Florida Injury Lawyer Blog

Passengers Increasing Risks for Teen Car Accidents in Naples, Nation

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:28:58 -0500

The Journal of Adolescent Health released two new studies that illustrate again why teenage drivers are more likely to be involved in a car accident in Naples and elsewhere when other teens are present in the vehicle. According to Medical Press, a number of things are affected when teenage drivers have their friends in the vehicle, including the perception of risk on the roadway. The study concluded that parental oversight may be the most effective method to help reduce these risks.

The study found that teenage drivers are more aware of the risks they face behind the wheel when their parents are involved in their driving skills. When parents enact driving rules, teenagers are less likely to engage in risky driving behavior. When teenage passengers are in the vehicle with these young drivers, their perceptions of risks fade and they often engage in aggressive or illegal driving behaviors. The study was led by exerts at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and at the Center for Injury Research and Prevention.

Our Naples car accident lawyers understand that teenagers are at higher risks for accidents than any other age group of drivers. Teens are four times more likely to be involved in an accident. Within the first study, researchers looked into the risks that teens took behind the wheel with and without parental monitoring. The study examined nearly 200 teens. It was concluded that teenage drivers who lacked parent involvement often engaged in more dangerous driving habits.

The second study looked at reports from more than 675 teenage drivers who were involved in serious accidents. This study revealed that in many of these accidents, drivers were distracted by other teen passengers. It also showed teens were more likely to perform illegal maneuvers or drive aggressively when another teen was in the vehicle. Teenage drivers were acting out more dangerous driving moves when teens were present in the car than when no one was in the vehicle.

"Distraction from peer passengers appears to play a prominent role for both male and female drivers," said Allison E. Curry, Ph.D., MPH, the lead author on this study.

It was concluded that boys were affected by passengers differently. When male teen drivers had other young passengers in the vehicle, they were more likely to drive aggressively and speed. When female teen drivers had other young passengers in the vehicle, they were more likely to look at the other passengers, to eat, make phone calls and text. Regardless, both were prone to be subject to serious accidents.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Administration, the state of Florida is one of the only states that doesn't regulate the number of passengers allowed in a vehicle with a driver before they get their full, unrestricted license. Through a comprehensive graduated driver's licensing (GDL) programs, teenage drivers are often limited on the number of young passengers they can have in the vehicle at once. Because Florida lacks one of these safe-driving laws, parents are asked to stay involved in their teen's learning process. Enforce safe driving rules within the household to help reduce their risks of an accident.

Car Accidents in Sebring and Elsewhere Likely on Roadways with Heavy Fog and Smoke

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:50:55 -0500

According to the Associated Press, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the recent chain-reaction collision that happened on I-75, just outside of Gainesville. This accident killed 10 people and sent 18 others to the hospital. The NTSB is contemplating whether it will formally join the investigation.

The accident happened because drivers said they couldn't see due to thick smoke that was drifting from a nearby brush fire. Fog and smoke are not limited to North Florida - they can be found throughout the state, particularly during the dry brush fire season. Car accidents in Sebring and elsewhere can result from these dangerous conditions, especially when a 62-acre brush fire is nearby.

Our Sebring car accident lawyers understand that the recent I-75 accidents happened in both the north and the southbound lanes. About 12 cars and six tractor-trailers were involved in the mess. Some vehicles caught fire. Right now, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is conducting the investigation. Earlier in the day, the roadways were closed because of poor visibility. Officers later opened them, and then the second string of accidents happened.

The accidents happened at about 3:45 a.m. The heavy smoke along the roadway made it tough for even for emergency responders, who were arriving to assist victims.

The decision that the FHP made to reopen the highway after the first closure from smoke is being investigated. That investigation has been ordered by Governor Rick Scott.

"We came to the conclusion that the road was safe to travel and that is when we opened the road up," Highway patrol spokesperson Lt. Patrick Riordan

The recent car accidents near Gainesville don't mark the first time something like this has happened. Just four years ago, another serious accident was blamed on smoke and heavy fog. That accident killed four people and injured another 40 on I-4, in between Orlando and Tampa.

The State of Florida reports that your best bet is to just avoid fog and smoke along busy roadways like I-75. If you have to drive through it, the state warns that you should turn on your low-beam lights. High-beam lights only hinder your ability to see by reflecting your car's headlight off of the fog or smoke and back into your eyes. When you're driving through areas covered with dense smoke and fog, you want to slow it down. In these scenarios, you should always be ready to stop quickly. If you're driving through fog, use your windshield wipers.

