Attorney Blog

Treatment for a Bulging Disc after a St. Petersburg Accident

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)74502 — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

A type of back injury that can be suffered in a car accident is a bulging disc. Pain, along with other symptoms, such as tingling and numbness, may be felt. To learn if you have the right to pursue a claim against the other driver, you should consult with a St. Petersburg accident lawyer.

Treatment for a bulging disc is initially conservative and may include medication for pain and swelling, ice/heat therapy, and rest. If this doesn’t work, there are other options, which may include a combination of treatments.

Some of the other treatment options that may help with a bulging disc include:

cortisone injections;
physical therapy;
massage;
steroids; and
surgery.

The type of surgery performed will depend on the location and severity of the back injury.

When you are facing medical treatment which can be expensive, you could be compensated for your injuries through a claim if they were caused by the negligence of another. A lawyer can help determine if someone else may be held liable.

If your back injury, after a serious car accident, has resulted in a bulging disc, get in touch with legal counsel as soon as possible to see if you have a legitimate case worth to pursue.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Accident Lawyer
Filing an injury claim as the result of a car accident in St. Petersburg can be complex. In cases such as these, it’s best that you have an experienced and trustworthy lawyer in St. Petersburg on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg accident lawyer about your injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Treating Broken Bones Stemming from a Car Accident in St. Petersburg

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)72976 — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you have been involved in a car accident in St. Petersburg and have suffered severe broken bones, you may face financial, physical and emotional losses. To learn how you may be entitled to recover these losses, you should speak immediately with a St. Petersburg accident lawyer.

Treatment for broken bones depends on where the break is located and the severity. When breaks are severe, it could lead to the individual becoming disabled, suffering chronic pain and other complications.

Types of Treatment for Broken Bones after a Car Accident in St. Petersburg

Treatment for severe broken bones can include:

casting;
surgery (using pins, plates, screws, rods);
braces;
physical therapy;
medication; and
rehabilitation.

The more severe the injuries are, the longer the recovery time will be. This means additional medical expenses and missing a substantial amount of time from work. With no money coming in and mounting medical bills, you may wonder what your legal options are.

Compensation may be available if you have sustained severe broken bones after a car accident in St. Petersburg caused by the negligence of another. Contact a St. Petersburg accident lawyer to learn what your rights are and how they can be protected.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Accident Lawyer
Filing an injury claim as the result of a car accident in St. Petersburg can be complex. In cases such as these, it’s best that you have an experienced and trustworthy lawyer in St. Petersburg on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg accident lawyer about your injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 1-727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

5 Things Not to Say After an Accident in St. Petersburg

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)72536 — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

After a car accident in St. Petersburg, the scene can be chaotic and confusing. In the commotion of the moment, you could say something that later could be held against you or taken out of context by an insurance company. St. Petersburg accident lawyers will usually advise you to speak only when necessary at the scene. These are 5 things you should never say after a car accident.

“I didn’t see you” – It could be that you didn’t see the other driver because he or she ran a red light or didn’t have lights on. Saying this can make it seem like you weren’t paying attention.
“I’m Sorry” – If you aren’t sure if the accident in St. Petersburg was your fault, don’t say anything. “I’m sorry” can imply fault.
“I’m OK” – Even if you don’t have external injuries, you may have internal injuries that can show up later.
“We don’t need to call the police” – If you don’t call the police after an accident, you could face legal action and miss an opportunity for third-party documentation of what happened.
“It was your fault” – Don’t try to speculate to the police or insurance adjusters what caused the accident. Let the St. Petersburg accident lawyers assigned to your case handle proving fault.

Remembering these 5 things can help you avoid making common mistakes after an accident in St. Petersburg. Protect your legal rights and maximize the amount of compensation you may receive by contacting an attorney.

Contact a St. Petersburg Accident Attorney

Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a St. Petersburg accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it’s best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg injury attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 1-727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

Can I make the insurance company repair my car with new OEM parts?

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)72516 — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

I am often asked if the insurance company has to repair a wrecked car with new OEM "Original Equipment Manufacturer" parts. The short answer is probably no, unless the insurance policy requires it. Florida law requires the parts to be of the same fit, quality and performance. This technically provides 3 options: new OEM parts; used OEM parts; or non-OEM parts. While the insurance company will argue that your 5 year old car doesn't deserve a brand new radiator, and if they can find a used 5 year old OEM radiator, putting it in your car places you back in the same situation you were in before the accident. Your response to that argument should be to ask what guarantee they will give you that the replacement radiator is of the same fit, quality and performance as your old one? If they want to use a non-OEM, generic or after-market part, whether new or used, you should ask the same question, then add these questions: Are these parts covered under my warranty? Are these parts crash tested? Are there any provisions for recalls based on saftey or performance, or non-performance of these parts? Get an independent repair center to advise you if you can. And do as much of this as possible in writing, so you have some evidence if things turn out badly after the repairs are completed. The problem, and the big advantage the insurance companies have in this situation, is that most people need their cars back as soon as possible, and they know you might not have the time to fight with them since you need to get back to work. As a St. Petersburg trial attorney I deal with wrecked cars all the time, and routinely put insurance companies on notice, in writing, that those repairs better live up to the insurance policy and the Florida statutes.

How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)72370 — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Determining the value of a personal injury case in St. Petersburg, Florida, or anywhere else for that matter, is very difficult, as there is no magic formula. It helps to have 27 years of trial experience to come up with a general range, but since every injury effects every person differently, and every jury is made up of a different mix of people, no one can give you an exact answer. If they say they can, run away!

In simple terms, your case is worth the amount of your damages, which include your out of pocket medical bills; your potential future medical bills; your past and future lost wages; and your past and future pain and suffering. You are also entitled to be paid for any damage to your personal property, such as your vehicle. Past medical bills are usually pretty clear cut, but even those can cause battles between you and your own insurance company. Future medical bills can be predicted by your treating doctors, but anything in the future is always just an educated guess. Showing lost wages can be as simple as showing prior paychecks compared to future ones, or can be extremely complicated if you own your own business, or had the potential to earn more than you had been making. Finally pain and suffering is the most difficult thing to prove. There is no "pain-o-meter" machine to plug you into to prove how much you hurt. This usually depends on the testimony of the client, and frankly, how believable they are.

As a trial attorney, I am always looking ahead to what a jury would think. It is not always fair, but we don't go to the "fairhouse", we go to the "courthouse" and perception is most important. A significant amount of property damage, and going to the hospital or a doctor immediately are often important to a jury. Obviously the amount of treatment, and wheather the treatment is painful, such as injections, or significant, such as surgery, are likely to make a jury think "Wow, they must have really been hurt to go through that!".

Finally, the effect on you can be tremendous. As an example, if I had a severe hand injury, it would be inconvient, but I could still do my job as a lawyer. If I was a carpenter, or a surgeon, or a professional musician I might be completely out of work forever.

An experienced trial attorney puts all these factors together to put your case in the best light in dealing with the insurance company, or presenting it to the jury. It is not always possible to give an exact prediction of outcome, but the real job is getting the highest offer possible on the table, or getting the highest amount your particular jury is willing to give.

Safety Tips on How to Avoid a St. Petersburg Motorcycle Accident

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)71648 — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience but also a dangerous one. If you’re in a St. Petersburg motorcycle accident you could experience multiple injuries, some of which can be fatal.

You may be smart when riding your motorcycle; however, we know that not all accidents are avoidable. If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident you should speak with an accident lawyer in St. Petersburg to find out what recourse you can take.

Motorcycle Safety Tips

Riding a motorcycle doesn’t have to be hazardous if you follow some guidelines for safe motorcycle operation. First, take a motorcycle training course.

Look up local classes in your area for motorcycle training to give yourself a well-rounded education on how to work and drive the bike the proper way. Some states will require that you obtain a special motorcycle driver’s license and that includes taking a training course.

Second, wear protective clothing. Many injuries in a St. Petersburg motorcycle accident can be lessened or avoided by wearing protective motorcycle gear:

helmet;
leather;
long pants;
shirt-sleeves;
sturdy shoes; and
gloves.

These items should also be brightly colored or accessorized with reflective strips so that you’re highly visible when riding at night. Keep these tips in mind if you’re thinking of purchasing a motorcycle or if you’re going out for ride. What may seem like small measures could save your life.

When it’s Time to Contact an Accident Lawyer in St. Petersburg

After a St. Petersburg motorcycle accident you could be injured. Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a motorcycle accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it’s best that you have an experienced and trustworthy accident lawyer in St. Petersburg on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Prognosis after a St. Petersburg Accident Results in the Loss of a Limb

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)70819 — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you or a loved one has suffered the loss of a limb in a St. Petersburg accident, you know there is more than the physical injury to deal with, including emotional damage. Contact a lawyer in St. Petersburg to learn if you have a valid claim worth pursuing.

The long-term consequences of the loss of a limb will depend on several factors, including early medical care and management of the injury. It will also depend on future medical treatment that is received, with more advanced care improving the chance of a victim getting his or her life back together.

With new surgical techniques, early rehabilitation and improved design of prosthetic devices, it is possible for an injured victim to learn how to function well and experience a good outcome.

However, all of these interventions are extremely expensive. So when an accident is caused by the careless or reckless actions of another party, they may be held liable. You may be able to receive compensation that addresses not only your medical expenses, but also your pain and suffering, loss of wages, and more.

The loss of a limb in a St. Petersburg accident may lead to compensation. To learn what legal options could be available, contact a lawyer in St. Petersburg who handles car accident claims.

Obtaining the Help of a Lawyer in St. Petersburg

Filing an injury claim as the result of a St. Petersburg accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it’s best that you have an experienced and trustworthy lawyer in St. Petersburg on your side.

To consult with a lawyer in St. Petersburg about your injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 1-727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

Treatment for Brain Injury after Motorcycle Accident in St. Petersburg

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)70051 — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Treatment for a brain injury stemming from a motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg can be very costly. To learn if you are entitled to compensation, you should consult with a St. Petersburg head injury lawyer.

If the brain injury is mild, the only type of treatment usually required is rest and medication for pain. However a brain injury that is moderate to severe may lead to further medical care.

Surgery that removes blood clots, repairs fractured skulls or relieves pressure from cerebral spinal fluid may be necessary. This typically involves a lengthy hospital stay.

Rehabilitation may also be necessary which can help when the victim has difficulties with speech, walking or other basic skills. A residential treatment facility or outpatient care may be used.

Treatment for serious brain injuries also includes:

occupational therapy;
speech therapy;
vocational therapy;
physical therapy;
psychiatric counseling;
family counseling;
neuropsychological tests; and
social worker sessions.

Treatment for a brain injury is generally lengthy and extremely costly. However, the costs incurred may be recovered if your motorcycle accident was caused by someone else’s reckless or careless actions.

If you have sustained a brain injury from a motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg, you may be eligible to file a claim. Contact a St. Petersburg head injury lawyer to learn how you can best protect your rights.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Head Injury Lawyer

Filing an injury claim as the result of a motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg can be complex. In cases such as these, it’s best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg head injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg head injury lawyer about your injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

"Do's" and "Don'ts" after an Accident in St. Petersburg

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)68633 — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

When an accident in St. Petersburg leads to serious injuries, you will likely find yourself having to deal with insurance adjusters fighting for the compensation that you are entitled. A St. Petersburg injury lawyer can evaluate your case and determine what steps you should take to receive a fair and full settlement.

What to Do and Not to Do After an Accident in St. Petersburg

Here are some important "do's" and "don'ts" when it comes to dealing with insurance adjusters:

do remember they are working for the other side, not for you;
do keep conversations to a minimum;
do write down everything that is said;
do call a lawyer who has experience in handling car accident claims;

don't agree to sign anything, even if they say it's necessary or required;
don't provide a recorded statement; and
don't settle your case without legal representation.

These "do's" and "don'ts" can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim and the amount of compensation that you end up collecting. Printing it out and keeping it handy for all interactions with your insurance adjuster can equal big dividends in the end, for you.

After an accident in St. Petersburg, dealing with insurance adjusters can be difficult. With the help of a St. Petersburg injury lawyer, you can better protect your rights.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Injury Lawyer

Filing an injury claim as the result of an accident in St. Petersburg can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury lawyer about your injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

5 Factors That Determine the Value of Your FLA Personal Injury Claim

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)67401 — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

When someone else's negligence causes you to suffer injuries, they may be held liable through a Florida personal injury claim. This not only holds the other party accountable but it compensates you for the financial, physical and emotional losses you have sustained. Contacting a St. Petersburg injury lawyer for help should be your next step.

Here are 5 factors that may determine the value of your Florida personal injury claim:

medical expenses - current and future;
lost income - current and future;
emotional damage - post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, mental anguish;
physical damage - permanent disability, disfigurement; and
additional damages - pain and suffering, reduced quality of life.

It is not easy to come up with a set value for any claim. This is why you need experienced legal help who will carefully evaluate the details of your case to determine what your claim is worth.

While nothing can take back what has been done, compensation through a claim can help you begin to get back your life. This is why you want to know what you are receiving is fair.

You should speak with a St. Petersburg injury lawyer who can help determine the value of your Florida personal injury claim. When someone else's negligence causes you to suffer injuries, then you may have the right to be compensated.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Injury Lawyer

Filing an injury claim as the result of an accident in St. Petersburg can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury lawyer about your injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Special Rules Regarding Children in Florida Dog Bite Claims

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)66153 — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

You're within your legal rights to file an injury claim when your child has been attacked or bitten by a dog in Florida. A dog bite claim for a young child's dog bite injuries is generally successful because the children are exempt from the comparative negligence rule. You'll want to speak to a St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer to discuss your case in detail.

In Florida, if a dog owner can prove that the victim actually provoked the dog and thereby caused the attack, they may not be held completely liable for the injuries. However, young children are exempt from this rule.

The courts are aware that children under age 6 may not be able to fully understand or avoid the danger, and therefore can't be considered as having acted negligently. For older children, the jury decides on a case-by-case basis whether the child knew and could've avoided the danger.

It's also important to note that if the jury finds that the parents failed to adequately supervise the child (which theoretically could've prevented the dog bite injuries), the amount of compensation for the Florida dog bite claim could be reduced and apportion legal fault to them, even if they're not named as defendants in the lawsuit.

There's a lot of fine print to Florida negligence laws in dog bite claims, especially regarding children, and the best thing to do is to speak to an attorney, such as a St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer, to discuss your legal options.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Dog Bite Lawyer

There are special rules for young children regarding Florida dog bite claims. Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a dog bite attack can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg injury attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

3 Types of Truck Company Liability for Florida Truck Accident

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)65445 — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Florida truck accident, you may have concerns about filing a claim against the driver and their employer. While the truck company will have legal representation working on their side, you should have the same from a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer.

3 Ways a Truck Company is Liable for Your Florida Truck Accident

Proving that a trucking company is responsible for your accident can deeply impact your claim:

If the company fails to provide safety devices on trucks in order to avoid causing more serious injuries (such as underride protection);
If the company allows drivers to operate trucks that aren't properly inspected, repaired and maintained; and
If the company fails to discipline or pull drivers off a route when they've violated safety regulations.

Showing how a truck company could be liable for your accident could potentially increase the amount of compensation you're entitled to receive.

Truck company liability may play a role in your Florida truck accident, which is why you'd benefit from the help of a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer. Consulting with a lawyer can help you learn what your rights are and the steps you need to take in order to protect them.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

Filing a truck accident claim as the result of a Florida truck accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer about your motorcycle accident claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

3 Types of Florida Auto Insurance

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)64060 — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

You should be aware of Florida auto insurance requirements, as this could significantly affect the outcome of your case if you were injured or you caused injuries to another party in a car accident. A St. Petersburg car accident lawyer can fully explain how insurance coverage will affect your case.

3 Types of Florida Auto Insurance Coverage Available

There are 3 types of insurance coverage you can seek out but understand that the first 2 are mandatory:

Property Damage Liability (PDL) - covers damages from a motor vehicle accident caused by you or a family member to the other party's property;
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Florida No Fault Insurance - will cover you and family members involved in a car accident, regardless who was at fault; and
Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) - covers serious and permanent injuries, including death, to the other party when you're liable for a car accident.

All drivers in Florida are required to carry PDL and PIP on every registered vehicle they own. A failure to do so could result in the loss of driving privileges and could impact the outcome of your car accident claim.

A St. Petersburg car accident lawyer can explain how Florida auto insurance requirements will affect your claim when you were seriously injured in an accident.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer

Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a St. Petersburg accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy Florida personal injury claim attorney on your side.

To consult with a Florida personal injury claim attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

When Negligence Caused Your Florida Dog Bite Injury

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)61735 — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you suffer the consequences of a dog attack in Florida, you may be eligible to collect compensation by filing a St. Petersburg dog bite claim. Contact an attorney at a St. Petersburg dog bite law firm to review your case and discuss your legal options.

Negligence in a Florida Dog Bite Injury

Owners or caretakers of dogs should obey laws that are in place to avoid a dog bite attack in Florida, or they may be held liable for any injuries or other damages sustained. An owner may be found liable if:

the dog was loose in public;
the dog was known to be vicious and unrestrained;
leash laws were disobeyed;
other attacks have been reported; and
the dog wasn't properly vaccinated.

Depending where you reside, you may challenge the type of damages you're able to collect through a St. Petersburg dog bite claim. There are other ways you can prove negligence of an owner or caretaker of a dog bite attack in Florida, but defendants often try to devalue your case. The best way to receive a fair and full settlement for your damages after a dog bite attack in Florida is to speak with an attorney from a St. Petersburg dog bite law firm.

Contact a St. Petersburg Dog Bite Law Firm

Filing a dog bite claim as the result of a dog bite attack can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg dog bite attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg dog bite attorney about your St. Petersburg dog bite claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 1-727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

4 Degrees of Burn Injuries after Motorcycle Accident in St. Petersburg

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)61578 — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg can lead to severe burn injuries if the rider is thrown from the bike or dragged. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a motorcycle accident, you should bring your case to a St. Petersburg, Florida, injury law firm. You may be entitled to compensation if it's determined that someone else's negligence caused your accident.

Burn Injury after a Motorcycle Accident in St. Petersburg

Burns that result from spilled gas igniting or a mechanical fire are categorized as first degree, second degree, third degree or fourth degree:

First-degree burn - This affects only the outer layer of your skin, and symptoms include redness and pain.
Second-degree burn - This affects the outer and inner layer of your skin, and symptoms include redness, severe pain and swelling. Blisters may develop, and scarring may occur.
Third-degree burn - This kind of burn affects tissue beneath your skin, which may appear leathery. A third-degree burn can destroy nerves, causing numbness.
Fourth-degree burn - This is the most severe burn. It affects your muscle, nerves and bone. Skin may be blackened, and if nerves are substantially damaged, you won't feel pain.

Treatment for burn injuries can be costly and painful. To make the most of your injury claim after a motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg, you should acquire the assistance of a St. Petersburg, Florida, injury law firm.

Contact a St. Petersburg, Florida Injury Law Firm

A motorcycle accident can lead to severe burns and painful medical treatment Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg injury attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury attorney about your motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 1-727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

4 Steps to Take after a Motorcycle Accident in St. Petersburg

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)59239 — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg the steps you take immediately after the accident are incredibly important. Once the initial stages are over, contact a St. Petersburg accident lawyer to review your case to see what action you should take next.

A personal injury claim does not apply to all cases. As with any case, there are many aspects to take into account. The advice from an attorney can help determine what is right for you.

Motorcycle Accident in St. Petersburg: What to Do First

All of the steps listed below will serve as crucial evidence that can help your motorcycle accident case in the long run:

Seek immediate medical attention if necessary. If there are serious injuries involved with the accident this is the most important step. Call 911 and get medical attention to the scene as soon as possible.
Do not leave the scene. Stay and acquire as much evidence and information as possible. Take notes and photos.
Be careful not to say too much. Focus on gathering vital information and skip the small talk.
Gather information. This includes the name, address, phone number, e-mail, insurance information, license plate number and driver's license number of the other driver.

Contact a St. Petersburg Accident Lawyer

Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg accident lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

What can be Done about Scars from a Dog Bite Attack in St. Petersburg?

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)58973 — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A dog bite attack in St. Petersburg would be hard enough to move on from without having to wear a constant reminder of the ordeal on your skin. Scars are not only a representation of what was once intense physical pain, they are a source of lingering emotional pain. If you have been injured in a dog bite attack in St. Petersburg, contact a St. Petersburg, Florida dog bite lawyers to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Coping with the Scars from a Dog Bite Attack in St. Petersburg

Some scars can be disabling, disfiguring, and downright painful. There's also the possibility that your skin is the type to produce keloid scars in which the tissue grows out of control and creates raised ridges of scars.

As medical science advances, more and more options are becoming available to people who have scars they wish to forget about. Scar treatment options include:

dermabrasion;
pressure scar modification;
surgical removal; and
make-up.

Unfortunately, all of these treatments can only fade or improve major scars rather than completely erase them.

Permanent disfigurement from scars is definite grounds for a monetary settlement. After you've been injured in a dog bite attack in St. Petersburg it would be in your best interest to contact experienced St. Petersburg, Florida dog bit lawyers.

Contacting St. Petersburg, Florida Dog Bite Lawyers

Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg injury attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Receiving Compensation after a Truck Accident in St. Petersburg

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)57480 — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Every person on the roadway shares a responsibility to respect the rules of the road and the safety of others. For those who drive larger vehicles, that responsibility is increased; this is why the federal government has created mandates specifically for the drivers of large trucks and tractor trailers.

When truck drivers violate these mandates, it often results in a truck accident in St. Petersburg. The negligent truck driver is liable for any injuries or property damage that may have occurred in the accident. Large trucks must carry far more insurance than a smaller passenger vehicle. This insurance is used to cover the costs associated with a crash between a semi-truck and a smaller vehicle.

Recovering Damages after a Truck Accident in St. Petersburg

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in St. Petersburg, you should seek compensation. You can be compensated for any injuries you may have suffered, property damage and lost wages due to your injuries.

An experienced St. Petersburg truck accident lawyer will be able to assess your case and help you to move on. For more information about a truck accident in St. Petersburg, visit our article library.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Truck Accident Lawyer

Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg truck accident lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Treating PTSD in Children After a Dog Bite Attack in St. Petersburg

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)57161 — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

After a dog bite attack in St. Petersburg, a St. Petersburg dog bite attorney will need to prove that the owner of the dog responsible for the attack was acting in a negligent manner. By doing so, you will be one step closer to successfully pursuing compensation to address the emotional and physical injuries your child has suffered as a result of a dog bite attack.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a possibility in any situation where a child victim experiences extreme fear and trauma, such as during an animal attack.

Treating PTSD may require expensive therapy sessions, and treatment may have to continue for years after the event. This can be a huge financial burden on any family, particularly if the child also suffered physical injuries in the dog bite attack in St. Petersburg.

Your dog bite attorney will work with you and your doctors to make a reasonable evaluation of your child's condition and a projection of the current and future costs involved in treating the effects of PTSD.

Your child should not have to bear the costs of treating an injury that is caused by the negligence of another person and by filing a Florida dog bite claim, you will have the opportunity to hold the liable party responsible for their actions.

After a child suffers PTSD in a dog bite attack, consider partnering with a dog bite lawyer in order to get a full understanding of your legal rights.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Dog Bite Attorney

Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida dog bite attack can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg injury attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4974.

7 Ways to Protect Your Florida Personal Injury Claim After an Accident in St. Petersburg

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)55896 — Sat, 28 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in an accident in St. Petersburg, you should how you can protect your Florida personal injury claim. When you are facing expensive medical bills, missed time from work and other losses as a result of your accident, you should know what to do in order to better your chances at a full and fair settlement.

