Clearwater | St. Petersburg Personal Injury | Accident Blog | Attorney

Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Ottawa Canada?

jessgut12@gmail.com (Blog Author)28130 — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been charged with a criminal offence, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Richard Auger has defended many serious criminal charges including:

White Collar Crimes: Fraud, Money Laundering, etc.
Impaired Driving and other Automobile Offenses
Assault and Sexual Assault
Homicide
Theft, Robbery and other Property Offenses
and More

Check out a Ottawa Criminal Defense Lawyer today if you are located in the Ottawa Canada area. Since many people who come to Florida for only 6 months out of the year who are known as snowbirds, it isn't too strange to find people who live in Canada as well.

Fatal Pedestrian Accident on Adamo Drive in Tampa | Tampa Pedestrian Accident Attorney

jessgut12@gmail.com (Blog Author)28119 — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Pedestrian Accident
Where: E Adamo Drive in Tampa
Who: Unknown Pedestrian | Douglas Matthew Fink

In a tragic accident were one pedestrian has lost their life, Tampa detectives are still investigating. The fatal pedestrian accident happened on E Adamo Drive in Tampa. Douglas Matthew Fink was driving on Adamo Drive when suddenly as described by a witness, a pedestrian walking on the south shoulder jumped in front of Finks vehicle. According to the report, the pedestrian, whose next of kin has not been notified, was in his mid 20s, police said. Authorities had pronounced the pedestrian dead at the scene.

In a fatal pedestrian accident, it is a tragic event for both parties involved. Our hearts go out to the families affected by this fatal accident.

Pinellas Deputy Rearends Women Slowing for Ambulance | Palm Harbor Car Crash Lawyer

jessgut12@gmail.com (Blog Author)28115 — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Rearend Car Crash in Palm Harbor
Where: US 19 in Palm Harbor | Curlew Road
Who: Pinellas Deputy Anthony Lorusso | Kathleen Kotz

In a rearend crash where a deputy had struck a car slowing down for an ambulance that was coming by, one was injured. Kathleen Kotz was heading north on US 19 in Palm Harbor near Curlew Road when she had slowed down for an emergency vehicle to pass by. As she was slowing down to let the ambulance pass, Pinellas Deputy Anthony Lorusso could not react in time to miss her car. Lorusso then rearended the vehicle. Kotz was then taken to Mease Countryside Hospital for injuries that were non life threatnening.

Lorusso has been an officer for 11 years. During the time of the accident, his police k9 was in the vehicle as well. Both were uninjured. The investigation of the accident is still being conducted as authorities are unsure if he was on duty at the time of the accident.

Subscribe to our blog for more consumer updates and accident news from around the bay from Palm Harbor Car Crash Lawyer James Dodson.

Running a Red Light? The Camera Will Catch You | St. Petersburg Fatal Car Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)28078 — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: dangerous intersections | fatal accident | running red light
Where: Tampa | St. Petersburg
Who: Mark Wandall | killed by a red light runner

Fatal accidents in St. Petersburg and Tampa because of a driver running a red light through a dangerous intersection could be curtailed with the installation of red light cameras the cities are set to adopt in the coming weeks.

Brooksville, Kenneth City, Port Richey, and Temple Terrace already use the cameras installed at dangerous intersections to improve traffic safety and prevent accidents like the one that killed Mark Wandall in a fatal car accident in Bradenton when a driver ran a red light.

An editorial in the St. Pete Times says both cities should exercise caution as Florida lawmakers consider overdue legislation to govern the use of the devices.

Read the entire editorial on our Florida Car Accident Lawyer consumer news website.

Florida Drivers Who Text and Drive Could Be Fined | Personal Injury Attorney in Clearwater

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)28054 — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: fatal car accidents | text messaging while driving
Where: Florida lawmakers propose ban on text messaging while driving
Who: Florida drivers

Florida lawmakers are looking at a proposal to ban text messaging while driving. There has been a national debate about road safety and the dangers of cell phone use while driving. Nineteen states and the District of Columbia have passed bans on texting while driving in recent years.

If Florida passes the proposed law texting while driving would become a secondary offense, meaning a police officer would need another reason to stop a driver and write a citation.

Read the complete news article in our Florida Car Accident Lawyer Consumer News online.

Prevent Head Injury in a Bicycle Collision Part 2 | Florida Bicycle Collision Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)28003 — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

When surveyed by AAA, a group of school children spoke out about why they wear a bike helmet.
Here's what they said:

* Because it looks cool and it keeps my head safe.
* Because I don't want to hurt my head like my cousin (who almost died in a bike accident)
* I wear my helmet most of the time because there is law about helmets.
* I wear my helmet all the time because 1) my parents make me and 2) I don't want to get any head injuries.
* I always wear them because they keep me and my brain safe
* I wear a helmet because I had a bike accident

The children also weighed in on what could happen if they were in a bicycle crash and were not wearing a helmet: Possible injuries they said that could happen in a bicycle collision included: brain damage, paralysis, death, crack their head open on the sidewalk, a broken neck and to be unconscious in a coma.

We observe Florida Bicycle Safety during the month of March. Visit our Florida Bicycle Attorney website for an informative article on the importance of wearing a bicycle helmet - for children and adults as well as numerous other safety resources.

Never allow a child on a bike without a helmet.
Enjoy all that bicycling has to offer and ride safely!

New Opened Golf Cart Crossing in Sun City Center | Golf Cart Accident Lawyer

jessgut12@gmail.com (Blog Author)27982 — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Sun City Center Golf Cart Path Opens

In an update from a previous blog posts about the Sun City Golf Cart proposal, the newly opened Sun City Center golf cart path allows residents with carts to pass over US 301 with a traffic light to gain access to Walmart. Hillsborough County Commissioners have approved and now opened this path for travel within Sun City Center. The area only occupies 12 square miles and golf carts are the popular vehicle of choice by most residents.

According to the Tampa Tribune, "it will connect drivers from East Del Webb Boulevard to the signalized intersection of U.S. 301 and Cape Stone Avenue — also will be open to residents of Kings Point, a gated community within Sun City Center." The path is a crushed-asphalt surface with signage for golf cart and pedestrian only.

Residents and county officials are happy to have a safe place for commuters in golf carts in Sun City Center to travel. In our library section, you can read more about golf cart safety in Florida.

Three Injured in East Lake Car Bicycle Accident | East Lake Accident Lawyer

jessgut12@gmail.com (Blog Author)27973 — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: 2 Car 1 Bicyclist Accident
Where: East Lake Road | Ridgemoor Boulevard
Who: Cyclist Julian Conley | John Carr | Karen Porcaro
Result: 2 in serious condition, one with minor injuries

In a three person injury accident involving two cars and a bicyclist, 2 people were sent to the hospital in serious condition on Tuesday, at the intersection of East Lake Road and Ridgemoor Boulevard. John Carr was headed southbound on East Lake Road when he turned in front of Karen Porcaro headed north. In a result from the accident, Carr's car was sent into a cyclist in the crosswalk at Ridgemoor. The cyclist, Julian Conley, was taken by helicopter to Bayfront with serious injuries.

From the report, Carr was cited for an improper turn. Further investigating is ongoing.

Bicycle Injuries | Child Bike Injuries in Florida Part 1 | Bicycle Injury Lawyer | Clearwater | Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27924 — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: fatal bicycle accidents | bicycle collisions | child bicycle injuries
Who: bicyclists | children
Where: Florida deadly state for bicyclist accidents

Florida is the deadliest state in the U.S. for pedestrian car collisions - and bicycle crashes aren't any better either. Seventeen per cent of fatal bicycle accidents in the U.S. occurred in Florida.

