Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog

Does Tourist Season Mean More Miami Car Accidents?

Thu, 03 May 2012 20:12:06 -0500

Each summer, many tourists choose to visit Miami and the rest of Florida to enjoy the warm hospitality and the natural beauty of the region. While most visitors are careful and responsible, some residents do feel that tourist season can lead to an increase of Miami traffic accidents. One reason is because tourist season can mean more cars on the roads. Visitors to the state may bring their own cars or may rent cars, but many tourists choose cars to see more of the state. In addition, summer inevitably means more students home from school and therefore a slight increase in local traffic. Unfortunately, more cars on the road can mean more congestion, frayed tempers, and therefore Miami car accidents.

Tourist season can also mean more pedestrians and other forms of traffic sharing the roads. Many visitors choose to see Miami on foot. Cruise ship visitors, for example, do not bring their cars with them and may choose to see the city by walking. There are also shops offering tourists bicycles and motorcycles for rent. Some visitors may choose these transportation options to see more of the city, and local residents may also choose to bike and walk to take advantage of the beautiful weather. Unfortunately, this can also mean more types of traffic sharing the road, which can increase the risk of Miami motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and bicycle accidents.

Tourist season means more drivers who may be unfamiliar with city streets. Some of the drivers on Miami’s streets in the summer are enjoying their first glimpse of the city. While most do everything they can to drive safely, unfamiliarity with the streets can be dangerous. Visitors may be watching for signs more carefully because they are unfamiliar with the area or may be distracted by all there is to see in Miami.

Unfortunately, tourist season coincides with road construction. This can also be a problem. When construction and road repairs coincide with an influx of drivers, the result can be even more traffic congestion as well as confusion about detours and alternate routes. The stress and congestion can easily lead to road rage, Miami pedestrian accidents, and other traffic problems.

Alcohol can make tourist season driving even more dangerous. Tourist season does coincide with many summer holidays, and many summer events and parties do include alcohol. Unfortunately, Miami drunk driving accidents are a concern all year long, but can be an especial problem during the summer, when people celebrate with a cool beer or drink. Summer’s heat can also exacerbate the effects of alcohol, making car crashes even more likely.

Planning a Road Trip This Summer? Here’s How to Avoid Florida Car Accidents on the Road

Tue, 01 May 2012 20:10:12 -0500

Summer is a great time to pack up the car and hit the road. Many Floridians are choosing road trips over more complicated air travel due to costs. A car is a great way to explore the state and regions across the US, but road trips can lead to Miami car accidents. To avoid a Florida car collision, make sure that you:

1) Plan a sober trip. Miami drunk driving accidents are still a major cause of fatalities and on a road trip it can be tempting to unwind after a long day of driving with a beer. Designate a driver or resolve to avoid drinking until you get to your destination.

2) Bring the right number of passengers. An extra passenger or two can actually help you prevent a Miami traffic accident by taking over the driving when you are tired. An extra passenger can also take over reading the directions and street signs, so that you can focus on driving rather than trying to find your destination. However, too many passengers can be a distraction. Aim for one or two passengers per car.

3) Be careful about overloading the car, especially in ways that obscure visibility. Putting too much in your car can overload the tires and make you more prone to tire blow outs. Passenger cars that are overburdened with extra weight can also handle less easily. Just as overloaded trucks are more prone to Miami truck accidents, too heavy cars can also be more at risk. Adding a trailer is not necessarily safer, either, since a trailer poses its own risks. Where possible, aim to travel light. Try to place as many items as possible in the trunk of the car, where they will not obstruct your ability to see out the windows of your car. Keeping items in your car can also prove dangerous if you are in a car accident and the items become airborne. In this situation, any items in your car can cause Miami brain injuries and other serious injuries as they become projectiles.

4) Plan to drive distraction-free. Either plan your route ahead of time or have a passenger take care of guiding you. Checking your GPS or a map while driving is dangerous. Turn off your cell phone and mobile device before you start to drive and pull over if you need to check a map.

5) Plan ahead to stop and take rests. Professional truck drivers know that fatigued driving is one of the leading causes of Miami truck accidents. Driving too long before taking a break can cause you to drift off at the wheel. Make sure that you plan your route so that there are places to stop for a coffee and a stretch. At night, check in somewhere where you can get a good night’s sleep so that you can continue on your way refreshed and safe.

