 3,100 people who were killed in the U.S. because of distraction-related traffic accidents. As technology grows more popular, the number of these accidents will continue to increase if nothing is done. We know that teenagers want to keep in touch with their friends through their winter break, but there's no reason to do it while driving a motor vehicle. Remind teens that there's a time and place for everything and behind the wheel is no time for texting.

Currently, there are 35 states that have enacted laws that make it illegal for a driver to talk on a cell phone. Another nine states have passed laws that make it illegal for drivers to talk on the cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.

While Florida has yet to enact any such law, parents are asked to step in and talk with the teen drivers in their lives about the dangers, risks and consequences that come from using a hand-held cell phone behind the wheel.

Continue reading "USDOT Steps Forward with National Campaign to Curb Teen Distraction-Related Car Accidents in Boca, Nation" »

Nearly 2,500 people died in car accidents in Boca Raton and elsewhere. Florida had the third highest number of traffic fatalities behind California and Texas and still remains number one most dangerous state for pedestrian fatalities.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration just released the new 2010 report on crash statistics. Although the Administration points out that 2010 recorded the lowest number of fatalities since 1949, we still have far to go to ensure road safety. While the number of fatalities among some accident victims did in fact decrease, fatalities among bicyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists increased significantly.

Our Boca Raton accident attorneys understand that the overall 2010 fatality numbers were lower than the numbers of 2009. But traffic accident fatalities started to increase during the last part of the year. As the economy recovers, more residents are expected to travel and accident risks are expected to increase even more. In 2010, about 33,000 people died on U.S. roadways.

"While we have more work to do to continue to protect American motorists, these numbers show we're making historic progress when it comes to improving safety on our nation's roadways," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

The NHTSA is working diligently to be able to better track all types of traffic accidents. To do so, the Administration created both the "distraction-affected crashes" and the "alcohol-related crashes" measure. Distraction-related accidents are increasing significantly with the advances in technology. These types of accidents accounted for about a third of all fatal traffic accidents in the U.S. Despite all of the advances of laws regulating drunk driving, alcohol-related accidents are still prevalent on our roadways, too. Drivers are reminded that the most beneficial way to prevent fatal accidents on roadways across the country is through driver awareness. Responsible and cautious drivers help to decrease the risks of serious accidents.

Key Findings of the 2010 Motor Vehicle Crashes Report from the NHTSA:

-There were nearly 33,000 fatalities and another 2.5 million injuries resulting from car accidents in the U.S.

-While the rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled decreased by less than 5 percent, the injury rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled increased by 2 percent.

-Alcohol-related accidents accounted for 31 percent of all fatal accidents.

-More than 50 percent of the people killed in traffic accidents were not properly restrained at the time of the accident.

-The number of fatal accidents in rural areas decreased, while the number or urban-area fatal accidents increased.

-Fatalities among motorcyclists over the age of 50 increased, while the number of fatalities among motorcyclists younger than 50 actually decreased. Overall, the number of motorcycle fatalities increased.

-Twenty states experienced increases in the number of traffic fatalities.

-The number of traffic fatalities in Florida decreased by less than 5 percent from 2009 to 2010.

Continue reading "Car Accidents in Boca Raton and Elsewhere Still High: New Statistics Released by NHTSA" »

Accidents in parking lots in Boca Raton are most likely to happen during the month of December. During this time, residents throughout the state are out combing our malls and shopping centers for the perfect Christmas gifts for friends and family members. This is when parking lots are crowded and lurking with dangers, but with the proper safety strategies shoppers can help to reduce the risks of an accident during this busy time of the year.

Boca Raton injury attorneys understand that the holidays are supposed to be a pleasant time of the year. But they can quickly turn disastrous if we're not careful. There are risks of car accidents, pedestrian accidents, robberies and muggings in parking lots during this time.

Hollander Law Firm offers you these parking lot safety tips to help prevent becoming a victim of a crime:

-Always remain aware of your surroundings. Never allow yourself to get distracted by children, shopping bags, cell phones, etc.

-You should never walk alone at night. You should always walk with a friend, a coworker, a security guard or a police officer.

-Always have your keys in your hand and ready to get into the car. Drivers are urged to keep a whistle on car keys to use if something happens.

-You should always walk with a purpose. Recent studies have concluded that those who walk quickly and purposefully are less likely to become the victim of a predator. This type of walking sends a signal that you're not an easy target.

-Keep one of your hands free at all times. This will allow you to fight off a would-be attacker.

-Always remember where you parked so you're not spending too much time walking through a parking lot.

-You should always walk in the middle of ramps and aisles instead of using the stairs of a parking garage or an elevator. Stairs and elevators are an easy place for these individuals to prey on their victims.

-You should always walk in areas that are well lit. Back into a parking space when you can so you can exit more easily.

-You should steer clear of parking spots next to vans and other large vehicles. Attackers can easily hide near these vehicles and get to your quicker.

-Only unlock the driver's door when getting in. Always lock the door behind you.

-Before you get into your car, look around the inside to make sure it hasn't been broken into and that no one is in there.

-Limit the time you spend idling in your car. Once you're in, start moving.

-Make sure you know where emergency telephones, security guards and parking lot attendants are located.

-Never keep any form of identification on your car keys. If you lose them or they get stolen, a thief may be able to find you, your house or your car.

-Be sure to always report suspicious activity. If you feel like someone's following you, you should run to a lighted area or towards people who can help to find assistance.

Motorists and pedestrians are urged to be cautious around one another when traveling in our busy parking lots through the holidays, too. Let's make this a safe holiday season and escape with no injuries. Happy Holidays and safe shopping.

Continue reading "Parking Lot Accidents in Boca Raton Common through Holiday Season" »