Hernando County

August 29, 2014

Labor Day Weekend Tip: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently issued a press release notifying motorists to drive sober for the upcoming Labor Day weekend and all year long. The 2014 campaign is focused on the societal and economic impact of drunk driving as well as the personal costs and human toll of impaired driving.

Across the United States, drunk driving collisions kill more than 10,000 people each year. Over the course of holiday weekends alcohol-related crashes are known to increase. During Labor Day weekend in 2012, 147 people were killed in auto accidents involving drunk drivers. For every DUI crash, one in three results in a fatality. What this means is that one third of all collisions are entirely preventable.

The economic impacts of driving under the influence cost Americans billions of dollars every single year. Car and motorcycle accidents involving alcohol impaired drivers cost 47 billion in direct economic impacts in 2010. Across the U.S., that averages to about $152 a person. When the overall harm to society due to loss of life and diminished quality of life are tacked on, the numbers skyrocket to $195 billion.

The average cost of a minor injury associated with a DUI-related motor vehicle crash is $22,000, but can total more than $25,000 when losses related to quality of life are added in. Direct economic impacts and additional quality-of-life costs can drastically increase based on the severity of the injury.

Now that we have addressed some of the shocking figures associated with DUIs, our Florida Personal Injury Lawyers at Whittel & Melton want to make sure you enjoy Labor Day weekend and map out a plan before the party starts. Planning ahead is absolutely necessary to ensure that you have a safe ride home, should you consume any amount of alcohol. Planning ahead can be as simple as programming a taxi cab’s phone number into your phone or downloading a rideshare app onto your smartphone. No matter where you end up or what you are doing, never get behind the wheel of a car while intoxicated. Ask a friend or bartender to help you find a safe ride home.

June 30, 2014

June & July Recognized as National Fireworks Safety Months

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

The National Safety Council delegates the months of June and July to focus on fireworks safety, since fireworks injuries are most common between June 1 and July 4 each year.

Eye injuries are a noteworthy concern when it comes to projectile fireworks like bottle rockets and Roman candles. According to Prevent Blindness America, eye injuries are common with fireworks, as are burns and other very serious injuries. Most of those who suffer fireworks-related eye injuries are children under the age of 15 since they do not fully understand the dangers of these hot explosives, but it is important to point out that anyone can be harmed by fireworks.

Last year there were eight deaths and about 11,400 injuries nationally from fireworks, according to a recent report by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. To help protect yourself and those you love from fireworks injuries this summer, please familiarize yourself with the following safety tips:

Check the fireworks laws and ordinances where you live. In the state of Florida, consumer fireworks are illegal. However, state lawmakers passed an exception to this rule allowing fireworks to be purchased by farms and fish hatcheries. In order for vendors to sell fireworks to customers, all they have to do is have purchasers sign forms saying they’re buying under an agricultural or other exemption.
Never let children play with fireworks. While most people tend to think hand-held fireworks like sparklers are safe enough, know that these can reach temperatures over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause serious burn injuries. Do not let your child play with, hold or light off fireworks of any kind.
If you are going to light off fireworks, make sure to set up a fire-resistant area. Everyone else should be kept several yards away from this area. Also, have a fire extinguisher or hose handy in case fireworks get out of control.
Leave the fireworks to the professionals. Rather than lighting off your own fireworks at home, head to professional fireworks shows. While you could still possibly be injured at one of these shows, the risk is much lower than if you choose to light your own fireworks off at your house.

June 11, 2014

Florida Slip, Trip and Fall Injury Lawyer :: National Safety Month – Stop Slips, Trips and Falls

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Slip, trip, and fall accidents are a primary cause of injury in the United States for people of all ages and genders. June is National Safety Month, which is why it is important to address these risks, and for all of us in Florida to strive to help prevent future accident injuries.

The Second Week of National Safety Week Is Dedicated to Fall Prevention

The National Safety Council has dedicated the second week of June to raising awareness about slip and fall and trip and fall injuries. There are many ways we can prevent serious injuries and fatalities throughout our Florida communities, including the following:

June 4, 2014

Florida Auto Accident Injury Attorney :: New NHSTA Study Shows the Staggering Toll of Car Crashes on U.S. Residents

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Whenever a motor vehicle accident occurs in Florida, or anywhere else throughout the country, it creates a series of events that cost money. While these costs are not always apparent to other people, make no mistake, car accidents can be quite expensive.

When viewed as a whole, the numbers are downright shocking. A recent study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration demonstrates that motor vehicle accidents cost more than $870 billion in economic loss per year. This study examined data from 2010. That $870 billion can be broken down even further to a personal basis, averaging an estimated cost of $900 per person in the U.S., which does not just apply to accident victims, but all people residing in this country.