6) Get your car tuned up before you go. Mechanical failure on the road can delay your trip. More seriously, losing control of your car because something goes wrong with your brakes or tires can cause a Miami pedestrian accident or traffic accident. Take care of any problems with your car before you go.

7) Get yourself prepared to drive comfortably. Driving long distances is physically taxing. Keep water and chewing gum in your car, as well as a sweater and sunglasses. Make sure that you have these items so that you can stay comfortable and focused on the road rather than distracted by your own discomfort.

Miami Shores Car Accidents and Elderly Drivers: What is the Risk?

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:15:23 -0500

When it comes to Miami Shores car accidents, there is an age-related controversy. While some studies and experts suggest that elderly drivers are actually safer than young drivers when comparing car crash rates, the public perception is that elderly drivers are less safe due to cognitive, vision, and health changes.

Although there are advanced screening solutions available to test elderly drivers for cognitive ability and other driving-related skills, no states currently use the full spectrum of such tests. In most states, including Florida, the requirements for getting a new license or for getting a license renewed are the same, regardless of the driver’s age. However, it does mean that when a Miami Shores traffic accident involves an elderly driver, there is inevitably a question about whether different rules should apply to drivers in different age groups.

Florida does require drivers who are over 79 years of age to get a vision test. As well, elderly drivers in the state need to get their licenses renewed more often. Drivers 80 and older get driver’s license issued for six years, compared to eight years for all other drivers. This ensures that elderly drivers have to come in more often for renewal, which allows specially-trained driver's-license examiners to evaluate drivers to see whether they may have any impediments that may prevent them from driving safely.

In addition to these rules, doctors play an important role in evaluating driver safety. Doctors who believe that a patient has a condition which impairs their driving ability are mandated to report the patient. Law enforcement authorities can also request that any drivers who have been given a citation be required to complete the driver’s exam again. The public can report anyone they feel may be a dangerous driver through the www.flhsmv.gov website.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, crash rates per mile traveled start increasing at age 80. However, many experts note that the overall crash rate for elderly drivers is lower than the crash rate for younger drivers, in part because the elderly drive fewer miles and in part because elderly drivers are statistically less likely to engage in some risky driving behaviors, such as texting and driving, drinking and driving, and other risky activities.

Seniors who want to avoid Miami Shores truck accidents and traffic accidents also have many options. Organizations such as AARP offer safety classes for elderly drivers and can help drivers find alternative forms of transportation once it becomes too unsafe to continue driving. These organizations also raise awareness about when a driver may need to hang up their keys.

Are Older Drivers Actually Less Likely to Cause Medley Car Accidents?

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:26:54 -0500

Many news stories involving elderly drivers involved in car accidents focus on the driver’s age. For example, when a man from Apollo Beach was in a motorcycle accident this month, the news stories often focused on the fact that he was 100 years old. When a woman crashed into a Chinese restaurant this month, mistaking her gas pedal and brake, it was widely noted that she was 80 years old.

Stories like these lead many to assume that older drivers are susceptible to car accidents. After all, the elderly are susceptible to many conditions, such as dementia and vision problems, which can significantly impact driving ability. However, a new study suggests that older drivers have comparatively fewer accidents when compared with younger drivers.

According to new numbers from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, the 2010 crash rate for drivers age 80 and over in the state was 90 per 10,000. This compared favorably with a crash rate of 347 per 10,000 for drivers in the 15-24 age range. According to some experts, this may be because older drivers tend to drive a little slower and more cautiously. Some experts also suggest that extensively driving experience helps elderly drivers stay safer on the roads. A few experts have critiqued the numbers by noting that the elderly may drive fewer miles when compared with younger drivers, which may possibly impact the crash rate.

What is certain is that the issue of elderly drivers is an important one for the state. In the past five years, the number of drivers in the state who are 71 years or older has increase to 1.8 million – a jump of almost 100, 000. Since 2007, the number of Florida drivers who are 90 years of age has increased by almost 28%, with almost 65,000 Floridians age 90 or above on the roads today. Some counties, such as Hillsborough County, have an even higher rate of elderly drivers. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, there are over 455 Florida drivers who are aged 100 or older.

The recent studies suggest that Medley car accident caused by elderly drivers are perhaps not as prevalent as public perception suggests, but there are still many initiatives in place to help elderly drivers maintain their independence while having a low risk of Medley traffic accidents.