There are 7 ways you can protect your Florida personal injury claim after an accident in St. Petersburg:

stick to the basic facts when speaking with an insurance adjuster after your accident in St. Petersburg;
seek immediate medical attention, even if you think aren't injured;
don't suggest what may have caused the accident;
don't admit any fault or apologize for your accident in St. Petersburg;
don't agree to provide a recorded statement;
don't agree to a settlement that is usually less than what you are entitled to; and
seek the help of a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney.

Remember that the insurance company is not working in your best interest so you want to do everything you can to protect your Florida personal injury claim.

There are 5 things you should not say after an accident in St. Petersburg, which can help to protect your Florida personal injury claim. A St. Petersburg personal injury attorney can help you with this and any other questions you may have concerning your accident.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Attorney

Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a St. Petersburg crash can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg personal injury attorney on your side.

To consult with a personal injury attorney in St. Petersburg about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

5 Ways Your Florida Slip and Fall Claim Can Be Threatened

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)55072 — Sat, 14 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you were injured on someone else's property and they were at fault, you may be entitled to receive compensation through a Florida slip and fall claim. You should immediately consult with a St. Petersburg slip and fall injury lawyer.

5 Ways Your Florida Slip and Fall Claim Can Be Threatened

Your claim could be denied as a result of inconsistencies in your description of the accident or if the defense finds a way to show you were at fault.
You could receive an unfair settlement offer in which it doesn't take into consideration future costs.
Your actions could be used against you if you agree to provide a recorded statement and/or agree to sign a medical authorization form that releases your medical records to the insurance company.
If you take the insurance adjuster's word that your claim will be fairly evaluated by them, you would be making a big mistake.
Deciding against hiring a St. Petersburg slip and fall injury lawyer will minimize the value of your claim.

These are just some of the ways that your Florida slip and fall claim could be seriously threatened and therefore, result in a case that is either denied or is settled at an amount that is less than you deserve.

To better understand other threats to your Florida slip and fall claim, you should speak with a St. Petersburg slip and fall injury lawyer.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Slip and Fall Injury Lawyer

Filing a Florida slip and fall claim can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg slip and fall injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a slip and fall injury lawyer in St. Petersburg about your Florida slip and fall claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Defensive Driving Techniques for St. Petersburg Motorcyclists

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)52904 — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Defensive driving doesn't only apply to car and truck drivers; motorcyclists can also learn a thing or 2 about defensive driving techniques. By being continually aware of your surroundings and other drivers, you may be able to avoid a serious motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg.

Rely on Yourself

When riding your motorcycle, you should never trust other drivers' intentions-at any moment, a vehicle can make a swift turn without even a warning from turn signals. Vehicles you should be especially wary of include dented vehicles (they may have been in an accident or 2 in their time) as well as minivans (the driver is probably busy dealing with kids in addition to keeping his or her eye on the road).

Avoid Blind Spots

You should always remember that if you can't see a motorist's face in the car's side mirrors, he or she cannot see you. When traveling in traffic, you remain visible to other drivers by avoiding the blind spot. And even if you aren't in the blind spot, the driver may fail to use his or her mirrors before turning or making a lane change, so keep yourself out of the way to avoid getting hit.

Slow Down

If you are riding in a heavily-traveled area, you should always maintain a reasonable speed. Driving too fast not only reduces your reaction time, it can be hard for other drivers to gauge how fast you are traveling, which could lead to a serious motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg.

Hiring a St. Petersburg Motorcycle Crash Lawyer

If you were injured because of a negligent motorist, you may be entitled to recover damages. Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg motorcycle crash lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg motorcycle crash lawyer about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Common Injuries in a St. Petersburg SUV Rollover Crash

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)52905 — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you've been involved in an SUV rollover crash in St. Petersburg, it is likely you may face serious injury. The SUV's instability can increase the height of the center of gravity. This can cause it to roll several times. What's worse, when the roof is not strong, it will cave in.

An SUV rollover crash can lead to devastating injuries, including:

open head injury (lacerations, bumps, bruises);
traumatic brain injury;
broken bones;
amputation;
spinal cord injury;
paraplegia;
quadriplegia; and
death.

Severe injuries such as these can lead to costly medical bills, missed time from work and other damages, such as pain and suffering or disability. While you may struggle with how to find help during this difficult time, it may help to know that these losses may be recovered through a personal injury claim. A St. Petersburg injury lawyer can evaluate your case to determine what types of damages may be pursued.

If you have been injured as a result of an SUV rollover crash, consulting with a St. Petersburg injury lawyer should be a priority. A St. Petersburg injury lawyer will guide you on your available options and how best to protect your legal rights.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Injury Lawyer

Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury lawyer about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

5 Social Media Tips for Your Florida Personal Injury Claim

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)51985 — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a Florida accident and are pursuing a Florida personal injury claim, it's important to understand how your social media use may affect the outcome of your claim.

Even seemingly innocent status updates on your Facebook account can be used against you. Twitter, MySpace, YouTube and other social media outlets are regularly scoured by insurance companies in order to find something that can seriously jeopardize your Florida personal injury claim.

The following are 5 social media tips to take into consideration in order to protect your Florida personal injury claim:

set all of your social media accounts to private;
carefully examine all of your social media accounts for any pictures, comments or other activity that could be used against you;
remove anything (pictures, videos, comments, blogs) that are questionable and could potentially damage your Florida personal injury claim;
consistently monitor your social media accounts for any videos or photos that others may tag you in; and
suspend or limit activity on social media until your Florida personal injury claim has been settled.

Guarding how you utilize social media may significantly affect the outcome of your Florida personal injury claim. A St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer can provide you with further tips on your use of social media in order to help protect your injury claim.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Collecting Evidence After a Motorcycle Accident in Florida

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)50820 — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

After a motorcycle accident in Florida, one of the most important things you should do is gather evidence from the scene. This evidence may help you prove you were the victim of negligence, and that you are eligible for compensation in a personal injury claim. This evidence may also show the extent of the damages you have suffered and help to determine the value of your financial compensation.

Evidence you should collect after a motorcycle accident in Florida includes:

photographs of the accident scene, including the damaged motorcycle, as well as your personal injuries;
clothing you were wearing at the time of the accident, including protective gear such as gloves and helmet;
a copy of the official police report;
your pay stubs from work, to show the value of the wages you have lost;
any medical reports from doctors and physicians;
your medical bills; and
detailed records of letters, emails or conversations with any insurance representatives.

To help you gather evidence after a motorcycle accident in Florida, you may want to get the help of a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer. An experienced lawyer can advise you on how to obtain necessary evidence, and then use this evidence to negotiate your personal injury claim. (Insert link to

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

After a motorcycle accident in Florida, don't pursue compensation without the help of a professional. Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Dealing with an Insurance Claims Adjuster after a Florida Accident

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)48764 — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

After you have been involved in an accident in Florida and have filed an insurance claim, you'll get a call from an insurance claims adjuster. It's best that you speak with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer before you speak with a claims adjuster so you are prepared to handle the conversation.

An insurance claims adjuster will use several tactics to minimize or deny your claim.

Some common insurance industry tactics include:

Offering a quick settlement - an insurance claims adjuster will offer a low settlement very soon after your accident in hopes that you will accept without estimating your actual losses or considering your legal options.
Getting a recorded statement - they will begin with small talk to help you relax. Often they'll ask misleading questions to get you to admit fault, minimize your injuries or use confusing sentences or questions to cause you to say something they can use as an excuse to reduce or deny your claim.
Getting you to sign a medical authorization - the insurance adjuster will try to get your complete medical history so they can perhaps blame a pre-existing condition for your injuries. When you sign a medical authorization form, it usually gives the insurance company access to your entire medical history, not just the injuries associated with your accident. Before you sign any medical release forms, show them to your attorney.

When speaking with an insurance adjuster, it's best to be honest and brief. State the facts and nothing else. Do not agree to anything until you have consulted with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer will have your best interest in mind when negotiating with the insurance company.

To learn more about the DOs and DON'Ts of insurance claims, visit our article library.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

Filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim as the result of an accident in Florida can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

When Your Child Experiences Emotional Injuries after a Florida Dog Attack

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)48445 — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

A dog attack in Florida can be especially traumatic to a child, physically and emotionally. In addition to suffering physical pain, a child might lose trust in adults and harbor fears that the dog attack might recur.

If your child is suffering emotionally, they might need help in the form of play therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy.

Signs to look for in your child include the following, based on the child's age:

5 years old or younger: screaming, crying, fear of being separated from their parent, aimless motion, excessive clinging, trembling, bed wetting, fear of darkness, and regressive behaviors, such as thumb sucking. The child will also be affected by the parent's reaction to the dog attack in Florida.
6 to 11 years old: disruptive behavior, extreme withdrawal, nightmares, inattentiveness, irrational fears, fighting, outbursts of anger, refusing to attend school, feelings of guilt, depression, emotional numbing, bodily symptoms that lack medical basis, and anxiety. School work will also suffer.
12 to 17 years old: flashbacks, emotional numbness, nightmares, substance abuse, problem with peers, depression, avoiding things that remind them of the event, suicidal thoughts, isolation, physical complaints, confusion, sleep disturbances, and guilt for not preventing the attack. Adolescents might also fantasize about revenge, which could interfere with their recovery.

To help your child receive adequate treatment for injuries after a dog attack in Florida, you should consult with a St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer, who might be able to help you seek compensation for emotional and physical injuries. (insert link to When a Dog Attack in Florida Leads to Injuries)

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Dog Bite Lawyer

Filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim as the result of a dog attack can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Know the Common Types of Florida Truck Accidents

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)46818 — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may hear it on the news all the time - a truck jackknifed on I-75 causing a 2-hour backup, an underride accident on I-4 resulted in a double fatality. But what exactly do these types of accidents mean?

Most drivers know what a rollover crash and head-on collision are, but there are 3 other types of common truck accidents that occur that aren't so clearly defined.

A jackknife accident is when the truck suddenly brakes, causing the cab of the truck to fold back upon itself, becoming almost parallel with the trailer. The driver usually has little control over the vehicle at this point and a jackknife accident almost always results in a rollover.

When a truck is involved in an underride accident this means that a smaller vehicle ends up running underneath a larger truck. This can occur due to the truck needing to abruptly stop when a smaller vehicle is traveling too close behind. Because the bottom of a typical tractor-trailer is often at head-level for passengers in a standard vehicle, this type of accident has a high fatality rate.

An override accident is similar, except that in this case the truck runs over the smaller vehicle. This can be due to the smaller vehicle traveling in the truck driver's blind spot and the driver's negligence to check before making a lane change or similar maneuver. Again, because the smaller vehicle ends up under the truck, the results can be deadly.

If you were injured in a Florida truck accident and are thinking of filing a personal injury claim, it's important to have a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney on your side, as the insurance companies representing the truck driver or their employer, will vigorously fight against your right to fair compensation.

You can learn more about common types of Florida truck accidents by visiting our article library.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

When you are faced with medical bills, lost income and suffering after a serious injury you don't need to worry alone. The Law Offices of William K. Saron, P.A. offers clients a FREE copy of our book, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case. For personal attention to your accident claim and the needs of you and your family, contact us at 727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

Distractions While Driving Aren't Always Physical

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)46420 — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Texting, eating, and personal grooming are usually the common answers when you ask someone to list what they consider to cause distracted driving. While these are common and serious types of driver distraction, there are many other factors that can cause a driver to lose their concentration on the road.

Many types of distracted driving are innocent human conditions that become distracting when the person gets behind the wheel. Simple problems such as poor blood sugar levels (even when not diabetic), fatigue, or illness can cause a driver to become less focused on driving safely.

In other physically related conditions, many medical problems can cause driver distraction. Drivers who suffer from conditions such as epilepsy, muscle spasms, tremors, or other physically spontaneous conditions should be aware of the impact they may have on their driving skills.

Your mental state of mind can also cause driver distraction while on the road. If you are emotionally distressed, angered or upset over something to the point where it is causing you to lose focus on safe driving you should pull over until you are calm enough to continue.

As you can see, there are many types of driver distraction that can be internal and sometimes unpredictable. Each person should know their own limits when choosing to drive, and if a medical condition - physical or mental - may potentially interfere with safe driving habits, they should seek an alternative method of transport before they potentially cause a Florida car accident.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Florida car accident by a distracted or negligent driver, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

How serious is your spinal cord injury?

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)45687 — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

There are 2 general types of spinal cord injury: complete and incomplete. As the classifications suggest, a complete spinal cord injury means there is no sensation and no voluntary movement, while an incomplete injury is one where there may still be some sensation or movement in the affected body areas.

The location of the spinal cord injury is also important, as it determines the point beneath which the victim will be affected. Movement and sensation can be diminished or absent at any point below the injured area of the spine. This means if you suffer a complete injury to your lower spine, you may lose mobility in your legs but will still have perfect functionality in your arms.

The spinal cord is divided into 4 areas:

cervical nerves (vertebra C1-T2);
thoracic nerves (vertebra T3-T12);
lumbar nerves (vertebra L1-L5); and
sacral nerves (vertebra S1-S5).

Each area controls a different portion of the body and therefore damage to the spine in that particular area can cause complete or partial paralysis, numbness and loss of function. The spinal cord is closely tied with not only muscle function but also body system function. Severe spinal cord injuries may impair function of the bowels, respiratory system, blood pressure and temperature regulation and sweating.

The medical complications you or your loved one suffer from a spinal cord injury may extend well beyond the initial hospital stay. Most complete spinal cord injuries result in life-changing disabilities that require special equipment, therapy and ongoing care and rehabilitation. If your spinal cord injury was the result of a serious accident caused by the negligence of another, you may need to file a Florida personal injury claim to recover damages for your injuries and suffering.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

When you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury because of a serious accident, you don't need to deal with filing a Florida personal injury claim alone. First order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case to learn more about how to handle your case. When you are ready to file, contact a St. Petersburg spinal cord injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

A Closer Look at Serious Accidents that can Cause Burn Injuries

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)45041 — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

A serious car accident can result in a life-threatening burn injury if leaking fuel ignites. A fall from a defective ladder can result in electrical burns if you strike live power lines. Malfunctioning water heaters can send scalding water into your shower or bath, resulting in hot water burns.

Those are just a few examples of how burn injuries can occur under the right circumstances. In many of these cases, the burn injuries were caused by the negligence of another, either another driver or a company's defective product. When this is the case for your own burn injury, you should speak with an experienced St. Petersburg burn injury lawyer to seek compensation for your injuries.

Burn injuries aren't just a risk when open flame is present. Many other factors can cause burns, such as chemicals, hot water, electrical elements, and heated metal. Any situation where there is a potential heat source carries a risk for causing a burn injury if it is not properly handled and secured.

The recovery from a burn injury after a serious accident is a painful and costly process, both financially and in regards to time. Treatment for a burn injury can last months, even years, and still result in scarring and disfigurement. Serious burns may require skin grafts and plastic surgery to protect the damaged tissue. Recovery may require multiple procedures.

The costs to a victim of a burn injury can be devastating, both emotionally and financially. You should be aware of the factors of a burn injury as well as the compensation you may be eligible for through a Florida personal injury claim. A St. Petersburg burn injury lawyer can help you determine your legal rights to recovery from a burn injury accident.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Burn Injury Lawyer

When you are faced with medical bills, lost income and suffering after a serious injury you don't need to worry alone. The Law Offices of William K. Saron, P.A. offers clients a FREE copy of our book, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case. For personal attention to your accident claim and the needs of you and your family, contact us at 727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

Car Accident Kills 2 Elderly People in Ormond Beach

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)43867 — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

November 16, 2010 - Ormond Beach, FL - A strange car accident has resulted in the deaths of 2 people in a small Aberdeen subdivision in Ormond Beach.

Ann Owen, 71, and Timothy Postlethwait, 70, lost their lives when her car swayed out of control in a bizarre accident right after leaving the home that he and his wife, Vincenza Postlethwait, shared.

The Daytona Beach News Journal reported that the fatal car accident that killed Owen and Postlethwait happened on the afternoon of Saturday, November 13 just before 4:30 p.m. in a gated housing subdivision for people ages 55 and older.

Owen had lost her husband several years ago and also suffered from Lupus. Vincenza had helped her often and Timothy would drive Owen's car to help her run errands, as she didn't like to drive, according to friends.

Friends speculate that the pair had returned from a shopping trip and Owen had gotten into the driver's seat to drive the short distance from the Postlethwaits' home to her own, also located on Bluewater Lake Circle.

A police report stated that Owen's 1998 Plymouth sedan started moving backward without warning, while the driver's-side door was open, hitting both of the Postlethwaits. As a result, Timothy Postlethwait was dragged onto the roadway, where he was run over. Owen was ejected and also run over as the car continued in reverse down the road.

Ormond Beach Police Sgt. Kenny Hayes said he wasn't sure whether the car had been geared in park or reverse, but the end result was the same by the time the sedan came to a complete stop after hitting a tree.

Although Vincenza was knocked over, she was able to get up and go to her husband. Both Timothy and Owen died from their injuries the next day.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Attorney

Filing a Florida personal injury claim can be complex and often involves a thorough understanding of several different types of law. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg personal injury attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Pit Bull Kills Newborn Boy in Arlington

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)43868 — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 26, 2010 - Arlington, FL - A pit bull attacked and killed a newborn baby, CBS Affiliate WAWS reported. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is investigating the child's death that has left a family in mourning.

The pit bull attack that resulted in the death of a baby boy took place at a home in Arlington, approximately 90 miles north of St. Petersburg.

WAWS interviewed the little boy's father, who confirmed the fatal dog attack against the infant. Authorities have not released the name of the baby who later died at a local hospital.

The pit bull was euthanized Monday morning, according to the child's father.

The question of whether the baby was supervised and if the dog had previously displayed aggressive behavior is still under investigation by the state agency and police, according to DCF Spokesman John Harrell.

The neighborhood where the baby was killed has been in shock over what took place.

DCF warned that all parents should show precaution when their kids are around any type of dog to avoid similar incidents of child injury or death.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Attorney

Filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim as the result of a dog attack can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg personal injury attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Signs of a TBI After a Serious Accident

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)42473 — Sat, 13 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is often overlooked when the physical signs reveal only a slight bump to the head. Brain tissue is very sensitive and can be easily disrupted by the slightest jolt or bump. More serious injuries such as skull fractures or an injury where something pierces the brain matter can result in severe TBI, which can lead to coma or death.

Some of the signs that may indicate a mild TBI (concussion) include:

headache;
nausea or vomiting;
coordination or balance problems;
blurred or double vision;
fatigue;
concentration problems or memory lapses;
sleep pattern changes; and
irritability or mood swings.

The frightening thing is that a moderate TBI may reveal many of the same symptoms of a mild TBI, but can leave permanent damage. To be absolutely sure of the extent of a TBI, you'll have to seek immediate medical attention.

In the meantime, some unique symptoms of a moderate TBI that you'll want to look for include:

a headache that worsens or persists for a long period;
weakness or numbness in the limbs;
repeated vomiting or persistent nausea;
slurred speech;
dilated or disproportionate pupils;
convulsions or seizures; and
loss of consciousness.

Any head trauma sustained in an accident should be checked out by a medical professional even if the victim does not show any signs of injury. In some cases, the signs of a TBI do not manifest immediately and damage could be prevented with immediate medical attention.

Knowing the signs and effects of a TBI is important to protect your family from physical and emotional harm. In the event you or a loved one has suffered a TBI in a serious accident, you may find yourself burdened by financial and emotional problems. When an accident that results in a TBI is caused by the negligence of another person, a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer can help you file a personal injury claim to recover damages.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

A TBI can devastate a family with financial and emotional burdens. The long-term impact of a TBI can create ongoing medical expenses and a loss of enjoyment of life. When you've been seriously injured because of the negligence of another, you should seek help to recover damages. Order our complimentary consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

Comparative Negligence and Florida Injury Claims

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)42155 — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

The majority of U.S. states follow a form of comparative negligence laws when it comes to personal injury claims. Thirty-three states follow a modified comparative negligence rule, where an injured party may be found up to 49% liable for the accident (for 50% rule states), and 50% liable for the accident (for 51% rule states) and still collect damages.

Florida is one of the 13 states that follow the law of pure comparative negligence. This means that the party which initiates the personal injury claim can be found almost completely at fault for the accident and still recover a percent of the damages.

Generally, it will be difficult to reach a settlement offer for an injury claim which finds the plaintiff with an extremely high degree of fault. An experienced St. Petersburg injury lawyer will be able to give difficult cases such as these the support needed to work toward a possible settlement.

Of course, you always want to be able to prove that you were not at fault at all for your accident, as the higher your degree of fault is, the more your settlement will be reduced. The degree of fault equals the amount your settlement is reduced by if you win your injury claim. For example, a $100,000 settlement in a case in which you were 20% at fault will result in you receiving $80,000 in damages.

Knowing how the comparative negligence laws in Florida apply to your injury claim is important, especially when it comes to estimating your settlement as your case progresses. A St. Petersburg injury lawyer can also assist you in explaining the differences between comparative and contributory negligence laws in various states, should you be injured while traveling and seek to file suit when you return home to Florida.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Injury Lawyer

Proving fault in a Florida personal injury claim is important in determining the amount you can collect from your settlement. When you are seeking to file an injury claim in the St. Petersburg area, order our complimentary consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Avoiding Common Florida Car Accidents

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)41051 — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Even the most careful, experienced driver can be the victim of a serious Florida car accident when other drivers are negligent. Aggressive driving, impaired drivers, and hazardous road conditions can all lead to serious accidents with life-threatening injuries. When you have been involved in a car accident that results in serious injury you should contact a St. Petersburg car accident attorney.

While there's no way to prevent a car accident at all times, you can take steps to minimize the occurrence of some common Florida car accidents. The most common accidents to be aware of include:

rear-end collisions, commonly caused by sudden stops or distracted drivers;
side-impact collisions, when vehicles make left turns across oncoming traffic without being aware of other vehicles;
head-on collisions, which occur when a vehicle enters the opposite lane and runs into oncoming traffic;
sideswipe collisions, often from distracted or intoxicated drivers not having control of their vehicle; and
rollover crashes, resulting from high speed maneuvers or collisions causing the car to flip from the force of impact or overcorrecting.

There are also the instances of single-vehicle accidents, which are often caused when the victim tries to avoid a road hazard or another distracted or reckless driver. Single-vehicle accidents may also result from a defective car part or mechanical failure, which may make the vehicle's manufacturer liable.

The injuries sustained in these common car accidents are often severe or fatal. They can cause permanent consequences, such as paralysis, loss of limb, disfigurement, and chronic pain. The medical bills can be astounding, and many victims find themselves unable to work for weeks, months, or even permanently.

When you have been involved in one of these common types of Florida car accidents you may want to file a personal injury claim to potentially recover the damages you incurred. A St. Petersburg car accident attorney can help you through all stages of your claim including filing, evidence and settlement.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Car Accident Attorney

When you have been injured or suffered the loss of a loved one in a Florida car accident you shouldn't have to worry about your financial losses. Filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim is your best option to recover damages related to medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Our St. Petersburg car accident attorneys are here to help you with your personal injury claims. Before you make any decisions, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg car accident attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Florida Elderly Driver Statistics

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)40499 — Sat, 09 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has released new information regarding research they have been conducting on the effects of aging on driving ability. Elderly drivers are more likely to cause a serious car accident because of the diminished physical and mental capabilities that accompany aging.