If the smoke or the fog has gotten so thick that you're unable to see well enough to continue driving, pull over off of the roadway and turn on your emergency flashers. Make sure your car is completely off of the roadway.

Fort Myers Anticipates Drunk Drivers During Super Bowl Weekend

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 09:17:35 -0500

Experts predict that nearly 150 million people will be sitting down in front of a TV set to watch the Super Bowl this weekend. The unofficial national holiday, Super Bowl Sunday, is a time to gather with other football fans and enjoy some good old American entertainment.

With the Super Bowl come a cornucopia of junk food - and alcohol. It is estimated that roughly 325 million gallons of beer will be consumed on the upcoming Super Bowl Sunday. With all of the football parties, local officials are expecting a surge in drunk driving car accidents in Fort Myers.

Our Fort Myers drunk driving car accident lawyers understand that Super Bowl Sunday falls just behind New Year's Eve and the Fourth of July for sheer number of DUI arrests. Whether you're cheering for the New York Giants or the New England Patriots, it's important that you celebrate with a plan. Be sure to arrange sober rides home for you, your friends and your family members to help avoid a car accident or a drunk driving arrest. The kickoff time of the big game is 6:30 p.m. Make sure to have all of your event details sorted out by then.

Experts at the University of Minnesota recently completed the most definitive study on watching sports and drinking alcohol, and the results are out just before the big game. The study concluded that nearly 10 percent of sports fans have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08.

If you're going to a friend's house or to a local sport's pub for the big game, be sure that you have a safe and sober ride home. Consider going through the following tips before starting your Super Bowl party.

Big Tips for the Big Game:

-Be sure to designate a sober driver before the party even starts. It's best to leave your car keys at home if you're going to be drinking.

-Pace yourself. You don't want to drink too much too fast. Be sure that you eat enough food, that you take a break from drinking and that you alternate the alcoholic and the non-alcoholic beverages.

-Before you leave your house, put the phone numbers to local taxis in your phone just in case.

-Always wear your seat belt. A seat belt is your best defense against injury or death in the event of a car accident.

Remember to recognize your Designated Driver when you're out Partying:

-Offer to be the designated driver the next time your group goes out drinking.

-Offer gas money or to pay for parking.

-Make sure that your designated driver's non-alcoholic beverage is always full.

-Cover their tab. Wings and non-alcoholic drinks aren't the much in comparison to the cost of a life.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 200,000 football fans pledged to be designated driver this year. Enjoy your friends, enjoy the game and enjoy your weekend of football, but enjoy it safely.

New Electronic Road Signs in Lee County Concerning Residents about Money Wasted on Minimal Road Safety

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:54:35 -0500

You may have noticed. There are new digital traffic message boards popping up on roadways throughout Lee County. According to NBC2, these boards cost the county nearly $6 million, but safe-driving advocates are saying it's the cheap way to reduce heavy traffic. The new system is called the Intelligent Transportation System and will work much like the ones you see on the interstate. The new signs are being used to warn drivers of traffic delays, road conditions, Amber Alerts, weather conditions and car accidents in Cape Coral and in Fort Myers.

Our Cape Coral car accident lawyers understand these signs were implemented by the county as a cheap way to reduce traffic in the area. Multi-lane projects can cost nearly $30 million. This sign project was less than $6 million. A lot of residents are saying that these signs aren't going to fix anything. Many are worried drivers will become too reliant on these signs. Some are also saying these signs are taking away drivers' self-sufficiency.

Officials backing the project strongly disagree.

The system isn't fully operational yet. It's about to start a thirty-day testing period. Officials believe it will be fully operational come March.

Tower says that drivers traveling from Fort Myers to Cape Coral and back will be alerted to bad situations on the bridge. This way, drivers will be able to make better informed decisions regarding how to get to their destination more easily.

On the NBC2 website, residents are voicing their displeasure with the new signs. One response post claims that the signs are unnecessary and a waste of money. It's a driver's responsibility to do their research before heading out of the house. Computers, radios and phones already alert us about traffic updates. Responses say that the $6 million could have been used to create something more tangible, like jobs.

Another response to the NBC2 article says that the $6 million is a waste because there are only a few ways to get across the river. If one way is congested, then everyone will be using the two other ways, which will subsequently be congested.

One response even stated, "I figure someone's brother-in-law in the DOT sell these signs."

Regardless of what is being done to help ease the traffic on our roadways, it's still most important that drivers head out with a plan. Drivers are urged to check out weather conditions, road conditions and traffic conditions before leaving the house. It's also important that you leave your house with plenty of time to spare just in case you run into an unexpected back up.