Current research is also being done at the University of South Florida School of Aging Studies to determine how to prevent Medley personal injury among elderly drivers. Researchers there have determine that cognitive ability rather than age and other factors are what matter when it comes to driving ability and safety. That research supports the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles numbers in suggesting that elderly drivers are safer than many believe.

How Distracted Drivers can Cause Biscayne Park Car Accidents

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 11:08:04 -0500

Talking and texting using cell phones and mobile devices is very commonplace today, even among drivers. According to a recent Prevention magazine survey, there are over 100 million cell-phone subscribers across the country, and over 85% of them report regularly talking while driving. This is despite the fact that a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2001 found that drivers talking on cell phones are four times more likely to be in a car crash when compared with drivers who drive distraction free. Despite many media campaigns to make drivers aware of the dangers of distracted driving, many drivers continue to talk and drive. There are many dangers connected with talking and driving:

1) It causes slow and erratic driving. Drivers who are focused on talking rather than driving may make driving errors, make drive recklessly or mindlessly, and may drive more slowly as their focus is elsewhere. This can easily lead to Biscayne Park car accidents.

2) It takes the driver’s eyes off the road. Studies have shown that drivers who use hand-held devices take their eyes off the road for seconds at a time – enough time to travel the length of a football field or more. This is more than enough time to cause a serious Biscayne Park pedestrian accident or traffic accident.

3) It takes the driver’s mind off the road. The $40-billion-a-year cell-phone industry has introduced many types of technology in recent years to allow drivers to talk and drive without using hand-held devices. Built-in phones, voice-activated dialing features, headsets, and car speakerphones all promise to keep driver’s eyes on the roads. However, these devices still distract drivers from thinking about traffic, and some experts feel that they are still a danger in cars.

4) It can prevent a driver from hearing important auditory cues. Cell phones can take a driver’s mind and eyes off the road, but they also focus the driver’s eyes away from the road, which can be just as dangerous. Hearing alarm signals, horns, and other cues is an important part of driving safely and cell phones distract from that. It is one possible reason why hands-free devices have been found by some research studies to be just as distracting as cell phones for drivers.

5) It can lull drivers into a false sense of security when driving. Many people claim that cell phones actually help them drive, by providing them with map apps, the ability to call in emergency situations, and other features. However, drivers who use their cell phones while driving without facing any consequences will likely continue to do so, increasing their risk of a serious Biscayne Park traffic accident.

Of course, cell phones are not the only distraction that drivers face. CD players, food, scenery, and passengers, as well as an infinite list of other distractions are part and parcel of driving for many drivers each day. However, hand-held devices have become one of the most visible and noted distractions that drivers face, in part because of their prevalence and in part because Biscayne Park car accidents caused by this form of distraction seem so preventable.

How Will New Insurance Reforms Affect Miami Car Accident Lawsuits?

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 10:49:27 -0500

A number of new reforms have been made recently to Florida car insurance laws. Some of those changes will affect Personal Insurance Protection (PIP), changing which medical professionals can offer medical care and diagnosis for car accident victims and potentially changing how much PIP money car accident victims can receive. The changes have been made to reduce insurance fraud in the state, which is currently very high.

Another important change to Florida’s insurance laws has to do with the lawsuits filed after a Miami car accident or any Florida car accident. In many cases, these lawsuits are filed because medical practitioners and insurance carriers cannot agree on the amount of money doctors are owed for a patient’s care.

The changes to the law consider the Medicare fee schedule when outlining how some medical costs should be tabulated. In addition, the new law allows insurance carriers investigate possible insurance fraud to examine victims under oath. The changes also no longer allows judges to dramatically raise the fees awarded to attorneys representing plaintiffs.

Legislators claim that the changes address some of the disagreements which cause lawsuits and claim that the changes could prevent lawsuits. However, other experts claim that the changes will only create new issues of disagreement and may actually lead to more legal action. The Florida Justice Association predicts that the changes to PIP will actually increase the number of lawsuits after car accidents. The agency notes that the new "emergency medical condition" definition is especially likely to cause disputes. That change allows only certain medical practitioners to determine whether a traffic accident victim’s injuries are an "emergency medical condition" or not. Those patients with an "emergency medical condition" will qualify for the full $10 000 in medical benefits while others will get only $2500 in PIP benefits. According to the Florida Justice Association and some Miami personal injury attorneys, the disparity between benefits as well as the new definition will likely lead to legal disagreements in cases where a victim may have been misdiagnosed. Currently, there is no list of injuries deemed emergency medical conditions, and it is likely that Florida judges will eventually determine this over the course of many cases.