March is Florida Bicycle Safety month. Here is some basic bike safety and bicycle injury information for your children:

Four facts on child bicycle injuries: (reported by AAA & USCPSC)

* Wearing a bike helmet is the single most important thing you can do to protect your brain
* Children between ages 5 and 14 have the highest rate of injury of all bicycle riders.
* Each year, more than 500,000 children go to hospital emergency rooms or doctors' offices due to bicycle injuries.
* More than half of these bicycle collisions happen on neighborhood streets, sidewalks, or playgrounds.

Nationally, only about 15 percent of all kids wear bike helmets. In a AAA survey of school children, here's how often kids wore bike helmets:

Always or most of the time .................... 43%
Occasionally ........................................ 11%
Seldom or never .................................. 44%
No answer ........................................... 2%

Head injury is the leading cause of death in bicycle crashes. The single most effective safety device available to reduce head injury and death from bicycle crashes is a bike helmet.

For additional safety resource information, please visit our Florida Bicycle Accident Lawyer website.

Fatal Pedestrian Accident on Waters Ave in Tampa | Tampa Fatal Accident Lawyer

jessgut12@gmail.com (Blog Author)27859 — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Pedestrian Accident
Where: Waters Ave in Tampa
Who: Amanda Bentz | Billy Leedan Ivy

In a pedestrian hit and run accident that happened late Sunday night, the driver of the vehicle had fled the scene but then returned with her parents as reported. Amanda Bentz had fled the scene when she hit and killed Billy Leedan Ivy, 42, but then returned and admitted she had been the one driving the vehicle in the accident on Waters Ave in Tampa.

A passing motorist called 911 to report that a man was laying in the road on Waters Ave. The fatal accident is still being investigated Ivy would have turned 43 today. Our hearts go out to the families effected by this tragic accident.

Patient Struck and Killed in Road in Largo | Largo Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jessgut12@gmail.com (Blog Author)27857 — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Hospital Patient Struck and Killed
Where: Sun Coast Hospital | Indian Rocks Road in Largo
Who: Pedestrian Darrel Tolliver | Driver Susan Hamilton

As reported by the St. Petersburg Times, a bizarre accident happened early this morning when a patient that was admitted to Sun Coast Hospital with chest pains. When on a smoke break after being admitted, Darrel Tolliver was struck and killed in the middle of Indian Rocks Road in Largo.

Tolliver was struck by a Chevy SUV who had claimed to not see him in the middle of the road. Largo Police reported that is was "pitch black and their was no crosswalk". The driver of the vehicle, Susan Hamilton was not injured during the pedestrian accident and was stated "to be in no trouble at all" by officials on scene. No charges are expected to be filled.

Pedestrian accidents are a tragic experience for anyone involved. Our hearts go out to the victims family and friends.

The Vast Majority of Survivors of Those Who Die Due To Medical Malpractice, Never Receive a Dime of Compensation | Florida Medical Malpractice Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27812 — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: medical malpractice | medical negligence | medical error
Who: victims of medical negligence

From the public debate about medical malpractice reform, you would think most malpractice claims caused by medical negligence result in over compensation or are simply frivolous!

A recent report by Public Citizen reveals, in fact, only 1 in 57 deaths caused by a medical error or malpractice resulted in compensation being paid to the survivors. In truth, they conclude between 83% and 98% of all deaths caused by medical negligence resulted in no compensation.

The public outcry should not be for legal reform but for medical practice reform to prevent these medical errors. The medical profession has successfully shifted the argument from themselves to lawyers who are bringing claims on behalf of a minute fraction of those killed by medical negligence.

Watch a video by Florida Malpractice Lawyer Jim Dodson discussing the time limits in which a medical malpractice claim in Florida may be brought.

If you or someone you know suspects they have been a victim of medical neglience, contact our experienced Florida Medical Malpractice Lawyers for a FREE confidential consultation about your claim @ 1-888-340-0840.

Do the Numbers on Malpractice Cases Justify the Cry for Tort Reform? Florida Malpractice Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27811 — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: medical malpractice claims | wrongful death claims
Who: seriously injured | death of a child } death of a parent

There is much public debate about medical malpractice reform, tort reform, ending frivolous lawsuits and placing caps on damage awards in malpractice and wrongful death claims. I wonder how much of the positions people are taking on this subject is based on emotion rather than actual facts. It's always struck me as unfair that a cap arbitrarily limits damages for those who have been most seriously injured or killed - the death of a child, the death of a young parent who has surviving children, or a person who is left with a catastrophic injury they will live with for decades.

In a blog, a reporter for the Austin American Statesman states, "The number of medical malpractice payments made on behalf of physicians in 2009 was the lowest since .....1990." "In addition "the cumulative values of malpractice payments in 2009 was the lowest since 1999...if adjusted for inflation, payments were...either the lowest or the second lowest on record."

Given these facts, the public outcry for further malpractice reform seems to be a distraction from legitimate healthcare debate.

Watch a video prepared for you by Florida Medical Malpractice Attorney Jim Dodson in which he discusses medical negligence or medical malpractice claims in Florida. If you or a loved one suspects you have been the victim of medical malpractice, contact our Florida Malpractice Attorneys for a confidential FREE evaluation of your claim @ 1-888-340-0840.

Report:Deadly Car Accidents Caused by Aggressive Driving | Florida Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27760 — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: deadly car crashes | aggressive driving
Who: Florida drivers
Where: Florida highways
Fifty-six per cent of all deadly car accidents involve driving behaviors consistent with unsafe driving behaviors or aggressive driving, a report by AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety states.

Aggressive driving includes:
*running red lights and stop signs,
*preventing other drivers from passing,
*illegal driving on the shoulder of the road,
*failing to yield and
*speeding.

It is speeding, however, that more often contributes to fatal car accidents, with 1 out of every 3 deadly car accidents occurring due to excessive speed, according to NHTSA.

Aggressive driving remains one of America's main traffic safety worries. When surveyed, 8 out of 10 people rated aggressive drivers as a serious or extremely serious traffic safety problem.

Any act of driving aggressively can lead to car crashes, serious injury and death on the highway.

Florida drivers need to look carefully at their own driving behavior to improve this driving culture which exists in our country. If you tailgate, drive too slowly in the passing lane or do anything to irritate another driver - you are part of the problem which potentially could spark an aggressive or violent behavior reaction from another driver.
Don't do it, you are endangering your own life and the lives of others on the road!

If you are a victim of an aggressive driver and have suffered serious injuries, call The Dodson Law Firm for a free consultation withour experienced Florida Car Accident lawyers @ 1-888-340-0840.

St. Petersburg Pedestrian Hit by Car | St. Petersburg Pedestrian Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27718 — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: pedestrian accident
Who: Carl Hirsch | 16 year old driver
Where: Fourth Street | St. Petersburg

A St. Petersburg pedestrian was hit by a car as he crossed Fourth Street near the 800 block. Carl Hirsch suffered a broken hip in the pedestrian car accident when he was struck by an SUV driven by a 16 year old teen driver, according to a news article.

Hirsch was walking west across Fourth Street when he stopped in the middle of the street, police said.

A northbound car stopped to let Hirsch try to finish crossing the road, police said. The teen driver did not see Hirsch as he crossed into her path in the far lane and she struck him.

Hirsch was taken to Bayfront Medical Ceneter.

Will Dangerous Dog Breeds Be Banned From Florida Counties? | Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27705 — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Florida dog bite attack | dangerous dogs | Florida dangerous dog legislation
Who: Florida dog owner
Where: Florida counties

A Florida child was viciously bitten by a dog as she walked home with her mother and grandmother in Miami-Dade. The year was 1989. This horrible incident was the push behind an unprecedented county-wide ordinance banning residents from owning pit bulls in Miami-Dade. The pit bull attack left the young girl in critical condition, with such serious dog bite injuries, that she needed reconstructive facial surgery. Her mother and grandmother suffered injuries as victims of the dog bite attack too. The Florida legislature later passed a law to prevent further bans on specific breeds, so the ban is only observed in Miami-Dade County.