NHTSA’s study, “The Economic and Society Impact of Motor Vehicle Crashes, 2010,” focuses on some of the behavioral factors that influenced that year’s nearly 33,000 highway fatalities, 3.9 million injuries and 24 million damaged vehicles. According to the study, three driver behaviors including speeding, drunk driving and distracted driving, accounted for 56 percent of the economic loss to the nation and 62 percent of the societal harm. Societal harm is described as harm due to loss of life and decreased quality of life.

What is not so shocking is that drunk driving accidents were found to be among the most expensive kinds of accidents. These accounted for 18 percent of the total economic loss and 23 percent of the overall societal harm.

Speeding accounted for 21 percent of the overall economic loss costing the nation $59 billion and 24 percent, or $210 billion, of the societal harm.

Distracted driving crashes were responsible for 17 percent of the total economic loss and cost $46 billion. These crashes accounted for $129 billion, or 15 percent, of the overall societal harm.

On a positive note, researchers for this study concluded that using seatbelts led to a savings of almost $70 billion in medical care, lost productivity and other costs that were not incurred. For now, around 5 percent of the total economic loss involved people in auto accidents where they were not buckled up or did not properly fasten their seatbelt.

May 28, 2014

Florida Injury Attorney :: Florida Takes Top Four Spots in New Ranking of America’s Deadliest Cities for Pedestrians

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

While all pedestrians should pay extra close attention when crossing the street, it seems that Floridians need to be especially mindful.
In a new report from the National Complete Streets Coalition, Dangerous By Design 2014, a Pedestrian Danger Index was used to rank the deadliest places to walk in America. Florida is home to the top four cities, with six other southern cities finishing out the top 10:

Orlando, FL
Tampa, FL
Jacksonville, FL
Miami, FL
Memphis, TN
Birmingham, AL
Houston, TX
Atlanta, GA
Phoenix, AZ
Charlotte, NC

You can view the full list here.

The Pedestrian Danger Index was calculated by looking at the last five years of available data on pedestrian fatalities and factoring in the number of local commuters who walk to work every day.

The report shows that 47,025 people nationwide were hit by cars and died while walking between 2003 and 2012. This number is 16 times greater than the number of Americans who died in natural disasters over the same time frame. Additionally, another 676,000 pedestrians were injured while travelling on foot, which likens to someone being hit by a car every eight minutes.

The elderly are found to be much more at risk than any other age group, according to the report. While they only represent 12.6 percent of the total U.S. population, adults ages 65 and older account for 21 percent of pedestrian fatalities.

This report shows just how dangerous busy roads and intersections can be for those walking to their destinations. The following tips are a great reminder on how to stay safe as a pedestrian:

Stay Alert. Distracted walking can be just as dangerous as distracted driving. Always look where you are going and be aware of your surroundings. In 2010, more than 1,500 people were treated in U.S. emergency rooms for pedestrian-related injuries resulting from distractions, especially cell phones. Keep your eyes off your cell phone when crossing the street!

Never Jaywalk. Did you know that pedestrians can be held liable for auto accidents, too? When you cross the street against a light and run into traffic, you increase your risk of being struck and potentially killed by a motorist.

Use the Sidewalk. While sidewalks may not be located in certain areas in the city, if they are available for use, please use them and do not walk in the street. If a biker is taking up the sidewalk, gently remind them that they are meant for pedestrians.

May 23, 2014

Florida Auto Accident Injury Lawyer :: Car Crashes Increase over Memorial Day, Stay Safe on Florida’s Roadways

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Memorial Day weekend is finally here and many of you will be setting out to enjoy the official start of summer with our state’s numerous recreational possibilities. With that said, it is estimated that close to 34 million people will be hitting the road over the long holiday weekend and traveling at least 50 miles from home. Whether you are staying local or making a trek to a family member or friend’s home, the Florida Auto Accident Attorneys at Whittel & Melton urge you to drive safely and exercise caution this holiday weekend.

Memorial Day weekend is supposed to be a time for remembrance and celebration. Whatever type of activity you choose to partake in this weekend, we urge you to do so responsibly. Make sure if you are driving to always pay attention, look out for any roadside construction and always see to it that everyone in your vehicle is buckled up. Remember, if you are going to be drinking at any point during the holiday weekend, just be sure to have a designated driver set in place.

According to AAA, the amount of motorists travelling on the roadways this Memorial Day weekend will be at a 10 year high. Dating back to past Memorial Day weekends, statistics show that there is an increase of more than ten percent in motor vehicle accidents vs. other holiday weekends.

You can help exercise safety this Memorial Day weekend just by brushing up on a few safety steps:

Always give yourself enough time to get from Point A to Point B.
Follow all posted speed limits.
Limit Driver Distractions.
Make sure everyone, including those in the back seat, is wearing their seat belt.
Do not drink and drive. In fact, make sure you have a designated driver assigned before you start drinking so that you are not tempted to drive after consuming alcoholic beverages.