Between 2002 and 2003 there were almost 15 million Florida drivers, including more than 2.2 million drivers between the ages of 65 and 74, and almost 250,000 over the age of 85. At least 20% of the drivers aged 85 and older were classified as dementia drivers with a mild to moderate condition. Dementia is a mental health disorder that often causes confusion and disorientation, dangerous conditions when behind the wheel of a vehicle.

Research from the U.S. Department of Transportation shows that injury-related deaths among the elderly aged 65-74 are most commonly caused by motor vehicles. This is the second leading cause of death in this age group as well. The 2009 Florida Traffic Crash Statistics Report shows that drivers aged 70 and older have the highest rate of crash involvement in all crashes and drivers over 87 have the highest rate of fatal crashes. The total number of fatalities of drivers aged 70 and older in the state of Florida for 2009 was nearly 300.

Elderly drivers generally suffer from more physical and mental impairments than a comparatively younger driver simply because of the effects of aging on the body. Diminished vision, slowed mental reaction time, and impaired physical reactions are all effects of aging that can increase the risk of car accidents.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

When you are faced with medical bills, lost income and suffering after a serious injury suffered in a car accident in Florida, you don't need to worry alone. The Law Offices of William K. Saron, P.A. offers clients a FREE copy of our book, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case. For personal attention to your accident claim and the needs of you and your family, contact us at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Florida Car Accidents Involving a Government Vehicle

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)39252 — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

After the typical Florida car accident, you would file an injury claim against the other driver or drivers involved in the accident. When the other vehicle involved is a government vehicle such as a police cruiser, city maintenance van, or U.S. Postal Service truck, you may file a claim against the driver and in some cases, you may file against the government entity that owns the vehicle.

It is important to note that the government entity is not always able to be held liable for your car accident due to immunity laws known as the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). Understanding the application of the FTCA to your accident is a matter that is best left to the experience of a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney.

If your accident took place with a local vehicle, such as a town maintenance van or a city police vehicle, you would contact your city government to work out the details of your claim. Accidents with Florida state trooper patrol cars would be handled by the State of Florida government. Federal vehicles such as U.S. Postal Service trucks, or federal agencies such as the FBI would be handled at the federal level of government.

The rules and procedures for filing a personal injury claim against a government entity can be drastically different from those in a typical personal injury claim. Not only are the time constraints for filing different, but you may be filing claim against multiple parties and will be going against government-employed defense attorneys. In cases such as these, it's best to obtain the help of a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida involving a government vehicle, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Evidence You'll Need for Filing a Florida Property Damage Claim

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)38813 — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

As with all aspects of a Florida personal injury claim following a serious car accident, you will need to provide evidence of your damages if you are seeking to file a property damage claim in Florida. When your vehicle has been damaged seriously enough that it needs repair or replacement, you have the option of filing a property damage claim to receive compensation for those expenses.

While you are at the scene of the accident take photographs of both vehicles and make sure all areas of damage on your car are visible in this pictures. If you are too injured to do so, ask a passenger or a bystander to help you with this task. Make sure to save all copies, digital and print, for evidence later.

You will also want a police report and witness statements to help substantiate your property damage claim. These pieces of evidence can help verify the extent of damage to your vehicle and back up your claims for compensation.

The most critical evidence to collect is the repair details. If you are seeking repairs, you will need at least 2 written estimates from different repair facilities. If your vehicle was towed and/or stored you should retain copies of those bills, as well as bills for rental cars if needed.

When filing a property damage claim in Florida you'll be dealing with a car insurance company, either your own insurance company or that of the other driver. When deciding how to best proceed with filing a Florida property damage claim, it's in your best interest to have a St. Petersburg car accident attorney on your side to help explain your legal options.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Car Accident Attorney

You don't need to act alone when trying to recover physically and financially after a serious car accident. Before you make any decisions, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Preserving Your Florida Personal Injury Claim

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)37263 — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

The first step you should take when you decide to file a Florida personal injury claim is to collect and protect all the evidence involved in proving the other party's negligence concerning your accident. To have a valid claim, you must be able to show that you were injured due to the negligence of another party, so photographs of the accident and injuries, police reports, medical bills, and personal records are all key pieces of evidence to prove your claim.

Next, you will be dealing with insurance adjusters whose goal is to document your Florida personal injury claim in such a way that you receive the lowest settlement possible. They will ask for you to give recorded statements detailing the accident circumstances and your injuries, during which they will attempt to prompt you into making damaging statements. You should consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney before speaking to any insurance adjuster.

In fact, after you hire an attorney, your lawyer can handle all correspondence between you and the insurance adjuster on your behalf. This will ensure you don't accidentally say something to an adjuster that may damage your personal injury claim.

You should also be keeping detailed records of how your injuries are affecting your daily life, as well as ongoing treatment and therapy. Any time you speak with the insurance company should also be documented. Once a settlement is presented, you can use this documentation, as well as your evidence, to file a personal injury lawsuit should the settlement offered be too low.

There are many more details to consider when it comes to preserving your Florida personal injury claim. The more thorough and detailed your evidence is, the better chance your claim has of settling for a fair amount. Our article library has more tips and advice on preserving your Florida personal injury claim that you should brush up on before contacting an attorney.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Attorney

Lack of evidence and insurance adjuster tricks are the top two damaging factors that can harm your Florida personal injury claim. Before you make any decisions, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Tampa Area Traffic Accident Statistics for 2009

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)36487 — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Recently released accident statistics from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle's Traffic Crash Statistics Report for 2009 reveal that while traffic accidents overall have declined, there's still a lot of work to do to make our roads safer.

Listed below are some of the released traffic statistics for the Tampa area:

Pasco County had 5,780 total crashes;
Pinellas County had 13, 669 total crashes;
Hernando County had 1,424 total crashes; and
Hillsborough County had 18, 168 total crashes.

Motorcycle Injuries and Fatal Motorcycle Accidents

In addition to motor vehicle crashes, listed below are the statistics for motorcycle accidents, both fatal and non-fatal for the Tampa area:

Pasco County - 215 injuries/7 fatalities;
Pinellas County - 444 injuries/24 fatalities;
Hernando County - 113 injuries/1 fatality; and
Hillsborough County - 482 injuries/27 fatalities.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Injuries and Fatalities for 2009

Listed below are the Florida traffic accident statistics related to bicycle accidents in the Tampa area:

Pasco County - 124 injuries;
Pinellas County - 449 injuries;
Hernando County - 14 injuries; and
Hillsborough County - 346 injuries.

The following are the Tampa area statistics for pedestrian accidents in 2009:

Pasco County - 146 injuries/13 fatalities;
Pinellas County - 480 injuries/30 fatalities;
Hernando County - 42 injuries/4 fatalities; and
Hillsborough County - 578 injuries/32 fatalities.

To learn about Florida's 2009 traffic accident statistics, including those for motor vehicle collisions, drivers, and other important information, please visit our article library.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

Unfortunately, insurance companies almost never offer Florida traffic accident victims the settlements they need or deserve after a devastating collision. To protect your legal rights and ensure your insurance settlement will adequately address your present and future medical needs relating to your Florida car accident, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg car accident attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Stages of a Florida Personal Injury Lawsuit

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)36806 — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

After a serious accident resulting in the personal injury of you or a loved one you will need to consider how you will pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and what you'll do if returning to work is not an option. When you need to ensure your family's financial security after a serious accident, you will find it most beneficial to file a Florida personal injury lawsuit to seek damages for your injuries.

When you decide to file a Florida personal injury lawsuit, you should seek the assistance of a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney. Your attorney can help take some of the complications out of the lawsuit process and advise you on the more complicated stages. A typical Florida personal injury lawsuit progresses through the following stages:

Filing the lawsuit with the court;
Informing all parties involved in the lawsuit;
Discovering the evidence to present for your claim;
Interviewing witnesses;
Trial;
Verdict and settlement.

Some cases may settle prior to trial if sufficient evidence is produced that causes the defense to settle without trial.

Every personal injury case is unique and there is no solid answer to how your own Florida personal injury lawsuit will progress. Our article library has more details and a general overview of a personal injury lawsuit.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

It's important to understand your options to recover damages after you've been in a serious personal injury accident. For more information, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

The Crimes Compensation Trust Fund for Hit & Run Victims

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)35489 — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Hit and run accidents are a serious matter, especially because they sometimes leave the victim and their families without the option to bring a civil suit to court to obtain damages. Many victims are left struggling with medical bills, lost wages, and serious financial need.

Florida has established the Crimes Compensation Trust Fund to help the financial needs of crime victims and their families. A hit and run car accident that results in injury or death is a felony charge, and therefore falls under criminal acts. The program not only provides financial aid, but also counseling and medical need assistance.

The Crimes Compensation Trust Fund receives offender-generated federal and state dollars as their primary source of funding. When an offender is fined during sentencing, a portion of their fines is deposited into the Crimes Compensation Trust Fund to help serve victims of other crimes. In 2009, the Attorney General awarded more than $19.3 million in grant funding to over 200 private and public agencies that help Florida crime victims.

Parties eligible to file a claim with the Crimes Compensation Trust Fund include victims, a surviving spouse/parent/adult child/sibling of a deceased victim, and a guardian for a minor child/incompetent person. Compensation is normally monetary, although the Crimes Compensation Trust Fund also helps fund a variety of programs to help victims and their families, including medical contacts, rehabilitation services, counseling, and transportation assistance.

There's more to know if you are seeking compensation for a Florida hit and run accident. Our article library has extended information about Florida hit and run accidents, including the penalties, procedures, and statistics and how they can affect your claim.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

Florida hit and run accidents are serious cases that can involve much more serious penalties than a typical car accident. For more information on your case, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

First Steps After a Florida Car Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)35200 — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Your first action after a Florida car accident should be taking care of your and your family's injuries. If you are incapacitated for a lengthy amount of time, a family member or friend can help you preserve the evidence you will need to later file a personal injury claim.

Preserving evidence is critical to proving your personal injury claim resulting from a Florida car accident. Photographs of the scene, vehicles, and your injuries are all good to have on hand to show the conditions of the accident. If any of your personal property such as the vehicle, clothing, and items inside the vehicle sustained damage, provide photos of those as well and keep them in the condition they were found in.

Obtain the names and information of all parties involved, including the other driver(s), pedestrians, and any witnesses. Also be sure to notify police and get the contact information for the responding officer(s) as you will need to obtain copies of the police report when filing your claim.

You should contact both your insurance company and an experienced St. Petersburg car accident attorney as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Your attorney will help you compile your evidence and give proper information to the insurance adjuster. Do not speak with an adjuster from any insurance company until you first consult with your attorney.

To learn more about the dos and don'ts of Florida car accident claims, visit our article library.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

Preserving evidence and contacting the proper professionals are key steps when filing a personal injury claim. To protect your legal rights and ensure your insurance settlement will adequately address your present and future medical needs relating to your Florida car accident, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

The Truth About Insurance Adjusters

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)34347 — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

After a serious accident, the last things you want to deal with are complicated insurance forms and settlement negotiations, which is exactly what the insurance companies are counting on.

The truth about insurance adjusters is that no matter how nice they seem on the phone or how sympathetic to your plight, they have one job: to save their company money. Insurance adjusters don't get raises or promotions by handing out large settlements to accident victims, their job is to get information to help their company deny or reduce your claim or get you to settle for the least amount of money possible.

The friendly nature of your insurance adjuster is really just an act. They may ask you about your family, your job, etc. but what they are really looking for is ammunition to damage your ability to collect a fair settlement. Insurance adjusters are highly trained in getting you to reveal information that may damage your claim through carefully worded questions that make you look like the bad guy!

If an insurance adjuster tries to contact you for a statement after an accident, refuse to let them record the conversation and tell him to direct all communications through your St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer.

That's one of the best aspects of hiring legal representation. Instead of dealing with insurance adjusters, frustrating legal paperwork, and filing deadlines, you can concentrate on your recovery and let your lawyer do the hard work for you (while ensuring your legal rights and best interests are being represented in your claim).

To learn more about how to deal with insurance adjusters after a Florida accident, visit our article library.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

Unfortunately, insurance companies almost never offer Florida car accident victims the settlements they need or deserve after a devastating car crash. To protect your legal rights and ensure your insurance settlement will adequately address your present and future medical needs relating to your Florida car accident, order our free consumer guide, Your Guide to Accident Claims in Florida: Don't Wreck Your Injury Case or contact a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron - 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Slip and Fall Accidents as a Result of Neglected Property

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)34248 — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

While many Florida slip and fall accidents are routinely caused by hazards or obstacles on walkways, many preventable slip and fall accidents are a result of the property owner's ignorance or failure to fix dangerous conditions that lead to these accidents.

Here are a few examples of situations where a property owner's negligence in safely maintaining their property could lead to serious slip and fall injuries.

1. A woman is walking down a staircase and is using the handrail to help keep her balance. The handrail is old and unstable and actually comes loose from the wall, causing the woman to lose her balance and fall down the stairs. The owner had a duty to ensure that the handrail was secure and safe for use. The failure to properly maintain that handrail is a form of negligence.
2. A man is walking through a grocery store where a section of the floor was just cleaned, but no warnings were put up to let him know the floor was wet. As a result, he slipped, causing a serious back injury. The lack of a warning in this case constitutes neglect.
3. A neighbor invites another neighbor over to their home for a dinner party. The homeowner neglects to tell their guest about some loose floorboards on the deck. The neighbor then trips and breaks their arm. Since the homeowner was aware of the loose floorboards but failed to let their guest know about the danger, they may be held liable for the injuries incurred.

You can learn more about the common causes of indoor slip and fall accidents as well as outdoor slip and fall accidents by visiting our article library.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Premises Liability Attorney

If you have been seriously injured in a Florida slip and fall accident, you do have legal options, including seeking compensation for your injuries from the property owner responsible for maintaining a safe environment, even if that person is a neighbor and not a business.

To consult with a St. Petersburg premises liability attorney about your Florida slip and fall accident, contact the Law Offices of William K Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Florida Teen Drivers and Nighttime Risks

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)32390 — Thu, 27 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Florida roadways are filled with teenage drivers. Unfortunately, many teens are using cell phones when getting behind the wheel. What’s even more alarming is the fact that the teenage drivers sharing the highway with you may be making calls, receiving calls and texting while driving after the sun goes down. The results can be deadly.

The Texas Transportation Institute took a look at teenage drivers 16 to 19 years of age and fatal crashes between 1999 and 2008. The findings are alarming. The results of the study showed that the proportion of fatal crashes involving this age group increased by 10 percent nationwide.

The good news is that the study revealed that the overall number of deadly crashes decreased. Unfortunately, the number of fatal crashes occurring during the evening hours went up. The study also showed that nearly half of all fatal crashes involving teen drivers took place during this timeframe.

Many experts believe that these shocking statistics are a direct result of teen drivers becoming distracted by the use of their cell phones. They also believe that using handheld devices at night can increase the risk of a teen driver becoming involved in a serious crash.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a St. Petersburg car accident caused by another driver, you should contact us today at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for answers to your questions.

Florida Motorcycle Accidents and How to Avoid Them

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)32028 — Fri, 21 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Obviously, Florida motorcycle accidents can be serious. They can lead to life altering injuries, and in some cases, even death.

Did you know that May is Motorcycle Awareness Month? It is the time of year to remind motorcycle riders and motorists to share the road safely.

Whether you are on a motorcycle or in a car, there are some precautionary steps that you can take to help keep you and your fellow Floridians safe.

First, understand that motorcycles require a full lane to operate in and should never share a lane with a car. Also, since bikes can be difficult to see, motorists should check their mirrors carefully before entering a lane.

Road conditions can also pose risks for motorcyclists. Drive with caution when approaching potholes, gravel and slippery road surfaces.

Lastly, whether you or in a car, truck or on a motorcycle, do not allow yourself to become distracted. The outcome can be catastrophic.

Unfortunately, no matter how safe you are, some Florida motorcycle crashes cannot be avoided. If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle collision caused by another driver, you should contact an experienced St. Petersburg motorcycle accident attorney at our office at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

Palm Harbor Car Accident Leaves Two Men Injured

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)30825 — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Palm Harbor car accident involving two vehicles leaves two men injured after the two vehicles collide. The incident took place at approximately 4:30 PM on Thursday afternoon, April 22, 2010, at County Road 611 and Tarpon Lake Boulevard.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the driver of a 2008 Hyundai traveling northbound on County Road 611 made a left turn and into the path of a 2009 Toyota. The Toyota slammed into the side of the Hyundai.

The driver of the Hyundai has been identified as Curt Ekberg, 51, of Palm Harbor. Rescue crews transported Ekberg to Bayfront Medical Center and treated him for injuries sustained in the accident. He has been listed in critical condition.

The driver of the Toyota, Fabian Calvo, 32, of Clearwater was taken to Mease Countyside Hospital. He was treated for serious injuries.

Calvo’s car came to a stop in the southbound lanes of County Road 611 and the westbound lanes of Tarpon Lake Boulevard. Ekberg’s car was found on the west side of County Road 611.

The Palm Harbor auto accident is still under investigation by local authorities. Police have yet to determine who was at fault.

This is a terrible accident. We wish both men a speedy recovery during this difficult time.

Your Risk of a Florida Lexus Accident

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)30405 — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Just when you thought it couldn’t get worse for Toyota…it has. Toyota recently suspended the sales of all 2010 Lexus GX 460’s following a recent article published by Consumer Reports (CR).

The article cited that a GX 460 purchased by CR showed potential risks of rolling over during turns. Consumer Reports tested the model on their handling course and discovered that when the GX was pushed to its limits, the electronic stability control system wasn’t able to regain control of the vehicle until the vehicle was almost sideways.

Toyota indicated in a statement that the company was taking the situation seriously and was determined to identify and correct the issues that CR cited.

“Our engineering teams are vigorously testing the GX using Consumer Reports’ specific parameters to identify how we can make the GX’s performance even better,” said Toyota.

The 2010 GX 460 eventually ended up being recalled by Toyota and the necessary software fix will be available to owners by the end of April.

If you are in the market to purchase a 2010 GX 460, which costs over $50,000, you should continue to research and determine if Toyota was able to successfully address the problem with the model. Your life could depend on it.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Florida Lexus accident, you should contact us at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for legal advice.

Dog Bite - Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover You?

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)28837 — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Dog Bite - Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover You?

That is a good question. As a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney for over 26 years, I have seen many dog bite cases. In the old days, homeowner's insurance always covered dog bites, so since the owner is strictly liable for damage done by their dog, as long as they had homeowner's insurance, you could bring a claim against that policy. Recently however, most insurance companies have added an exclusion to their homeowner's policies that states that "dog bites" are not covered. Unfortunately, these provisions have been upheld in the courts, so now when I handle a dog bite case, often there is no insurance coverage, even if the owner of the dog has homeowner's insurance. One way around that exclusion is to drop the strict liability claim, and bring a simple common law negligence claim against the owner. In effect, you argue that the reason you were injured was not caused by the dog, but caused by the owner's negligence in not controlling the dog.

There is another way that a homeowner's insurance dog bite exclusion might be important to you: What if you own the dog that bites someone?! I have 2 dogs: an overly friendly whippet and an unfriendly border collie. If you own dogs check your homeowner's policy or call your agent and see if dog bites are excluded. If they are, your agent probably did not tell you, but it is simple enough to add a rider to the policy and get coverage. Every insurance company sells those riders and if you want to protect yourself in case your pet does some damage, adding a rider to your homeowner's policy is the simplest way.

Caps on Damages Struck Down by Georgia Supreme Court

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)28788 — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

I don't do medical malpractice work, but I strongly oppose "caps" on damages of any kind. I believe in the jury system, and the jury, after hearing all of the evidence, is in the best position to decide the value of a case.

On Monday, the Georgia Supreme Court struck down a Georgia law that capped damages in medical malpractice cases. The court held that the caps improperly removed a jury's fundamental role to determine the damages in a civil case. "The very existence of the caps, in any amount, is violative of the right to trial by jury" Chief Justice Carol W. Hunstein wrote.

I could not agree more, and hope the Florida courts see it that way someday.

What if I experience a Slip and Fall Accident on my Landlord's Property?

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)28809 — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

As you know, slip and fall accidents can occur just about anywhere. Some people suffer injuries while at work, in the street, at grocery stores and in many other places. However, what rights do you have if you are injured in a slip and fall accident on your landlord’s property?

The good news is that the process in seeking compensation is practically the same. Most property owners carry liability insurance to deal specifically with situations when someone is injured on their property.

As you can imagine, a slip and fall accident can be serious and leave you with a mountain of medical bills. It may even affect your ability to work leading to a potential loss of wages.

It is imperative that you seek legal advice to help you determine if you have a case and how you should go about seeking compensation. A St. Petersburg slip and fall attorney can help you build your case and determine the necessary steps that you should take.

Also, many tenants may be afraid to file a claim against their landlord, fearing that they could be evicted. Don’t let your relationship with your landlord intimidate you. Again, seeking legal advice could be critical in the success of your case.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a slip and fall accident on your landlord’s property, you should contact a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

Spring Break and Graduation Parties Potential Liability

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)28724 — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

This time of year (especially in St. Petersburg and other Florida beach cities), is a popular one for spring break gatherings for teenagers, and that includes 20 year olds. The drinking age in Florida is 21, and obviously there are many drugs out there that are illegal at any age. In a few weeks graduation parties will follow. If your property is going to host such an event be forewarned there are legal dangers lurking. We all used to be "underage", and should understand all of the potentially bad things that can occur at such gatherings. Underage drinking is the most likely, and certainly drug abuse is also possible. Both can lead to car accidents, drunk driving charges, sexual assaults, slip and fall injuries and adverse medical reactions to name but a few.

What you might not realize, is that as the "host" can be liable due to the "Open House Party" law, found in the Florida Statutes at Section 856.015. It states: No person having control of any residence shall allow an open house party to take place at said residence if any alcoholic beverage or drug is in the possession of or being consumed by a minor at said residence and where the person fails to take reasonable steps to prevent the possession or consumption of the alcoholic beverage or drug."

Florida courts have held that this imposes civil liability on social hosts, so if something bad happens you can get sued. All that would need to be "proved" is that an adult allowed a social gathering at a residence in which he knew or should have known alcohol or drugs were possessed or consumed by someone underage, and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it.

Florida Courts have not yet defined "social gathering", "knowledge" or "reasonable steps" yet, but you could argue that any big gathering of teenagers that is not strictly supervised inparts "knowledge" that drinking is going to occur, and "reasonable steps" might require pat down searches and constant supervision by multiple adults or even hiring a uniformed security guard.

So be careful, and take an honest look at what potentially might happen before you put yourself in this situation.

Do I really need a lawyer for a Florida auto accident?

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)27711 — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

You Need An Attorney If....

Your injuries are serious.
You just prefer to focus on recovering from your injuries rather than dealing with the insurance company paperwork and their adjustors.
The insurance company is disputing that you need medical treatment.
The insurance company wants you to attend a supposedly "independent" medical examination by a doctor of their choosing.
The insurance company claims that you are not injured or that you should have stopped treating by now.
The insurance company is trying to blame your symptoms on past accidents or pre-existing medical conditions.
The insurance company is trying to claim that you are partially responsible for an accident that was caused by someone else’ negligence.
The insurance adjustors are relentlessly calling and harassing you.
The insurance adjustor is pressuring you to agree to a settlement before you have finished treatment for your injuries or before you talk to a lawyer.
Your claim is against a municipality or corporation.

You Probably Don't Need A Lawyer if...

You were in a minor fender bender.
You were not injured in the accident.
You have completely recovered within a short time after the accident.