Until our traffic is reduced or our roadways are constructed to handle more vehicles, it's important for drivers to be prepared, defensive and knowledgeable behind the wheel. With motorists working together, we can all do our part to make every day commutes flow smoothly.

Pedestrian Accident in Fort Myers Critically Injures Teenager

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:00:55 -0500

A recent pedestrian accident in Fort Myers left a teenager in critical condition at Lee Memorial Hospital, according to The News-Press. The 16-year-old pedestrian was trying to make his way across Palm Beach Boulevard by Orange River Boulevard when he was hit by a van. The accident happened around 7:00 a.m.

Officials with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) report that the driver of the van tried to brake and swerve to avoid hitting the young pedestrian, but he was unable to do so. The pedestrian was taken to Lee Memorial with what medical officials classified as life-threatening injuries. Law enforcement officials report that the driver of the van will not face any charges or traffic citations because the pedestrian violated the right-of-way to eastbound traffic. The accident delayed traffic in the area for about 2 hours.

Our Fort Myers pedestrian accident lawyers understand how common pedestrian accidents along our Southwest Florida roadways. As we recently reported on our Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, the state of Florida has been ranked as the number one most dangerous state in the country for pedestrian accidents. If you've been outside, you can see that our mid-winter weather is absolutely beautiful. While other states are dealing with snow and ice, pedestrians across the state are free to roam under the warm winter sun. With the increase in pedestrian traffic, we're likely to see an increase in the number of pedestrian injuries and fatalities. Motorists and walkers and urged to be cautious when traveling along our busy Florida roadways. Pedestrian accidents can be prevented with the proper safe traveling habits.

From 2000 to 2009, Lee County witnessed approximately 200 pedestrian fatalities, according to Transportation For America. Pedestrian fatalities accounted for about 20 percent of the recorded traffic-related deaths during this time period. Pedestrian deaths here are more than 40 percent higher than the national average.

Safe Kids of Lee and Collier County suggests that local and state officials enforce the following laws to help keep our young pedestrians safe:

-Reduce speed limits even more in residential neighborhoods. Neighborhoods are a common backdrop for young pedestrian accidents. The slower a vehicle is traveling at the time of impact, the higher the chances are for a pedestrian to survive.

-Better protection for pedestrians traveling on sidewalks. Sidewalks should be away from busy roadways.

-Offer more walkways and sidewalks for pedestrians. These pedestrian travel lanes help to keep pedestrians and motor vehicle traffic separate.

-Ban drivers from passing stopped school buses. Every year, many young pedestrians are hit while getting on and off the bus every year. Drivers need to exercise extreme caution in these areas as child pedestrians are present.

-Provide the community with more crossing guards at busy intersections. Crossing guards help to get pedestrians and motorists on the same page and provide safe organization of traffic for all.

-Require that all pedestrians cross streets and designated crosswalks only. Most fatal pedestrian accidents happen at non-intersection area.

Each year, almost 650 pedestrians are killed while walking. Streets are the number location for these types of accident, but don't forget that pedestrian accidents can happen in a number of other spots, including on sidewalks, in parking lots and on driveways.

Improperly Licensed Drivers Causing Alarming Number of Fatal Car Accidents in Cape Coral, Nation

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:56:02 -0500

Driving without a license is a big problem here in the state of Florida. According to the Tampa Bay Times, there are about 15.5 million legal drivers in the state of Florida. There's also another 2.2 million people who have a suspended or revoked driver's license.

According to a recent study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, one out of every five drivers who is involved in a fatal car accident in Cape Coral or elsewhere has an invalid driver's license or is unlicensed all together. From 2007 through 2009, more than 87 percent of drivers involved in fatal car accidents possessed a valid driver's license.

Our Cape Coral car accident lawyers understand that while a majority of the drivers who were involved in fatal car accidents from 2007 to 2009 were properly licensed, there were nearly 10 percent of drivers who had a revoked or a suspended driver's license. In addition to the suspended and revoked licenses, there were more than 1 percent who had denied, canceled or expired driver's licenses and about 5 percent who were unlicensed all together. With these statistics, it's safe to say that more than 18 percent of all drivers who were involved in a fatal car accident during this time were invalidly licensed or were unlicensed.

Many of these drivers were also driving without insurance, which can complicate an accident claim.

Drivers who are age 21- to 34-years-old are most likely to have a suspended or revoked license. But car accidents involving improperly or unlicensed drivers can happen to anyone. Roughly 50 percent of fatal car accidents involved unlicensed drivers of this young age group.

