Tag Archives: personal injury

Pedestrian | Personal Injury | Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Posted on August 2, 2013 by Blick Law

pedestrian accident lawyer, pedestrian deaths, pedestrian, personal injury, personal injury attorneySome personal injury cases involve drivers not yielding to pedestrian crossings, causing serious injury or death.

Florida leads the country in pedestrian deaths each year, and this statistic has become a major concern for the Florida Department of Transportation. According to an annual study by nonprofit organization Transportation for America, Florida includes four of the five most dangerous metropolitan areas in the country for pedestrians and bikers…. and the Tampa area is listed as number two.

If you are a victim in a pedestrian personal injury, you have legal rights to make a claim against the defendant driver.

Under Florida Law, drivers are required to come to a complete STOP when approaching a pedestrian cross-walk. However, many cross-walk signs do not notify motorists of their obligation to stop, and most drivers interpret cross-walk signs as a notice to YIELD to pedestrians. This misinformation creates a dangerous miscommunication between driver and pedestrian, and has led to many fatal and life-altering personal injury accidents.

While laws are in place to protect pedestrians from motorists, Florida law also maintains that pedestrians have an obligation to be responsible and cognizant of their surroundings when utilizing the roadways. Among the factors contributing to the increased pedestrian death in Florida is a lack of awareness by both motorists and pedestrians. As a result, it is important to stay educated about the potential safety hazards while walking, biking, and driving on Florida roadways. Unfortunately for many people, roadway safety concerns are not fully appreciated until disaster hits close to home.

If you, or your family have been a victim of a pedestrian accident call Blick Law firm at (813) 931-0840 to learn about your rights. Schedule an appointment today for a free case evaluation with Attorney Michael Blickensderfer.

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Personal Injury | Firework Safety | July 4th

Posted on July 3, 2013 by Blick Law

Independence Day is celebrated in recognition of the Declaration of Independence being approved by the Continental Congress in 1776, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom and liberty. The day is celebrated by parades, fireworks and barbecues across the country.

Fireworks have become an iconic symbol in the commemoration of our independence on the 4th of July, and they play a major role in American’s celebration of this day. Seeing fireworks shoot off in the sky brings fond moments, as bright lights flash in a glittery display for all to see; but, if not used with safety and caution, fireworks can cause harmful situations, resulting in serious damages.

Fireworks not only have damaging effects on property, but also heighten the risk for injury; this is especially true under the influence of alcohol. Firework personal injury claims are especially high in the month of July. Florida fireworks are not only illegal but may result in severe hand, body, arm and/or leg injuries, or even worse, it can result in death.

In Florida, it is illegal to buy, sell, or explode consumer fireworks.  You can do so, however, if you have a city permit.  Be aware that if you are shooting off fireworks without a permit, you are breaking the law, which may result in unnecessary fines and a possible police investigation. If law enforcement decides to crack down and you’re caught buying or shooting off illegal fireworks, it is a first-degree misdemeanor.

It is important to be aware that most of the fireworks sold in Florida are illegal. Consumers are usually unaware that the only fireworks that are allowed for personal use without obtaining a special county permit are those classified as “sparklers”. This category of “sparklers” includes a very limited amount of incendiary items.

Legally, the fireworks merchants have their customers sign liability waivers explaining that the fireworks are illegal for personal use; the costumer attests that he is aware of the illegality of the purchase, and signs that he will be using the fireworks for a legal purpose. The legal purpose for use of these consumer fireworks only includes the following:

(A) you have a city permit to shoot off fireworks for the public to enjoy;

(B) you will use the explosives to scare off birds from a farm or fish hatchery; or

(C) you work on a railroad and need to light or clear a path for your train.

These reasons are rarely examined by the purchasers, and most times the customer makes the purchase unaware of the consequences of their illegal use. The reason that persons continue to make the fireworks purchases is because they are unaware, and the law is rarely enforced.

If you or a loved one is injured while using or observing fireworks celebrations, call Blick Law Firm today at (813) 931-0840 to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer.

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Marketing for your Personal Injury Firm Tampa

Posted on May 31, 2013 by Blick Law

Welcome to the Behind The Scenes Blick Blog. Blick Law Firm blogs over the years have provided legal information to the community, which is wonderful, but it is time to mix things up and get personal!

Behind The Scenes Blog: weekly insights from inside the firm. Today’s story is brought to you by Mahayana Sfeir, Bilingual Marketing Liaison.

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“I don’t mind living in a man’s world as long as I can be a woman in it.” ~Marilyn Monroe

The reason I started with this quote is because when I think of our Director of Marketing and Public Relations this quote just seems to fit her perfectly. Dana Blickensderfer, director of marketing and public relations at Blick Law Firm is attorney Michael Blickensderfer’s daughter and her role at the firm is vital to the ongoing excellence of daily operations.

At first glance, Dana appears to be this elegant-gentle woman, but she is mu293000_433200156730890_236531918_nch more than that. She is a smart, fierce business woman who is not afraid to shine in a man’s world. This quality in her character really intrigued me and is the reason why I chose her as the focus for our next blog topic. Dana demonstrates this type of leadership daily in her work habits and drive.  She started in her father’s practice in 2010 after graduating from the University of South Florida where she created and implemented her role from nothing.