What Not To Do After a Florida Slip and Fall Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)27421 — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Florida slip and fall accident can leave you with a devastating injury and wondering who will pay for your mounting medical expenses.

One of the first things that might come to mind is to file a claim, especially if the accident was a result of someone else’s negligence. Keep in mind that the strength of your case will determine how successful you are. With that being said, there are three things you should “not” do following a slip and fall accident.

First, if an insurance adjuster contacts you, do not immediately give them a recorded statement. You should wait until you have sought legal counsel.

Also, regardless of the circumstances, never admit that you were at fault. Admitting fault could drastically reduce the chances of a successful injury claim.

Lastly, consult a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney before signing anything. Keep in mind that the insurance adjuster does not work for you. You need someone who will have your best interest in mind.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a slip and fall accident and Florida, you should contact a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

Hulk Hogan's Son reaches Settlement with Crash Victim

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)27119 — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Do you remember the story of Nick, Hulk Hogan’s son, who was involved in a Florida street racing accident? If you recall, the 2007 street racing accident left Nick’s friend, John Graziano, with brain damage and confined to a wheelchair after Hogan lost control of his Toyota Supra and crashed into a tree.

The wrestling giant’s son pleaded no contest to felony reckless driving involving great bodily injury and spent five months in prison. He was originally sentenced to eight months.

It appears that the parties reached a settlement. However, the terms of the settlement remain confidential.

“We reached a settlement that was agreeable to all parties,” said the family’s attorney, Kim Kohn. “We are happy because our goal all along was to insure that John was provided with the appropriate care for the rest of his life. And the settlement will do that.”

Fortunately, Graziano’s condition has improved and he was released from a Florida hospital in September.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident caused by another driver, you should contact a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

Florida Head Injuries can be Serious

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)26845 — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Does the name Natasha Richardson ring a bell? If not, she was the actress that fell during a ski lesson at a Canadian resort. She was taken to a local hospital after complaining of head pain. Unfortunately, she later died at a medical center in Montreal.

Though, a head injury may appear minor at first, Richardson's story reminds us of how serious a head injury can be. Imagine feeling fine after you hit your head and then your family discovers you unconscious a short time later. This type of injury is sometimes referred to as the "talk and die" syndrome. However, the medical term is epidural hemorrhage.

According to Dr. Carmelo Graffagnino of Duke University Medical Center's Neuroscience Critical Care Unit, epidural hemorrhage occurs when a victim sustains a brain injury, but appears normal at first. However, the brain begins to bleed, building up pressure, and potentially leading to a traumatic brain injury and even death.

As you know, accidents happen all the time in Florida. People suffer head injuries at work as well as in car accidents. Unfortunately, in some cases, these accidents are caused by negligence by someone else. You can imagine the impact that a serious head injury can have.

If you or someone you know has suffered a traumatic brain injury caused by someone else's negligence, you should contact a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

Why the Insurance Company Won't Pay (Part 3)

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)26391 — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Here are a few more excuses the insurance companies use to not pay or delay your claim:

Using your memory or actions against you - You didn't notice the Defendant until immediately before impact, so you must not have been paying attention; You don't remember all the details of the accident, so you were inattentive or incompetent and therefore not credible as a witness; You exagerated the speed of the vehicles so you are an unreliable witness; There are no witnesses to confirm your story or they found a witness that disputes your story; The physical evidence is lost (car was destroyed) so we can't prove what happened. Making you or someone else the bad guy - You could have avoided the accident but weren't paying attention or you were speeding; You made an unnecessary unexpected stop; You didn't use your turn signal, or your brake lights did not work; A phantom vehicle was responsible; The accident was unavoidable; There was an emergency that excused the Defendant's speeding; The police officer made mistakes in his report. The accident had no significant effect on you - Your doctor did not say you could not work; You often miss time from work anyway; You were unemployed and could not find a job anyway; Your tax records show you make less money than you claimed; You were paid in cash for your work and did not report the income. And finally - The cost of your medical treatment was excessive; Your injuries should have entirely healed in a few months; You went to work against doctors orders making yourself worse; You have a history of filing lawsuits and making claims like this; You have a history of emotional problems.

The bottom line to almost all of the excuses from Insurance Companies is that "you are a liar" or "you won't be able to prove it to a jury". In 25 years I've seen a lot of this, and they come up with new excuses all the time.

A Broken Leg Can Lead to Compartment Syndrome and More

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25868 — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have never broken your leg, you at least no someone who has. A broken leg is a common injury that occurs in the United States daily.

Having a fractured leg can be inconvenient and disrupt your normal life for several weeks or months. It can impact your family time, keeping you from playing with your kids. It can also affect your ability to perform your duties at work, leading to a possible loss of wages.

Did you know that a fractured tibia is the most common type of leg break?

What most people don’t know is that there are possible complications from suffering a fractured tibia. These complications can even lead to hospitalization. Some of the potential complications include a missed torn artery, compartment syndrome, infection, poor leg circulation, to name a few.

For a more detailed list of potential complications, please visit the article Broken Leg Complications.

A tibia fracture is generally a result of an accident. In some cases, the accident was caused by the negligence on the part of someone else. It is important to know that if you have suffered a broken tibia as a result of an accident, you may be entitled to compensation.

If you or someone you know has broken their tibia in a car accident or from another event caused by someone else’s negligence, you should contact an experienced St. Petersburg personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 826-4947.

Why the Insurance Company Won't Pay (Part 2)

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)25683 — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Why the Insurance Company Won’t Pay (Part 2)

Ok, let’s look at some more excuses. Another common area of excuse deals with the condition of your car and the severity of the crash:

“You had equipment defects such as: bald tires, bad breaks, your taillights were not working, no turn signal…”; “You didn’t have your seatbelt on”;

“Your headrest was at the wrong height”; “Their was little or no damage to one or both vehicles”;

“You had a new car which means it had shock absorbing bumpers, headrests were at the right height and a proper seatbelt, so you couldn’t have been hurt”;

“No one else in either car was injured”; “The defendant was going less than 5 mph”; “The repair estimate was only a few hundred dollars”; and “No one’s airbag went off”.

Usually the Insurance Company will also use your medical condition and history against you: "You made errors in recalling your medical history, which means you were not honest";

"You had prior complainst to the same areas of the body"; "You have had previous medical treatment for the same problem"; "You previously treated with a Chiropractor";

"You had a subsequent accident that is actually causing all of your problems"; "You had no pain complaints at the exam by the Insurance Company doctor";

"You have had mental health treatment before, so this is all in your head"; "You were not wearing your glasses or hearing aid"; "You have an underlying medical condition which

impairs your ability to drive (epilepsy, migranes, etc.).

A good personal injury attorney knows how to combat these arguments.

I'll add some more excuses tomorrow.

Why the Insurance Company Won't Pay

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)25630 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Why the Insurance Company Won't Pay

Because they make more money not paying! It is as simple as that. And even if they do eventually pay, the longer they wait, the more interest they earn on your money before they pay it to you. But here are some of the excuses they will use against you - and after 25 years of practice, I've seen a lot of them, so this will be a continuing blog because the insurance companies never run out of excuses not to pay on auto accidents:

The most common list of excuses for not paying you is based on simply claiming "You are not really injured, or if you are the injury is minor". This list includes: "You didn't complain of pain at the accident scene"; "You said you were OK at the accident scene"; "The police report doesn't say you complained of pain"; "You weren't bleeding or bruised"; "You didn't request an ambulance to go to the hospital"; "You didn't go to the hospital after the accident, or even the following day"; "You told the insurance company you weren't hurt"; "You didn't treat with a doctor for days or weeks following the accident"; "There is no objective evidence (x-rays, or other tests) that your pain was caused by the accident"; "You continued to go to work"; "Your complaints to the doctors were inconsistent"; "Our doctor examined you and you had full range of motion"; "Your family doctor did not prescribe physical therapy"; "You did not treat with your doctor regularly"; "You only treated with a Chiropractor"; "You had a pre-existing condition such as arthritis, and the accident didn't make you any worse".

These are just a few of the medical type excuses. I will continue the list and add lots more.

Don't Text and Drive!

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)25502 — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Several states have already passed laws that make it a crime to send or read text messages while driving. The Florida legislature has considered such a law, but nothing has been passed as of yet. Governor Crist supports a ban on texting while driving in Florida, and there are currently several proposed bills for the upcoming legislative session.

There have been several studies that prove driving while texting is actually more dangerous than driving drunk. One study found that when a person is driving and texting at the same time, they are over 20 times more likely to be involved in a serious traffic accident.

When a person is injured or killed in a traffic crash, a good Florida Auto Accident Attorney will always investigate whether the at-fault driver was using their cell phone. This includes sending or receiving a text message, talking on the cell phone or using any of the other applications available these days. I see this occur more and more often these days in St Petersburg car accident cases and it is strong evidence of negligent driving that can help prove liability in your case if you are injured. It can also be used against you if you are using your cell phone.

So in addition to the obvious, “Don’t Drink and Drive”, you can add “Don’t Text and Drive” too.

Young Dog Bite Victims Often Suffer Emotional Trauma

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25298 — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

It doesn’t matter how old you are – being attacked by a dog is terrifying. However, for a young child, the emotional injuries resulting from a dog attack can be significant.

Children who have been the victims of dog bite injuries can become fearful, depressed, angry and may withdrawal from those close to them. Young dog bite victims have also been known to exhibit new behaviors, including bed wetting, clinginess and aggressiveness toward siblings. Some children are too afraid to go outside and play.

When a child is attacked by a canine, he or she is also at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Posttraumatic stress disorder is triggered by a traumatic event where the victim feels helpless or in extreme danger. The symptoms of PTSD may surface months after the attack. Some of the warning signs include flashbacks, nightmares, anger, irritability and avoiding activities once enjoyed. If you think that your child may have developed posttraumatic stress disorder, you need to contact a mental health professional right away.

To find out your legal options following a Florida dog bite, contact a St Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

For more information, read the article, Florida Dog Bite Injuries Can Lead to Emotional Scarring Among Children.

Five Common Factors in Boating Accidents

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23777 — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Boating is a popular pastime in Florida, as the sunny weather permits this great activity. However, it may not be a recreational activity that is safe as you might think.

As a matter of fact, according to the U.S. Coast Guard, thousands of boating accidents occur nationally each year. In 2008 alone, there were 4,789 boating accidents reported. These accidents resulted in 709 deaths and 3,331 injuries. These numbers are staggering.

When considering boating, you should be aware of the five most common factors in boating accidents as reported by the U.S. Coast Guard. These factors include careless/reckless operation, operator inattention, not having a proper lookout for dangers in the waters, inexperienced operators and passenger/skier behavior.

A boat accident can be serious, even causing life altering injuries and death. Did you know that if you or someone you know has been injured in a boating accident, especially if the accident was caused be negligence on the part of someone else, you may be entitled to monetary damages?

If you or someone you know has been injured in a boating accident, you should contact a St. Petersburg accident attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

Wearing a Seatbelt Can Save Your Life in a Car Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23460 — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Believe it or not, many Americans are still sustaining injuries because they are not wearing seatbelts. However, there is good news. The NHTSA has released figures showing that seatbelt usage is up from 83 percent in 2008 to 84 percent in 2009.

Another piece of good news is that the use of seatbelts by Americans has been consistently increasing since 1994. Research has shown that the number of fatalities due to drivers and passengers not buckled up when traveling in a vehicle has been at a steady decline.

The NHTSA has also reported that research shows that seatbelt usage is higher in states that allow the police to pull over vehicles when it is apparent that seatbelts are not being used. States that have weaker seatbelt laws show lower seatbelt usage.

We all know that it only takes a few seconds to buckle up. Drivers should not only make sure they are buckled up before operating a vehicle, but should also make sure everyone in their vehicle does the same. It sounds trite, but it could mean the difference between life and death.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident caused by another driver, you should contact a St. Petersburg car accident attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

Serious Knee Injuries Are Common From Slip & Fall Accidents

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)22301 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Have you recently suffered a knee injury from a slip and fall accident? These types of injuries can lead to serious knee problems.

An injury to your knees can significantly affect your life in many ways. Besides the excruciating pain it can cause, this injury can also impair your ability to perform the simplest of tasks, such as household chores and playing with your children.

A serious injury to your knees can impact the vital tendons and ligaments that surround the knee joints. It can also cause serious damage to the bones and cartilage that make up the joint.

Slip and fall accidents can happen just about anywhere. Many victims are injured at work and in public areas, such as parks and grocery stores. It is important to know your rights, especially if the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence.

Regardless of how your knee was injured, it can be very painful and affect all aspects of your life. It can take months, even years to recover. Some victims experience a lifetime of pain and suffering, including a loss of income due to their inability to perform their job.

If you or someone you know has suffered a knee injury in a slip and fall accident, you should contact a St. Petersburg accident attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

Is The Threat of Aggressive Drivers As Big As Drunk Drivers?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)21611 — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to many Americans, aggressive drivers are a major concern as it relates to highway safety. As a matter of fact, people view aggressive drivers to be as big of a threat as drunk drivers.

We have all experienced aggressive driving on Florida roads and highways, whether we have been cutoff by someone weaving in and out of traffic or whether we have tailgated someone on the freeway. Perhaps you have rolled through a stop sign without coming to a complete stop. Most of us have been guilty of some form of aggressive driving at one point in time.

The problem with aggressive driving, whether it is excessive speeding or failing to yield the right of way, is that many people die each year because of aggressive driving. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, up to 56% of fatalities each year on the roadways are related to aggressive driving.

A survey conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration a few years ago revealed that the majority of drivers felt threatened by aggressive driving at least once in the previous 12 months. More astonishing than that, is that approximately one in seven surveyed indicated that they felt threatened by aggressive drivers at least one time per week over that same period.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident caused by an aggressive driver, you should contact a St. Petersburg car accident attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for legal advice.

What If My Dog Bites Someone While It Is Boarded At The Kennel?

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)20372 — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What happens if my dog bites someone while it is at the kennel? Believe it or not, you are still strictly liable and this issue has been looked at by the Florida Supreme Court. The Florida Statutes provide for "strict liability" to the "owner" if the owner's dog bites someone as long as the person that got bit was legally allowed to be wherever he was when he got bit (not trespassing, etc.). The kennel does not "own" the dog, and there is no recognized exception of assumption of the risk, or independent contractor, etc. that will prevent the "owner" from being liable. I love my dogs, but if I put one of them in the kennel and they bite someone, even an employee of the kennel, I am still responsible as the "owner".

Too Many Drivers are Distracted in Florida School Zones

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20164 — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A national study discovered that as many as one in six drivers are distracted while driving in active school zones. This behavior puts children at risk of suffering serious injuries and death from pedestrian accidents.

The report is titled, “Distracted Drivers in School Zones,” and it states that 170 out of every 1,000 motorists were distracted in school zones. The distractions that were observed ranged from eating, grooming, talking on a cell phone to smoking and reaching for an object inside the vehicle. Researchers in the past have noted that being distracted for only three seconds can increase the chance of being involved in a collision. For drivers in school zones, that could make the difference of a child being hit by a car.

This national study came to the conclusion that when traveling in a school zone with a posted speed limit of 30 mph, it takes a total of approximately 203 feet to come to a complete stop after recognizing a road hazard. If a driver is distracted, he or she may not be able to react in time to avoid a pedestrian accident.

If your child has been the victim of a pedestrian accident in St. Petersburg or other area in Florida, you should contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947 for legal advice.

Protect Yourself in a Car Accident By Choosing a Safe Car

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)19806 — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you are in the market to buy a new car, think safety. While it is nearly impossible to completely eliminate the risk of being involved in a St. Petersburg car accident, a safe car can provide extra protection.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, many of the vehicles today have advanced safety features, including electronic stability control. These crash avoidance features can help lower the risk of a single car accident significantly. Also, the size and weight of the vehicle can make the difference when it comes to injuries. The risk of death is higher in smaller, lighter weight vehicles.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety conducts tests that measure the crashworthiness of vehicles. These tests rate how a vehicle performs in a front, side and rear collision. Most of the popular vehicles have been tested and you can go to the Institute’s website for information on how a car rates.

If you have been injured in a Florida car accident caused by the other driver, you should contact a St. Petersburg car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for legal advice. You may be able to recover compensation for your injuries.

Limiting Access to the Courts Backfires

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)19771 — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Pretty funny column in the New York Times today. It is about rather complicated investments that fell apart during the financial crisis when the auction-rate securities market failed. I don't even know what those are, but American business corporations strongly supported a 1995 law that they thought would help prevent "frivolous" lawsuits. That law says that when a case is filed in court for securities fraud, it must be very specific as to the facts describing what fraud has occurred, or else the court will dismiss it immediately. Since most people bringing a fraud case against a securities firm do not have inside information, they can't be specific, so the case gets thrown out before they can find out what really happened. Now that the financial crisis has occurred on Wall street, many corporations want to sue the securities firms, but the 1995 law is preventing it. Remember the old saying, "Be careful what you ask for. You just might get it". Well, Corporate America got the law they wanted limiting access to the courts, and now Corporate America can't file the lawsuits it wants to. Those same corporations that cheered when the 1995 law passed are not cheering now, as they find it keeps them from recovering their losses.

Boating Accident

wks@saronlaw.com (Blog Author)19608 — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Regarding the boating accident that occured last Friday night, why wasn't there a light on that jetty? I have read that a similar boating accident happened there a few years ago, however the airport authority would not allow a light on the end of the jetty as it might be confused with the air traffic approach. I would assume the City of St. Petersburg owns the land where that jetty is and may ultimately be responsible for lighting. While there is plenty of blame to go around in this accident, including possibly alcohol, and certainly operating a boat at high speed at night, the fact that the jetty extends out into the harbor, and that this is not the first incident, makes me very concerned that without proper lighting, that something like this will happen again.

A Must Read Before Filing a Florida Auto Accident Claim

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18274 — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Were you injured in a car accident in Florida? If you answered “yes,” you need to read the article, “Filing a Florida Car Accident Insurance Claim.” A car accident is un-chartered territory for most of us and the whole claims process can be overwhelming.

After a Florida auto accident, you need to notify your insurance company. However, if there were serious injuries from the crash, you should contact a St. Petersburg car accident attorney first. A lawyer can make sure that you rights are protected and that you are fairly compensated for your injuries.

Once the insurance company has received report of your accident, you will be contacted by an insurance adjuster. The adjuster will complete an investigation into the collision and may ask you for information. An insurance adjuster usually looks at medical records and the police report and may even talk to witnesses to the accident. This investigation will help the adjuster determine the amount of settlement in which you will be offered.

Be aware that the insurance adjuster has a settlement range to work with and will most likely start at the low end. If you feel that you cannot come to a resolution with the insurance company or if the insurer is being uncooperative, you may want to ask for assistance from an injury lawyer in St. Petersburg.

Contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for advice.

A Florida Car Accident Can Cause a Traumatic Amputation

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)17897 — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Living with amputation has improved over the years with advanced rehabilitation and new prosthetic designs. However, if you have suffered from traumatic amputation, you know that life changes for good.

Traumatic amputation can occur from a car accident or other catastrophic event. Sometimes a person’s limb has to be removed during the rescue effort following a crash. In this situation, re-attachment of the amputated limb can be difficult as there is often damage to the blood vessels and tissue.

There are complications associated with traumatic amputation, including infection, bleeding and shock. Medical expenses can add up quickly following a Florida car accident, especially when complications arise. As an accident victim, you may be facing financial challenges in addition to the physical demands of coping with an amputation.

If your car accident was caused by the other driver, you may be able to recover compensation, which will not only help you with your medical expenses, but may also offset your lost income and other costs.

You should contact an experienced injury attorney in St. Petersburg at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 if you have been injured in a Florida auto accident.

Your Rights as a Paralyzed Accident Victim in Florida

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)16689 — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Florida car accident, slip and fall or other catastrophic event can leave you with a permanent, debilitating injury. If you or a loved one has become paralyzed in a Florida accident, you need to be aware that you have rights and may be able to recover compensation for your injuries.

There are different types of paralysis – quadriplegia, which generally leaves you completely paralyzed and paraplegia that usually affects the lower region. When you become paralyzed, life as you know it changes forever, especially if you are unable to walk. You may be facing years of rehabilitation and medical treatment, not to mention having to depend on the support of others.

Treatment for paralysis can be costly and adds up quickly. Unfortunately, this type of condition can place a financial burden on those who have been impacted. If your accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as a negligent driver, a property owner who was careless or a manufacturer who created a dangerous product, you can and should hold that person accountable.

Compensation for a personal injury lawsuit involving paralysis can be substantial. You may be able to obtain damages for pain and suffering, mental anguish, medical expenses, lost wages and other expenses associated with your injuries. For more information, contact a Florida injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron, P.A. at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

A Slip and Fall Can Cause A Broken Hip No Matter Your Age

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)16310 — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Most people associate a broken hip with the elderly. However, when you slip and fall, it doesn’t matter how old you are – you have the potential to break your hip.

A hip fracture is painful. Some of the signs of a broken hip include pain in the hip or groin area, inability to put weight on a leg, hip stiffness, bruising or swelling and a shorter leg on the injured side of the hip. Even if you are not experiencing these specific symptoms, you should still be checked out by a doctor following a slip and fall or trip and fall accident.

To determine if you have sustained a hip fracture, the doctor will order an x-ray. The x-ray will show the extent of the damage to the hip or other affected area. Surgery is the usual treatment for a broken hip, but there are alternatives for people who are unable to have surgery due to medical reasons.

In rare cases, a broken hip can lead to fatal complications. People have been known to suffer from bedsores, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, muscle wasting and blood clots following a hip fracture. If a blood clot becomes lodged in a pulmonary artery, the outcome can be deadly.

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, you need to contact an experienced injury attorney in St. Petersburg. Call the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

A Florida Fall Accident Can Lead to a Broken Collar Bone

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)15093 — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

Most of the time, when you slip and fall or trip, all you sustain is a bruised ego. However, some fall accidents are more serious than others and can lead to painful injuries. A fractured collar bone is one of the most common bone breaks and can occur when you fall. Typically, a broken collar bone happens when you fall with an outstretched arm or land on the outside of your shoulder.

The collar bone, also known as the clavicle, runs from the front of your shoulders to the sternum. In a fall accident, the impact of hitting the bone on a hard surface, such as the ground or an object, can cause the clavicle to fracture. This type of injury is painful and can take weeks to recover from. Usually treatment involves rest and a sling that keeps the shoulders back, but occasionally, surgery is required. Physicians also tend to recommend physical therapy in more severe cases.

If you have fractured your collar bone in a Florida slip and fall accident, you may be able to hold the property owner liable. Property owners have a duty to keep their premises free from any known dangers and can sometimes be held responsible for damages caused from the accident. You should contact a Florida injury attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for legal advice.

Your Options When Offered a Low Florida Auto Accident Settlement

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)14679 — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

Working with an insurance company following a Florida auto accident can be a nightmare. The insurance adjuster’s job is to protect the interests of the insurance company, not yours. They will be listening and watching for information that they can use to offer you a low settlement. You should consult with a Florida car accident attorney following an accident to ensure you are treated fairly.

If you have already started the negotiation process with the insurance adjuster without an attorney, you need to be aware of your options if you come to a standstill with the settlement. Sometimes the insurance adjuster will not budge on their Florida car accident settlement, despite your best efforts to prove that your claim is worth more. In that situation, you can take your case to arbitration, where a neutral party will decide the outcome of your claim. Another option is to contact the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation to find out how to file a complaint against the insurance company.