May 13, 2014

Florida Child Injury Lawyer :: Look Before You Lock – The Risks & Consequences of Leaving Children Alone in Hot Cars

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

We rely on our vehicles to get ourselves and our loved ones safely where we need to go, however it can be easy to forget that when you leave a child in the car for too long, the results can be deadly. According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the leading cause of all non-crash-related fatalities involving children aged 14 and younger is heatstroke.

Vehicles can reach extreme temperatures very quick, even if you have the windows rolled down. A child’s body absorbs more heat on a hot day than an adult’s does due to the fact that children’s bodies have a harder time regulating body temperature. Heatstroke can happen even in cars parked in a shaded area on days that reach 80 degrees or less. Studies have shown that in temperatures around 80 degrees, a vehicle can become lethal in just 10 minutes.

As parents and caregivers, it is vital to understand the risks and consequences associated with leaving kids in vehicles, especially hot cars.

Potential Risks

In just 10 short minutes, a car can jump up by 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cracking or rolling down a window does very little to keep the car cool.
Even with temperatures in the 60s, your vehicle can heat up to temperatures that exceed 110 degrees.
A child’s body temperature can climb up to five times faster than an adult’s.
Heatstroke can occur even in mild temperatures. In fact, studies show that heatstroke can occur when it is as cool as 57 degrees outside!
A child dies when their body temperature reaches 107.

Possible Consequences

Death from heatstroke.
In the state of Florida, it is considered a second-degree misdemeanor to leave a child under the age of six alone in a car for more than 15 minutes or while the motor was running causing the health of the child to be in danger.
This crime is punishable by a fine of up to $500.

How to Avoid a Tragic Heatstroke

Never leave a child alone in a car, even if you need to run a quick errand.
Remind children to not play in an unattended vehicle.
Do not leave infants or young children in a parked car, even if the windows are rolled down.
Place a purse, briefcase or anything else that you will need when you get out of the car in the backseat, so that you cannot forget about a child riding in the backseat.
Make it a habit to look inside your vehicle, both front seat and back, before locking the door and walking away.
If you should see a child alone in a hot vehicle, call 911 right away. If you notice that they are in distress due to heat, it is important to get them out of the car as quickly as possible.

April 3, 2012

Hernando County Wrongful Death Attorneys Whittel & Melton :: Deputies Investigating Diving Death at Weeki Wachee State Park

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

One person is dead after a diving accident that occurred Saturday afternoon at the Weeki Wachee State Park.

Hernando County sheriff’s deputies are investigating the accident.

Authorities believe the accident took place between 4:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Police claim the accident was not related to a performance at the park.

The investigation is pending. No further details have been released.

All divers, whether diving for employment or for recreational purposes, assume the inherent risks that go along with underwater expeditions. However, this does not mean divers have no legal protection in the event an accident happens. Due to the risks attached, diving accidents often result in serious injury or death. The most common malfunctions that contribute to diving accidents, injuries or deaths include:

• Faulty equipment
• Negligent Training
• Line Entanglements
• Inadequate Guidance
• Lack of Assistance
• Negligent Air Checks
• Improper Instruction
• Defective Scuba Gear

The Florida Personal Injury & Wrongful Death Attorneys at Whittel & Melton represent recreational and professional divers who have suffered from diving accidents, as well as the families who have lost loved ones due to these catastrophes. When unfortunate accidents occur while diving, during instruction or during compression, victims and their loved ones deserve to be rightfully compensated for their injuries and losses.

Diving accidents can bring about serious injuries, such as:

• Neurological Injuries

• Asphyxia and Anoxia
• Type I and Type II Decompression Sickness
• Lung Damage
• Nitrogen Narcosis also known as “The Bends”
• Drowning and Wrongful Death

After an accident, it may be possible to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. The Florida Personal Injury & Wrongful Death Attorneys at Whittel & Melton can review the circumstances surrounding you or your loved one’s diving accident and explain the options available to you concerning recovering the compensation you deserve.

March 12, 2012

Hernando County, Florida Fatal Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Whittel & Melton :: Pennsylvania Motorcyclist Killed in Hernando Beach Collision

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A 36-year-old Pennsylvania man was killed Sunday night in Hernando Beach after a collision with car launched him from his motorcycle.

The man was driving his Kawasaki motorcycle around 9:40 p.m. when a 2008 BMW sedan apparently attempted to turn left in front of him.

According to troopers, the driver of the BMW turned into the motorcyclists’ path causing him to crash into the side of the vehicle sending him flying from his motorcycle. The man landed in the middle of the road. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Troopers noted that the man was wearing a helmet.

The investigation remains underway.

