It’s summertime in Florida, and that means our roads and busy and our waterways are packed. Sweltering temperatures make the backyard swimming pool a popular destination, and barbecues are cooking well into the evening. Unfortunately, each scenario represents some of the more common summer personal injury claims we see. Here are some of the most frequent accidents and mishaps that cause injury in the Sunshine State during this time of year.
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- Car accidents: It seems car accidents top every list, but they are a fact of life in Florida. In fact, the personal injury cases most seen in courtrooms are associated with vehicular accidents. Our area draws tourists and visitors from around the country and the globe, meaning that there are millions of people on the roads – and many of them are unfamiliar with the region. Due to highway speeds, road construction, new traffic patterns, and people leaving the beach after too many beers, car accidents are, unfortunately, a daily occurrence in Tampa, Orlando, and Sarasota. During the summer, another variable factors into the high number of roadway accidents: the often unpredictable weather. Afternoon rainstorms are always expected and typically intense. Although brief, these storms can dump massive amounts of water within a very short period of time, resulting in slippery, hazardous roadways and significantly impairing visibility.
- Motorcycle Accidents: Motorcyclists are at risk for all the reasons listed above but experience an additional risk factor. Because of the frequent traffic jams, motorcyclists often try to thread their way between vehicles – and they travel between blind spots as they navigate through traffic.
- Boating Accidents: Whether boating in the Gulf o Mexico, Tampa Bay, or at an inland lake, there is a common denominator. Our waterways are increasingly crowded with recreational watercraft, from speedboats to kayaks and jet skis. Not only is the water busy (especially on weekends), but pilots don’t always agree about the right of way or pay attention to wake signs and other safety barriers. Adding alcohol to a sunny day on the boat can be disastrous and is just as illegal as drinking and driving in a car. Boating accidents cause property damage and put people at risk of drowning should there be a catastrophe.
- Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: When kids are home from school, there are more pedestrians and bicyclists on the road – and this adds to the number of summer personal injury claims. Still, these accidents occur year-round, given our weather.
- Swimming Pool Accidents: Sadly, drowning is the leading cause of death in young children, and it is easy to see why. During our long, hot summers, swimming pools provide an alluring oasis to cool off and relax but provide a backdrop for many summer personal injury claims. Slipping around a wet surface, injuring oneself when diving into a shallow pool, and drowning incidents are all realities that can land homeowners in court.
- Premises Liability Claims: While the backyard barbecue is a time-honored tradition during Florida summers, many dangers are lurking around most residences. While a homeowner may not realize a step is sagging or a flagstone is loose, they can be held liable if one of their guests injures themselves on their property. Homeowners should be aware of the dangers surrounding swimming pools and pool decks, barbecue grills and fire pits, steps and stairs, or any electrical lighting that may have exposed wires. Installing bright outdoor lighting for evening events is one way to mitigate the risk of injuries on and around the property during evening hours.
If you have been injured in an accident and feel it was due to someone else’s negligence, call the team at Probinsky & Cole today. Our team of personal injury attorneys is ready to meet you in one of our three Florida locations to discuss the details of your case.