Legislators claim that they need to reduce the number of lawsuits related to PIP because these legal actions increased insurance costs and also slow down the claims process. Lawmakers also hope that the changes will reduce insurance fraud in the state.

The new laws will mean that victims who are injured in Miami car accidents may get less in PIP benefits than they might have received a few years ago. This may make contacting a personal injury attorney after a Miami traffic accident more important than ever before. Car accident victims who have sustained an injury due to someone’s recklessness or negligence will still be able to pursue legal action, and this action may be more important than ever before to ensure that victims are compensated for medical costs, lost income, and other expenses related to their injuries.

What New Insurance Rules Mean for Future Miami Car Collisions

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:29:41 -0500

According to Governor Rick Scott and legislators, reducing the amount of car insurance fraud in the state is a top policy for this year. Florida is the nation’s leader when it comes to many insurance scams, and a recent report suggests that a few food truck vendors have been taking part in the scam. Earlier in April, the Division of Insurance Fraud reported that 15 vendors have been using food trucks to stage fake car accidents in order to collect insurance money.

As a result of the insurance fraud problem, new rules have been instituted in Florida to make insurance rates more affordable while also reducing lawsuits and changing how insurance works in the state. So far, experts are divided about whether the insurance changes will help or hurt victims in Miami car accidents.

Many of the changes will be implemented this summer, but it may take until 2013 for the full impact to be seen. The new law, HB 119, will require insurance carriers to slash car insurance personal injury premiums by at least 10% by later this year and by 25% by the year 2014. However, insurance carriers will be able to request exemption from the cuts in some cases. In addition, the law will not allow acupuncturists and massage therapists to treat patients through personal injury protection (PIP). In addition to these changes, a new anti-fraud task force will be put into effect this summer and medical clinics treating car accident patients will face stricter licensing mandates. Long-form accident reports will be used more often and penalties for insurance fraud will be tougher as well.

Starting in 2013, those injured in Miami traffic accidents – or in any Florida car accident – will have 14 days to get initial medical treatment. If those people are found to have an "emergency medical condition" by a dentist, medical doctor, osteopathic physician, advanced registered nurse practitioner, or doctor assistant, they will be eligible for the full $10,000 PIP offers. Those who are not diagnosed with emergency medical conditions will be eligible for only $2,500 under the new PIP rules. Unfortunately, this means that those who suffer soft-tissue injuries will only be able to claim this amount, even though soft-tissue injuries can be long-term and can cause severe pain as well as considerable missed work.

Some medical experts are worried about the new rules, noting that medical professionals will be expected to perform needed medical treatment for $2500 or less. With current medical costs, where an MRI alone costs up to $1400, this can be a problem. Some medical experts are also concerned about the new limit on how quickly car accident victims can seek help, noting that serious symptoms may not develop until after the initial 14 week window. Legislators point out that PIP is only intended to cover initial, emergency care. They note that accident victims will still be able to turn to other insurance, such as at-fault insurance, for coverage.

Currently, it is not known exactly how the new changes will actually impact Miami truck accident and traffic accident victims. Even Miami personal injury attorneys do not necessarily agree about the full implications of the changes. While some legislators are hopeful that the PIP reforms will reduce insurance fraud, some experts worry whether the changes will make it even harder for victims to get the support they need, especially as medical costs increase.

Are Bicyclists Killed in Miami Car Accidents Having Trouble Getting Justice?

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 10:07:38 -0500

According to a recent investigative report, very few New York City bicyclists killed or injured in car accidents ever get justice. In fact, in 2011 the Big Apple saw 21 bicyclist fatalities, but only two drivers were ever arrested in these cases. While similar numbers are not available for Miami, anecdotal evidence suggests that bicyclists in Florida also have a similar problem getting justice after an accident. There are many possible reasons for this:

1) According to some groups, including Transportation Alternatives, police are not tough enough on motorists. In many cases, budget cuts may mean that police have few resources for bicycle accidents. In 2008, bicyclist Rasha Shamoon was struck and killed by a motorist who had six prior traffic infractions. Despite this, police did not conduct accident reconstruction, made errors in the police report, and concluded that Shamoon was at fault. The bicyclist’s family took the case to court, where it was shown that Shamoon was not speeding, as police claimed, and the court found the driver 95% responsible for the accident.