You might be able to sue the driver who caused your car crash, if the insurance company is being uncooperative. A knowledgeable Florida car accident lawyer will be able to advise you on your best course of action following an accident and will gather all of the necessary evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.

Contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron today at (727) 345- 4566 or (866) 836-4947 for legal advice.

How Can You Prove Fault in a Florida Slip and Fall?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)14217 — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you have slipped and fallen at a mall, apartment complex, office building or other location, you are not alone. Falls are one of the leading causes of unintentional injuries in the United States. Many falls are caused by our own carelessness, either we weren’t paying attention or failed to adhere to warning signs of a slippery or uneven surface. However, sometimes a slip and fall accident or trip and fall accident is the fault of the property owner.

After a Florida fall accident, you need to think about what caused your fall. Torn carpet, broken tile, worn out stairs and slippery surfaces are common factors in fall accidents. A property owner isn’t going to be responsible every time there is a wet surface, but there are going to be some situations where the property owner should have taken action to prevent the hazard that caused your fall.

Florida slip and fall accident cases can be tricky. There are different circumstances that could prove that the property owner was responsible. For example, you will need to show either that the property owner or one of their employees caused the dangerous surface or that they must have known about the hazard and did not repair it. A property owner can also be held liable if they should have known about the dangerous condition because a reasonable person would have been aware of it.

Contact a Florida slip and fall accident attorney if you have been injured in a fall. Call the Law Offices of William K. Saron today at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for legal advice.

Why Dogs Attack in Florida

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)13293 — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

A canine attack can leave both physical and emotional scars on the victim. When a child is bitten by a dog, it is not uncommon for a fear of dogs to develop that can be so debilitating that the child is too afraid to go to the park or to the homes of friends or family members who own dogs. Dogs can attack for many reasons and in some situations, the canine’s owner can be held responsible for injuries.

Dog bites are prevalent in the United States. It has been estimated that 2 percent of the total U.S. population have been bitten by dogs, which equals about 4.7 million people every year. Some people believe that the number of canine attacks is so high because of the close proximity of dogs to humans.

There is debate as to whether certain dog breeds are more likely to attack than others. For example, the rate of pit bull attacks seems to be higher than some other dog breeds. Some people have argued that it has nothing to do with the breed, but that the propensity to bite is actually associated with the dog’s owner.

Dogs bite when they are scared, territorial, sick or injured. Usually a dog will give warning signs of an impending attack, but young children, who are the most common victims, often miss these signals.

If you have been the victim of a Florida dog attack, you should contact a St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947.

Florida Dog Bite Facts & Statistics

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)12174 — Mon, 18 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Every 75 seconds, someone is bitten by a dog in the United States. Over 1,000 Americans require emergency treatment for these dog bites.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a study into the frequency of dog bite injuries and found that approximately 4.7 million dog bites occur every year. One report by the Animal People News stated that the following percentages of attacks involved pit bulls, rottweilers and wolf hybrids:

• 77 percent of dog attacks caused bodily harm
• 73 percent of dog attacks involved children
• 83 percent of dog attacks involved adults
• 70 percent of dog attacks resulted in death
• 77 percent of dog attacks caused maiming

Researchers have also looked into the types of breeds that most commonly cause fatalities. According to research, during a 20-year period from 1979 to 1998, at least 25 dog breeds were involved in 238 human dog bite related deaths. Rottweilers and pit bulls were associated with more than half of these deaths from 1997 to 1998.

Dogs bite for many reasons. Based on a study in Denver, male dogs are more likely to bite than females and dogs that attack are 2.6 times as likely to not be neutered. Also, dogs that bite are 2.8 times as likely to be chained as unchained.

Source: Dogbites.org

Fall Accidents Among Senior Citizens in Florida

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)11952 — Wed, 13 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Falls can be serious and every year thousands of senior citizens are injured by these accidents. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one third of adults age 65 and older fall each year in the United States. The problem is so severe that falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among senior citizens and the most frequent cause of nonfatal injuries and hospitalizations.

How many older adults are affected by fall accidents? The CDC reports that 15,800 people 65 and older died from fall injuries and 1.8 million were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal injuries from falls in 2007. Among those injured, 433,000 were hospitalized. The number of deaths caused by falls has increased dramatically over the last decade.

According to the CDC, 20 to 30 percent of fall victims sustain moderate to severe injuries, including bruises, hip fractures and head traumas. Falls are also considered to be the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries. In 2000, traumatic brain injuries accounted for 46 percent of fatal falls among senior citizens.

Statistics show that men are more likely to die from a fall than women, but women are more likely to sustain a nonfatal fall injury. Older women are twice as likely to suffer from a fall-related fracture as men in the same age group.

Even when an older adult is not injured in a fall accident, he or she may still experience emotional stress, as a fear of falling develops. This fear can cause older adults to restrict their activities, which can lead to reduced mobility and physical fitness.

*Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Falls Among Older Adults: An Overview

Falls and Car Accidents Cause Most Children's Injuries

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)11155 — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

More children die from a preventable injury than all the diseases combined. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) car accidents are a leading cause of children’s deaths. The report by the CDC also found that falls are the major cause of injuries among children.

Researchers have estimated that approximately 8,000 children are killed each you in a car accident, pedestrian accident or bicycle accident. The study showed that car accidents are to blame for the majority of deaths in the 5 to 19 age group.

Car accidents can have many causes, including negligence, distractions, poor road conditions or other driver behavior. Child passenger seats have been created to help protect a child in a car accident, but unfortunately serious injuries still often occur. When a child is injured in an auto accident, it can lead to traumatic brain injury, head trauma, spinal cord injury and other conditions.

According to the study, southern states and those in the upper plains had the highest amount of children’s deaths from traffic accidents. States in the northwest region had the lowest rate of transportation-related deaths.

When an auto accident is caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (866) 836-4947 or (727) 345-4566 for legal advice regarding your Florida car accident case.

Older Drivers Cause Less Car Accidents Than Before

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)10686 — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

Older drivers are involved in less car accidents than in previous years. Despite predictions by experts, the amount of older drivers in fatal accidents has gone down, even as the population of older drivers has increased.

According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, fatalities per capita among older people have dropped 35 percent since 1975. Researchers also found that very few drivers 70 and older who died in car accidents had blood alcohol-levels above the legal limit. However, there is a higher risk of older drivers being involved in fatal car crashes, but this trend can be explained by the fact that older people are frailer and more vulnerable to sustaining a severe injury, especially to the chest. The study also found that the death rate in car accidents increased for drivers over the age of 80.

Experts had believed that more accidents would be caused by older drivers because people over the age of 70 have started keeping their driver’s licenses longer and were driving more than previous generations. Research is being conducted to find out why the number of fatal car accidents with aging drivers has gone down. There is already one theory that aging drivers are in better physical and mental condition than previous generations and are less likely to make a driving mistake.

If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida, you need to contact an experienced car accident attorney. Contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron today at (866) 836-4947 or (727) 345-4566 for legal advice.

How to Avoid a Florida Dog Attack

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)9708 — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

Every year, there are millions of victims of dog bites across the country. Children, ages 5 to 9, are the ones who are most often attacked by dogs and as a result, they sustain the highest number of dog bite injuries. When a dog bite occurs, the dog owner can be held liable for injuries under Florida law.

People frequently bring their dogs to parks and other public locations, which increase the odds of a serious dog attack. Even though dogs are domesticated, they are still animals and their behavior can be unpredictable. Family dogs have even been known to violently attack.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created a list of safety tips to help avoid dog bites. According to the CDC, you should never approach an unfamiliar dog and should always ask the dog’s owner before petting the animal. If you are approached by an unfamiliar dog, do not move and avoid running or screaming. Children should never be allowed to play with a dog unsupervised and should be taught the proper way to treat animals.

If you or your child has been attacked by a dog, which resulted in serious injuries, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (866) 836-4947 or (727) 345-4566 for legal advice. You may be entitled to compensation for the dog bite injuries.

The article, “Avoiding Dog Bites & Vicious Canine Attacks in Florida,” has more information on this topic.

Neck Injuries Need to Be Diagnosed and Treated Immediately

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)9596 — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you have suffered a neck injury following a car accident or fall, do not wait to seek medical treatment. Ignoring neck pain can lead to more permanent damage.

The neck contains the first seven bones of the cervical spine, which is where the spinal cord lives. Since the spinal cord is so delicate, even minor damage cannot be repaired. Neck pain can indicate spinal cord compression and if it is left untreated, it can lead to irreversible damage.

A sudden trauma to the neck caused by a slip and fall, car accident, assault or sports-related injury, can result in a serious neck injury. There are many different forms and causes of neck pain, including a herniated disc. A herniated or bulging disc can put pressure on the spinal cord, causing neck pain. Herniated discs often follow a whiplash injury and may include symptoms such as weakness, tingling, numbness in the arms and upper torso and clumsiness.

A doctor will be able to diagnose the exact cause of neck pain and recommend the appropriate treatment. Anti-inflammatory medication is frequently prescribed, which will help manage the pain. Steroids are sometimes given in the form of a pill or injection. If there is a severe neck injury, surgery may be needed, especially if there is a developing problem that could be more serious.

Medical treatment for a neck injury can be expensive. If your neck injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to recover money for your injuries. Contact William K. Saron, a Florida serious injury lawyer, for legal advice regarding your neck injury case.

The article, “Neck Injuries Should Not Be Ignored,” has more information on this topic.

Back Injuries Caused By Florida Car Accidents & Falls Can Be Serious

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)9088 — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

Back pain can often indicate a serious problem, such as a herniated disc, spine fracture or spinal cord injury. When a back injury is caused by a car accident, fall or other sudden event, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Pain associated with a back injury can last for several years. Some back injury victims experience pain and discomfort for decades and others face permanent disabilities resulting from the injury. The amount of pain from a back injury can vary depending on the cause of the accident. Those who are forced to deal with back pain on a daily basis find that it takes away from their ability to function normally and may even prevent them from working in the same capacity as before the injury occurred.

Back pain can be caused by an injury to the ligaments or muscles, a spine dislocation, torn or ruptured disc or nerve compression known as cauda equine syndrome. If the pain is caused by a spinal cord injury, it can lead to permanent paralysis.

A physician will try to determine the cause of the back pain by conducting diagnostic studies, including x-rays, CT scans and MRI scans, as well as a physical exam. Usually rehabilitation and physical therapy are recommended to improve the function of the back, but in some situations, surgery is required. Surgery is an option when a nerve is pinched, the spinal cord is compressed or there is too much movement between the bones in the spine.

The article, “Serious Back Injuries from Car Crashes and Slip and Fall Accidents,” has more information on back injuries.

If you have sustained a back injury from a fall or car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (866) 836-4947 or (727) 345-4566.

Fall Accidents Can Result in Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)8764 — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

It’s hard to imagine that a slip and fall accident can lead to serious injuries, including a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Most people associate fall accidents with broken bones, bruises or sprains, but according to the Brain Injury Association of America, falls are a leading cause of traumatic brain injury, accounting for 28 percent of TBI cases every year.

A traumatic brain injury disrupts the function of the brain and can cause major problems for the victim. For example, TBI can affect language, thinking, learning, sensation, emotions and behavior. In some cases, traumatic brain injury has resulted in epilepsy and can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and other serious brain disorders.

When someone slips and falls, if there is a sudden blow or jolt to the head, it can cause irreversible brain damage. Even though treatment is available for a patient with a traumatic brain injury, the injury can still be life-altering. Surgery is often required for victims of traumatic brain injury and rehabilitation is commonly used to improve their situation.

Medical treatment for TBI caused by a fall accident can be expensive over the victim’s lifetime. If the slip and fall accident occurred on someone else’s property, including office buildings, parking lots, grocery stores and apartments complexes, the property owner can be held liable. When a property owner is found to be responsible for the injuries, compensation can be pursued, which will help cover the costs of medical treatment and lost income.

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident or have a family member who has sustained a traumatic brain injury resulting from a fall, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (866) 836-4947 or (727) 345-4566.

The article, “Traumatic Brain Injury Caused By Slip and Fall Accident,” has more information on this topic.

Symptoms of a Serious Head Injury

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)8085 — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

Head injuries are often serious and require extensive medical treatment. If you have sustained a head injury in a car accident, slip and fall, assault or work-related accident, you need to be aware of the warning signs of a more serious head injury.

A head injury, which is also referred to as a brain injury, contusion, concussion or head trauma, can be defined as a trauma to the head that leads to injury to the scalp, skull or brain. This type of injury can range in severity, from a minor bump on the head to a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Even if you think that your head injury is only minor, you need to watch for symptoms that would indicate a serious problem.

A serious head injury can have any of the following symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Severe headache that won’t go away or gets worse
• Fluid draining from the nose, mouth or ears
• Stiff neck
• Drop in blood pressure
• Changes in the pupils
• Swelling at the injury site

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of a head injury, you need to seek medical attention immediately. The doctor will be able to determine the severity of your head injury and the type of treatment that will be needed. If your head injury is minor, bed rest and over-the-counter pain medication will most likely be recommended. A serious head injury could require surgery.

In some cases, a head injury can lead to permanent brain damage, which can cause changes in behavior, speech problems, loss of hearing, vision, taste or other sensation, seizures, paralysis or coma. Even though it is impossible to reverse brain damage, a medical provider can take measures to prevent further injuries and improve the victim’s quality of life.

Contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (866) 836-4947 or (727) 345-4566 for advice regarding your case.

The article titled, Compensation for a Serious Head Injury, discusses the monetary damages that are available in serious head injury cases.

Compensation Available for Car Accidents in Florida

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)7915 — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

After a car accident, it is not uncommon to face mounting bills, with little to no income to pay them. During your recovery, you may incur high medical expenses and be forced to take time away from work. When an auto accident is caused by the other driver, you may be able to collect compensation for your injuries that will help your financial situation.

Florida is considered a no-fault insurance state, which means that when you are injured in a car accident, your injuries will be covered by your own insurance company, regardless of who was at fault. The compensation available depends on your policy limits. The insurance company is supposed to reimburse you for the majority of your medical expenses, some of your lost wages and other expenses relating to your injury. If the other driver was injured in the accident, his or her insurance policy should cover any injuries that the driver sustained.

Even though Florida has a no-fault insurance law, in some instances you can still file a lawsuit against the negligent party. For example, if you sustained a permanent injury from the car accident or if someone in the vehicle died, you have the legal right to sue the other driver to recover compensation beyond what is provided by the insurance company.

There are two categories of monetary damages available in car accident cases – economic and non-economic. Economic damages include medical expenses, past and future lost wages, lost support and services, replacement value and other expenses associated with economic loss. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, mental anguish and inconvenience. The jury will decide what damages you are entitled to based on the evidence presented before them in court.

If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron to determine how much your case is worth. Call (866) 836-4947 or (727) 345-4566 today.

The article, What Damages are Available in a Car Accident Case, has more information on this topic.

Have You Sustained a Spinal Cord Injury?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)7410 — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

If you or someone you love has sustained a spinal cord injury, you need to understand the symptoms, treatment and compensation for these types of injuries. A spinal cord injury is serious and most often affects a person’s ability to function in the same capacity. When a spinal cord injury is caused by a car crash, work-related accident, fall, sports activity, assault or other event, the outcome can be tragic.

A spinal cord injury can be classified into two categories – partial or complete. With a partial spinal cord injury, the injured victim retains some sensation and motor function below the injury. A complete spinal cord injury occurs when there is a complete loss of motor function and sensation below the injury site.

Spine injuries lead to permanent disability or paralysis. There are two different classifications of paralysis, known as paraplegia and quadriplegia. Paraplegia refers to an injury that paralyzes the lower body. Quadriplegia refers to the loss of movement in most of the body, including the arms and legs.

Symptoms of a spinal cord injury include pain in the spine, loss of movement, loss of sensation, spasms, inability to control the bowel or bladder, difficulty breathing and an oddly positioned neck or back. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you were injured in an accident.

Treatment for spinal cord injuries may include physical therapy, medication and even surgery. The medical costs for a spine injury can add up quickly. If your spinal cord injury resulted from negligence, such as in a car accident, work accident, fall or other catastrophic incident, you may be eligible for compensation. You may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering and other costs associated with your spinal cord injury. Contact William K. Saron, an experienced Florida serious accident lawyer, at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947, to review your spinal cord injury case.

The article, Spinal Cord Injury – Understanding the Symptoms & Treatment, has more information on this topic.

Can a Property Owner be Responsible for Your Injuries?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)7245 — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Did you slip and fall at a mall, grocery store, parking lot, workplace or other location? If so, you may be wondering if you can hold the property owner responsible for your injuries. Slip and fall and trip and fall injuries can be serious, resulting in high medical costs and time away from work. You need to know your legal rights following a slip and fall accident.

Slip and fall accidents fall under a legal category known as premises liability. Property owners owe a legal duty of reasonable care to keep their premises free from danger. According to Florida law, a business owner has the responsibility to “maintain the premises in a reasonably safe condition for the safety of business invitees on the premises, which includes reasonable efforts to keep the premises free from transitory foreign objects or substances that might foreseeably give rise to loss, injury or damage.”

There are certain things that you have to prove in order to receive compensation from a property owner. Some of the questions that will need to be answered include:

Did the person in control of the property owe you a duty?
Did the property owner act negligently by failing to exercise reasonable care in the “maintenance, inspection, repair, warning or mode of operation of the business premises?”
Did the property owner fail to provide reasonable care, which ultimately caused you loss, injury or damage?

The first question can be answered by reviewing the categories of visitors on a property, which include invitees, licensees and trespassers. A licensee is someone who has a reason to believe the property is open for use, such as in the situation of a customer shopping at a retail store. A licensee is someone who is on the property for any other reason other than commercial or business use. A trespasser is a person who is on the property without expressed or implied invitation or permission. In most circumstances, a property owner owes the duty of reasonable care to invitees, licensees and known trespassers. Also, a property owner cannot intentionally harm a trespasser.

If you have been injured on someone else’s property, contact a Florida slip and fall attorney who can review your case to determine who was liable. Call the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for expert legal advice.

The article, Property Owner’s Responsibility for Injuries, has more information regarding this subject.

The Impact of Driver Distractions

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)5998 — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

Driver distractions can come in many forms, such as talking on a cell phone, sending text messages, putting a CD into the stereo or turning to look at children in the backseat. To determine the link between driver distractions and car accidents, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute performed a study following 241 drivers in 100 vehicles for more than one year. A total of 200 million miles were traveled during the time of the study. Some of the findings were alarming.

According to the study, most car accidents occur when the driver has been distracted for 3 seconds. Three seconds seems like a short amount of time, but it is just enough to cause a serious auto accident. Approximately 1 out of every 3 drivers in the study was involved in an auto accident during the time of the study. Even more distressing is the fact that each driver had an average of 3 near-accidents.

The study reflected the need for drivers to focus on driving-related tasks while they are behind the wheel. While cell phones and other electronic devices have brought convenience, they can lead to driver distraction and ultimately tragic car crashes. Researchers also found that when the driver reached for a moving object inside the car, the chance of a car accident increased by 9 times.

If you have been injured in a car accident and you believe it was caused by the other driver being distracted, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. An insurance adjuster may not take into account the cost of your future medical treatment and pain and suffering. After a car accident, you should consult with an experienced Florida auto accident attorney who can help you determine how much your case is worth.

The article, Distracted Drivers Cause Serious Car Accidents, has more information on this subject.

Compensation for Whiplash Resulting from an Auto Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)6202 — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

Car accidents can result in major damage to the vehicles involved and can potentially cause serious injuries. If you have been in an auto accident in Florida, you understand the pain and frustration of dealing with the aftermath. When you are injured in a car crash, you may be forced to take time away from work, which can lead to financial troubles. Injuries also cost money to be treated. One of the most common types of injuries associated with auto accidents is whiplash. If you have sustained a whiplash injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Whiplash involves an overextension of the neck, which can lead to torn or stretched muscles or ligaments. It is usually caused by being struck from behind, such as in a rear-end collision. According to MedicineNet.com, “More recent studies investigating high-speed cameras and sophisticated crash dummies have determined that after the rear impact the lower cervical vertebrae (lower bones in the neck) are forced into a position of hyperextension while the upper cervical vertebrae (upper bones in the neck) are in a hyper flexed position.” Some whiplash injuries will heal quickly, while others can take months to recover.

Symptoms of whiplash can take days to surface and may include pain and aching in the neck, back or shoulders, sensory disturbance to the arms and legs, headache, fatigue, jaw pain and ringing in the ears. Usually a whiplash injury causes only minor pain, but in some instances, it can result in a severe disability caused by restrictive head movement or of the cervical spine and may cause persistent pain.

If a doctor diagnoses you with whiplash, after conducting an x-ray or other imaging test to rule out bone fractures, he or she may recommend a soft cervical collar. Your doctor might also recommend bed rest, neck rest and medication to manage the pain.

The expenses associated with whiplash can add up quickly. If you have been in a rear-end collision caused by another driver that resulted in whiplash, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (866) 836-4947. You may be able to recover damages for your injury.

The article, Whiplash Injury Caused by an Auto Accident – Symptoms and Treatment, has more information on this topic.

Man Discovered Dead in Pinellas Park, Believed to be Hit by Car

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)29735 — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 27, 2012 – Pinellas Park, Fla. – According to a report from the Tampa Bay Times, a man who was found dead around 8 p.m. on Saturday, January 21, is believed to have been hit by a car.

Police are still investigating a man’s death, near the intersection of 49^th Street and 102^nd Avenue. His identity is still unknown.

Shortly after the discovery of his body, a car fire on the other side of 49^th Street where he had been found had to be put out. Authorities were looking into whether or not this was related to the man who was fatally injured.

A hit and run accident is one of the most tragic types of accidents to deal with. If you or a loved one suffered serious or fatal injuries resulting from someone else’s careless or reckless actions, your next step should be to consult with a St. Petersburg accident attorney.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

If you have been named in this blog or you are the victim's family member or friend and would like the blog removed from our website, please feel free to contact us and we will promptly accommodate your request.

Police Vehicle On-Site of an Accident Investigation was Struck by Car

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)29731 — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 27, 2012 – St. Petersburg, Fla. – According to a report from the St. Pete Patch, the vehicle of a police officer who was investigating the scene of an accident, was struck by another vehicle around 3 a.m. on Monday, January 23.

Officer John Martini was responding to an accident on Gandy Boulevard and I-275, when the back of his cruiser was hit by a Toyota Corolla.

The Toyota was driven by Kimberly M. Argue, 26, who drove away from the accident. She was then pursued by police and eventually stopped. She has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries and DUI.

Officer Martini was taken to Edward White Hospital, treated and released.

When you have been severely injured or are facing serious vehicle damage due to another’s negligence, seek assistance form a St. Petersburg car accident attorney, to learn if you are eligible to file a claim. You could be entitled to compensation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Vehicle Accident in Seminole Seriously Injures 2

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)29730 — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 27, 2012 – Seminole, Fla. – According to a report from My Fox Tampa Bay, a vehicle accident injures 2 people. The car accident occurred on Seminole Boulevard, Friday, January 20, just before midnight.

Steven Simpkins, 17, of Largo, was traveling north, in a 2002 Saturn, when he lost control of the car. It crossed over into oncoming traffic before it struck a pole in the 5000 block of Seminole Blvd.

A witness helped remove Simpkins from the car. Austin Stephens, 20, a passenger, had to be extricated by emergency personnel and was then airlifted to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg. Simpkins was also taken to Bayfront by ambulance.

Stephens sustained several broken bones. Simpkins injuries are not known at this time.

According to police, alcohol may have been involved and another vehicle may have been struck by Simpkins. Charges against him are pending.