There has been great debate on this issue, as you can well imagine. Many dog owners are against breed specific legislation which bans certain types of dogs based on their appearance because they are perceived as "dangerous" breeds or types of dogs. In Miami-Dade, any dog fitting the physical characteristics of a pit bull by more than 51% may also be banned, a news report states.

So, are some dog breeds naturally aggressive due to genetics, or does environment play a role as well? Those who are against breed specific restrictions say it is a myth that pit bulls are naturally aggressive dogs and that a dog's breed alone does not and can not shape behavior. A strong influence on a dog's behavior include it's socialization, training, management and proper care (or lack of.)

Florida lawmakers will weigh in today on Senate bill 1276, House bill 543.
If passed, the legislation will allow local governments to decide if certain dog breeds should be banned.

Is it just a coincidence that the breeds you hear about so often causing serious attacks on people are those who are being recognized as aggressive? As Florida personal injury lawyers, we support this bill.

What are your thoughts?

Florida Dog Bite Lawyer Article: Dog Bite Injuries to Children, Finding Insurance Coverage

Fatal Car Crashes Less Likely for Senior Drivers | Florida Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27632 — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: fatal car crash | Florida accident
Who: senior drivers | teen drivers
Where: Florida roads | highway

Failure to yield, driving too slow, not using signals, not obeying traffic signs, drifting into other lanes, constantly hitting the brakes - all of these are criticisms often made toward senior drivers.

But in actuality, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports seniors driving in Florida are far less likely to be involved in fatal car crashes and nonfatal car crashes, than the youngest Florida drivers they share the road with. The highest crash rate group they report is the teen driver group age 15-19, with Florida drivers 20-24 years of age involved in the highest rate of fatal wrecks on Florida roads!

Read the entire article in our Florida Accident Lawyer news website.

Nissan Recall: 540,000 Vehicles with Brake and Fuel Gauge Issues

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27620 — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Nissan Recall | Brake Pedal | Fuel Gauge

In a recent report, Nissan has recalled 540,000 vehicles due to brake pedal and fuel gauge issues. The recall involves pickup trucks, sport utility vehicles and minivans from the auto manufacture.

Brake Pedal Issue: According to the report, "A pin in the pedal assemblies on certain 2008 to 2010 Nissan Titan pickups, Infiniti QX56 and Nissan Armada SUVs, and some 2008 and 2009 Nissan Quest minivans can come loose and cause reduced braking force, Nissan said Tuesday in a statement."

No injuries or crashes have been reported as stated by Nissan, but if your brake pedal is loose, you should contact your local Nissan Dealership.

Fuel Gauge Issue : From the report, "Due to a problem with a sensor inside the fuel tank, the gauges can show gas tanks a quarter full when they are in fact empty." The vehicles effected by this issue are 2005 through 2008 Nissan Titan, Armada and Infiniti QX56s as well as Nissan Frontier pickups and Pathfinder and Xterra SUVs produced between January and March 2006 and between October 2007 and January 2008.

Nissan states to help with this issue, always drive with a half a tank of gas in your vehicle.

As Nissan states, brake pedal recall begins on March 22, while the fuel-gauge recall will take place in two groups, one beginning March 22 and the other starting in April.

If your vehicle is faulty and involves you being in a car accident, please seek the advice from an experienced product defect lawyer.

Source: Abc Action News

Riverview Motorcyclist Dies in Collision | Motorcycle Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27579 — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: motorcycle collision with pickup truck
Who: James R. Clanton | Syndnee J. Jones
Where: U.S. 301 | I-75

A Riverview man, James R. Clanton, died in a motorcycle collision with a pickup truck on U.S. 301 at the entrance to I-75.
The crash occured as Clanton was riding south on U.S. 301 and collided with a Dodge Dakota truck, driven by 16 year-old Syndnee Jones.

A news report said Clanton who was wearing a helmet, was thrown from his motorcycle and died at the scene. No charges have been filed and the accident is still being investigated at this time.

Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than passenger vehicle drivers when a crash occurs. Research shows approximately 80% of motorcycle collisions and crashes injure or kill a motorcyclist, while only 20% of passenger car crashes injure or kill a driver or passenger in their motor vehicle.

Fatalities have increased in every age group of motorcycle riders during the past several years, according to NHTSA, with the largest increase of deaths in the over 50 age category.

Alex Rodriguez "A-Rod" in Car Accident in Tampa | Car Accident Lawyer Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27488 — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident in Tampa
Who: Alex Rodriguez A-Rod

Last week, New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez was involved in a minor fender bender here in Tampa while heading to spring training. NyDailyNews reports, "Rodriguez said that the incident, which involved his $400,000 Maybach, occurred early on Thursday morning, about a block away from the New York Yankees’ player parking lot at Steinbrenner Field."

According to a news source, "it was obvious that A-Rod wasn’t hurt either, as he was on the back field taking ground balls at 7 am that day." Spring Training here in Tampa starts this month.

Read more about other car accidents and incidents that happen in the Tamp Bay Area in our Blog Section.

Click It or Ticket It Campaign Starts | Pinellas County Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27483 — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Click It or Ticket in Florida
Where: All of Florida
Who: Vehicles who occupants are not wearing seatbelts!

Today is the offical kick -off of the "Click It or Ticket" program in Florida. Many local and state police officers will be out looking for people who are not wearing their seatbelts during the campaign which ends on March 15th. The St. Petersburg Times reports, " Police will be stationed at major intersections and school zones ticketing drivers and passengers, including children under 18, who do not buckle up." Make sure to be wearing your seatbelt, not only because of the "Click it or Ticket" campaign, but for your general safety if you are involved in a crash.

As the article also reports, "safety belts are 80 percent effective in reducing fatalities in light trucks during rollover crashes." In the event of a auto accident, seat belts also help occupants of the vehicle remain in the vehicle, to avoid being ejected during a crash.

Be sure to check out our extensive library today for more information about car accidents and seat belt safety issues.

How Trial Lawyers Keep Consumers Safe | Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27469 — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: lawsuits | defective products
Who: trial lawyers
Source: Wall Street Journal

We have all heard the cry for "tort reform" which has become part of our current political culture. This demonizing of trial lawyers is prompted by the business and political class in an effort to paint them (trial lawyers) as being bad for the country.

A recent article describes how lawsuits involving defective products have become an important part of increasing consumer safety. This article describes how these lawsuits have tremendously affected the safety of numerous products from automobiles to children's clothing to medications. It further points out the important impact of why product liability lawsuits have become necessary.

The agencies of the Federal government, designed for consumer product safety, have been inadequate in fulfilling their purpose.

Case in Point: Toyota Motor Corporation - " the most recent situation in which lethal defects have gone uncorrected for years, at least in part, because of insufficient government oversight."

Toddler Drowns in Pool Dangers of Pet Entry Door | Florida Child Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27458 — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: 18 month old toddler drowns in pool | pet entry door
Who: Jayden Roldan | Danielle Jones
Where: Seminole | 121 St. North

A toddler tragically drowned in a pool, in Seminole, after gaining access to the outside area through a pet entry door a news source reported.

Jayden Roldan was staying with his babysitter, Danielle Jones, at the time of the accident. News sources say both the toddler and his babysitter had been napping together on the couch. Jones apparently awoke once and the baby was fine. Fifteen minutes later she awoke and the child was missing. It was then that she saw him floating in the pool. She performed CPR while waiting for paramedics to arrive.

Sadly, more than a hundred children have died or been seriously injured in the last decade after squeezing through tiny pet doors and getting into swimming pools or other dangerous places. Sean Kane of the Safety Research and StrategiesTeam states pet doors are a danger to children that most people don't even have on their "radar screen." Millions of pet owners have installed them for convenience to allow cats and dogs to come and go at will. Some only measure 8 by 11 inches, no bigger than a sheet of paper.

The family of a two year old toddler who died in a similar drowning accident launched a website educating parents about the risks of pet entry doors and the lack of manufacturer warning labels concerning their dangers. Visit PetAccessDangers.org for more information.