2) Bicyclists are often assumed at fault. Some individuals assume that bicyclists take risks and are often at fault of accidents. Unfortunately, this kind of thinking can influence investigations into Miami traffic accidents that involve bicyclists.

3) There is a great disparity between bicycles and cars. In a Miami car accident involving two cars, the damage to both vehicles and parties can be comparable. In a Miami bicycle accident, however, the bicyclist is often killed or seriously injured, making it hard for that victim to provide their own statement of events during the investigation. As well, while such accidents often cause little damage to the car or truck, in some cases these accidents become hit and run accidents, making it harder to catch the driver and bring them to justice.

4) Bicyclists are not insured. In a Miami car accident involving two vehicles, insurance carriers need careful police reports and there are often insurance investigations as well. In a case involving a bicyclist, especially if the bicyclist is found at fault, there may not be the same investigation unless the bicyclist’s family works with a Miami personal injury attorney and filed a civil suit.

5) Laws. Since cars are so prevalent, laws have been passed to ensure that not all traffic violations are criminalized. This can make it harder for bicyclists and their families to argue that an accident was in fact vehicular manslaughter or another serious crime.

If you are a bicyclist injured in a Miami traffic accident, it is important to speak with an experienced Miami personal injury attorney about your case as soon as possible. A good attorney can gather evidence about your case and can investigate the cause of the accident so that you are not held at fault if the collision was caused by a motorist. A good attorney can also help you understand the steps you need to take to pursue fair compensation. It is common for a Miami bicycle accident to be very expensive. In addition to high medical bills, there are often transportation costs and lost pay to consider. A good attorney can help you understand the true costs of your injuries and can work with you as you pursue justice.

Single-Car Accidents in Deerfield Beach

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:23:21 -0500

When we read about Deerfield Beach car accidents, in most cases they are accidents involving at least two cars. However, each day people are seriously injured in Deerfield Beach traffic accidents that involve only one car. This can occur for a number of reasons, including road conditions and tire defects. A driver may lose control of the vehicle and swerve into an object (such as a tree) or the vehicle may rollover.

Whether a Deerfield Beach truck accident or car accident involves multiple vehicles or one car, the results can be devastating. Single-car collisions routinely result in property damage and serious or even fatal injuries. They can also leave victims with large expenses for medical costs, car repairs, and other costs. Single-car accidents usually have a few unique issues to consider:

1) Insurance issues. In most cases, the driver’s own no-fault coverage will pay for the costs of the accident. However, in this type of Deerfield Beach car accident it can sometimes be difficult to recover all the compensation for lost income, medical costs, car replacement or repairs, and other expenses.

2) Liability issues. In many cases, single-car accidents are caused by poor signage, road conditions, or mechanical defects. There is no second driver as a potential cause of an accident. It often requires careful investigation to determine the cause of an accident and to launch a Deerfield Beach products liability case, if appropriate.

3) Assumptions. In many cases, police and other authorities may assume that if only one driver was involved in a single-car accident, then the driver must be responsible for the accident. This can lead to charges and other penalties being levied against the driver, even if he or she did nothing wrong. It often takes a skillful Deerfield Beach personal injury attorney to carefully investigate the accident in order to get answers and to clear the driver of these accusations.

After any serious Deerfield Beach car accident, it may be important to consult with a qualified Deerfield Beach personal injury attorney. This is true even in the event of a single-car accident. Any time an accident causes serious injuries, an attorney can investigate the cause of the accident, can negotiate with insurance carriers, and can help you understand your case and your options. If there are no other parties in an accident, you may assume that you will not be eligible for compensation, but this is not the case. Florida law protects you and you may qualify for more compensation than you realize.

