South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog
Florida could be called the unofficial entertainment capital of the world. We have hundreds of attractions: amusement parks and theme parks, beaches, resorts, cruises, Everglade tours, art attractions, specialty zoos, and so much more. It really is a magnificent state, which is why more than 100 million people visit from all over the world every year. With so many visitors, it is inevitable that there will also be accidents.
If you are injured while on vacation in Florida, your rights to seek damages are the same as they are anywhere else. The difference is that since you are from out of state and will presumably return home, you will need an expert personal injury lawyer here in Florida to continue to fight your fight while you go home to recover.
Types of accidents while on vacation in Florida
Most accidents or personal injury cases fall into several categories: vehicle accidents, slip and falls, product liability cases, property liability issues, animal bites, torts (wrongful acts such as assault), and medical malpractice situations. An expert personal injury lawyer knows which type of case you have, and sometimes more than one type can apply. Some of the possible places or causes of injury include:
Vehicle accident injuries: Car accidents, rental car accidents, and Uber/Lyft accidents are more common in Florida than in other states, since so many people are unfamiliar with where they are going, and some international visitors may actually be used to driving on the other side of the road. Other vehicle accidents also occur, because many people choose to rent bicycles to enjoy our Florida beauty in a leisurely manner. Others come on their motorcycles or rent them while here.
Rental equipment injuries: In Florida, there are many opportunities to rent off-road vehicles, water skis or jet skis, scooters, or beach items. While most rental companies try to maintain their items in good working order, equipment that is used extensively by multiple people can easily become damaged or defective, causing you injury.
Hotel and rental property injuries: Property owners are responsible for maintaining safe environments. Slip and falls, broken bones, electrical shocks, or other injuries could be caused by faulty wiring, poor lighting, wet spots, poor signage, or unsafe equipment. Sexual assault can sometimes have been prevented if there was sufficient security or lighting.
Outdoor activities that cause injury: There are too many to list, but some may include horseback riding, hang gliding, bungee jumping, cliff diving, hiking, or touring the Everglades. While you may be required to sign a waiver to participate in many of these activities, the companies still have a duty to protect your safety and maintain their equipment.
Amusement park or swimming pool accidents: Ride malfunctions, dangerous conditions, poor maintenance, or insufficient lifeguards could precipitate injury.
What you should do if injured while visiting Florida
Just as you would if you were home and injured, seek medical attention quickly. Collect pictures and witness statements, if possible. Avoid posting on social media or making any other statements. And reach out to a Florida personal injury lawyer with a track record of winning cases for out-of-state clients who were injured in Florida.
Keep in mind that in order to sue for personal injury in Florida, the injury must have occurred in Florida and must be filed within the statute of limitations. For most cases, the statute of limitations is 4 years from the event of injury. However, if you are suing a municipality it is 3 years, and if you’re suing for wrongful death, the statute of limitations is 2 years. Therefore, contact an attorney as soon as possible, while incidents are still fresh in your mind as well as the minds of witnesses so that we can get the process going as soon as possible and get you the compensation you deserve.
Florida is a beautiful and exciting vacation destination, and millions of people safely visit every year, creating lifelong, wonderful memories. So don’t hesitate to come to Florida for your vacation. However, if you have an unfortunate accident while in Florida, I am committed to making sure you get the compensation to which you are entitled. Call me at (954)448-7288 24/7 for a free consultation.