Scientists | Link Between Nerve Related Disorders & Zinc in Denture Cream?

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27456 — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: link between zinc in denture creams and nerve damage
Who: GlaxoSmithKline | Proctor & Gamble | Super Poligrip
Source: Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

GlaxoSmithKline feeling the pressure of upcoming pretrial hearings, announced today they were taking "voluntary, precautionary" measures to stop making and supplying denture creams which contain zinc. A Glaxo spokeswoman said the company is not issuing a recall for any of its zinc-containing dental adhesives from shelves because "the product is safe to use if taken as directed on the instructions."

A news report stated, 75 lawsuits from 11 states have been consolidated as pretrial hearings go before a federal judge in Miami. At that point, a decision will made whether they go to trial or not.

In 2008, the first link between dental glues and nerve damage emerged. A report, published by scientists at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, stated their suspicion that zinc may have may been behind some nerve related disorders four patients were experiencing. Although the researchers said their report did not prove denture cream caused the problems, they concluded the issue warranted further study.

Glaxo and Procter & Gamble, manufacturer of Fixodent, only began disclosing zinc was an ingredient in their products after the University of Texas' findings were published in a medical journal.

It's believed there is only one denture adhesive case which has resulted in death. Rodney Urbanek died, in 2008 at the age of 64, as the result of respiratory distress syndrome. Mr. Urbanek who had been a long time user of Super Poligrip, started having problems in 2006 as he experienced numbness in his legs. Eventually he became paralyzed from the waist down.

The next hearing is set for March 23rd.

Lack of UM Coverage Could Cost Client Thousands of Dollars | Florida Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27442 — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Florida Car accident | low speed impact
Where: Florida intersection | traffic light
Source: Florida Car Accident Lawyer

A Florida driver, in a large SUV, pulled away from a traffic light at an intersection and then proceeded to stop suddenly , putting the car in reverse and backing into our client's car.

The following list outlines what happened next:

* Eventhough this was a low-speed impact, our client's car was totaled
* The car was immobilized after the crash
* Our client was diagnosed with cervical injury including damage to the nerves
* Her symptoms from the cervical injury included pain, tingling, numbness and headaches, following the accident
* The insurance company for the SUV denied its coverage applies, alleging the driver (of the SUV) did not have permission to operate the car at the time of the accident

What is the lesson here? It's one I discuss frequently in our personal injury lawyer blog and in my books, "Buying Car Insurance: The Ultimate Guide to Irresponsible Drivers in Florida" and the "Five Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Florida Accident Case."

Lesson: Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is the least expensive, best bargain when it comes to your auto insurance coverage. Think of UM and UIM (Underinsured Motorist coverage) not as a cost but as an inexpensive investment to protect you and your family. Our client did not have this valuable coverage which would have covered her medical bills from the injuries she suffered and damages, such as lost wages.

Florida Pedestrian Struck and Killed | Florida Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27434 — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Florida pedestrian struck and killed by car
Who: Lewis Earl Crawford | Jerry E. Daniels
Where: Lake Wales | Washington Ave | US 27

A Lake Wales man, Lewis E. Crawford, was struck and killed by a car driven by Jerry E. Daniels when he stepped into the path of Daniel's car.

Authorities said Crawford was 250 ft. from the crosswalk and there were no street lights where he was hit by the car.
Daniels remained with the accident victim until the Florida Highway Patrol arrived on the scene.

Pedestrian accidents are an ever-growing percentage of fatal and non-fatal injuries nationwide. Serious personal injury or death of too many Florida pedestrians result from both drivers and pedestrians not knowing Florida's traffic laws -especially regarding pedestrian crosswalks.

This news article reports, however, the pedestrian was not in a marked crosswalk and the accident happened at night, where there were no streetlights making it increasingly more difficult for the driver of a car to see or expect to see the pedestrian. For additional pedestrian safety information and Florida law on Pedestrian accidents, visit our Florida Pedestrian and Crosswalk accident video library.

New Florida Driver License Rules You Need to Know | Florida Consumer News

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27362 — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Florida Drivers License New Rules

In the recent events that took place in Florida that have confused residents about the new driver license rules, we have oultined your neet to know about the changes. Before you go to renew your license, check the below information in order to better prepare yourself when renewing your drivers license.

What the new law requires

To get a new ID or driver's license, here's what you need:

One of the following:

A certified United States birth certificate (hospital birth certificates are not accepted); a valid U.S. passport; a consular Report of Birth Abroad; a certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570); or a certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-561).

One of these to prove your social security number:

W-2 form; paycheck; or any 1099 form.

Two items showing your home address:

Many documents are acceptable, from a mortgage statement or voter ID card to a utility bill or a car insurance policy.

-Information taken from the St. Petersburg Times

Fatal Hit and Run in Riverview Suspect Arrested | Riverview Fatal Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27359 — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Hit and Run in Riverview Suspect Arrested
Where: Riverview
Who: Domingo Perez Lopez | Isaias Cruz Hernandez

In a update to a tragic hit and run accident that happened on February 14th in Riverview, deputies have arrested a man they believe was involved in the hit-and-run that killed a 37-year-old man who was walking along a rural Riverview road. Domingo Perez Lopez was fatally hit and killed on February 14th while walking on Balm Road near Grady Sweat Lane when he was struck.

According to the report, "detectives arrested Isaias Cruz Hernandez, 29, of Wimauma. They found the Pontiac involved in the crash at his house today, and deputies say he had apparently tried to disguise his vehicle by changing parts and washing off evidence." Our hearts go out to the famiies involved in this tragic hit and run fatal accident.

Motorcyclists Gather in Volusia County for Daytona Beach Bike Week

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27336 — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

The 69th annual Daytona Beach Bike week for motorcycle riders and will be held in Volusia County, Feb. 26-March 7. A calendar and schedule of events for bikers gathering from around the world is available on the Daytona Beach Chamber's website.

Motorcyclists and Florida drivers, stay safe and share the road this week!

I-75 Manatee County Adds Barriers | Manatee County Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27316 — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Who: drivers on Florida interstates
Where: I-75 | Manatee County
What:car accident | barriers to absorb impact of car crossing median

The Florida Department of Transportation is taking measures to protect Florida drivers from serious injury and death on I-75 in Manatee County. Crews are busy installing wire barriers along this stretch of the interstate to keep cars from crossing the median and hitting another car head-on in a car accident.

The wire barriers, some of which were installed in 2004 along the turnpike, are designed to absorb most of the impact when a car hits them.

Transportation officials report that with more cars traveling on Florida interstates and increased speed, the barriers will add protection to drivers.

What You Need to Know About Hip Replacement Complications

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27281 — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Change in leg length or leg length inequality following hip replacement surgery is the most common reason orthopedic surgeons are sued for medical malpractice. Read an article posted in our Florida Medical Malpractice Lawyer document library outlining additional potential complications from the procedure.

Learn About Medical Malpractice in Florida from Personal Injury Lawyer Jim Dodson: On Video

Can the Driver of Car Who Rear-ends Another Car Not Be at Fault?

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27272 — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: rear end collision | car crashes into car ahead
Who: Florida Driver
Source: Florida Car Accident Lawyer

A recent post in our Florida Car Accident frequently asked questions lists three reasons why the driver of a car that rear ends another car ahead may not be found at fault.

Children Hit by Car Near Gulf Trace Elementary | Child Injury Lawyer Holiday FL

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27224 — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Children Hit by Car on Sidewalk
Where: Gulf Trace Elementary School | Holiday
Who: Children and Driver Unknown during time of report

A car, late Tuesday, hit two children walking on a sidewalk near Gulf Trace Elementary, in Holiday. The driver of the car, was reported to have blacked out and lost control of her car coming up onto the sidewalk where the two children were walking. The two children, a 14 year old girl and 11 year old boy who are brother and sister, were walking home when the accident happened.

