Category Archives: Personal Injury

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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Hurricane Safety | Personal Injury | Tampa Attorney

Posted on June 25, 2013 by Blick Law

Weather conditions in Florida frequently cause safety concerns on the roadways, and it is important to be aware of potential dangers and take safety precautions to avoid them.

Inclement weather causes tricky road conditions like standing water or flooding. These road conditions often times conceal dangerous debris, tree branches, and even power lines that are not visible. Many drivers attempt to drive through flooded areas and risk encountering hazards to save time or to avoid an inconvenient detour; drivers should always consider the safety risks and take necessary precautions by avoiding flooded areas.

Many times, weather conditions cause traffic lights to become inoperative, creating confusion on the roadways that can lead to deadly collisions. When encountering a downed traffic light, every driver approaching the intersection should come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection.

Be cautious, and consider that the roads are wet and cars are more prone to skidding and loss of control.

In the event Hurricane conditions cause the need to evacuate, have a plan ready, know where you will go, and research several alternate routes in the event of closed roads and severe traffic congestion.

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of dangerous roadway conditions, call Blick Law Firm today at (813) 931-0840 to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer.

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Marine Boating | Tampa Attorney | Drunk Boating

Posted on June 12, 2013 by Blick Law

The waters of Florida are both a national and international resource alike, and recreational boating on these waters contributes to the well-being of both residents and visitors. As a result, boating laws are in place to protect the safety, aesthetics, and future of Florida’s waterways.

Florida law enforcement officers and Florida Wildlife officials patrol the waterways daily to ensure safety and compliance with boating laws. It is important while boating to be aware of the laws regulating waterway use, and be informed of what your responsibilities are.

By law, all watercraft operators are responsible for operating their vessel in a reasonable and prudent manner with regard for other vessel traffic, posted restrictions, the presence of a divers-down flag, and other circumstances so as not to endanger people or property. Non-compliance with the safety rules of the waterways can result in both non-criminal and criminal violations.

In Florida, laws against boating while impaired by alcohol or other drugs are as strict as those for driving a vehicle while impaired. Florida law prohibits anyone from boating under the influence (BUI). That is, it is illegal to operate any vessel or to manipulate any water skis, sailboard, or similar device while intoxicated due to alcohol or any combination of alcohol, a controlled substance, or drugs.

If you have been stopped while boating and need legal advice, call Blick Law Firm today. Schedule a free 15-minute appointment with attorney Michael Blickensderfer. Think quick, call Blick.

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Auto Accident Tampa

Posted on June 7, 2013 by Blick Law

Parties to an accident are often times contacted by insurance companies in an attempt to get personal injury victims to settle an injury claim quickly, and for a non-negotiated amount. Before a settlement offer is even discussed, it is extremely important to first know the extent of your injuries.

Usually, the severity of damage sustained in an accident is not easily determined, and in many cases an injured party may suffer soft tissue or latent injuries that do not arise until much later. However, once a settlement agreement is made and tendered, an injured party releases their right to recovery for injuries related to that particular incident.

If you are involved in an auto accident, it is always important 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.

Secondly, an injured party should 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 @ (813) 931-0840. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer.

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Florida’s Waterways and Boating Accidents

Posted on May 28, 2013 by Blick Law

With Memorial Day approaching, many families will be vacationing, enjoying time at the beach, and making recreational use of Florida’s waterways. Florida’s waterways are amenities of the state that bring family and friends together in a perennially sunny climate. However, the abundance of waterway use in Florida coupled with a variety of water recreational activities can lead to serious incidents of personal injury.

Boating accidents are extremely dangerous and can lead to severe injuries, and even death. With close to a million vessels registered in the state, Florida leads the nation in the number of vessels, and, as a negative consequence has the highest number of boating fatalities annually. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, there were 742 reportable boating accidents and 67 boating related fatalities in 2011. Many of these deaths were caused by victims falling overboard and drowning, and a large number of them could have been prevented if the victims had worn life jackets.

While utilizing Florida’s water resources, it is important to always employ safety measures to prevent injuries. However, in the event of an injury it is important to contact a Tampa personal injury attorney to determine your rights to recovery, and determine who may be liable for your injuries.

If you or a loved has been injured in a boating accident, call Blick Law Firm today. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer by calling 813-931-0840. Think quick, call Blick!

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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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