About 50 percent of all fatal car accidents that involved an unlicensed driver involved alcohol. Roughly 45 percent of those drivers were legally drunk, with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher.

If that's not bad enough, it is estimated that more than 32 percent of all fatal car accidents that involved drivers who didn't have a valid driver's license, resulted in a hit-and-run crash -- the driver left the scene.

Unfortunately, with improperly licensed drivers come uninsured motorists. No one wants to get into a car accident, but it can be much more difficult than it has to be when an uninsured motorist is involved. It is critical for you to contact an experienced attorney if you have been in an accident with one of these drivers.

Car accidents can be awfully costly, including costs for property damage, injuries, fatalities and lost wages. Oftentimes, improperly licensed drivers and uninsured motorists are unable to pay appropriate funds over to the victims of the accident. For this reason, contacting an experienced attorney in this type of event is critical if you're looking to defend your rights and collect what you deserve.

Fatal Car Accidents in Fort Myers and Elsewhere Drop in 2011 Preliminary Estimates

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:01:58 -0500

Preliminary data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) concludes that nearly 2,400 people died in car accidents in Naples and elsewhere throughout the state in 2011. While this newly released data illustrated fewer fatalities than that of the previous year, we're still seeing far too many traffic-related fatalities throughout the state.

“While the six-year downward trend is encouraging, we continue our strategic efforts to drive down the number of crashes in Florida and the number of injuries and fatalities that come as a result,” says DHSMV Exec. Director Julie Jones.

Our Naples car accident lawyers understand that traffic accidents continue to be the number one cause of death for residents aged 4- to 34-years-old. It's alarming that the number one cause of death for such a large age group of residents throughout the country is in fact preventable. Officials throughout the state will be continuing on through the New Year with safety campaigns and enforcement efforts to help to reduce these fatality numbers even more.

We're able to look at the complete traffic accident statistics in Florida for 2010. The 2011 detailed statistics have not yet been released. So far, we only have the preliminary counts.

Traffic Accident Statistics in Florida for 2010:

-Total Accidents: About 235,460.

-Drivers Involved in Car Accidents: Roughly 338,110.

-Average Number of Accidents a Day: About 650,

-Average Mileage Death Rate (Per Million VMT): 1.25.

-Number of fatalities: About 2.445.

-Injuries: 195,105.

-Property-Damage Only Accidents: 108,535.

-Alcohol-Related Traffic Fatalities: Nearly 800.

-Drug-Related Traffic Fatalities: Nearly 110,

-Number of Pedestrian Fatalities: Nearly 500.

-Number of Bicyclists Killed: More than 75.

-Number of Teen Drivers Killed: Nearly 100.

In Collier County, there were nearly 300 traffic accident fatalities in 2010. In Lee County, there were Nearly 670 traffic accident fatalities.

The Lee County Sheriff's Office is asking all drivers to start the New Year with a clean slate. In 2012, let's all push for the safest roadways yet. Most traffic accidents are completely preventable and can be avoided with safe, alert and defensive driving habits. These habits include wearing a seat belt, abiding by posted speed limits, curbing distractions and buckling up. Remember that officers throughout the state will be on the hunt for dangerous and irresponsible drivers throughout the entire year. Avoid a ticket, an arrest and even a potentially fatal car accident by resolving to be a safe driver in 2012. Talk with your friends and family members about the importance of safe driving habits! Make the change to be a better driver in 2012!

New Child Seat Website Hoping to Reduce Risks of Child Injury in Fort Myers, Nation

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 11:17:26 -0500

Parents and educators have a brand new website to access resources regarding child safety seats. The new website, "Car Seat Safety for Kids," recently went live. The informational site is a joint effort between the Center for Injury Research and Prevention (CIRP) and the Kohl’s Injury Prevention Program.

Parents and child passenger safety educators can view new videos that correspond with the latest car seat recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to learn how to better protect young passengers in the event of a car accident in Fort Myers and elsewhere.

“Supporting this site are the research experts behind the AAP recommendations," says Suzanne Hill with CIRP.

Our Fort Myers child injury attorneys understand that traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for young ones aged 3- to 14-years old. Child car seats are one way to help turn this statistic around. From 1975 to 2008, statistics reveal that there were approximately 8,960 young lives saved because of child restraints. Parents are urged to visit a child seat inspection location in Florida to ensure that your child's car seat is properly installed. It is estimated that roughly 70 percent of all child seats are improperly installed by parents and guardians in the United States.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were nearly 1,500 deaths among individuals age 14 and younger as a result of traffic accidents in 2009 in the country. Another 180,000 were injured in these incidents. Experts report that the number could have been much lower had all children been properly buckled into the proper safety seats throughout the year. Studies conclude that nearly 620,000 children under the age of 12 rode in a vehicle without being properly seated in a child's car seat or a booster seat.

