Florida Injury Lawyer Blog

Authorities look to prevent boating accidents in Fort Myers, Naples as season begins

November 9, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

Law enforcement began November with an operation aimed at improving boater safety and targeting unsafe behavior on the water in an effort to reduce the risk of serious and fatal boating accidents in Fort Myers, Naples and the surrounding areas as winter residents and tourists begin flocking to the area.

The Fort Myers Police Department and the Lee County Marine Task Force teamed up for the first joint operation of the year, conducting safety inspections and looking for speed and other safety violations, including careless operation and boating under the influence.

Collier County boating accidents place the county sixth in the state, with 35 accidents last year. A total of 35 Lee County boating accidents placed the county seventh in the state for highest number of serious and fatal boating crashes.

Clocks go back, risk of Fort Myers car accidents, pedestrian accidents go up at dusk

November 8, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

Our Fort Myers pedestrian accident attorneys remind motorists that with the clocks going back an hour comes an increased risk of traffic accidents during the late afternoon, particularly those involving pedestrians.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 4,092 pedestrians were killed last year and 59,000 were injured. Florida is one of the deadliest states in the nation for pedestrian accidents, second only to California.

With the clocks going back an hour, dusk will fall during the afternoon rush hour. The additional traffic that comes with the return of winter residents and tourist season will only exacerbate the problem. While there is also an increased danger of car accidents with an earlier dusk, it is the high risk of serious or fatal injuries that come with pedestrian accidents that has authorities most concerned.

The government reports adjustment to the lower-light takes time and drivers may also be more distracted. Pedestrians are encouraged to carry flashlights and/or wear reflective tape to ensure they are visible to drivers at the greatest possible distance.

Nationwide, 25 percent of fatal pedestrian accidents occur between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. while another 13 percent happen around sunrise.

Other advice to reduce the risk of car accidents and pedestrian accidents at sunrise and sunset:

Motorists -Slow down. Dusk requires more time to see and react.
-Keep in mind pedestrians may not hear you approach.
-Keep your windshield and mirrors clear. Make sure your windshield fluid is full and that wipers and defrosters are in good working order.

Pedestrians -Carry a flashlight and wear reflective material.
-Don’t depend on traffic signals to protect you.
-Avoid jaywalking or crossing the street between parked cars.
-Use sidewalks whenever possible.
-Walk facing traffic.
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Drowsy Driving Prevention Week can help reduce risk of car accidents in Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, Punta Gorda

November 6, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

Our Fort Myers injury lawyers encourage you to carry the message of Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, which runs Nov. 8 to Nov. 14.

A new report by the AAA Foundation for Highway Safety found that 2 of every 5 drivers admitted to falling asleep at the wheel at some point. One in 10 drivers said they have done it in the past year. More than one-fourth of motorists surveyed admitted to driving while so tired they could hardly keep their eyes open at some point during the last month.

Despite 85 percent of those polled saying that driving while too tired is “completely unacceptable,” the disconnect between opinion and statistics indicates far too many drivers do not appreciate the dangers of drowsy driving.

“When you are behind the wheel of a car, being sleepy is very dangerous. Sleepiness decreases awareness, slows reaction time, and impairs judgment, just like drugs or alcohol, contributing to the possibility of a crash,” said AAA Foundation President and CEO Peter Kissinger. “We need to change the culture so that not only will drivers recognize the dangers of driving while drowsy but will stop doing it.”

New statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggest that one-sixth of fatal car accidents involve a driver who was drowsy, accounting for more than 5,500 deaths each year. Drowsy driving is also involved in 1 in 8 accidents involving hospitalization and 1 in 14 crashes that result in a vehicle being towed from the scene.

“Many of us tend to underestimate the negative effects associated with fatigue and sleep deprivation and, conversely, overestimate our abilities to overcome them while driving,” said Kathleen Marvaso, vice president, AAA Public Affairs. “This data underscores the importance of educating drivers on the simple, yet effective steps they can take to prevent a possible tragedy. Unfortunately, too many drivers have adopted the ‘I’m tired, but I can make it’ mentality, often to their own peril or to the peril of others.”

Safety advocates urge motorists to get plenty of sleep before taking a long trip, schedule a break every two hours or 100 miles, travel at times when you would normally be awake, and to stay overnight instead of attempting to drive straight through to your destination.

Signs of drowsy driving include:

-Having trouble keeping your eyes opened or focused.

-Trouble keeping your head up.

-Daydreaming or having wandering or disconnected thoughts.

-Drifting out of your lane or tailgating.
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Motorcycle accident lawyers in Cape Coral and Fort Myers once again sponsor 2010-2011 Cape Bike Nights

November 2, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured, is one again the title sponsors of the 2010-2011 Cape Bike Night Season.

Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples and the Punta Gorda/Port Charlotte areas are dedicated to fighting for the rights of motorcycle riders who have been seriously injured or killed by the negligence of other drivers. And we are proud to once again provide title sponsorship to what has become Southwest Florida’s premiere motorcycle event.