According to the report by the St. Pete Times, "both children have been transported to local hospitals by ambulance. One child has a broken leg and the other might have neck and head injuries."

Investigation into the accident is being conducted, and medical issues might have been the leading factor of the accident as reported by spokesman Doug Tobin.

Fatal Injuries in Florida Tour Bus Car Crash | Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27151 — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal injuries in tour bus and car collision
Who: Larry L. Metzger | Betty J. Adams | Joan Horsch | Dr. Robert Horsch
Where: US 27 | Lake Placid | Central Florida

A Florida tour bus carrying senior citizens on an educational trip crashed with the driver of a car who failed to yield the right of way on US 27 near Lake Placid, in Central Florida. Two passengers died in the crash when the bus rolled over. Three people were critically injured.

Joan Horsch, of Abingdon, Va. was killed in the accident and her husband Dr. Robert Horsch sustained serious injuries including a possible fractured pelvis and spinal injuries. John Roy, 79, of Cohasset, Mass. also died in the horrible accident.

A news article reported Betty J. Adams, 81, the driver of the car, crashed into the side of the tour bus. Adams was not injured in the collision.

Bus driver, Larry L. Metzger, 69, suffered serious injuries when the bus ran off the road onto an embankment and rolled over. Several passengers were ejected from their seats. At least four people were taken to area hospitals.

The bus passengers, who ranged in age from 66 to 87, were in the area from around the U.S. to participate in an educational program affiliated with South Florida Community College in Avon Park.

The accident is still being investigated.

Another Pinellas County Pedestrian Hit by a Car | Pinellas County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27145 — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: pedestrian hit by car in a crosswalk | critical condition
Who: unidentified man
Where: 77th Ave | Blind Pass Rd. | St. Petersburg Beach

Another tragic pedestrian accident occured on Tuesday night when a Pinellas County pedestrian was hit by a car while in a crosswalk . The unidentified man is reportedly in the hospital in critical condition.

According to police, the man was walking in the crosswalk, across Blind Pass Road near 77th Avenue about 8 p.m. when he was struck by a car that was heading north on Blind Pass.

Police had also not identified the motorist, as of this news report.

Florida is a dangerous place for pedestrians. Serious personal injury or death of too many pedestrians have resulted from drivers not knowing or not following Florida's traffic laws, particularly at crosswalks. St. Petersburg, Tampa and Clearwater metropolitan areas are ranked second among the deadliest cities for pedestrian accidents in Florida according to a Transportation of America report, "Dangerous by Design" and posted in our Florida Pedestrian and Crosswalk collision resource library.

Over the past 5 years, on average, 28 people per year have died in Pinellas County pedestrian crashes.
View our video on Pedestrian Safety in Florida listed in our Florida Personal Injury Law Video blog.

3 Year- Old Mauled By Dog | Ocala Dog Bite Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27068 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Child Dog Bite Fatal Accident
Where: Ocala Marion County
Who: 3 Year Old Child

A tragic dog bite attack in Ocala has led to the death of a 3 year -old girl. According to the dog attack reported by the Tampa Tribune, "According to a Marion County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman, the girl was playing outside while her mother cleaned a dog pen Saturday. The girl became tangled in a dog chain when her mother went inside the home." The bulldog then attacked the 3 year -old whose name has not been released.

At the time of the attack, the report states that 4 other dogs were outside on the property. An investigation of the property is still being done.

Our hearts go out to the family of this tragic dog bite accident.

Teen Injured in Crash with Hillsborough Deputy | Citris Park Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27059 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Citrus Park
Who: Deputy Lisha Gogolin | Teen Foust Delandier

A 19 year old teen is in critical condition after being involved in a crash with a Hillsborough deputy in the Citris Park area. According to the accident report, Foust Delandier, 19, of Spring Hill, stopped his 2007 Toyota Corolla at a red light at the Gunn Highway exit of the Citrus Park Mall, and then, for unknown reasons, the car accelerated into the intersection and hit Hillsborough Deputy Lisha Gogolin's patrol car. Delandier had two passengers in the car who also suffered injuries from the accident.

Authorities have reported that no charges were filled but an investigation is ongoing.

Motorcyclist Killed in Collision | Port Richey Motorcycle Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27054 — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Motorcycle truck collision
Who: Joseph Sanders | Joshua Fruchey
Where: US 19 Port Richey

A news article reports Joseph Sanders, 27, was killed in a motorcycle collision with a pickup truck driven by Joshua Fruhey on US 19 in Port Richey.

The Florida Highway Patrol stated Sanders was traveling south when a truck driving north turned left into his path.

The motorcycle crash happened south of the Gulf View Square Mall. Sanders, who was ejected, died at the scene.
Fruchey, of New Port Richey, suffered minor injuries. The accident is still under investigation.

Florida's Top 10 Insurance Companies by Premiums Collected | Florida Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27010 — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

State Farm, the largest auto insurance carrier in Florida, has filed a request for a 9.2% rate hike for the 2.7 million drivers they insure in Florida. State Farm contends this is a change over the rate reductions it has seen during the last several years. State Farm controls 20% of the auto insurance market in Florida.

Already, Allstate and Geico have imposed higher rates. Allstate rates went up about 16%. Allstate based its higher rate on costs for bodily injury payouts, medical payments, and PIP expenses, as well as the cost of covering accidents involving uninsured motorists.

Fewer people are carrying insurance or are buying less than they need, which impacts uninsured motorist claims. One of every four Florida drivers do not have the required auto coverage. If you are considering UM coverage, the St. Petersburg Times listed the following:

Top Ten Florida Insurance Companies by Premiums Collected:

1. State Farm Mutual	$2.49 billion
2. GEICO General	$890 million
3. Allstate P&C	$820 million
4. Allstate Insurance	$661 million
5. Progressive American	$623 million
6. Progressive Select	$501 million
7. GEICO Indemnity	$467 million
8. Government Employees	$333 million
9. USAA	$323 million
10. USAA Casualty	$233 million

Driver Runs Red Light Injures Two | Florida Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)27004 — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: car accident | ran a red light
Who: Sheriff's deputy | unknown driver
Where: Citrus Park Drive | Gunn Hwy

A driver who ran a red light caused a crash that resulted in two people being injured including a sheriff's deputy near the Westfield Citrus Park Mall. The car accident happened at Gunn Hwy and Citrus Park Drive.

News sources say a red Toyota Corolla ran a red light and T-boned a marked cruiser carrying a female sheriff's deputy. The driver of the Corolla had three passengers in the car. One was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. The news article did not report that the car experienced sudden unexpected acceleration, as has been reported in many Toyota models affected by the recent recall. The deputy was transported with non life-threatening injuries.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports running red lights and other traffic control devices is the leading cause of city car crashes, representing 22 percent of the total number of crashes. And data from a 2005 NHTSA's Fatality Analysis Reporting System states car crashes caused by running red lights resulted in an estimated 805 fatalities.

Need for Uninsured Motorist Coverage Increases in Florida Part 1 | Florida Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26969 — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Florida drivers must be aware of the increasing risk posed by the number of uninsured drivers on Florida roads. The St. Pete Times ran an article about Florida rate increases by State Farm and other insurance companies. Careful review of why insurance companies in Florida were requesting higher rates reveals increasing claims for uninsured motorist coverage.

As the recession lingers Florida drivers continue to drop auto insurance or reduce coverage. Too many have chosen to drop their bodily injury coverage or carry only the minimum they can purchase. Florida’s lax insurance laws already expose responsible drivers to too much risk by not requiring bodily injury coverage which pays for injuries in car wrecks caused to others.

The article reminds us with each passing day the need for protection against the uninsured and under-insured in Florida through adequate uninsured motorist coverage.

Don’t put yourself or your loved ones lives in danger. Check with your insurance carrier today. Make sure you have the protection you need!