The likelihood of a child restraint use is directly correlated with the use of a seat belt by the parent or the driver. Of the child fatalities in 2009, about 40 percent of children who were not wearing a seat belt were riding with drivers who were not wearing a seat belt.

How Do Child Seats Help?

-Car seats reduce the risk of injury by more than 70 percent for infants and by more than 50 percent for toddlers.

-All types of enforcement campaigns have been proven to increase the child car seat usage.

-Booster seats reduce the risk of injury among children who are age 4- to 7-years-old by nearly 60 percent.

-Airbags increase a child's risk of death in the event of an accident. Always keep a child's car seat in the back seat.

Drivers, parents and guardians are asked to take the time to review the current recommendations regarding child car seats and be sure to buckle little ones in during every car ride. Your responsibility can help to save their lives in the event of a car accident in Fort Myers.

Important Dates Regarding Child Safety:

September 16th to the 22nd: Child Passenger Safety Week and National Seat Check Saturday.

-October 14t to the 20th: National Teen Driver Safety Week.

Florida Brain Injury Case Highlights Complexity of Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Litigation

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 12:35:04 -0500

After a 14-year legal battle, a Broward County man is set to receive $10.75 million after suffering brain injury in a Florida car accident by a speeding Broward deputy, the Sun-Sentinel reported.

Few accidents are as devastating as those that result in a spinal cord injury or brain injury. As veteran Florida spinal cord injury attorneys, we understand the importance of securing the resources necessary for life-long care.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about 200,000 people in the United States are living with a spinal cord injury. As many as 20,000 new cases occur annually. Cost of living with a spinal cord injury is estimated at $30,000 a year, with lifetime costs often exceeding $3 million.

Nearly half of all spinal cord injuries are the result of car accidents.

Brain injuries are even more common, although many of the 1.7 million cases each year involve mild TBI, such as a concussion. Still 52,000 die as a result of traumatic brain injury each year in the United States.

In this case, the 32-year-old man has lived with a brain injury that has left him largely confined to a wheelchair for 14 years after the 1998 accident. The college-bound high-school student was injured when a speeding Broward sheriff's deputy slammed into his vehicle on the way to work.

Complicating this case was law that protects government agencies from liability in excess of $200,000. It illustrates the complex nature of pursuing a government liability claim in Florida and why an experienced law firm must always be called to handle such cases.

A jury ruled that the sheriff's office should pay $30.7 million. However, liability limits prevented the payout. The family ultimately reached agreement with the Broward Sheriff's Office and its former insurance company. The $10.75 million will go to pay for the victim's care.

The settlement requires the legislature to pass a claims bill. The Senate began that process this week with a 37-2 vote.

These are very serious, complex cases. Insurance companies, and even doctors and hospitals, may quickly begin to distance themselves from liability after an accident. We have all seen and marveled at the recovery of Congresswoman Gabby Giffords after she suffered a brain injury in an assassination attempt a year ago. However, it's important to remember that the Congresswoman has had world class health care.

When it comes to rehabilitation, insurance companies may be particularly reticent. Yet it is rehabilitation that will make the greatest difference when it comes to a victim's ability to recover.

When a brain or spinal cord injury occurs, only the most experienced and resourceful law firms should be trusted with a victim's future and a family's financial well-being. Do not speak to the insurance company. Do not sign any paperwork. Do not accept any payments. And do not admit any fault.

Contact an experienced law firm to meet you at home, at their office or in the hospital. The most respected firms in the state will not charge you unless they are successful in making a recovery on your behalf.

Florida Airplane Accidents: Reno Air Disaster and Exception in Safe Year for Aviation

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:16:33 -0500

General aviation accidents have declined for the fourth year in a row, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.

Our Florida airplane accident attorneys applaud the news. Yet we know it is high season for private airlcraft traffic in Florida. Florida is the private aviation epicenter of the nation. And the start of the winter tourism season signals the busiest months of the year.

Unfortunately, Florida airplane accidents are common. These are complex cases and can involve out-of-state airplane owners or leasing companies, maintenance contractors, air traffic controllers and federal regulations. Founding Attorney Bruce L. Scheiner is a licensed private pilot. Florida Trial Attorney Preston J. Scheiner is also a pilot, with multi engine and instrument ratings. P.J. Scheiner is also licensed to fly the Citation jet series of aircraft.

At Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, we understand the issues involved in litigating Florida aviation accidents. From the time of an accident, right through to the resolution of your case, you can rest assured that our firm has the knowledge, experience and resources to fight for your rights.

The NTSB reports there were 1,435 GA accidents -- a two-decade low. The record low comes even as the total number of flight hours has started to climb for the first time since the start of the Great Recession.

In 2010, a total of 450 people were killed in general aviation accidents -- that's down from 478 in 2009. The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association is analyzing accident details in compiling its annual comprehensive report on accident causes, which in turn will help shape pilot training and education.

“Complacency remains the enemy of safety, and we continue to develop new programs for 2012 that dig deeper into the causes of accidents,” said Bruce Landsberg, president of the association's Air Safety Institute. “Most accidents result from causes that have plagued aviation for years. That story, unfortunately, is little changed.”

One black mark on aviation's 2011 record was the airshow tragedy in Reno, where 11 spectators died and 70 were injured at the National Championship Air Races when a plane crashed into the crowd. The plane was piloted by veteran pilot and air racer Jimmy Leeward, owner of Leeward Air Ranch near Ocala, Florida.

The Washington Post reported this week that the Federal Aviation Administration is unlikely make drastic changes. If the FAA becomes aware “of a risk that exceeds the boundary of what we think is acceptable, we will make those changes. But not currently,” John McGraw, the FAA's deputy director of flight standards.

It was the worst airshow disaster since 1961, when an accident in Colorado killed 20.

A New Year and a Fresh Start for Reduced Risks of Car Accidents in Naples

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:40:20 -0500

As we recently reported on our Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, law enforcement agencies throughout Southwest Florida were out on the hunt for dangerous drivers through the busy holiday season. During this time, the Lee County Sheriff's Office and hundreds of law enforcement offices were pushing "4D Prevention Month," which targets drunk, distracted and drugged drivers.

The increase in patrolling efforts is over, but the risk for car accidents in Naples and elsewhere throughout Southwest Florida continues through the busy winter tourism season. We would like to ask all residents to make a New Year's resolution to be a better driver in 2012. Safer roadways start with you. Pledge to drive defensively, to drive soberly, to curb distractions and to be courteous to other drivers in the New Year.

Our Naples car accident attorneys are here to offer you some defensive driving tips from the Florida's Department of Motor Vehicles. In 2010, which are the most recent traffic accident statistics available, there were nearly 236,500 car accidents in the state of Florida. Of these accidents, there were more than 2,440 people killed and another 196,100 people injured. All of these numbers illustrate a decrease from the previous year. Let's all work together to help to reduce these numbers even further in 2012.

Safe Driving Tips from Florida's Department of Motor Vehicles:

-Always practice the two second rule. Never tailgate another vehicle. The less time there is between your car and another car the less time you have to react to a road hazard.

-Never drink and drive. Driving requires your full attention, which is not available to a driver who is drunk. Alcohol significantly hinders your judgment behind the wheel. Keep in mind that a DUI can cost you roughly $8,000 and will remain on your record for 75 years.

-Stay calm. Don't be an aggressive driver. These types of drivers cause traffic accidents rather than prevent them.

-Keep your focus on the road. Avoid distractions such as eating, playing with the music, using a cell phone, text messaging or talking with passengers. Distractions take a driver's attention off of the road and increase the risks for accidents. Distraction-related accidents take the lives of thousands every year.

-Always wear a seat belt. These devices have the ability to save your life in the event of an accident.

-Be cautious of bicyclists and pedestrians. These travelers are much more vulnerable to injury and death in the event of an accident. They have the same rights to the road as motorists. Be cautious and courteous.

-Obey all traffic signs and lights. These devices are used to keep drivers safe.

-Always follow the speed limit. Remember that these limits are to be used for ideal weather conditions. When it's foggy or rainy on our roadways, slow it down.

National Campaign Urging Drivers to Pitch In to Reduce Risks of Distraction-Related Car Accidents in Fort Myers, Nation

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 08:06:52 -0500

Our Fort Myers car accident attorneys have recently been discussing the dangers of driving distracted. We've discussed the recent recommendation from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) that asks all state government officials to make it illegal for all drivers to use portable electronic devices at the wheel. Now, there's another campaign coming to get drivers to put down the phones and curb the distractions while operating a motor vehicle. The most recent campaign comes from Distraction.gov, the Official U.S. Government Website for Distracted Driving.