“Cape Coral Bike Night draws tens of thousands of motorcycle riders every year and has become the signature bike event in Southwest Florida,” said Bruce L. Scheiner, the firm’s founder and senior attorney. “We are pleased to once again partner with the City of Cape Coral and all of our friends in the riding community in supporting these family-friendly events while promoting motorcycle safety and awareness.”

This is the sixth year Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured, has provided sponsorship and the fourth year the firm has been the season’s title sponsor, according the Cape Coral Special Events Coordinator Todd King.

“Attendance continues to grow — Cape Coral police estimated attendance at our October event was the largest ever,” King said. “With the amazing support from Bruce L. Scheiner and his team, the event has continued to get better and better each year.”

The event is also frequently used to raise money for charity; in October, a March of Dimes fundraiser was conducted.

The remaining three events for this year are scheduled for December 11, February 12 and April 9. Cape Coral Bike nights are held on SE 47th Terrace in Cape Coral, which is closed to motorists. The event features food and clothing vendors, live bands, raffles, prizes and thousands of motorcycles.

Event attendance typically tops 10,000 people.
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Fort Myers police warn of distracted driving dangers in an effort to reduce risk of in-season car accidents

October 31, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

As Fort Myers enters the winter tourist season, police have an ominous warning: When it comes to distracted driving, Fort Myers is the second-most-dangerous city of 97 cities its size in the State of Florida.

Our Fort Myers accident lawyers understand that seasonal traffic can be a real headache — we drive in it, too. But being involved in — or causing — a car accident in Cape Coral or Fort Myers is far worse than waiting on a red light to cycle through a second time or spending an extra 10 minutes reaching your destination.

“Halloween is the start to a busy holiday season and tourist season,” Chief Doug Baker wrote in a column published in The News-Press. “Be responsible when getting behind the wheel; give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Exercise patience and let cooler heads prevail when caught in traffic.”

The Chief said the department will spend season working on education, prevention and enforcement, but motorists must do their part.

More than 5,000 car accidents were reported in Lee County last year, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Nationwide, 5,474 motorists were killed and 448,000 were injured by accidents caused by distracted drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

“These numbers show that distracted driving remains an epidemic in America, and they are just the tip of the iceberg,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

Only speeding and drunk driving are blamed for more traffic deaths.

Chief Baker is urging motorists to put down their cell phones and to not text while driving.

“We will continue to address issues such as red light running, occupant safety (seatbelts), aggressive and distracted driving, and driving under the influence.” he said.
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Drunk driving accidents in Fort Myers and Cape Coral are a weekend holiday danger

October 30, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

Law enforcement agencies will be out in force this week, making sure the scariest thing about Halloween weekend isn’t the other motorists on the road.

As our Fort Myers injury attorneys reported last week on our Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, the Halloween weekend is also a dangerous time for pedestrian accidents and accidents involving premise liability, including dog attacks.

But drunk driving accidents in Fort Myers remain one of the primary threats to a safe enjoyment of the weekend. And Fort Myers police and law enforcement agencies statewide will be out in force. Last year, 1,004 motorists were killed in drunk driving accidents in Florida, according to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

A total of 617 drunk driving accidents in Lee County were reported, claiming 25 lives.

Statewide, troopers from the Florida Highway Patrol will join local law enforcement in a “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest” Campaign through Sunday night.

“There is not a Halloween costume clever enough to hide an impaired driver who has made the poor decision to get behind the wheel,” said FHP Director, Colonel John Czernis. “Whether you’ve had one too many or way too many it is just not worth the risk. Remember, Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving. Our troopers will be vigilant in their efforts to remove impaired drivers from our roadways.”

Fort Myers Police Chief Doug Baker said one of the department’s goals remains to reduce the number of drunk driving accidents. Unfortunately, the 133 people arrested for drunk driving so far this year is 17 percent more than during the same period of time last year.

“Sadly, that slogan you may have heard on the radio and on television, “Over the Limit, Under Arrest,” hasn’t reached many drivers,” Baker wrote in a News-Press column recently. “Avoid the use of alcohol while operating a motor vehicle and always make use of a designated driver if you have consumed alcohol. Don’t become a statistic; remember that the life you save may be your own!”

Safe driving tips from the Highway Patrol:

-Plan a safe way home before festivities begin.

-Designate a sober driver.

-If impaired, phone a friend, use a taxi or rely on public transportation.

-Report drunk drivers by calling *FHP (*347)
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Fort Myers car accidents, premise liability issues a concern during Halloween

October 23, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

The Halloween season brings with it the increased threat of injuries resulting from premise liability issues and car accidents in Fort Myers and throughout South Florida.

Authorities will be conducting a drunk driving “Over the Limit. Under Arrest” campaign from Oct. 25 – 31, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Drunk driving was responsible for more than half of the 4,900 people killed over Halloween weekends during the last decade.

Nighttime is always a dangerous time to be on the road but Halloween night is frequently one of the deadliest nights on the road all year.