Initially, the lack of marketing and branding of the firm was a red flag for Dana to utilize her schooling and skills to enhance the family business. To her father’s surprise, it would become a very important piece of the puzzle for the business’s growth. Attorneys, doctors and many professionals on their own must not only carry their education and expertise into their career, but also be able to produce and cultivate business. However, many business professionals lack the creative entrepreneurial mindset that it takes to run successful marketing business plans.  Dana understood the need to market the practice using her well-developed marketing planning abilities to further the family business. She implemented some of the communications and public relations concepts learned from USF, producing amazing results.

Learning from her many trial and error experiments, victories and failures, she realized the success she could accomplish. I commend Dana for her drive, which is what I admire the most about Dana Blickensderfer.

When I first met Dana, we instantly connected as like-minded ambitious women. We believe in our capabilities for success, the word “Can’t” does not exist in our vocabulary. We dream big, but we also know that everything takes time and hard work. Perseverance and dedication is what will get us to that success we foresee together for this personal injury law practice. She became one of the key employees at Blick Law Firm in charge of the office operations, as well as the marketing department. Dana has created an amazing system that I am happy to be a part of, and I look forward to helping her accomplish even more. Like the saying goes “… two heads are better than one…” Together as a team we are creating solid plans to be followed towards our growth.

Dana Blickensderfer is passionate about her work which is an enormous advantage when working by her side. Her passion and enthusiasm is contagious. I am honored to join forces with her and our Blick family to take us to another level. With God there is nothing we can not accomplish, therefore we will stop at nothing.

I would like to finish with this scripture from the Bible that iterates the way we live our day to day in our careers “…it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32 ASV)

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Hit and Run Accidents

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Blick Law

Auto accidents can be devastating, and often times result in not only property damage, but also severe injuries that require extensive medical attention and treatment. The stress and pain associated with automobile accidents can be extensive, and there are many situations when the victims of a car accident cannot afford the medical assistance needed to treat their injuries. To make matters worse, each year motorists across the country become victims of hit and run accidents, and are left devastated by the actions of another driver.

If you have been hit by another driver who fled after the accident, it is important to immediately attempt to gather as much information as possible about the vehicle and/or driver. It is extremely helpful to your case if you can provide a description of the vehicle that hit you, and any identifying information that can be helpful when filing a police report and an accident claim with your auto insurance company.

If you cannot obtain identifying information about the vehicle or other driver, at least write down the location and time of the accident, and as many other details about the sequence of events as you can, including any potential witnesses to the accident, their names, and contact information.

It is very important to contact law enforcement and file a report immediately after the accident; even when it seems like a waste of time due to lack of information about the other driver or incident. Having a police report can be helpful to you when filing the auto claim with your insurance, and memorializing at least some of the details of the incident in writing.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of an auto accident and have questions concerning your rights, call Blick Law Firm today at 813-931-0840 to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer. Think quick, call Blick!

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Texting and Driving

Posted on May 9, 2013 by Blick Law

Across the country, distracted driving continues to be a rising cause of automobile accidents and has resulted in numerous fatalities over the past decade. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 3,000 people were killed in distracted driving accidents in 2010 alone.

On May 2nd, 2013, the Florida Senate vote was nearly unanimous in favor of the texting and driving bill. The proposed bill cleared the House of Representatives with a 110-6 vote the day before, and has now been sent to the governor for his approval. The new texting and driving law calls for fines of $30 plus costs; as well as additional penalties for subsequent offenses, causing a crash, and/or for texting in school zones.

In an effort to stop texting and cell phone use behind the wheel nationwide, the U.S. Department of Transportation has been encouraging all states to enact tough laws prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving. Furthermore, several celebrities, media sources, and automobile companies have made efforts to raise awareness of the growing problem by reaching out to the community and promoting the dangers that can occur when driving distracted.

If you or a loved has been a victim of an accident involving distracted driving and you have questions concerning your rights, call Blick Law Firm today at (813) 931-0840 and schedule a free 15-minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer. Think quick, call Blick!

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Personal Injury Auto Accidents

Posted on April 25, 2013 by Blick Law

Auto accidents can be devastating, and injuries sustained in an accident can begin a timeline of treatment and therapy that can take months to complete. If you are involved in an auto accident, it is always important to know what steps to undertake to protect yourself and your potential personal injury case.

If you are involved in an auto accident, it is critical to first seek medical attention. After an auto accident, it is best to go immediately to the hospital or other treatment facility to determine the extent of your injuries and pinpoint the necessary steps of rehabilitation that might be required.

If the injuries sustained in the accident are not severe or life threatening, it is important to gather necessary information about the accident for purposes of supporting your potential legal suit. Important information to gather includes:

Identification of all occupants: including names, phone numbers, addresses and even emails.

Photos of the Damage: photograph all damages, including both vehicle and surrounding property damage.

Photos of the Accident Scene: photograph any debris, skid marks and also the position of the vehicles involved in the collision; and

Information of Responding Officer(s) and Ambulance: Request any and all identifying information on the officer(s) and Ambulance that respond to the incident

Injured parties should also always contact an attorney for legal consultation and general information on how to proceed following an accident. In the event an insurance company contacts you regarding your injury claim, do not offer any recorded statements without first consulting with an attorney.

If you or a loved one have been in an accident and need legal advice, call Blick Law Firm today at  (813) 931-0840 . Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer.

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