The new campaign from Distraction.gov involves a pledge that drivers across the country are urged to take. This pledge asks drivers to vow to make a conscious effort to curb distractions, help others to curb distractions and to spread the word about the cause. With snowbirds and vacationers arriving nearly every day, traffic on Florida roadways will be heavier than ever. This means that your risks for a car accident in Fort Myers and elsewhere in Southwest Florida are higher than normal. Drivers are asked to remain focused and alert at the wheel.

Although Florida is one of the few states left that has not enacted any laws to stop drivers from texting or making phone calls at the wheel, drivers in the state are urged to take Distraction.gov's pledge to help make our roadways safer. The first step to safer roadways and fewer car accidents starts with you.

Take the pledge today!:

-Pledge to give up cell phones and text messaging devices while operating a motor vehicle.

-When you're a passenger in a vehicle and the driver is engaging in distractions, speak up!

-Urge your family and your friends to take the pledge and to put away the portable communication devices while driving.

While this campaign focuses on cell phone and text message device usage, it's important to remember that there are a number of additional distractions that can cause deadly accidents on our roadways.

Other distractions include:

-Eating or drinking while driving.

-Talking with passengers takes your attention off of the roadway, too.

-Vehicles come equipped with plenty of mirrors. They shouldn't be used to applying makeup and grooming while driving.

-Drivers should refrain from reading at the wheel. This includes road maps.

-Drivers should use GPS devices while the vehicle is stopped in a safe location.

-Many vehicles come with TVs and electronic visual displays nowadays. Don't operate these devices while navigating on our roadways.

-CD players, MP3 players and radios can serve as deadly distractions, too. Adjust these devices only when you're stopped, like at a stop sign or at a red light.

Please be cautious and alert at the wheel to help to avoid an accident.

Continuous Efforts from Transportation Officials to Help Reduce Risks of Distraction-Related Car Accidents in Naples, Nation

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 07:24:38 -0500

Recently, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced a final rule to ban all drivers of commercial trucks and drivers of buses from using hand-held cell phones while driving. The rule is the latest attempt by the federal government to curb distractions to help prevent car accidents in Naples and elsewhere.

As we recently reported on our Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, officials now are taking another stab at making our roadways even safer by proposing a rule to make all cell phone use and the use of all other portable electronic devices illegal for all drivers in the country.

"Drivers must keep their eyes on the road, hands on the wheel and head in the game when operating on our roads. Lives are at stake," said USDOT's Ray Lahood.

Under the rule applying to truckers and bus drivers, they could face a fine of nearly $3,000 if they're observed using a hand-held cell phone at the wheel. In addition to a personal fine, a company could face fines upwards of $10,000. While about four million drivers are affected by this rule, the nationwide proposal from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) would affect all drivers on U.S. roadways.

As we head into snowbird and tourist season, traffic on our roadways will be busier than ever. Every year, millions of people both from the United States and foreign countries make Florida their winter destination. With the increased traffic, we also typically see significant increases in our risks for car accidents, trucking accidents and motorcycle accidents as well. Drivers are asked to be cautious especially when the weather is bad or while driving at night. Be smart, think about the great responsibility that comes along with driving, and head out with a plan to avoid one of these potentially fatal incidents.

Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving, from Naples Daily News:

-Take advantage of your voice mail. Consider setting up a message to alert callers that you may not be answering because you're driving and you'll call them back at your earliest convenience.

-Store your phone in the backseat, center console, glove compartment or elsewhere out of reach.

-Turn your phone on silent or shut it off before starting your vehicle.

-If you must answer a phone call, or make one, pull over to a safe area and then do so.

-Never D.U.I.T. – Drive Under the Influence of Texting.

-Ask a passenger to make/answer a call if needed.

Remember that Florida is one of the only states left in the country that has yet to enact some sort of law to regulate these distractions for drivers. We are asking all drivers to willingly give up the distractions behind the wheel. Don't make them more even dangerous by driving while distracted.

Motorcyclist Injured in Fort Myers Accident: Motorist Caution Requested through Holiday Season

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 06:52:05 -0500

A recent motorcycle accident in Fort Myers left a Cape Coral cyclist severely injured and in the hospital. Officers with the Fort Myers Police Department responded to the accident, which involved the motorcycle and a small passenger car on Cleveland Avenue. The motorcycle was heading south when a small Toyota, heading north, attempted to make a left-hand turn and drove into the path of the biker. After the collision, the motorcyclist was taken to Lee Memorial Hospital. The driver and the passenger of the car were injured as well and also taken to the hospital, according to the North Fort Myers Neighbor. Authorities report the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet.