Seek assistance from a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney if you or a loved one were seriously injured in a car accident. You may be entitled to compensation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Second Pedestrian Fatality on Drew Street in Pinellas Park this Month

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)29497 — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 19, 2012 – Pinellas Park, Fla. – According to a report from Bay News 9, Drew Street was the location of a second pedestrian fatality in just a single month.

The first pedestrian fatality occurred on Wednesday, Jan. 4. Maria E. Aquedelo de Rondon, of California, was struck by a Ford pickup truck. The driver, Robert Osborne, 55, of Clearwater, hit the pedestrian at about 1:55 p.m. She died the following night from her injuries.

The latest incident occurred on Monday, Jan. 9, when Johnny Mathney, of Clearwater, was crossing Drew Street and was struck by a fire department vehicle at about 6:15 p.m. The fire truck’s lights and siren were active at the time, according to witnesses.

Officials suspect that alcohol was a factor.

If you or a loved one suffered a serious or fatal injury caused by the negligence of someone else, you should seek legal counsel. A St. Petersburg injury attorney will take the time to carefully evaluate the details of your case.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Fatal Accident on Gandy Blvd in Pinellas Park

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)29496 — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 19, 2012 – Pinellas Park, Fla. – According to a report from Bay News 9, a fatal accident occurred on Gandy Boulevard during the afternoon on Wednesday, January 11.

Helen Sauerbier, 84, was killed after her 1996 Lincoln Town Car went into the path of a 2007 Nissan Murano. The driver of the Nissan, William McClendon, 44, was reported to have sustained injuries.

Sauerbier was attempting to make a left-hand turn onto 35^th Street when she struck McClendon. Charges against McClendon are pending, as alcohol appears to be a factor in the crash and he was also driving with a suspended license.

When a car accident leads to serious or fatal injuries, compensation may be available. To learn what your rights are and how you can best protect them, you should immediately consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney. An attorney can determine if you have a legitimate claim that is worth pursuing.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Pedestrian Struck by Teen Driver in St. Petersburg

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)28933 — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 22, 2011 – St. Petersburg, Fla. – According to St. Petersburg Times, a woman attempting to cross Fourth Street, on Friday, December 16, was hit by a 17 year-old-driver causing the pedestrian to hit her head on the hood and windshield of the 1994 Ford and eventually on the pavement.

The teen driver did try to stop and other cars also tried to swerve away from the woman but she was still hit. The victim was transported to Bayfront Medical Center and was listed in serious condition. It’s unknown if the driver will be charged by the police.

In a news release from the police department it was noted that the pedestrian may have been suffering from a medical condition that could have caused her not to hear the oncoming traffic.

If you were a pedestrian hit or injured by a driver you may have extensive medical bills and be unable to work to pay them. A personal injury claim could help you recover some compensation to aid in the cost. Contact an attorney to help you pursue a personal injury claim.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Fatality and 5 Others Seriously Injured in Bradenton Car Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)28931 — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 22, 2011 – Bradenton, Fla. – According to My Fox Tampa Bay, a person was killed and 5 more people were critically injured in a car accident on Sunday, December 18.

The accident was caused when a Mazda minivan cut out in front of a Ford Focus on the road and was struck on the side killing the driver. There were 2 passengers in the van fell victim to critical injuries. Another van passenger, along with 2 occupants from the Ford Focus, sustained minor injuries.

The identity of the victim who was killed hasn’t been released although police say it was a woman. It’s also unknown at this what caused the collision and whether any charges will be filed against those involved.

Accidents that cause serious and life-threatening injuries can have long-lasting physical and financial effects. A personal injury attorney may be able to counsel you after a car crash to see if you’re eligible to file a personal injury claim to receive compensation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of Bradenton, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Palm Harbor Construction Worker Injured After Struck by Car

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)28930 — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 22, 2011 – Palm Harbor, Fla. – According to The St. Petersburg Times, workers had been working on the intersection of US 19 and Tampa Road when a man driving a 2007 Subaru Impreza barreled through the barricades, around 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 18, resulting in a worker being hospitalized.

Eye witnesses report that the man tried to brake and steer out of the way of the men once he realized what was happening, but it was too late. The injured worker was transported to Bayfront Medical Center with critical injuries. No other workers were injured in the collision.

Police report that an investigation of what caused the crash is still underway and that the driver hasn’t yet been charged with any wrongdoing or traffic citations.

If you or a loved one were injured because of a careless or reckless driver you may not know where to turn for help. A personal injury attorney could be able to help you if you decide to file a personal injury claim to receive compensation for your medical bills and other damages.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Children Hospitalized After Bus-Car Collision in Tampa

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)28866 — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 20, 2011 – Tampa, Fla. – According to a news story in the St. Petersburg Times, 25 students, from Oak Grove Elementary School, were on their way to school on Friday, December 16, when the school bus driver failed to yield and crashed into an Audi sports car.

Reports indicate that 2 students were treated for minor injuries, at St. Joseph’s Hospital, along with a passenger from the Audi, and the bus driver. The rest of the children were taken to school to complete the day.

Police reports indicate that the bus driver was cited for failing to yield the right of way. No other information is known at this time.

If you were involved in an auto accident that was not your fault, you could have grounds to file a personal injury claim to receive compensation for your damages. After an accident you should seek legal support to understand your options and rights.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of Tampa, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Man Suffers Fatal Injuries in Plant City Motorcycle Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)28864 — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 20, 2011 – Plant City, Fla. – According to the Plant City Courier&Tribune, the intersection of South Alexander and West Grant Streets was the site of a fatal motorcycle accident after a van and bike collided on Thursday, December 8.

The Ford van driven by a 90-year-old Plant City resident crashed into the driver of a 2005 Honda motorcycle while making a left turn onto West Grant Street at 11:40 a.m. The motorcyclist was thrown from his bike and while he was wearing a helmet he still sustained severe head injuries later causing him to die.

The driver of the van wasn’t injured and it isn’t known if the driver was ticketed by police.

If you, or a loved one, has been injured or involved in an accident on a motorcycle you may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for any damages that occurred. Don’t let the negligence of another driver affect your rights as a victim. An attorney can look at the details of your case and guide you through the process.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Firefighter in Critical Condition after Seminole Motorcycle Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)28250 — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 23, 2011 – Seminole, Fla. – According to a report from Bay News 9, a Pinellas firefighter was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident on Sunday, Nov. 20.

James Fehl was injured when his motorcycle crashed into a car at about 10 p.m. on Bay Pines Boulevard. The vehicle was leaving a parking lot at the time of the accident. It is unclear at this time as to what caused the accident. However, so far no charges have been filed.

Fehl wasn’t wearing a helmet when he was thrown from his bike. He was transported to Bayfront Medical Center. His injuries are considered to be life-threatening.

The motorcycle accident still remains under investigation.

If an accident with a motorcycle or any other vehicle has left you with serious injuries, then compensation may be available. A Florida injury attorney can evaluate your case to determine what your legal options are and how you can protect your rights.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Pedestrian Struck by Car in Hillsborough; Dies on Site

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)28249 — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 22, 2011 – Hillsborough, Fla. – According to a report from the St. Petersburg Times, a pedestrian was fatally injured during the night on Sunday, Nov. 20.

Jonathan William Butler, 25, of Plant City, was struck and killed while walking down Sparkman Road at around 8:50 p.m.

The driver of a 2008 Saturn, Linda Ann Vallee, 45, was heading west on Sparkman when she struck Butler. Vallee indicated to police that she did not see him on the side of the road.

Butler died at the scene of the pedestrian accident. Hillsborough police have indicated that no charges have been filed but they are continuing to investigate.

If you or someone you love were seriously or fatally injured in a pedestrian accident, you should get in touch with a St. Petersburg injury attorney as soon as possible. You may be able to collect compensation that addresses medical expenses, wrongful death, pain and suffering, and more.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Animal Control Truck Overturns to Avoid Hitting Car in St. Petersburg

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)27752 — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 3, 2011 - St. Petersburg, Fla. - According to a report from 10 News WTSP, a Pinella County Animal Control truck flipped over Monday morning, October 31, after colliding with a car.

The car accident occurred on 5^th Avenue South and 37^th Street South. The cause of the accident was the car driving through a red light.

The collision caused the truck to flip over, so much so that the firefighters were needed to free the driver. In addition, firefighters rescued a cat and 2 dogs, which were located inside compartments at the top of the vehicle. The animals didn't appear to be injured.

The driver of the car was treated at the scene of the accident but was then taken to an area hospital for observation.

If you were seriously hurt in a car accident caused by another's negligence, then you should speak with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer. They can advise you of your rights and determine if you have a legitimate claim worth pursuing.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Suspected DUI Driver Crashes into a Home in St. Petersburg

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)27751 — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 3, 2011 - St. Petersburg, Fla. - According to a report from ABC Actions News, a suspected DUI driver crashed into a home on Friday, October 28.

St. Petersburg police indicate that it does not appear the woman driver ever hit her brakes, as her car came crashing into a home in the 4600 block of 6^th Street.

A woman who lived in the home did not know what had happened when she had heard a loud noise outside. No one inside was reported to be injured.

Police believe that the woman driving was under the influence of alcohol. She was not injured in the crash; however, a female passenger was taken to the hospital for observation.

The car accident remains under investigation.

When someone else's carelessness or recklessness leads to serious injuries, then they may be held liable. To learn what your rights are after a car accident, you should speak to a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

2-Vehicle Car Accident on US-19 in Pinellas County Kills Man

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)27285 — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 14, 2011 - Pinellas County, Fla. - According to a news story from Bay News 9, a 2-vehicle car accident near US-19 and SR-580 killed a man on Sunday afternoon.

The car accident occurred at around 12:45 p.m., October 9. When Jeffrey Spink, 57, of Dunedin, had just left work he attempted to cross over several lanes of traffic on SR-580. He was struck by another vehicle, driven by Jessica Feihl, 18, of Safety Harbor. There is no word on whether or not she was injured.

However, Spink was transported to Mease Countryside Hospital where he died.

So far there are no charges in the accident and police continuing an investigation.

If someone else's negligence was the cause of your car accident, then you may be able to collect compensation for your injuries and damages. Speaking with a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney can help you learn what your legal rights are.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

High School Student Hit by Car in Pinellas Park

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)27284 — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 14, 2011 - Pinellas Park, Fla. - According to a report from Bay News 9, a high school student was hit by a car in Pinellas Park.

The pedestrian accident took place on Tuesday morning, October 11, at a major intersection that includes 66^th Street N and 118^th Avenue N.

At approximately 6:30 a.m. the high school student was struck. There is no information on the driver of the vehicle or what led to the pedestrian accident. Although the victim was alert after the accident, it is still unclear as to the extent of the injuries but the victim did reject medical treatment.

Injuries from a pedestrian accident can be especially catastrophic. If you or a loved one were seriously injured because of someone else's negligence, then your next step should be to seek legal counsel from a St. Petersburg injury attorney. An attorney can advise you of your legal rights and how to protect them while filing a personal injury claim.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

School Volunteer Killed in Pinellas Park Hit and Run Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)27283 — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 14, 2011 - Pinellas Park, Fla. - According to a report from Bay News 9, a 64-year-old school volunteer was killed in a hit and run accident on Saturday night, October 8.

Pamela Lynn Collier, 64, was killed while she was on her motorized scooter in the intersection of where 66^th St. N and 78^th Ave. meet. The driver of the car fled the scene following the incident.

According to witnesses, the driver did first slow down before leaving. They also indicate that the driver had a green light, so they may not have necessarily been at fault for the accident.

The vehicle is identified as a dark-colored SUV with front end damage.

Collier was known as "Grandma Pam" at Pinellas Park Elementary, where she helped students with reading, writing and other activities.

If you or a loved one was seriously injured in n accident, then you should speak with a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney about your case.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

45-Year-Old Woman Killed in Polk County Hit and Run

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)27067 — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 7, 2011 - Polk County, Fla. - According to a report from Bay News 9, a 45-year-old woman was killed in a hit and run in Polk County.

The fatal pedestrian accident occurred on Saturday, Sept. 24. At about 8:40 p.m., Pamela Miclette, 45, was crossing Armour Avenue to go visit her friend.

According to witnesses, a white pickup truck struck her and the driver fled the scene of the accident.

The friend she was going to visit ended up coming to her side where she lay. Miclette tragically died there at the scene.

The driver of the hit and run, Michael R. Mitchell, 33, was found and arrested on Wednesday, Sept. 28. He has been charged with hit and run causing death and driving with a suspended license.

A pedestrian accident is tragic enough without it also involving a hit and run. If you or someone you love was seriously or fatally injured because of someone else's negligence, you should speak to a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Overturned Truck on I-75 Exit in Tampa Leads to Injuries

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)27066 — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 7, 2011 - Tampa, Fla. - According to a report from Tampa Bay News, a truck overturns on the I-75 exit to I-4, which resulted in injuries.

The interstate 75 exit was blocked for nearly 2 hours on Thursday, Sept. 29, when a truck filled with milk overturned. It is still unclear as to what caused the truck to flip over.

The Florida Highway Patrol indicated that there were injuries involved. However, no further information was provided.

Injuries from a truck accident are often serious, even life-threatening. If someone else's negligence caused you to sustain serious injuries, then you could be entitled to compensation. It would be in your best interest to seek legal counsel from a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney.

An attorney will evaluate your case to determine who was at fault and then assist you throughout the entire process of your claim. This includes filing your paperwork and collecting the necessary evidence.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Police Officer Seriously Injured in Tampa Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)26454 — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

September 15, 2011 - Tampa, Fla. - According to a report from ABC Action News, a Tampa police officer was injured in an accident early Sunday morning, Sept. 4.

Sgt. Robert Nassief was searching for a suspect that one of his deputies called in on Hillsborough Avenue and 43^rd Street. The driver of a silver Ford Expedition began to slow down, with the appearance of stopping but then suddenly made a U-turn.

The suspect's vehicle ran through a stop sign and was then struck by Nassief's police vehicle, which caused the suspect's car to flip. Nassief's vehicle slid into another car that was parked.

The Jaws of Life were required to remove Nassief out of his vehicle and he was taken to Tampa General Hospital. His injuries are serious but he is in stable condition.

The driver of the car, Desmond Smith, and 2 other passengers, Devon Johnson and Carlos Johnson suffered nonlife-threatening injuries. They were also driven to Tampa General Hospital.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of Florida motor vehicle accidents that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

St. Petersburg Police Department Unveil New DUI Vehicle Over Labor Day

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)26453 — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

September 2011 - St. Petersburg, Fla. - In a news report from ABC Action News, over the Labor Day weekend the unveiling of a new DUI vehicle by the St. Petersburg police department took place.

The showcasing of this new effort to prevent drinking and driving was done on Thursday, Sept. 1. The DUI vehicle is a Chevrolet Tahoe, which is equipped with moving radar and an onboard breath testing device so that police officers are able to conduct DUI testing directly at the scene of a suspected DUI incident.

The vehicle was a prize that the police department won after their campaign "Over the Limit-Under Arrest," resulted in more than 600 arrests. It was awarded by the Florida Public Safety Institute and the Florida Department of Transportation.

The vehicle will also display the campaign slogan and be a strong reminder to drivers that drinking and driving can lead to tragic consequences.

If you were seriously injured as a result of a DUI accident, you could be eligible to receive compensation. Consulting with a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney who handles serious car accident cases such as those relating to DUI should be your next step.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Head-On Crash with Tractor Trailer in Hillsborough County Kills 2

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)26452 — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

September 15, 2011 - Hillsborough County, Fla. - According to a report from Bay News 9, a head-on crash with a tractor trailer killed 2 people in Hillsborough County early Monday morning, Sept. 5.

The fatal head on crash occurred on U.S. Highway 301 in Thonotosassa. A 1996 Dodge Sedan was heading south when it crossed over into the northbound lanes and collided with a Sweetbay grocery tractor trailer.

It is not clear if the driver of the truck was injured. However the Sedan's driver, Justin D. Crum, 26, of Tampa and an unidentified 24-year-old female passenger from Jacksonville were killed.

The truck driver was able to tell police that the other vehicle didn't have headlights on and was unable to stop the accident from happening. Tests will determine if this is true and the investigation is ongoing.

If you were seriously injured in a truck accident, you should consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Driver Seriously Injured after Crashing Into School Bus in St. Petersburg

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)26101 — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

September 1, 2011 - St. Petersburg, Fla. - According to a report from Old Northeast-Downtown St. Pete Patch, the driver of a car was seriously injured after he crashed into a school bus on Saturday morning, August 20.

Rashad Haughabook, 20, of St. Petersburg, was speeding when he struck a school bus in the intersection of 18^th Avenue South and 44^th Street South. The driver, Darcey Rice, 43, was the sole occupant of the bus and had been stopped at a stop sign when she was just starting to cross 18^th Avenue South.

Haughabook's car partially slid underneath the bus, with the force pushing both vehicles across the road. His car then flipped onto the roof. He had to be extricated from his car and was then taken to Bayfront Medical Center.

Rice was not injured and police are still investigating the accident.

If you were injured in a car accident caused by someone else's negligence, then you should speak with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,558 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Van Crashes into Pickup Truck in Seminole and Injures 6

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)25592 — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

August 15, 2011 - Seminole, Fla - According to a report from Tampa Bay, a van crashed into a pickup truck on Saturday afternoon, August 6, resulting in 6 injuries.

Lily Williams, 56, of St. Petersburg, was heading west on Bay Pines Boulevard, in her 1991 Ford Econoline van, which was hauling a 23-foot boat trailer. She turned left into War Veterans Memorial Park and struck a pickup truck. This caused her van to flip and the boat trailer to separate.

The pickup truck was being driven by David White, 23, of Redington Beach. He and his passenger, his brother, were taken to Morton Plant Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Williams had 6 relatives in her vehicle, 4 of them injured, including a 7- and 17-year-old. They were all taken to Bayfront Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

If someone else's negligence was the cause of your accident, then you should immediately speak with a St. Petersburg personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Hit and Run Driver Kills 74-Year-Old Man in St. Petersburg

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)25591 — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

August 15, 2011 - St. Petersburg, Fla - According to a report from Bay News 9, a 74-year-old man died in the hospital following a hit and run accident.

The accident occurred on Monday morning, Aug 1, at the intersection of 16^th Street S and First Avenue S.

Lorenzo Lynch, 19, went through a red light in his Mitsubishi and struck a Pontiac, which was being driven by Michael Cerone, 74. Cerone's car hit a metal sign post and he was ejected from the vehicle. Lynch's vehicle hit a concrete pillar and a palm tree, but he fled from the scene of the accident. Police are still searching for him.

Cerone was taken to a hospital but died 2 days later from his injuries.

If you were injured in a hit and run or any type of accident caused by someone else's negligence, then you could be entitled to receive compensation. You should consult with a Florida personal injury attorney to discuss your case.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Driver Hits and Kills a Bicyclist in Pasco County

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)25590 — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

August 15, 2011 - Pasco County, Fla - According to a report from ABC Action News, a driver hit and killed a bicyclist, in Pasco County, and fled the scene.

The fatal bicycle accident took place on Saturday, July 30, on CR-587 Moon Lake road. Jared Dey, 21, was driving south and failed to see a bicyclist going the same direction on the inside portion of the lane.

Dey struck the back of the bicycle which threw the victim from the bike, onto the windshield of Dey's car and then tossed forward into the northbound lane.

The bicyclist was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident and it is still under investigation.

If you or a loved one suffered serious or fatal injuries as a result of a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation through an injury claim. To learn what options are available and how you can protect your legal rights, you should immediately consult with a St. Petersburg injury lawyer.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Police Shoot 2 Dogs During Attack in Pinellas County

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)25399 — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

August 3, 2011 - Pinellas County, Fla. - According to St. Petersburg Times, officers of the Pinellas County Sheriff's Department shot 2 mixed-breed bulldogs after they attacked.

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Department got a phone call Wednesday morning, August 3, from a resident complaining about 2 vicious dogs. The call came from Howard McGinness, 69, who had to leave his house that morning but was fearful of 2 Labrador-American bulldogs that lived a couple houses down from him on 43^rd St. N. McGinness said the dogs were acting aggressively and tried to get into his house.

When deputies Travis Roberts and Perry Warner showed up at McGinness's house, the dogs charged the officers. One of the dogs grabbed Roberts's leg and bit, forcing Roberts to shoot the dog fatally. The other dog was shot in the leg.

According to reports, the dog's leg may have to be amputated; Roberts sustained bite marks and scratches on his leg. No other injuries have been reported.

The owners of the 2 dogs, Michael Holmes and Crystal Johnson, were not home at the time and no charges have been filed.

When you become the victim of a serious Florida dog bite attack due to another's negligence, you may be able to file a dog bite claim against the owner or caretaker of the dog. Get in touch with a St. Petersburg dog bite law firm to understand your legal rights.

Contact a St. Petersburg Dog Bite Law Firm

Filing a fog bite claim as the result of a dog bite attack can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg dog bite attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg dog bite attorney about your Florida dog bite claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 1-727-345-4566 or 1-866-836-4947.

Drunk Driver Hits SUV in St. Petersburg, Ejecting Young Girl

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)25355 — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

August 3, 2011, St. Petersburg, Fla - According to a report at TampaBay.com, a girl from Tampa was thrown from an SUV and landed on a pickup truck's hood, after the SUV was hit from behind by a drunk driver on Sunday, July 31.

The accident occurred shortly before 4 p.m. Kedavia Jacobs, 6, was among 4 people in a 2001 Lincoln Navigator thatwas stopped at a red light on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street, near 94th Avenue N, until John Robert Jakab, the driver of a 1998 Mazda pickup, rear-ended the SUV.

The child was thrown out of the back window, which police believe was down at the time, and landed on the Mazda before falling to the ground. Jacobs sustained severe facial injuries.

Police said Jakab displayed signs of impairment and had a blood alcohol level of 0.187 and 0.172. He was taken into custody and charged with probation violation, DUI resulting in injury and other charges. The SUV driver, Lorne Curry of Tampa, was cited for driving with an unrestrained juvenile passenger.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,558 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Man Killed in Motorcycle Crash in Land O'Lakes

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)24738 — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

July 15, 2011 - Land O'Lakes, Fla. - A man was killed Thursday, June 9 when his motorcycle was struck by another vehicle.

The St. Petersburg Times reports that the accident happened at about 11:24 p.m. on Oakstead Boulevard near Ashmonte Drive, in Land O'Lakes. Officials said that John A. Lauer, 57, was driving northbound on his 2009 Yamaha motorcycle when a southbound vehicle veered into his lane.

Lauer attempted to escape the accident by sliding his motorcycle onto its side. However, the vehicle continued past his motorcycle to run over Lauer on the roadway.

Lauer was killed in the crash in Land O'Lakes. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the other vehicle, Tegan Barabato, 34, was not injured in the crash.

Whether or not drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash remains to be determined. Test results are pending.

The Florida Highway Patrol indicated that they would investigate all of the circumstances into the fatal accident.Though summer is typically associated with motorcycle accidents, motorcycle safety is a year-round concern in Florida, given that there are so many motorcycles on our roadways.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

One Injured in Fiery Three-Car Accident in St. Petersburg on I-275

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)24737 — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

July 15, 2011 - St. Petersburg, Fla. - One person was taken to the hospital following a fiery three-car accident in St. Petersburg.

The St. Petersburg Times reports that the accident happened at about 2:28 p.m. Monday, July 11 on Interstate 275. Due to causes unknown, 3 vehicles collided in the southbound lanes of I-275 just south of the exit ramp for 22nd Avenue N.