Riding a motorcycle is an increasingly popular activity in the state of Florida and motorcycle registrations are on the rise. Despite their popularity, motorcycles are a potentially dangerous undertaking. With little to no protection, motorcycle riders are unfortunately at greater risk for injuries when they are involved in accidents with other cars. Due to motorcycles lacking the steel frame and other safety features that are standard in cars, injuries resulting from a collision are usually severe and can include:

• Brain Damage
• Paralysis
• Road Rash
• Spinal Cord Damage
• Broken Bones
• Wrongful Death

Numerous motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle. Often, these accidents involve a negligent motorist turning in front of or pulling out into an unexpected motorcyclist’s path, violating their right-of-way. As a result, the motorcyclist has simply two options, either crash into the car or crash trying to avoid the vehicle. In a majority of these cases, most motorists never even see the motorcycle, or take notice too late to dodge the crash.

If you have lost someone you care for in a motorcycle accident due to negligence, you should not be subject to financial hardship in addition to your grief. Under Florida law, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, loss of future earnings, loss of companionship and other damages. The Florida Fatal Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at Whittel & Melton understand that losing a loved one is never easy. We can explain the best strategies for winning full and fair compensation from all negligent parties, including reckless drivers, speeding motorists and manufacturers of defective equipment. At Whittel & Melton, we will fight for justice in your case no matter what the circumstances.

February 22, 2012

Florida Personal Injury Attorneys Whittel & Melton on How to Select a Committed Auto Accident Attorney in Brooksville, FL

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

The attorney you select to represent your interests following a motor vehicle accident can greatly influence the outcome of your case as well as your future financial security. When choosing a car accident attorney in Hernando County or Brooksville there can be a temptation to consider claims of past results, but be warned, every case is unique, and what the lawyers at Whittel & Melton understand is individual attention to each claim is the only recipe for success.

Whittel & Melton Provides Free Consultations

If you reside in Brooksville, Weeki Wachee or any other area in Hernando County and are suffering from injuries obtained in a car accident, the Brooksville Auto Accident Attorneys at Whittel & Melton may be able to assist you with recovering compensation for damages. The Law Offices of Whittel & Melton, LLC handles personal injury cases throughout the state of Florida, and offers a complimentary confidential consultation with a personal injury attorney to discuss the facts of your case.

Are you fighting to recover compensation stemming from an auto accident injury, but thought speaking to a personal injury attorney would be too expensive? The Personal Injury Attorneys at Whittel & Melton understand the anxiety and tension that go hand in hand with compensation claims, and that legal technicalities and insurance systems can often be overwhelming to you. Our car accident injury lawyers will listen to your needs and aggressively fight for a full and fair financial recovery on your behalf. When you contact Whittel & Melton, we assure you that you will speak directly with a Florida Personal Injury Attorney.

Do Not Delay in Contacting a Brooksville Car Accident Attorney

It is important to take action immediately following a car accident. The Florida Personal Injury Attorneys at Whittel & Melton can assess your claim and start protecting your rights and interests right away. Our attorneys can work with you to make sure critical evidence is preserved, any injuries are properly assessed and negotiate with insurance companies.

In the state of Florida, you only have four years from the date of the actual accident to file a personal injury claim. By waiting too long to secure legal counsel, you run the risk of receiving an insufficient settlement, or worse, the right to file claim at all.

Contact Your Personal Injury Lawyer in Brooksville Today!

If you or a family member has been the victim of an auto accident, then our personal injury attorneys in Brooksville can help you and your loved ones get on the road towards recovery. Our Brooksville Injury Lawyers can advocate on your behalf and guide you through the legal process to make sure maximum compensation is recovered for you and your family.

If you or a loved one is suffering from an auto accident injury in Brooksville, contact the Florida Personal Injury Attorneys at Whittel & Melton for a complimentary consultation. By contacting us, you will discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer and be able to move ahead with the rigorous representation needed to recover a full and fair settlement you and the ones you care for deserve. We can negotiate with insurance companies, and as trial attorneys, are fully prepared to aggressively pursue your right to compensation in the courtroom. If you have been hurt in a Brooksville auto collision, you should be properly compensated for your sufferings. At Whittel & Melton, our Florida Personal Injury Lawyers are dedicated to making sure you recover physically, emotionally and financially.

A dedicated personal injury attorney understands the financial limitations one faces after being involved in a car accident and suffering injuries. That is why, at Whittel & Melton, there are no fees or costs involved unless we recover reimbursements for you and your family. If you are a resident of Brooksville or any other surrounding area, contact the Law Offices of Whittel & Melton today to get started towards financial recovery for your injury claim.

As personal injury attorneys, we are here to navigate you through the legal process to successfully regain what is rightfully yours under the law. Contact Whittel & Melton to start the process associated with a compensation claim, so that you can gain the financial restoration you merit.