Things to Keep in Mind After a Davie Car Accident

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 17:21:10 -0500

A Davie car accident can be one of the most frightening events of your life. Unfortunately, Davie traffic accidents are among the most common causes of serious injuries and these accidents cause far too many fatalities and injuries each year. One of the most important things to do after your Davie car accident is to seek medical attention right away. According to experts, there are a few things to keep in mind as you seek medical attention:

1) Do not dismiss symptoms or assume that you are fine after a Davie car accident. Even a minor car accident can cause permanent injuries to soft tissue, muscles, and your back and neck. In some cases, you may not display any symptoms but may still have serious or even fatal injuries. Some Davie brain injury patients, for example, do not display any symptoms initially, even when they have suffered severe and potentially life-threatening brain trauma. In some cases, symptoms develop gradually and you may have trouble getting insurance coverage for your symptoms if you do not seek help quickly and start the documentation process. Even if you have been in a relatively minor Davie traffic accident, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

2) Choose your doctor carefully. You generally will be able to select the doctor of your choice for medical treatment. Look for a specialist with experience in the type of injury you have sustained.

3) Consider long-term care. In many cases, a Davie car accident requires long-term care, especially if you have sustained a brain injury, whiplash, a broken bone, or other serious injury. In these cases, it can take months of follow-up visits and months of care to recover fully. It is important to consider this when evaluating any insurance coverage you are offered – you need to make sure that you are compensated for long-term care as well as immediate care. In many cases, it may take the help of a Davie personal injury attorney to negotiate with your insurance carrier in order to get the compensation you need to cover all your medical costs.

4) In some cases, getting legal help is as important as getting medical help. A Davie personal injury attorney can help apprise you of your rights, can help you negotiate with insurance carriers, and can help you understand the value of your case. If you have been in a serious accident with multiple liable parties, it may require legal action to get all the compensation you need to cover all your accident-related injuries. Your physicians and insurance company are protected by teams of attorneys – don’t you deserve legal assistance to protect your rights as well?

Seatbelts Can Cause Injuries in North Miami Beach Car Accidents

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:31:04 -0500

Subaru is recalling 275,000 Foresters, due to a problem with the SUVs locking retractors for the seatbelt systems. According to Subaru, the recall affects Foresters with model years between 2009 and 2012. The problem seems to be that the automatic locking retractor installed in the rear seats of some models may not allow for child safety seats and may not adhere to locking requirements. So far, Subaru has not noted whether any injuries have been caused by the problem.

It is expected that the recall should be launched by the middle of April. Subaru will be replacing the seat belt assembly for the rear center seat belt on all affected models with a new automatic locking retractor gear and with new seat belts that have shorter lengths. Customers and dealers will be notified of the recall and will be given instructions at that point for replacing the system. Due to the number of vehicles involved, the recall will occur in stages. Some owners may need to wait until 2013 to have the problem fixed.

The recall highlights the importance of seat belt safety in preventing North Miami Beach car accidents. Seatbelts are one of the most important safety features in any car – even given the new safety features available on newer models of cars – because seatbelts and safety belts help keep passengers and drivers safely in the car during a North Miami Beach traffic accident. Without a seatbelt, passengers and drivers are likely to be thrown about the vehicle or even ejected from the vehicle, which often leads to serious North Miami Beach brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and fatal or permanent injuries. Most experts agree that wearing a safety belt is one of the easiest, simplest, and most effective ways to prevent serious injuries in a car accident.

However, despite the importance of seatbelts, they are not without their drawbacks. Safety defects – such as potentially the one affecting Subaru – can mean that safety belts do not work as expected in an accident. In this situation, it is possible for passengers and drivers to sustain serious or permanent injuries. When this happens, however, Florida law does protect victims. Victims who have been injured due to a safety belt defect can often seek legal action against car manufacturers who knew about the defect but failed to act in time.

Seatbelts may have other issues, even if they are not defective. For example, seatbelts are only meant to work for adults. Children can be seriously injured by a seatbelt, as it can cut into the neck, shoulder, and abdomen area of a child. For this reason, it is important to always let children sit in the backseat and to always use age-appropriate child safety restraints instead of seatbelts when children are passengers in a car. Adults who are below average height may also wish to consider how seatbelts fit them. In some cases, adults below average height can also have problems during a car accident if the seatbelt cuts into their chest, back, or facial area, causing injuries. It is important for adults to carefully adjust their seat and seat belt so that it fits correctly.