An SUV that was involved in the accident immediately burst into flames.

Officials said that one person was transported to a local hospital as a result of the accident. The injured person's medical condition is unknown at this time.

The identities of those involved in the accident have not yet been released.

The southbound lanes of I-275 were closed to traffic for some time following the accident but have since been reopened.

The cause of the accident remains to be determined. The accident is under ongoing investigation. All further investigations are being handled by the Florida Highway Patrol.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Man Dies in High-Speed Motorcycle Crash in Clearwater

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)24736 — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

July 15, 2011 - Clearwater, Fla. - A man died Saturday night when he lost control of his motorcycle and crashed in Clearwater.

ABC Action News reports that the crash in Clearwater happened on Memorial Causeway near Island Way late Saturday night. Witnesses on the scene said that Justin Asmundo was driving his motorcycle at a speed far above the 30 miles per hour posted speed limit at the time of the accident.

Asmundo changed lanes before his vehicle went airborne as he went over a small bridge. Asmundo lost control of the motorcycle when it landed, causing it to crash into the median. Asmundo was thrown from the vehicle and into a small tree in the median.

Officials said the Asmundo was killed in the accident. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The motorcycle was the only vehicle involved in the accident and no further injuries or fatalities have been reported.

Memorial Causeway was partially blocked to traffic for several hours as emergency response crews worked to complete preliminary investigations and clear the scene. All lanes have since been reopened.

The fatal accident remains under investigation by Clearwater Police.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Woman Killed in Hit-and-Run Accident in Pasco County

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)24588 — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

July 11, 2011 - Pasco County, St. Petersburg - On Wednesday, July 6, a woman was struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run accident while walking down the street, ABC ActionNews.com has reported.

The victim was 49-years-old and she suffered fatal injuries when she was struck from behind while walking down Grand Boulevard in St. Petersburg. She has since been identified as Deborah Wesson Bobek.

Florida Highway Patrol reports that Bobek was traveling north on Grand Boulevard from the direction of Sunshine Park Drive when she was hit. Upon impact, Bobek was thrown into the roadway.

Immediately following the pedestrian accident, the driver fled the scene, and at the time of this posting no description of the vehicle had been made available.

If you have suffered serious injuries or lost a loved one in an accident caused by another driver's negligence, you may be able to hold them accountable through a personal injury claim with the guidance of a St. Petersburg accident lawyer.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Florida crash statistics, there were 2,558 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

1 Killed, 1 Injured in 2-Vehicle Car Crash in Tampa

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)24504 — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

July 7, 2011 - Tampa, Fla. - One person is dead and another is in critical condition after a car crash in Tampa on Thursday, June 23.

ABC Action News reports that the crash happened at approximately 10:52 p.m. on Sheldon Road in Hillsborough County. Officials said that Adam Fiscus, 31, was travelling northbound on the roadway when he attempted to turn left into a private driveway.

At that time, a Nissan Altima driven by Evan Hamilton, 21, was driving southbound on the roadway. The Nissan crashed into the side of Fiscus's Mitsubishi Eclipse.

Fiscus was killed in the crash. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials said that Fiscus was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the incident.

Hamilton received critical injuries in the crash. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The accident is under ongoing investigation. Deputies of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Department are investigating.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,558 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

If you have been named in this blog or you are the victim's family member or friend and would like the blog posting removed from our website, please feel free to contact us and we will promptly accommodate your request.

Tampa Truck Crash Leaves 1 Dead and 1 Injured

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)24147 — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tampa, Fla. - One person died and another was critically injured Tuesday afternoon at 4:45 p.m. in a serious truck crash.

The St. Petersburg Times reports that the accident happened on Armenia Avenue, near Linebaugh Avenue. Jeanette Aguiar, 57, was driving home with her father, Jose Veciana, 89, when the accident occurred.

For reasons unknown, Aguiar's vehicle drifted into the opposite lane of traffic and collided head-on with an oncoming FedEx truck.

Both father and daughter were transported to St. Joseph's Hospital immediately following the truck crash. Veciana was later pronounced dead in the hospital.

Aguiar remains in the hospital and is said to have life-threatening injuries. Aguiar's mother, Norma Williams, said she hopes and prays for the best, but she does not expect Aguiar to survive her injuries.

The driver of the FedEx truck, Yidier Morales, 42, and a passenger in the truck, Patrick McHayle, 38, both suffered minor injuries in the crash.

Tampa police are still investigating the cause of the accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,558 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Alachua County Dog Bite Attack Law Gives Dangerous Dogs Second Chance

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)24146 — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Alachua County, Fla. -Recently proposed changes to the Alachua County dangerous dog ordinance may result in a second chance at life for dogs that have been declared dangerous.

The Gainesville Sun reports that the change is being discussed after a ruling made by the court of appeals that found a Broward County ordinance allowing for the use of euthanasia on dangerous dogs to be in violation of Florida State law. This is because the ordinance does not allow the dog owners any attempt to take preventive measures.

"What will happen is a dog will not be considered for euthanasia the first time it is declared dangerous," said Alachua County Animal Services Director David Flagler.

Flagler went on to explain that, upon a first violation, the dog owner will instead be required to set up confinements that meet court requirements. If the dog later attacks another person, the dog would then be eligible for euthanasia.

A dog is declared dangerous in the state of Florida if it:

aggressively bites, attacks, endangers or inflicts severe injury on a person that is on either public or private property;
severely injured or killed a domestic animal while it is off of its owner's property;
has been used for dog fighting or trained for such a use; and/or
has, unprovoked, been known to chase or approach a person on public grounds in a menacing way.

If you have been seriously injured in a dog bite attack, you should contact a Florida dog bite attorney immediately and gain the compensation you deserve.

Contacting a Florida Dog Bite Attorney

If you have been attacked by a dog, it would be in your best interest to contact a Florida dog bite attorney. Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida dog bite can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg, Florida, dog bite attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg, Florida, dog bite attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Tampa Neighborhood Pit Bull Day Changes Minds about Dangerous Breed

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)24145 — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tampa, Fla. - Pit bulls are notorious in the news for attacking people, especially children. They are dogs that have been bred to fight, even to the death.

ABC Action News reports that a group of people in Tampa are making an effort to change this breed's "bad reputation." These people are fighting a very steep uphill battle.

Earlier this month, dozens of pit bull owners and their dogs gathered in Tampa to pamper their pets and to share their point of view on the breed. They called it Neighborhood Pit Bull Day, and organized it with the goal of showing people just how obedient pit bulls can be.

"If you train them to touch people and be kind to people and be friendly, that's what they're going to do," said Daniel Brown, the owner of two pit bulls.

Daniel's brother, Corey Brown, had a different opinion on the matter. Corey Brown had been bitten by a dog once, and has been afraid of them ever since.

"All dogs bite," said Corey Brown, "that's how I feel. Little poodles, pits, Rottweilers. They all bite."

While what Corey Brown says may be true to some extent, pit bulls still dominate dog attack statistics. Dogsbite.org, a non-profit educational website, reported that roughly 1,000 Americans require emergency care daily after a dog bite attack. Pit bulls are responsible for a whopping 59% of all fatal dog attacks in the United States.

Contacting a Florida Dog Bite Attorney

If you have been attacked by a pit bull or any other dog, it would be in your best interest to contact a Florida dog bite attorney. Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida dog bite can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg, Florida, dog bite attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg, Florida, dog bite attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Man Loses Arm in Dangerous Dog Bite Attack in Hawthorne

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)24144 — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Putnam, Fla. - A man was sent to the hospital Friday, June 10, after he suffered a vicious dog bite attack from his next-door neighbor's dogs.

The Florida Times-Union reports that Roy McSweeney, 74, was working in his backyard at his lake-front home on Old Hawthorne Road when it happened. It was about 11 a.m. when the dogs mauled McSweeney.

The dogs completely ripped off McSweeney's right arm and partially ripped off his left arm. He also suffered severe facial injuries. McSweeney was taken to Shands at the University of Florida hospital in Gainesville, where he was reported to be in critical condition as of June 11.

The dogs were owned by neighbor Deanna Blitch. Capt. Johnny Greenwood of the Putnam County Sherriff's Office said that authorities have dealt with Blitch's dogs twice already in the past.

Another neighbor also said that Blitch's dogs get out "all the time." Authorities described the dogs as pit bull mixes.

The dogs have been euthanized and officials at the Sherriff's Office said the dogs are also going to be checked for rabies.

McSweeney has been described by neighbors as a nice and easy-going man who was already in poor health before this incident.

Any possible charges against Blitch have not yet been released.

Contacting a Florida Dog Bite Lawyer

If you have been attacked by a pit bull or any other dog, it would be in your best interest to contact a Florida dog bite lawyer. Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida dog bite can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg, Florida, dog bite lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg, Florida, dog bite lawyer about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Tampa-St. Petersburg Second Deadliest Urban Center for Pedestrians

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)23816 — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

June 10, 2011 - Tampa/St. Petersburg, Fla. - According to a study conducted by Transportation for America, the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater area is ranked the second deadliest urban center for pedestrians on a list of metro areas with a population of 1 million or more, as reported in an article from USA Today.

Four of the top 5 spots were occupied by Florida metro areas, with the first being the greater Orlando metropolitan area, and the 3^rd and 4^th being Jacksonville and Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano beach, respectively.

As the number of people killed in car accidents continues to drop, falling 27% in the past decade, the number of pedestrians killed has fallen only 14% over the same time period. According to the study, within the past 10 years more than 47,700 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents; more than 688,000 were injured.

Representatives for Transportation for America indicate that the problem is preventable. It has been found that the majority of pedestrian fatalities occur on multi-lane roads constructed primarily for vehicles, while ignoring pedestrian safety.

James Corless, the director of Transportation for America, suggests raising more local funding dedicated to improving the safety of roads and crosswalks. Additionally, he says, a uniform policy instituted to improve national road safety should be presented.

One such proposal presented in the Senate is the "Complete Streets Act," which would require states to build more sidewalks, bikeways and pedestrian-conscious road improvements.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Pedestrian accidents in St. Petersburg can lead to devastating injuries or even death. Filing a personal injury claim as the result of a Florida pedestrian accident can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg pedestrian injury attorney on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg injury attorney about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.

Fatal Brooksville Accident Claims Life of 29-Year-Old Woman

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)23390 — Fri, 27 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

May 20, 2011 - Brooksville, FL - The St. Petersburg Times reports that a woman died after her car ran off the road during the night of Friday, April 22 in Brooksville.

The Florida Highway Patrol has identified the driver involved in the fatal Brooksville accident as Katrina Ann Watkins, 29, a resident of Pompano Beach. According to FHP, Watkins was southbound on Mondon Hill Road at approximately 10:30 p.m. when her 2003 Chevy Cavalier sliced the left shoulder of the road, spun out of control and rolled over several times after careening into an embankment at Bertram Road.

FHP reports that Watkins was the only person in the car and that no other cars were involved. Watkins was not wearing a seat belt and died at the scene of the accident. Police are still investigating what may have caused the fatal single-vehicle accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg and surrounding communities, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

SUV Rollover in Wesley Chapel Clogs I-75 for Hours

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)23389 — Fri, 27 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

May 20, 2011 - Wesley Chapel, Fla. - According to ABC Action News an SUV hauling a trailer behind it flipped over on I-75 just south of the State Road 52 intersection midday on Sunday, May 1.

The SUV rollover in Wesley Chapel, located in Pasco County, Florida, caused traffic delays that lasted for a few hours.

According to ABC reporter Don Germaise, who arrived on the scene shortly after the incident, traffic was backed up for several miles after the accident, clogging the interstate all the way back to the I-275 split.

The Pasco Sheriff's Office and Florida Highway Patrol closed one lane of traffic for several hours to respond to and investigate the accident.

An SUV rollover can result in serious injuries, but so far the Florida Highway Patrol has released no information about who was in the SUV or if anyone was in the trailer or any injuries sustained. There has also been no official commentary on what the cause of the accident was.

Head injuries and spinal cord injuries are among the most commonly experienced injuries in an SUV rollover. SUVs and trucks are more apt to rollover because of their high centers of gravity.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

12 Injured in 3-Car Tampa Accident on I-275

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)23343 — Thu, 26 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

May 26, 2011 - Tampa, Fla. - According to ABC Action News, a 3 car crash closed down northbound lanes of I-275 and left 12 injured in the late evening of May 8, 2011. Three of the passengers were in serious condition after the Tampa accident.

The crash occurred at about 9 p.m. south of Fowler Avenue on I-275 and more than 30 emergency responders worked the scene until the Interstate reopened approximately 2 1/2 hours later.

Emergency responders arrived on the scene to discover a white Pontiac Sunfire in the middle of the highway with 3 people inside, a black Lexus IS 300 with one passenger that had slammed into a sign support post on the driver's side, and a maroon GMC Envoy SUV with 9 people inside that had rolled down the embankment lining I-275 after being forced over the guardrail.

According to police reports, at least 2 passengers were ejected during the SUV rollover.

Of the 12 injured, 1 was taken to Tampa General Hospital, 5 to St. Joseph's Hospital, and 6 to University Community Hospital.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Hit and Run in Clearwater May Have Been Racially Motivated

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)23282 — Mon, 23 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

May 3, 2011 - Clearwater, FL - According to a report from ABC Action News, a hit and run in Clearwater may have been racially motivated.

Terry Butler, 53, was seriously injured in a hit and run accident on Thursday, April 28, at approximately 1:45 p.m. Butler, who is a city employee, was at the intersection of Magnolia Drive and Brookside Drive when he was struck.

Gerald Christopher Prede, 35, was eventually found by police and during an interview made incriminating statements that indicated the hit and run was racially motivated. Prede also admitted his intent was to kill Butler.

Butler was taken to a local hospital and while his injuries are serious, they are not life-threatening.

Prede has been charged with attempted murder and aggravated battery. The accident is still under investigation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit and run or any other type of accident, you should consult with a Florida car accident lawyer.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,558 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents occurring in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Motorcyclist Seriously Injured in Crash with Car in St. Petersburg

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)23051 — Fri, 13 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

May 5, 2011 - St. Petersburg, Florida - According to a report from Tampa Bay.com, a motorcyclist was seriously injured in a car crash in St. Petersburg.

The motorcycle accident occurred Tuesday evening, May 3 on 110^th Avenue N. After crashing into the car, the unidentified motorcyclist was thrown from the bike. The victim was then taken to Bayfront Medical Center, listed as a trauma alert patient.

It is unclear whether the driver of the car or a passenger was also taken to Bayfront Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. The motorcycle accident is still under police investigation.

If you or a loved one has been seriously or fatally injured in a motorcycle accident, you should immediately consult with a Florida personal injury lawyer. A Florida personal injury lawyer will take the time to carefully evaluate your case and determine if you have a valid motorcycle accident claim worth pursuing.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Rep. Nugent Staff Member Injured in Powell Road Crash in Brooksville

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)22654 — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

April 25, 2011 - Brooksville, Fla. - The St. Petersburg Times reports that a staff member of U.S. Representative Rich Nugent has been seriously injured in a single car accident.

Cheryl W. Corder, 56, of Ridge Manor, lost control of her car on Monday, April 11, at about 4 p.m. on Powell Road. She had been traveling east and was driving through a curve near Endsley Road when she apparently lost control of her 1992 Buick.

According to Florida Highway Patrol, her vehicle then crashed into a power pole. The car turned and then flipped, hitting a stop sign before it stopped moving.

Corder was airlifted to St. Joseph's Hospital in Tampa where she was last listed as being seriously injured and in the intensive care unit.

The police are still investigating the single car Powell Road crash in Brooksville but it is believed that alcohol may have been a factor. Investigations continue. Rep. Nugent had no further information other than what he was already being told by authorities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

20-Year-Old Woman Killed in Clearwater Truck Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)22653 — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

April 25, 2011 - Clearwater, Fla. - According to a report from ABC Action News a 20-year-old woman was killed in a Clearwater truck accident.

Ariana Daly, 20, of New Jersey died Tuesday morning, April 19, when she turned her vehicle into the path of an oncoming tractor trailer.

Daly was traveling south on S. Gunn Avenue with her passenger, Joshua Famous, of Clearwater, in her Chevy Cavalier. At approximately 4:45 a.m. Daly turned into the path of a Mack truck that was traveling west on Gulf to Bay Boulevard.

Fire rescue workers had to free her from her vehicle where she was trapped for about 20 minutes. Daly was then taken to Morton Plant Hospital where she was pronounced deceased.

Her passenger, Famous, was seriously injured and was transported to Bayfront Medical Center. The driver of the truck, Jose Rosas, of Largo, suffered no injuries. Police have not yet determined the cause of the crash or revealed if charges will be filed.

A truck accident can lead to tragic consequences. Injuries from this type of accident can be catastrophic. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a truck accident, you may be able to receive compensation through a personal injury claim.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

77-Year-Old Woman Dies in 2-Car Crash in St. Petersburg

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)22652 — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

April 25, 2011 - St. Petersburg, Fla. - According to a report from Bay News 9, a 2-car crash in St. Petersburg resulted in the death of a 77-year-old woman.

Mary Jo Boyne, 77, was killed on the morning of Monday, April 11, when she was driving down 66^th Street North in her 2004 Volvo, getting ready to make a left-hand turn on 18^th Avenue North.

Thomas Hull Jr., 22, was approaching the intersection of 18^th Avenue North, coming south on 66^th Street when his 1985 Chevy collided with Boyne's vehicle. Boyne turned left directly into Hull's path.

The front end of Hull's car struck the right side of Boyne's vehicle, with the impact causing her car to then crash into a pole on the intersection's southwest corner.

Boyne was pronounced dead at the scene of the car accident and Hull was taken to Bayfront Medical Center, suffering only minor injuries. No charges are expected to be filed in this fatal car accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Motorcyclist Injured in a Hit and Run in Clearwater

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)22497 — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

April 15, 2011 - Clearwater, Fla. - According to a report from ABC Action News, a motorcyclist was injured in a hit and run in Clearwater.

At approximately 11:30 p.m. on Friday, April 8, Gregory Conklin, 52, was driving east on Curlew Road. At the intersection of Fisher and Curlew Road a car struck his 1991 Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

The driver, Lajune B. Castro, 60, who had been traveling west, made a u-turn directly in front of Conklin and struck the left side of his bike. According to officials, he was thrown from his motorcycle about 30 feet. Conklin was not wearing a helmet.

Castro fled the scene of the hit and run motorcycle accident but was later found in a parking lot at US-19 and Curlew Road.

Conklin suffered injuries, including multiple fractures to his left leg. He was taken by paramedics to St. Joseph's Hospital. Castro was not injured; however, authorities say that alcohol played a role for both the motorcyclist and the car driver.

At this time charges are pending as authorities await test results.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.  As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.  

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;

hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Polk County Deputy Injured in Motorcycle Accident during Charity Event

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)22169 — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

April 11, 2011 - St. Petersburg, FL - A Polk County deputy sheriff sustained injuries after being involved in a motorcycle accident while working at a charity event benefitting slain officers in St. Petersburg.

According to reports from The St. Petersburg Times, Deputy Steven Neil was escorting event participants when another motorcyclist switched lanes directly in front of Neil's motorcycle. Although Neil used his brakes, he still came in contact with the motorcyclist's bike, which caused Neil's motorcycle to skid.

Neil was wearing a motorcycle helmet and using his emergency lights at the time of the accident and his condition is currently listed as stable. The other motorcyclist did not sustain any injuries as a result of the motorcycle collision. City police are investigating the accident and charges are pending.

Five Polk County deputies assisted in the Bikes for Badges fundraiser, which benefits slain officers. The event, which involves a motorcycle ride around St. Petersburg, raises money for families that have lost a loved one in law enforcement.

Motorcyclists are especially susceptible to injuries and death because of their lack of protective covering. An experienced St. Petersburg motorcycle crash lawyer can help you recover damages for your financial losses following a motorcycle accident. In some cases, you may also be awarded compensation for your pain and suffering.

Motorcycle accidents affect thousands of people each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 413 fatalities as a result of motorcycle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Man Dies, Kids Hurt in St. Petersburg Crash Involving PSTA Bus

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)21964 — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

March 31, 2011 - St. Petersburg, FL - A man died after a serious accident in St. Petersburg involving a PSTA bus and a passenger vehicle.

ABCActionNews.com released a news report stating that Mike Gawthrop, 50, died on Friday, March 18^th, after succumbing to injuries suffered in the March 17^th accident in St. Petersburg.

Police have said that Gawthrop was operating a 2006 Saturn when he failed to stop at a red light and entered the path of an oncoming PSTA bus. Reports show that the fatal accident occurred at 37^th St. North and 5^th Avenue.

The PSTA bus was heading north on 37^th Street North and had halted at a traffic light. The bus driver, Darlene Seay, 44, proceeded through the intersection when the light changed to green, at which point Gawthrop's vehicle entered the intersection.

The force of the impact caused severe destruction to the Saturn, which, in addition to Gawthrop, was carrying 4 child passengers, all under the age of 12. Gawthrop and his 10-year-old female passenger were sent to Bayfront Medical Center. They were reported to be in critical condition. Gawthrop passed away the following day at the hospital. The 3 other children suffered minor injuries and were rushed to All Children's Hospital for evaluation.

Police said the bus-which broadsided the passenger vehicle-hit a curb and then crashed into a building. There were 2 passengers on board and it is unclear whether anyone on the PSTA bus suffered injuries in the crash.

There are charges pending in the accident, but it has not been specified who would be the subject of any traffic charges. Alcohol was not a factor in this fatal accident.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

2 Seriously Injured in Red Light Crash on 22nd Avenue South

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)21963 — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

March 31, 2011 - St. Petersburg, FL - A driver and her 4-year-old passenger were hospitalized when they were struck by a dump truck after running a red light.

ABC Action News reports the incident took place on the morning of March 24^th at the intersection of 22^nd Avenue South and 22^nd Street. The initial police reports state that an unidentified woman was driving a Volvo carrying a man and a 4-year old child in a safety seat. The female driver ran the red light and was struck by a dump truck traveling south on 22^nd Street.

The truck struck the Volvo on the left side, causing enough damage to send the driver to Bayfront Medical Center under a trauma alert. The 4-year-old girl in her car was taken to All Children's Hospital in stable condition thanks to her car safety seat. Neither the male passenger in the Volvo nor the truck driver was injured.

No charges have been announced, as the car accident is being investigated by St. Petersburg Police.

Violating traffic laws and ignoring traffic safety signals are common reasons that serious or fatal traffic accidents occur in St. Petersburg. Drivers must be attentive to all traffic laws and control devices to help promote safety on our Florida roads. When a driver is negligent in following safe driving measures they put themselves, their passengers, other vehicles and pedestrians at risk.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Arrest Made in Hudson Car Accident that Killed a 5-Year-Old Triplet

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)21821 — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

March 25, 2011 - Hudson, Fla. - According to a report from ABC Action News, an arrest has been made in a car accident that killed a 5-year-old triplet.

In early November 2010, Delaney Rossman, 5, was playing in the front yard of a neighbor's house when a neighbor, Betty Jo Tagerson, 39, of Hudson, sped away from her home.

According to police Tagerson lost control of her car, hit a parked car and then struck a group of children, including Rossman. There were 3 other children struck who ranged in age from 5 to 9 years old. Tagerson was then thrown from her vehicle.

Rossman was taken to St. Joseph's All Children's Hospital with serious injuries but sadly, later died from her injuries.

Tagerson had lived a short distance from the Rossman's house and since the car accident, they have moved to a new home.