Our Fort Myers motorcycle accident lawyers understand that motorcycling is a year-round activity here in Southwest Florida. Unfortunately, so are accidents. We're in the heart of the winter season, and while bikers across the country have hung up their bike keys for snow shovels, riders in Florida are still cruising the open road in the beautiful Florida warmth. We are asking all motorists to be cautious of our two-wheeled friends on the road. Thousands of tourists and snowbirds are already arriving in Florida, traveling to the beaches, shopping malls and other destinations. Please be cautious and alert for the safety of all motorists on our roadways during this time.

As we recently reported, the overall traffic fatality numbers for the U.S. have shown a decrease in the last year. The new statistic also serves as the lowest number since 1949, but the truth of the matter is that during this time the number of motorcycle accident fatalities experienced a significant increase.

Motorcycle Tips from NBC2:

-Because there are so many more cars and trucks than motorcycles, many drivers don't even recognize motorbikes as actual vehicles. Remember to treat a motorcyclist with the same courtesy as you would any other driver.

-Motorcycles may look like they're much farther away than they actually are. This is because they appear to be so small. When looking for oncoming traffic, always assume that a motorcycle is closer than it appears.

-A lot of drivers have difficulty seeing them because of their small size as they get lost in vehicle's blind spots easily. Make sure you take that extra second to check for a motorcycle traveling around you before making a turn, pulling out into traffic or switching lanes.

-Never tailgate a motorcycle. Many of these drivers will slow their bike down by downshifting, which doesn't activate brake lights, instead of hitting the brakes.

-Remember that blinkers on motorcycles aren't self-canceling like the ones are on passenger vehicles. Be aware of a motorcyclist's intentions.

We would also like to remind riders in the area of Cape Coral Bike Night. This is an event in which the City of Cape Coral Parks and Recreation hosts a biker event to draw in motorcycle enthusiasts from the area. Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured, is a proud sponsor of the event and invite you to join us at the next events:

-February 11th 2011, from 5 to 10 p.m.

-April 14th 2011, from 5 to 10 p.m.

Distraction-Related Car Accidents in Naples and Elsewhere Still Likely with Hands-Free Phone Use

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 11:08:48 -0500

There are no laws on the books that regulate driver distractions in Florida, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. As we recently reported on our Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, officials with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are pushing for a nationwide ban on the use of portable electronic devices for drivers everywhere. This ban would include all forms of electronic communication.

Although there were more than 3,000 people killed in distraction-related car accidents in Naples and elsewhere throughout 2010, not all states agree with the idea of an overall ban. Distraction-related laws started hitting the books back in 2000. Since then, no state has enacted a full ban for all drivers, according to CNN. According to the executive director of the Governors Highway Safety Association, Barbara Harsha, these laws are difficult to enact because oppositions strongly voice their opinions of government intrusion, saying these laws hinder people's personal freedoms.

Our Naples car accident attorneys understand many states have banned only hand-held cell phone use in an attempt to make roadways safer. The problem with that is that recent studies from the National Safety Council (NSC) have determined that just banning hand-held devices isn't going to solve the problem considering that hands-free devices are just as dangerous and distracting to drivers. It seems that the battle of driver safety will be continuous and until drivers make safety a top priority and willingly curb the dangerous habits, we can continue to expect unnecessary, careless deaths on roadways across the nation.

"It's going to take a long time for legislatures to pass laws, and a long time for states to begin to enforce the laws, and then a long time for behavior to start to change," said Harsha.

According to David Adkins with The Council of State Governments, lawmakers feel that trade groups and constituents think total bans like this are excessive and states won't go for a total ban. He compared a potential ban to an 18th Amendment of today -- a prohibition that wouldn't work.

According to the NSC, distractions have become such a big problem on our roadways that they've joined the list for the top contributors to fatal accidents, alongside speeding and alcohol.

"Distracted driving" was listed as Webster's Dictionary as Word of the Year in 2009. During the year:

-There were over 200 state bills introduced in an attempt to curb cell phone use -- talking and texting -- for drivers. Laws that made it through were considered front-page news!

-The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) launched the Distracted Driving Summit, in which the Secretary of Transportation, Ray LaHood, called the most important meeting in the department’s history.

-President Obama issued an Executive Order banning federal employees from texting behind the wheel.

-Public polls illustrated that a majority of American drivers support such anti-distraction laws.

Recent studies illustrate that drivers can't "multi-task" as well as they think. The truth of the matter is that no one can evenly focus on two activities as well as if they were focusing on one. While many people have proposed hands-free cell phone use as a solution to the driver distraction problem, it has been proven that these devices are just as dangerous. When focusing on another activity, drivers see less of the road and they react slower, all contributing to higher risks for an accident.