Emergency Workers Injured in Crash Scene | State Road 50 Accident

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26859 — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Drives into Crash Scene Causes 2nd Crash
Where: State Road 50
Who: Chad Lowrey | Emergency Workers

In a tragic turn of events, a emergency crew that was tending to a accident between a motorcycle and a car led to more injuries when a second accident occured when a vehicle went through the crash scene and struck 4 emergency workers. According to the report, a firefighter, as well as four others, suffered serious injury in the second crash, which took place in Orange County on State Road 50, near Orlando. The engineer paramedic, identified as Chad Lowrey and one other worker were flown by helicopter for serious injuries.

Toyota May Recall Corrolla Due to Power Steering Problems | Auto Defect Lawyer Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26855 — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Toyota Corrolla Power Steering Safety Issue
Where: World Wide
Who: Toyota Automaker

Toyota, already with several recalls and safety complaints, may have to recall one of their most popular cars due to a power steering pump safety issue. Problems with the braking system or tires may be the possible underlying causes of the steering problem according to a Toyota representative. The Toyota Corrolla is the 4 door subcompact car that many Americans love to enjoy with its peppy little motor and great fuel economy.

According to the reports numbers, Toyota has recalled 8.5 million vehicles globally during the past four months because of problems with sticking gas pedals, floor mats trapping accelerators and faulty brake programming.

As stated before in our other blogs, the best thing for you to do if you are driving one of these faulty cars, is to contact your local Toyota dealer to find the best solution. Be safe.

Manatee School Bus Accident Injures 1 Student | Bradenton Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26825 — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Bus Accident Injures Student
Where: Manatee County | Bradenton
Who: a student is hurt

In a school bus accident in Manatee County near Bradenton, 1 student is hurt after a crash that involved another vechicle. The bus was stopped it was sideswiped by a Ryder truck at State Road 64 and Lorraine Road, according to a report by Fox 13.

Fatal Hit and Run in Riverview | Riverview Fatal Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26793 — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Pedestrian Accident
Where: Riverview Balm Road near Grady Sweat Lane
Who: Domingon Perez Lopez

In Riverview, a pedestrian was struck while walking along the west side of Balm Road near Grady Sweat Lane when a vehicle traveling westward hit him. The pedestrian who was struck and killed, Domingon Perez Lopez, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities reported that the crime scene detectives found green paint chips, a Pontiac emblem and some red lens fragments in the roadway.

The St. Petersburg Times reports, anyone with information about this hit and run should call the Sheriff's Office at 813-247-8200 or Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-8477.

A recent survey of the danger index for pedestrians identified the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater area as the second most dangerous metropolitan region in the nation for 2007-2008. Out of the top 10 nationally, Florida cities occupied the first four places.

Florida Law on Stopping for School Buses | Florida Pedestrian Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26781 — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Jacqueline Jeffery, an Osceola Middle School student was struck by a car at her bus stop, as we reported last week in a blog. How? Because a driver did not stop - eventhough the school bus stop arm was extended and its flashing lights were activated. She was very fortunate she did not suffer serious bodily injury in this accident.

School buses are seen everywhere in morning and afternoon traffic during the time public and private schools are in session. But, as drivers of other vehicles, do we know the various situations in which we (1) must stop for a school bus, (2) stay stopped for how long, and (3) may continue driving without stopping?

Here's what Florida law (Statute 316.172) says in non-lawyerly language about stopping for school buses:

1) If you are going the same way as a school bus that is flashing red lights and has the stop arm extended, you must stop behind the bus and cannot move until the bus retracts the stop arm and turns off the flashing red lights.

(2) If you are going the opposite way as a school bus that is flashing red lights and has the stop arm extended, you must stop in front of the bus and cannot move until the bus retracts the stop arm and turns off the flashing red lights --
UNLESS: (A) you are on a divided highway and the one-way roadways are separated by an unpaved space at least five feet in width,
or (B) you are on a divided highway and the one-way roadways are separated by a physical barrier.

In short, you must stop for a school bus that is flashing red lights and has the stop arm extended -- unless (1) you are going the opposite direction, (2) you are on a divided highway, and (3) the divided highway has either a five-foot unpaved space or a physical barrier separating the roadways. If all three of the above are present, you should continue driving at a legal speed, but with an increased awareness that school-aged children are in the vicinity.

Drivers must be aware of the tragic consequences of not stopping for a school bus. In 1994, two Florida children were killed when struck in school bus accidents by private motorists who ran the stop arms and flashing red lights, while the buses were properly stopped at school bus stops. Another child was killed in a similar accident in 1995.

When behind the wheel of a car, drive responsibly and avoid distractions that could lead to tragedy.

New Evidence in Fatal Hit and Run Pedestrian Accident | Florida Hit and Run Pedestrian Accident

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26774 — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: fatal hit and run pedestrian accident
Where: US 19
Who: Robin Anne Vallie

There is new information about the vehicle that struck 58-year-old Robin Anne Vallie in a fatal hit-and-run accident last week. Previously a witness originally said the car was possibly a black Infiniti.

However, according to the Florida Highway Patrol, the car that hit pedestrian Robin Anne Vallie may be a metallic gold or silver sedan. After a more complete investigation, paint chips that may have come from the vehicle were located. The car may have heavy front-end damage and a broken windshield.

Vallie died at the scene of the crash as she was trying to cross the southbound lanes of US 19 when she was hit.

Medical Emergency May Be Cause of Woman's Fatal Accident

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26752 — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: fatal car accident
Where: Park and Ridge Road
Who: Joan Farley | Teresa Hyer

It is unclear at this time but a potential medical emergency may have been responsible for a 95-year-old woman's reported erratic driving on Park Blvd in Seminole which ultimately resulted in a crash in which she suffered life-threatening injuries.

A news source stated Teresa Hyer ran through a red light, side-swiped another vehicle and crashed into a street light guide wire while driving her 2004 Lexus ES 350. She was taken to St. Anthony's Hospital but died Friday morning.

Police say Hyer hit a 2004 Honda driven by Joan Farley after she ran a red light at Park and Ridge Road. Her car then crossed the median, hit a speed limit sign and the guide wire before coming to rest at 117th Street and Park Boulevard.

The driver of the Honda, Joan Farley of St. Petersburg, was not injured.

There was no indication alcohol was a factor in the accident, officials said.

Florida Highway Work Zone Accident Facts | Florida Accident lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26720 — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Florida highway work zone accident
Where: I-75 | I-4 | I-95

Florida Highway Work Zone accidents, in 2007, resulted in 8,228 injuries and 105 fatalities.

Florida Work Zone Crash Facts:

* 90% of people who die in work zone accidents are motorists and pedestrians

* More than half of fatal crashes in work zone areas occur after dark

* Nearly 1/4 of fatal crashes in work zones are influenced by alcohol and drugs

* Over 50% of all work zone crashes happen because of speeding

Transportation officials cite driver fatigue, speeding, and impaired and distracted driving as major factors in work zone accidents. Negligent contractors and highway planners have also been under scrutiny in these accidents. The Florida Department of Transportations states we all must work together to save lives and reduce injuries in highway work zones.

Also read "Florida Highway Work Zone Accidents - Are They a Death Trap?" in our Florida Car Accident document library.

Man Killed in Accident in St. Petersburg | St. Petersburg Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26624 — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Car Accident
Where: St. Petersburg | 38th Avenue and 53rd Street
Who: Thomas Franklin Quaile

In a car accident that happened in St. Petersburg at 38th Avenue North and 53rd Street , a truck traveling at a high rate of speed crashed into a utility pole. The driver of the 2004 Dodge truck, Thomas Franklin Quaile III was reported as driving aggressively and overcorrected his vehicle then crashed into a pole. According to the report, Quaile was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation into this fatal crash is still ongoing.