Car accidents are not the only danger during Halloween — Issues involving premise liability in Fort Myers are commonplace. More walking dark sidewalks is done on Halloween night than all year long. Children are at increased risk of a whole host of injuries, including Fort Myers pedestrian accidents. And trick-or-treaters and/or guests or party goers can be subjected to everything from slip and fall accidents to dog attacks and swimming pool accidents.

When it comes to Halloween, pretty much anything can happen.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a fun list of safety tips that spell “Safe Halloween:”

-Swords, knives and other costume accessories should be soft and flexible.

-Avoid trick-or-treating alone.

-Fasten reflective tape to your costume to make yourself more visible to drivers.

-Examine treats for choke hazards and tampering.

-Hold a flashing so you can see and others can see you.

-Always test make-up in a small area and remove promptly to avoid irritation.

-Look both ways before crossing the street.

-Lower your risk for eye injury by not wearing costume lenses.

-Only walk on sidewalks or on the far edge of the road facing traffic.

-Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes.

-Eat only factory-wrapped candy.

-Enter homes only with a trusted adult.

-Never walk near lit candles and be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.
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Cool weather means more bikers on the road – motorists encouraged to take steps to avoid Fort Myers motorcycle accidents

October 21, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

We’ve made it! The National Weather Service has called an end to the rainy season two weeks ahead of schedule, ushering in the lower humidity, more reasonable temperatures and light breezes that make October in South Florida the reason so many of us live here. The next six weeks, until the arrival of our winter friends and the start of heavy traffic and tourist season, are among the nicest weeks of the year.

Our biker friends think so, too. And October is a prime time for riding and a great time for motorists to remind themselves that the South Florida motorcycle season runs year around. In fact, most riders prefer the winter season in Florida. It’s cooler and the lack of rain makes it safer. Unfortunately, motorists who fail to watch for riders are frequently responsible for causing motorcycle accidents in Fort Myers or elsewhere in South Florida.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that 5,290 riders were killed in 2008 and more than 96,000 were injured. Florida motorcycle accidents accounted for 523 fatalities, or 1 in 10 fatal motorcycle accidents that occurred nationwide. Only California reported more riding deaths.

Fort Myers accident attorneys encourage parents to speak with teens during Teen Driver Safety Week

October 19, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

Our Fort Myers personal injury lawyers encourage parents to speak with their teenagers about the importance of safe driving habits this week during National Teen Driver Safety Week (Oct. 17-24).

As we reported last week on our Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, parental involvement is critical to reducing the risk that your teenager will be involved in a serious or fatal car accident in Cape Coral or Fort Myers. The coming weeks are among the most dangerous of the year as school’s celebrate homecoming, traffic gets intense with the start of tourist season, and South Florida heads into the holiday season.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that car accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers ages 15 to 20. And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that 2 of every 5 teenager deaths are the result of traffic accidents.

Teens have every bad driving habit in the book and are among the worst offenders when it comes to drunk driving, speeding, texting and driving, distracted driving, not wearing their seat belts, riding with too many passengers in the car, dangerous nighttime driving and driving too fast for conditions.

In fact, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that 1 in 5 16-year-old drivers will be involved in an accident.

The Florida Drive with Care program is encouraging awareness by urging everyone to wear a white shirt on Oct. 19 to “White Out Teen Crashes.”

Driving tips for teenagers adapted from the department of motor vehicles:

-Wear your seat belt.

-Adjust mirrors, seat, radio and climate control before moving.

-Make complete stops at stop signs and red lights. Avoid jamming on the brakes. When stopping behind another vehicle, stay far enough back that you can see its rear tires.

-Look left, right, straight, left before proceeding from a stop. Look left first and last because that is the direction of oncoming traffic.

-Do not rely on mirrors when backing up. Make visual checks in all directions to make sure your path is clear.

-Remain 15 feet away from trucks on all sides. If you cannot see a truck’s rearview mirrors, the driver cannot see you.

-Don’t speed. The chance of death or serious injury doubles for every 10 mph you travel over 50 mph.

Click here for additional tips on dangerous driving distractions, night driving and driving in bad weather. Here you will find a safe driving contract for your Florida teenager.
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Cape’s commitment to DUI checkpoints saves lives and reduces drunk driving accidents

October 16, 2010 | Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner

Our injury attorneys in Cape Coral and Fort Myers were glad to hear that sobriety checkpoints will continue in the Cape despite a loss of grant funding.

For years, Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured, have supported sobriety checkpoints conducted in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Our attorneys have spent evenings on the scene. And we have been invited to ride with the Wolf Packs — roving saturation patrols of officers looking to take drunk drivers off the street. And we are proud supporters of the local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving and Mobile Eyes, which offers cash rewards to motorists who report drunk drivers.

Some of the most tragic cases we have handled as a firm have involved drunk driving accidents in Cape Coral and Fort Myers or traffic accidents caused by intoxicated drivers elsewhere in South Florida.