Teens, Passengers, and Miami Lakes Car Accidents

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:27:51 -0500

Experts agree that too many passengers in a car with a new teen driver can increase the risk of a Miami Lakes traffic accident. Passengers are a distraction for any driver, and this level of distraction can be especially dangerous for a less experienced, new driver, leading to a Miami Lakes motorcycle accident or other traffic accident. Teen passengers can also encourage a new driver to take risks, so experts point to peer pressure and risk taking as other dangers of passengers.

One Children's Hospital of Philadelphia study of 198 teen drivers shows that teens who have characteristics that already increase their risk of car accidents are the ones who are more likely to have multiple passengers as well. Teens who were shown to be most likely to invite friends into their cars as passengers were also the teen drivers who described themselves as thrill-seekers and who claimed that their parents did not keep track of their actions. Researchers found that teens in this group also had a poorer grasp of driving dangers.

A second study conducted by State Farm Insurance had researchers looking at 677 teen drivers who were involved in serious accidents. Researchers found that teen drivers who had other teens as passengers were more likely to have been distracted just before an accident when compared with teens who did not have any passengers. According to the study, teen male drivers who drove with teen passengers were nearly six times more likely to try an illegal driving move than drivers in the same age group who did not have passengers. Teen male drivers who drove with teen passengers were also found to be twice as likely to have been driving aggressively before an accident, when compared with solo drivers. Researchers found that teen female drivers, however, are less likely to drive aggressively, even when they have passengers.

Studies such as these clearly indicate that passengers are a serious distraction for teen drivers. At the same time, however, many teen drivers feel peer pressure in order to take on multiple passengers. When a teen gets his or her license, they generally have friends who do not yet have a license and who may rely on them for transportation. Teens may also be proud of their driver’s license and want to share in the excitement with their friends, who are often eager to be passengers.

Unfortunately, multiple passengers can create noise, conversation, and other distractions. In some cases, passengers may encourage drivers to take unnecessary risks or even to drive recklessly. It is up to parents to set ground rules for driving with passengers. If you have a teen driver in your home and wish to prevent Miami Lakes car accidents, you may wish to sit down and have a conversation about passengers and to set some ground rules for how many passengers are allowed in a car at one point. It may be important to discuss alternatives and options available in the event that your teen needs to go somewhere and friends ask for a ride.

Does Graduated Driving Prevent Miami Springs Car Accidents?

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:25:26 -0500

Many laws have been passed in Florida to help prevent Miami Springs traffic accidents as well as car accidents across the states. One of these laws involves graduated licensing programs. All 50 states have instituted graduated licensing over the past two decades. In most cases, graduated licensing takes three phases:

1) A learning period. During this period, driver’s privileges are restricted and drivers must have supervision when driving. During this stage of the process, new drivers are expected to take driver’s education classes and to get supervision driving practice.

2) An intermediate driving period. During this period of the learning process, drivers are allowed to drive unsupervised under some circumstances, but restrictions are in place to ensure that new drivers are not allowed to drive alone and unsupervised in more dangerous situations, such as night driving.

3) A full licensing phase. During the final phase, restrictions are lifted and drivers enjoy all the privileges of driving that fully licensed drivers enjoy.

Many experts believe that graduated licensing helps prevent Miami Springs car accidents involving young drivers and new drivers, since the program ensures that drivers only gradually get additional privileges as they gain experience. Advocates of graduate licensing programs claim that gradually getting new drivers used to driving is the best way to prevent accidents. These experts note that many Miami Springs traffic accidents involving young drivers are caused by young drivers who simply do not have the experience to make the right decisions and who are therefore more prone to accidents. Statistics, including insurance industry statistics, show that young drivers are among the highest risk groups for car accidents, and graduated licensing programs are meant to address this issue.

However, graduated licensing is not without its drawbacks and its detractors. Some people claim that graduated initiatives unfairly place an additional burden and additional restrictions on new drivers and young drivers, even though drivers of all ages are at risk of Miami Springs truck accidents and traffic accidents. They note that a number of factors – including illness, distraction, and other non-age-related issues – can contribute to car accidents, making it unfair to simply restrict younger drivers. Those who disagree with graduated licensing also note that in many cases graduated licensing is based on time elapsed rather than on skills learned. For example, most graduated licensing programs automatically allow drivers to upgrade their licensing status after a certain amount of time passes – whether or not the young drivers have demonstrated a better grasp of driving skills and knowledge.