Now Tagerson has been charged with homicide, reckless driving involving serious bodily injury and reckless driving involving property damage. Additionally, she has been given infractions for having no insurance, not wearing a seatbelt and defective equipment.

Tagerson is currently in the Pasco County Jail on a $20,000 bond.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,558 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida. This represents a small decline from the number of traffic deaths that occurred in 2008 in the state. In 2009, 466 people died as a result of pedestrian accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Speeding Driver Knocks Utility Pole into Traffic, Causes U.S. 19 Car Crash

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)21729 — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

March 18, 2011 - Palm Harbor, FL - According to a report from Tampabay.com, 5 people were severely injured in a U.S. 19 car crash.

On the morning of March 15, a Pontiac was traveling north on U.S.19 when it crashed into a Toyota Highlander that was turning onto the highway from Colonial Boulevard. Witnesses to the U.S. 19 crash say the driver of the Pontiac appeared to be speeding.

The Pontiac then struck a utility pole, which fell onto several lanes. The driver of the Pontiac, 28-year-old Evan Nicholas Andropoulos, a Tarpon Springs resident, was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph's in Tampa.

The 2 passengers in Andropoulous' car, Tampa resident Jennifer Daly, 28, and Palm Harbor resident Gavin Clarkson, 28, were flown to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg.

Sylvia Benedetti, 67, of Endicott, New York was driving the Highlander and was taken by ambulance to Bayfront Medical Center. The passenger of the Toyota, John Little, 68, of Palm Harbor, was flown to Bayfront. Meanwhile, traffic along U.S. 19 was stalled for more than an hour as cleanup crews cleared the wreckage.

Charges are pending an investigation and there is no report available on the injured people's conditions.

If you have been injured in a Florida car accident, consulting with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer should be your next step. A lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if you should file a personal injury claim.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2008 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,978 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Two Killed in Plant City Car Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)21449 — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

March 10, 2011 - Plant City, FL - According to Bay News 9, 2 people died on the evening of March 7 as the result of a Plant City car accident.

Reports from the Florida Highway Patrol state that the accident occurred around 10:30 p.m., when a Ford Escort driven by Servando Gregorio crossed the median and hit a Toyota Corolla driven by Sayeeda Quade.

The accident happened on State Road 60, in close proximity to Highway 39. Passengers in both vehicles were killed. The passenger of the Ford Escort was Saul Gregorio-Daniel, a 23-year-old Plant City man, while the passenger of the Toyota was 34-year old Shawn Quade, of Brandon. Both passengers were declared dead at the Plant City car accident scene.

As of the article's posting, the crash remained under investigation. Servando Gregoria remains in critical condition at Tampa General Hospital, and Sayeeda Quade was still at Lakeland Regional Medical Center and was listed in serious condition.

If you have been injured in a similar accident in the St. Petersburg area, you may be eligible for compensation in a personal injury claim. If a loved one has been killed, you may want to seek compensation through a Florida wrongful death claim. To file either type of claim, you can seek help from an attorney with experience in car accident cases.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Florida Crash Statistics, there were 2,558 fatalities as a result of car accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents in St. Petersburg, Florida include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Pasco County Deputy Pulls Man from Burning Car

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)20989 — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 15, 2011 - New Port Richey, FL - When Edward Whalen, 63, swerved to avoid hitting a fellow motorist on February 12 he slammed into a power pole and his car flipped over, Tampabay.com has reported.

His hatchback erupted in flames and filled with smoke. Whalen dialed 911 and a Pasco County deputy who happened to be a mile away sped to the scene.

Kelly Endricks arrived within 2 minutes and saw the fire spreading. The power pole had fallen and electrical lines were scattered about.

Endricks used his steel baton to break the back window, but he wasn't able to get to Whalen. He then tried the sunroof. He broke the sunroof with his baton, shattering glass and releasing smoke.

He then grabbed Whalen, pulled him out of the burning vehicle, and walked him a safe distance from the car, which by then had become fully engulfed.

Emergency workers arrived and treated Whalen for smoke inhalation and minor injuries. Aside from a small scrape on his thumb, Pasco County Deputy Endricks was fine.

This was the first time Endricks had rescued anyone from a burning vehicle.

Although his friends are calling him a hero, the newspaper's website quoted Endricks as saying: "We do heroic things like this every day. They just go unnoticed."

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of Florida, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents occurring in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by distracted drivers or aggressive driving.

If you have been named in this blog posting or you are the victim's family member or friend and would like it removed from our website, please feel free to contact us and we will promptly accommodate your request

Black Belt Instructor Victim of Fatal Temple Terrace Bicycle Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)20980 — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 17, 2011 - Temple Terrace, FL - Robert Niedbalec, 52, was fatally hit by a car while riding his bicycle in the afternoon on February 13, Tampabay.com has reported.

According to police, 20-year-old Cristina Perenzuela was driving the Ford that struck Niedbalec, an avid bike rider and black belt judo instructor. He was eastbound in a bike lane near the Riverfront Park at the University of South Florida when the fatal bicycle accident occurred.

Authorities at the Sheriff's Office have reason to believe that Perenzuela might have been racing another car. Deputies have reported that she was speeding, as was another sedan, when she ran into Niedbalec. Both cars have been impounded. As of this posting, no charges had been filed.

Florida driving records indicate that Perenzuela had one traffic violation in 2009 for not wearing a seatbelt.

The driver of the sedan, 34-year-old Armando Perez Jr., has two convictions for speeding in addition to convictions for failure to wear a seatbelt, failure to obey a traffic control device, and driving with a suspended license. In fact, his license has been suspended multiple times.

In 1987 Niedbalec emigrated from Poland, where was as a veterinarian. It was in Florida that he worked as a vet's assistant while he studied to become a veterinarian.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of Florida, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents occurring in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by distracted drivers or aggressive driving.

Elderly Man Seriously Injured in Clearwater Crash on U.S. 19

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)20821 — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 10, 2011 - Clearwater, FL - A car accident on Tuesday, Feb. 1, left one man seriously injured and several other people with minor injuries, TampaBay.com has reported.

According to published reports, the car crash scattered debris across U.S. 19 around Curlew Road, which led to north and south lane closures.

Authorities received a report of the car accident shortly before 10:30 a.m. It resulted in 3 wrecked vehicles in the south lanes of U.S. 19 and one overturned vehicle in the north lanes.

The Florida Highway Patrol reported that Joseph Tomossone, 76, who was traveling north on U.S. 19 in a 2010 Lexus, was making a U-turn south of Curlew when he collided with a '96 Toyota that was driven by Essam Ebaid, 47, of Clearwater.

The impact caused Tomossone's Lexus to cross the median and return to the north lane. The Lexus then hit a 2007 Dodge van that was driven by Roger Netherton, 43, of Pinellas Park. The van flipped, but Netherton avoided serious harm.

Tomossone sustained serious injuries and was transported to Mease Countryside Hospital, the FHP stated.

Ebaid and the 3 passengers in his Toyota - Maria Ebaid, 9; Yostina Ebaid, 13; and Mona Greges, 45, all from Clearwater - were also transported to Mease Countryside. Their injuries were minor.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of Florida, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by distracted drivers or aggressive driving.

Homeless Man Killed in Fatal Tampa Pedestrian Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)20687 — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 3, 2011, Tampa, Fl - A pedestrian was killed on January 11 after being struck by a car, the St. Petersburg Times has reported.

The driver, 42-year-old Benjamin Walker, was en route to Tampa's downtown area when the fatal pedestrian accident occurred on an off-ramp of Interstate 275 near Tampa Street. According to the newspaper's website, Walker, who often drives the route, was visibly shaken after the Tampa pedestrian accident.

Walker said he could not stop his white four-door Acura in time to avoid hitting 32-year-old Sidney Robert Summerlin, who Walker said ran down a hill and onto the street. The impact tossed Summerlin about 100 feet from the car, which sustained damage to the right side of the windshield.

Tampa Fire Rescue was called to the scene of the fatal pedestrian accident but paramedics were not able to revive Summerlin, who police said was homeless.

Police also said Walker is unlikely to face any charges because he didn't appear to break any laws.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of Florida, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents occurring in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by distracted drivers or aggressive driving.

Pedestrian Trying to Flag Down Assistance on I-275 Struck and Killed

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)20494 — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 25, 2011 - Tampa, FL - Two women stranded on the side of I-275 were involved in a fatal pedestrian accident on the morning of January 21.

ABC Action News Tampa reports that Barbara Crispin, 32, was standing outside her vehicle with another unidentified passenger when the pedestrian accident happened. The vehicle had run out of gas and Crispin and her companion were attempting to flag down help from passing vehicles.

Crispin remained near the vehicle in the emergency lane while the other woman stood in the southbound outside lane of I-275 just north of Bearrs Avenue. Janice Gregory, 64, was traveling south on the highway in the outside lane when she struck the passenger, who was thrown into the air and hit Crispin.

The unidentified victim was pronounced dead at the scene while Crispin was flown to St. Joseph's Hospital with serious injuries. Gregory was not injured and police have not released any details on whether she will face any charges in connection with this crash.

Drivers who are stranded on the roadside need to exercise extreme caution when walking alongside busy highways such as I-275. Narrow shoulders, poor lighting and other conditions may cause drivers to be unaware of roadside pedestrians until it is too late to react. Pedestrian accidents often result in serious or fatal injury that may require a St. Petersburg car accident attorney to file a personal injury claim.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Tarpon Springs Student Injured When Jeep Hits School Bus

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)20493 — Sat, 29 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 25, 2011 - Tarpon Springs, FL - One student was taken to the hospital after a school bus crash occurred in the early morning hours of January 13.

ABC Action News Tampa reports that the incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. as the bus, en-route to East Lake High School, was traveling on U.S. Alternate 19 near Wood Dove Avenue. The bus, carrying 7 students, was rear ended by a red Jeep.

One student was taken to a local hospital for observation with minor injuries while the remaining 6 students were transferred to another school bus. The driver of the Jeep was cited and the accident scene was cleared by 8:10 a.m.

When your child rides a school bus you are putting their safety in the hands of the bus driver and the other drivers on the road. Negligence from any of these parties in their duty to keep your child safe can result in serious accidents and injuries.

If your child is injured while on a school bus, there are many factors to consider such as who was at fault for the accident and what circumstances led to your child's injury. An experienced St. Petersburg car accident attorney can help you investigate the circumstances of the accident and find the right parties to hold liable for your child's medical expenses and suffering.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

12-year-old Killed When ATV Crashes in North Port Woods

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)20491 — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 25, 2011 - North Port, FL - Two families are mourning the death of one boy and the injury of another after a fatal ATV accident on January 15^th.

ABC Action News Tampa reports the fatal ATV crash happened around 5 p.m. in a wooded area near Joewood Circle. James Wyatt Grimes, 12, was driving an ATV with his friend, Daniel Weis, 11, as a passenger. Both boys were wearing helmets and goggles when the ATV struck a tree head on.

Grimes was killed in the ATV accident while Weis was taken to Sarasota Memorial North Port Emergency Room for treatment. The boys were on a camping trip with family when the ATV accident occurred.

ATVs can be dangerous when inexperienced riders take the controls and should always be used with proper adult supervision when drivers are underage. Even in capable hands, many ATVs can be unstable and serious injuries could result if the ATV crashes or flips. If your child is injured while riding an ATV because of another's negligence, you may need to file a Florida personal injury claim.

A St. Petersburg accident lawyer can assist you in determining the factors that led to the ATV accident and whether another party is at fault for the damage sustained from the accident.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

If you have been named in this blog or you are the victim's family member or friend and would like the blog removed from our website, please feel free to contact us and we will promptly accommodate your request.

Motorcyclist Killed in Tarpon Springs Hit and Run Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)20156 — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 13, 2011 - Tarpon Springs, FL - A 48-year-old motorcyclist from New Port Richey lost his life on January 8 when he was struck by another vehicle.

In reports from WTSP.com, Florida Highway Patrol claims that the driver of the other vehicle, 18-year-old Leo Gilghrest, of Oldsmar, was southbound on McMullen Booth Road when he turned left into the path of Duane Murphy's motorcycle. The front of the bike crashed into Gilghrest's car, sending Murphy flying over the hood and landing on the ground.

Gilghrest fled the scene, abandoning his car at the Ridgemoore Community Park on Ridgemoore Drive. Investigators later found Gilghrest and a passenger, Rolliston Nurse, 18, at an Oldsmar residence. Gilghrest was arrested and charged with leaving the scene of an accident that involved a fatality, as well as making a left hand turn in front of approaching traffic. He was booked at Pinellas County Jail.

Hit and run accidents are even more devastating because of the lack of a party to hold responsible. In the event you or a loved one are in a hit and run accident, you still may be able to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim with the help of an experienced St. Petersburg personal injury attorney.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Elderly Spring Hill Man Killed in Crash with Red Light Runner

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)20023 — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 7, 2011 - Spring Hill, FL - An accident on U.S. 19 and Pepper Street resulted in fatal injuries for an elderly Spring Hill man and put his wife in the hospital.

10News WTSP.com reports that the Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the December 3 incident that caused the death of 70-year old Ludolf Breymann. Breymann was traveling with his wife, Christina, who was also seriously injured in the crash.

The other driver, Robert McCraw, 42, ran a red light and crashed into the side of the Breymann's vehicle, according to FHP. After striking their vehicle, McCraw's vehicle hit a third car, which then struck another vehicle. Those drivers and one passenger suffered minor injuries.

McCraw has not been charged yet as the accident is still being investigated by the FHP. Ludolf was pronounced dead at the hospital while his wife remained at the hospital with serious injuries.

When you are seriously injured or suffer the loss of a loved one in a Florida car accident because of another driver who violates a traffic law, you may need to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. While a claim cannot reverse the effects of the accident, it may offer you a chance for compensation to cover any resulting medical bills and other losses you have had to endure.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Both Drivers Charged in St. Petersburg Crash Involving Injury

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)19847 — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 29, 2010 - St. Petersburg, FL - Two drivers are facing charges after a two-vehicle accident sent one passenger to the hospital with serious injuries.

10News WTSP.com reports that the crash occurred in the early morning hours of December 23 at the intersection of 38^th Avenue North and 33^rd Street North. Kevin Bailey, 46, was driving a Honda on 38^th Avenue when he failed to yield the right-of-way to the traffic on 33^rd Street as he made a left turn. His vehicle was hit broadside by an oncoming Toyota driven by Glen Parker, 37.

The front-seat passenger in Bailey's vehicle, Nicole Guarino, 39, was seriously injured in the crash. She was taken to Bayfront Medical Center for the treatment of her injuries. There is no word on the extent of her injuries or current condition.

Meanwhile, Parker left the scene of the accident on foot. Police later located him nearby the crash site.

Both of the drivers are now facing charges in the accident. Neither driver had a valid license and both are facing charges of driving with a revoked or suspended license. Bailey faces the additional charge of causing serious injury and Parker is also charged with leaving the scene of a crash with injuries.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Mother of UF Football Player Mike James Killed in Fatal Car Crash

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)19791 — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 27, 2010 - Haines City, FL - The mother of a prominent University of Florida football player was killed on December 20 when the car she was traveling in collided with another vehicle.

A news story from WTSP.com states that Polk County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the Monday morning crash that left Elgusta T. James, 47, dead and her daughter and grandson injured. James, who is the mother of University of Florida running back Mike James, was ejected from the passenger seat of the car along with her grandson Jaden Pleasant, 5.

Neither James nor Pleasant were wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident. The driver of the other vehicle, Paul Lopez, 60, was uninjured and was wearing a seat belt. The crash occurred at the intersection of Patterson Road and North 10^th Street, although no cause has been determined yet. Police are still investigating and no charges have been filed at this time.

There are many factors that can lead to fatal and serious injury car accidents. High rates of speed, impaired driving, reckless behavior, vehicle malfunction and weather conditions can all add to the likelihood that a serious accident will occur. If you are injured or lose a loved one in a Florida car accident, a St. Petersburg car accident attorney may be able to help you recover damages from your loss.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

10th Bicyclist Killed in Tampa Bay | St Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)19790 — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 27, 2010 - Port Richey, FL - The most recent in a string of fatal bicycle accidents in the Tampa Bay area occurred on December 19 when Michael Dwayne Kellogg, 46, was struck at a crosswalk.

WTSP.com reports that Florida Highway Patrol troopers responded to the scene where Kellogg was struck at a marked crosswalk, throwing him from his bicycle. Officers said that although the crosswalk was marked, Kellogg did not have a crossing signal when he was hit by a 1988 Honda Civic driven by Nicole Elizabeth Dobbs.

State troopers say Dobbs attempted to brake but was unable to do so in time, striking the bicycle with the left front of her vehicle. The accident is the 10^th such fatality involving bicyclists in the Tampa Bay area since late July.

Pedestrian and bicycle accidents often lead to fatal injuries because of the lack of protection around the victim. Even with proper safety gear, being thrown from a bicycle or getting hit by a car can result in severe head trauma and spinal cord injury. These types of injuries are often permanently disabling, if not fatal, and can lead to months in the hospital, expensive recovery methods and years of therapy.

If you are seriously injured or have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident and feel that the other party was at fault, you should discuss your case with an experienced St. Petersburg car accident attorney. Vehicle accidents are common in Florida, which boasts some of the most dangerous stretches of highway in the United States.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

St. Petersburg Mom Charged With DUI, Child Abuse after Crash

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)19672 — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 20, 2010 - St. Petersburg, FL - A serious car accident that sent 3 people to the hospital has also sent a mother to jail on charges of DUI and child abuse.

MyFox Tampa Bay reports that police found 22-year-old Colleen Ludlow in her vehicle holding her 2-year-old daughter after causing a 3-car accident on December 9. The accident occurred at the intersection of 22^nd Avenue South and 42^nd Street South in St. Petersburg.

Investigators say she was driving west on 22^nd Avenue when she lost control of her car. Ludlow's vehicle struck a Nissan stopped at the intersection, then veered into oncoming traffic and struck a Honda. Police say Ludlow claimed her daughter was in her car seat during the incident, which also resulted in careless driving and seatbelt violations.

When the interior of Ludlow's car was searched, police found 2 empty beer bottles and an empty vodka bottle. Officers say she appeared intoxicated but refused a breath test, after which she was taken into custody. Her record shows 3 prior DUI arrests and a currently suspended license.

The driver of the Honda involved in the accident was taken to Bayfront Medical Center to receive treatment for spinal cord injuries. The 2 occupants of the Nissan were also treated for injuries and released. Ludlow and her daughter were uninjured and the 2-year-old's grandmother is caring for her while Ludlow remains in custody.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Pedestrian Struck, Killed Near Crest Lake Park

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)19493 — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 15, 2010 - Clearwater, FL - A man in his 50s was struck and killed as he attempted to cross the intersection near Crest Lake Park early evening on December 8.

Reports from WTSP.com say that Clearwater Police said the man was crossing the intersection on Gulf to Bay Boulevard at South Glenwood Avenue. He stepped into the path of oncoming traffic and was struck by a vehicle. He was transported to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg but was pronounced dead 3 hours later despite medical efforts.

The man's name is being withheld until his next-of-kin can be contacted. Meanwhile, police are investigating the circumstances of the fatal accident. They have stated that the driver was not found to be under the influence during the incident and the investigation is still open.

Pedestrian accidents can cause serious, if not fatal, injury when a motor vehicle is involved. Drivers must be attentive to pedestrians at all times, even when not in designated crosswalks, to avoid potentially deadly accidents. Pedestrians also need to be aware of pedestrian laws and be wary of oncoming traffic to ensure their own safety. Negligence must be avoided on both the part of the driver and the pedestrian to avoid serious accidents.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Bystanders Free Child from Underneath Van in St. Petersburg

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)19220 — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

November 29, 2010 - St. Petersburg, FL - A 5-year-old girl is recovering at All Children's Hospital with non-fatal injuries thanks to the quick actions of some helpful bystanders.

WTSP 10News reports that the bicycle accident took place around 1 p.m. on November 22 during the lunch rush at Coney Island Grill. The young girl was riding her bike on the sidewalk near the popular restaurant when a van pulled out of the parking lot, which is located along Martin Luther King Junior Street North. William Sabo, 64, was driving the van and said he never saw the girl coming.

Luck was on her side as Glenn Phillippi, an off-duty Pasco County EMT who also works at St. Anthony's Hospital, was inside the eatery having lunch. A witness ran inside asking for help, saying a little girl was pinned under a van. The girl's upper leg was trapped under the wheel of the car and Phillippi and several other customers lifted the vehicle so she could be removed from underneath. Phillippi urged bystanders to lift the van instead of putting it into drive.

The girl was rushed to the Bayfront Medical Center and then transferred to All Children's Hospital where she was reported to be doing much better and escaped serious injury.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' 2009 Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Tampa Marriott Waterside Employees Victims of Fatal DUI Crash

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)18887 — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 30, 2010 - Tampa, FL - Three hotel employees were the victims of a drunk driver's negligence on October 30 when a fatal crash left 2 dead and 1 injured.

WTSP10 News reports that the 3 hotel workers at the Marriott Waterside in Tampa were leaving work after their shift early Saturday morning when they were struck by a drunk driver.

Matthew R. Moye, 34, a dentist in Riverview, was driving his 2011 Cadillac SUV onto the Harbour Island Bridge when he lost control and crossed into the left lane. The SUV was traveling at a high rate of speed when it slammed into Kate D. Kohlier, 24, and Douglas J. Kozar, 23, who were walking on the sidewalk.

A third hotel employee, Joao Armando Fonseca Barbosa, jumped out of the way and avoided being hit although he sustained injuries to his ankle in the process. Kohlier died on the scene and Kozar died in the ambulance from the injuries he sustained when he was pushed over the guardrail in the crash.

Rescue crews pulled Moye and his wife uninjured from the SUV, as well as a third unidentified passenger. Moye has been charged with 2 counts of vehicular homicide, 2 counts of DUI manslaughter and DUI with injury. His bond has been set at $119,000 and he appeared in court on October 31. Moye's wife was arrested for DUI back in June.

According to the 2009 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Mother of 3 Killed in Land O' Lakes Pedestrian Accident

blog@www.saronlaw.com (News Author)18797 — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

November 4, 2010 - Land O' Lakes, FL - The morning of October 13 changed the lives of one Pasco County family when a mother and son were struck by a car while walking to a school bus stop.

WTSP.com reports that Susan K. Lewis, mother of 3, was struck and killed by Eugene Williams, 64, as he drove his Mitsubishi on Ambleside Drive. The vehicle struck Lewis and her son as they crossed Night Heron Drive while heading to the boy's school bus stop.

Since Susan's death, her husband Rob Lewis has been coping with the reality of raising 3 children alone, as well as helping his son recover from his injuries. In the process of recovery, Rob Lewis has taken up the fight against speeding in his neighborhood, which he believes was the fatal factor in the accident.

Rob Lewis claims there is a speeding issue in general in their neighborhood, although Pasco County deputies claim otherwise. The police department says they've only written 4 warnings and issued no speeding tickets on Night Heron Drive this year.

A speed trailer and radar guns have been used in the area, and public information officer Kevin Doll reports that they haven't seen an unusual amount of speeding. Meanwhile, Rob Lewis is working with a friend of the family who spoke to a Pasco County commissioner about the possibility of installing speed bumps in the area.

The fatal pedestrian accident is still being investigated to determine if speed was a factor.

According to the 2009 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Traffic Crash Statistics Report, there were 197,214 traffic crashes resulting in injury and 2,563 fatalities as a result of vehicle accidents in Florida.

As a service to the residents of St. Petersburg, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
hit-and-run accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.