Elderly Woman Critically Injured in Car Crash | Seminole Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26619 — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Crash
Where: Seminole | Park and Ridge Road
Who: 95 Year old Teresa Hyer | Joan Farley

Late Thursday, a 95 year -old woman ran a red light, side swiped a car , and then crashed into a street light wire at Park and Ridge Road in Seminole. Authorities believe the crash may have been caused by a medical condition. Before the accident, the report states that a witness had called in to report a car swerving. The elderly woman, Teresa Hyer finally came to a stop at 117th Street.

The driver of the car that was struck, Joan Farley, was not injured in the crash. Hyer was taken to St. Anthony's Hospital with serious injuries.

Commercial Truck and Bus Drivers Banned from Texting While Driving | Truck Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26535 — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: ban on texting and driving
Who: commercial truck drivers | commercial bus drivers
Source: NPR | National Public Radio

U. S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has announced a federal ban on texting and driving for commercial truck drivers and bus drivers effective immediately January 26, 2010.

This is the latest in a series of actions taken by the Transportation Department to combat distracted driving in an effort to make highways safer for big rigs and buses and for those who share the roads with them.

Bicyclist Hit and Killed in Collision in Tampa | Bicycle Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26501 — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Accident with Bicycle and Truck
Where: Tampa | Hillsborough Avenue and N 30th Street
Who: Bicyclist Identity Unknown | Truck Driver Robert Wilson

A deadly collision involving a bicycle and a truck happened early Wednesday morning in Tampa, on Hillsborough Avenue and N 30th Street, according to a local report. The bicyclist was heading north of N 30th Street when it was struck by Robert Wilson as he was turning onto Hillsborough Avenue. The 61 year -old bicyclist later passed away at Tampa General Hospital. No charges are expected to be filled.

Deadly Hit and Run on Dale Mabry in Tampa | Tamp Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26498 — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Hit and Run Accident in Tampa
Where: Tampa | Waters Avenue and Dale Mabry
Who: Unknown Pedestrian

In a tragic accident where a pedestrian was hit and killed in Tampa early Wednesday morning, police are still looking for a Volkswagen vehicle involved in this fatal hit and run accident. The accident happened at Waters and Dale Mabry Highway. According to the report, "The man was hit in the northbound lanes of the highway, north of Waters Avenue, at about 3 a.m., Florida Highway Patrol troopers said."

The accident had no witnesses and authorities are looking for a Volkswagen with damage to its front end, missing its front grille and possibly with a damaged windshield. Anyone with information is asked to call (813) 631-4020.

In analyzing pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 citizens, Florida has more than double the national average of pedestrian fatalities per year.

Fatal Hit and Run Crash in Palm Harbor | Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26497 — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Hit and Run Fatal Accident
Where: Palm Harbor | US 19 and Alderman Road
Who: Robin Anne Vallie

Authorities are investigating a fatal hit and run accident late Tuesday night in which a pedestrian was hit and killed in Palm Harbor on US 19 near Alderman Road. The report states that the pedestrian was trying to cross the roadway at the intersection and was struck. Authorities said the suspect was driving a gold or silver sedan with tinted windows and may be a 2004 Infiniti with heavy front-end damage.

Our area has sadly seen a rash of hit and run pedestrian accidents lately. An analysis by AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that 1 in 5 pedestrian fatalities involve hit and run drivers. If you have any information, please call (813) 631-4020.

Update: The victim was Robin Anne Vallie and the suspect is still at large.

Girl Hit By Car at Bus Stop | Seminole Child Injury Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26495 — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Girl Hit By Car Passing Bus Stop
Where: Seminole | 81st Avenue N and Ridge Road
Who: Jacqueline M. Jeffery | Taygeti Rigakos

A young Osceola Middle School student was struck as she stepped off the bus at her bus stop after school. A car driven by Taygeti Rigakos struck the young girl even though the bus had the stop sign extended and flashers engaged. The young girl Jacqueline M Jeffery, was in a line of 10 students getting off at the bus stop. The report stated: Jeffery will be okay according to a Osceola principal Bob Vicari who rushed to the scene of the accident.

Troopers cited Rigakos with a traffic citation for passing a stopped school bus that had its lights activated.

Over the past 15 years, over 76,000 pedestrians have been killed crossing or walking along the roads in the United States, including 3,906 children under the age of 16, in the last ten years alone. This alarming statistic is the equivalent of the number of fatalities which would be experienced if a jumbo jet crashed, once a month.

Deadly Truck Collision on I-4 | Florida Truck Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26485 — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: fatal truck collision
Who: William Morales | Feliz Rios
Where: I-4 | US 301 exit in Hillsborough County

I-4, near the 301 exit in Hillsborough County, was the scene of a deadly semi truck crash today. FHP reported a wheel on a truck broke loose and rolled into the path of a second semi truck on the highway. That semi, a Fed Ex truck, hit the tire causing the driver to lose control of his truck and crash into a concrete barrier wall and a pillar for the overpass to U.S. 301.

William Morales, the driver of the FedEx truck that crashed into the wall died in the accident. The other driver, Feliz Rios, of Miami, was not hurt.

The accident happened around 3:30a.m. Troopers re-opened all lanes of westbound I-4 around 7 a.m. Traffic was backed up past the I-75 interchange.

Hit and Run Accident Involving Police Officer Under Investigation | Florida Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26478 — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: police officer in hit and run accident
Who: Chris Dixon | Ricardo Puig, Jr.
Where: Tropicana Field

Hit and run accidents occur all too often in Florida - particularly in our surrounding counties. The Dodson Law Firm publishes news reports about the tragic frequencies of these hit and run acccidents- but a hit and run accident involving a police officer is very unusual.

Ricardo Puig, Jr. was stopped at a red light after leaving Tropicana Field after a game when he noticed a police officer pull up behind his minivan. It was then that Puig heard a crash. He had been rear-ended. Fortunately, the damage was minor and no one was injured. The damage was minor and no one was hurt, but Puig says it's still hard for him to believe what happened next.

Puig told a news source the police officer took off and he tried to follow him but he was was "zig-zagging though parking lots and other streets."

Puig says the St. Petersburg Police Department took the matter seriously. The investigation zeroed in on officer Chris Dixon, who was driving a marked patrol car that night. Officer Dixon has been ulled off the streets.

"Officers are not infallible and if they break the law, we have to investigate our own and treat them like any other citizen," says Bill Proffitt with St. Petersburg Police.

March 2010 National Bike Summit Registration Info

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26442 — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Bicycling has come a long way in the last 10 years. The movement has grown larger and more effective; the number of people riding is growing in almost every community in the nation.

Bicycling advocates and industry leaders have a remarkable opportunity in 2010. Come to the 2010 National Bike Summit in Washington D.C. sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists and share your passion for cycling.

Help Congress see that the solution to climate change, health care and energy independence is right in front of them! We can encourage our leaders to build on the 10 years of progress we've worked so hard for at the 10 past Summits.

Calendar of events and registration information is available on our

Young Accident Victim Rebounds After Catastrophic Injuries | Florida Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26410 — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Catastrophic injuries suffered in a car accident because of a texting driver has changed a young father's life forever.
Manny Mejia was working in Bartow in August 2009 dumping a garbage can into the back of a truck when he was struck by a distracted driver who was texting and driving. The young man's legs were crushed in the accident and tragically had to be amputated.

He is now re-learning how to walk on prosthetic legs and is determined to run and play with his young son as he grows up.

Months of rehab are ahead of Mejia, a former boxing amateur, who hopes to one day return to the boxing ring. In a recent news report , he was quoted as saying , "I just gotta be strong. You just can't let this bring you down."

Despite the dangers of texting and driving, a recent poll shows one in four Americans does it anyway. Fourteen states and The District of Columbia have outlawed the habit. Florida is not yet one of them, something Mejia hopes might change.

A recent poll by the Ford Motor Co. showed the majority of Americans would be in favor of a national ban on texting and driving.