Steering Wheel Injuries and Hallandale Beach Car Accidents

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 12:18:52 -0500

In the days before air bags became popular and standard features in cars, steering wheel injuries were generally considered a silent killer. If a driver was not wearing a seat belt when a Hallandale Beach car accident took place, he or she was typically thrown against the steering wheel. This generally caused head injuries as well as injuries to major organs, including the heart and lungs. In many cases, the victim showed no external bruising or trauma but suffered potentially life-threatening internal injuries.

Today, many cars do have air bags, but even so steering wheel injuries can occur. Hallandale Beach brain injuries can occur, for example, if an air bag fails to inflate and the driver or passenger is thrown against the steering wheel. Air bag failure can be caused by manufacturer defects and when this happens, the victims can seek compensation for their injuries from the manufacturer.

Air bags themselves can also cause serious injuries. In some cases, the impact of hitting an air bag can cause head injuries and other trauma. Children and passengers who are below average in height are most vulnerable to air bag injuries, and can sustain head injuries and other injuries. When the air bag inflates quickly and the passenger is below average height, the air bag can inflate right in the passenger’s face, causing injury and even making it hard to breathe.

One of the best ways to prevent air bag and steering wheel injuries is to wear a seat belt. A seat belt keeps the driver or passenger in place in the event of a Hallandale Beach traffic accident, ensuring that there is no impact with the steering wheel or air bag. Numerous research studies have shown that proper use of a seat belt can substantially reduce brain injuries and other injuries in a car accident.

Another important way to prevent air bag and steering wheel injuries is to maintain a vehicle correctly. Checking the air bags on a used car, for example, is very important. Taking a car in for regular tune ups is also important as it ensures that a car is functioning correctly, which can actually help prevent Hallandale Beach car accidents.

If you have been injured in a Hallandale Beach traffic accident due to air bag defects or other car defects, it is important to consult with a qualified Hallandale Beach personal injury attorney. There may be multiple liable parties in your case, and this can help you get the compensation you deserve to pay for lost income, medical expenses, and other costs related to your accident. Getting fair compensation can help you get the quality of medical care you deserve and pursuing legal action can ensure that those responsible for the accident are held accountable. Often, legal action pushes companies to make safety changes that can help prevent other accidents from occurring, so seeking out an attorney’s advice after an accident can be important.

Brain Injury after a Pembroke Pines Car Accident

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 11:56:04 -0500

Car accidents are a leading cause of Pembroke Pines brain injuries and head injuries. Although car manufacturers have done much to make cars safer and to prevent head injuries, the head area is still very vulnerable in any Pembroke Pines traffic accident. When the car comes to a sudden stop, passengers in the vehicle are often thrown forward suddenly. This sudden jolt can be violent enough to cause the brain inside the skull to bounce up against the skull, causing brain damage. Even whiplash and mild concussions can cause serious injury and months of recovery time. A more serious brain injury can cause fatalities or a lifetime of suffering. According to experts, there are many things that can be done to help prevent this:

1) Wear a seat belt at all times. Seat belts are one of the best ways to prevent brain injury because they keep you in place in the event of a Pembroke Pines traffic accident. If you are not wearing a seatbelt, you are likely to crash head-first through the windshield and hit your head on a hard surface, which is very likely to cause serious traumatic brain injury.

2) Do not seat children in the front seat. Air bags can be dangerous for small children. Infants and toddlers should always be in the back seat, in an age-appropriate restraint system. Older children are also safest in the back seat. If they are in the front seat, they should use a booster seat to protect them from head injury in the event of a car accident.

3) Consider seatbelts and air bags if you are petite. Studies have shown that people who are not at least average height face a higher risk of being injured by a seat belt or air bag in a car accident. If you are below average height, this is something you will want to consider when adjusting your seat and selecting your car.

4) Always get professional help if you have been in a car accident and even suspect that you may have sustained a head injury. Some brain injuries do not show symptoms right away but can still be fatal. If you have hit your head, it is much better to err on the side of caution and get medical help at once to rule out a serious injury.

5) If you have sustained a brain injury after a car accident, contact a Pembroke Pines personal injury attorney. Unfortunately, Pembroke Pines brain injury victims often find that medical insurance and car insurance do not always cover the full cost of their injuries after an accident. Speaking with a Pembroke Pines personal injury attorney before you sign any paperwork ensures that you understand what your case may be worth and ensures that you get professional legal advice to protect your interests.