New Bicycle and Pedestrian Path in Pasco | Pasco Pedestrian Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26380 — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: New Bicycle and Pedestrian Path
Where: Pasco County | Starkey Wilderness Park

In a report by Channel 10, a new proposed bike and pedestrian path in Pasco may be completed by June 7th of this year. Florida is no stranger to bicycle and pedestrian paths. The Pinellas Trail is a trademark for pedestrains and bicycle riders in Pinellas County.

This new path will connect to J B Starkey Wilderness Park's path that extends out to the Suncoast Parkway trail. The project extends from Congress Street along Massachusetts Avenue to Starkey Boulevard along DeCubellis Road. This will extend the bicycle path to a great length for Pasco bicycle and pedestrians who want to have a walkway.

Have fun and be safe bicycling or walking on this new path in the future!

Sinkhole Repairs in Hillsborough County | Tampa Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26368 — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Road Closures and Sinkhole Repair
Who: Everyone in Hillsborough | Tampa

In Hillsborough County, major sinkholes have been repaired but some other problem areas are arising. According to a report by Abc Action News, "Dover Road between Sydney and Walden Sheffield Roads and Trapnell Road between Mendenhall Drive and Turkey Creek Road and between Mud Lake Road and Sam Astin Road are now open to through traffic." These roads have been closed for a good amount of time and we are glad to have them back in service for everyone traveling in the Tampa area.

For a complete list of sinkhole and road closures as listed on Abc Action New's website, look below. The article also reports that if you or anyone you know has an issue to report, to contact Hillsborough County Public Works Department Customer Service at (813) 635-5400.

The remaining closures in effect on County-owned roads are:

West Trapnell Road between Mud Lake Road and Turkey Creek Road. Detour: Holloway Road to Turkey Creek Road to Trapnell Road
Beauchamp Road from Hawk Griffin Road to Boot Bay Road
Dad Weldon Road between Acker Road and Walden Sheffield Road. Detour: Al Simmons Road to Walden Sheffield Road to Acker Road
Haynes Road between Moores Lake Road and Pittman Road. Detour: Moores Lake Road to Gavin Road to Pitman Road
McIntosh Road between Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Walden Sheffield Road. Detour: Gallagher Road to Walden Sheffield Road to Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard
Dover Road from Sydney Road and Walden Sheffield Road. Detour: Sydney Road to Gallagher Road to Walden Sheffield Road
Wallace Branch Road between Sam Allen Road and Thonotosassa Road. Detour: Thonotosassa Road to Cork Road to Sam Allen Road
Chitty Road between Sam Allen Road and Thonotosassa Road. Detour: Thonotosassa Road to Cork Road to Sam Allen Road
Drawdy Road between Trapnell Road and Holloway Road. Detour: Holloway Road to Turkey Creek Road to Trapnell Road
Lone Oak Road between Drawdy Road and Turkey Creek Road. Detour: Holloway Road to Turkey Creek Road to Trapnell Road
Mott Road between Gavin Road and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. Detour: Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to Gallagher Road to Gavin Road
Forbes Road between Ward Road and State Road 574. Detour: Ward Road to Tanner Road to S.R. 574 to Forbes Road
Forbes Road between Jerry Smith Road and Downing Street. Detour: Sydney Road to Sydney Dover Road to MLK Boulevard to Forbes Road

St. Pete Man in Motorized Wheelchair Accident Dies

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26330 — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: motorized wheelchair accident | pedestrian accident
Who: Jacob Gray | Adam Curtis
Where: St. Petersburg

Jacob Gray, an 80-year-old man who collided with a car as he crossed a street in a motorized wheelchair last month died Thursday. Gray, who lived in a nearby senior citizens center was hit by a car driven by Adam Curtis on January 19 as he crossed 1st Avenue N. at 11th Street, police said. The wheelchair was dragged a short way before stopping. Gray received critical injuries in the accident.

Gray was pronounced dead at 4:50 a.m. Thursday at Bayfront Medical Center.

An investigation continues, police said.

Tarpon Springs Pedestrian Suffers Serious Bodily Injuries

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26326 — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Florida pedestrian hit and run
Where: Tarpon Springs | Dodecanese Blvd. | Arfaras Blvd.
Who: George T. Green | unidentified pedestrian

Police arrested the driver of a car who hit a pedestrian and then left the scene in the Sponge docks area of Tarpon Springs. The injured pedestrian was not identified.

George T. Green was arrested on a charge of leaving the scene of an accident that had caused serious bodily injuries.

A news report stated the victim was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital with very serious injuries.

According to police, the pedestrian was walking north on Arfaras Boulevard near Dodecanese Boulevard when Green hit him shortly after 5:30 p.m. Green fled but police later caught up with him. An investigation revealed that the two individuals are acquaintenances.

Largo Pedestrian Critical in Hit and Run Accident - Police Ask for Help | Largo Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26322 — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: pedestrian hit and run accident
Where: East Bay and Seacrest Drives | Largo
Who: unidentified pedestrian in critical condition

A Largo pedestrian is in critical condition after a hit and run accident on Saturday night near the intersection of East Bay and Seacrest Drives, according to the police who are asking for the public's help.

The hit and run accident happened about 9:45 p.m. when a news report stated witnesses saw a vehicle, possibly a newer model silver or light-colored Ford or Cadillac, hit the pedestrian, stop briefly and then run a red light, speeding off.
The vehicle is likely to have front end damage, broken headlights and a broken windshield.

The identity of the pedestrian is not known at this time.

Please contact Sgt. Dulski at (727) 587-6730 (727) 587-6730 , if you have any information that could help.

Woman Critically Injured in Rear-End Truck Collision | Tampa Car and Truck Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26298 — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: car had rear-end collision with semi-truck
Who: Darcia Dominguez | Santiago Hasbun
Where: Veteran's Expressway at Waters Ave.

A disabled Mack semi-truck was rear-ended by the driver of a Mini-Cooper on the Veterans Expressway when she failed to stop. Darcia Dominguez, 39, received critical injuries in the crash and was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital, according to a news source.

According to the Highway Patrol Darcia Dominguez was northbound in the inside lane of the Veterans at Waters Avenue early this morning when she failed to slow down and had a rear-end collision with the truck's trailer. The disabled truck was in the inside lane with several reflective warning cones placed behind the vehicle.

The truck's driver, Santiago Hasbun, 45, was not injured.

An investigation is ongoing.

13 Injured at Florida State Fair Children's Day

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26245 — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A freak act of nature was responsible for 13 people being injured at the Florida State Fair today when strong winds caused a tent to blow over.

The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue reported among the 13 injured, two seriously were Sheva Jones who was wacked in the head when the tent collapsed and her friend, Casey Wilkening who suffered a blow to the shoulder.
Also injured was Monica Vazquez's son, Raul, who was cut when a portable mobile antenna struck him in the head, which reportedly could have been worse, had another adult not intervened to cushion the blow.

Several tornado warnings also were issued, including in Hernando and Hillsborough counties. It was unknown if the damage at the fair was from a tornado or just high winds.

Woman Killed in Motorcycle Accident | St. Petersburg Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26208 — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Motorcycle Accident
Where: St. Petersburg | I 275
Who: Janet and William Riley

A St. Petersburg woman was riding on a motorcycle on I 275 late Thursday night and lost one of the wheels, causing the bike to crash. The couple on the bike were William Riley and Janet Riley of Tierra Verde. Janet Riley was pronounced dead at the scene and William was taken to Bayfront Medical Center for serious head injuries. According to the report, both were wearing helmets and alcohol was not a factor in the crash.

Toyota Recall | Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26170 — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Toyota Recall Frequently Asked Questions
Source: www.Toyota.com

Due to the massive recall of millions of vehicles manufactured by the Toyota Motor Company, many Toyota owners have questions and concerns about safety and repairs of the sticking accelerator pedal, for answers to your frequently asked questions from Toyota concerning the following:

* the sticking accelerator pedal recall
* the floormat pedal entrapment recall
* general questions on both recalls

Visit our Florida Accident and Injury website.

Indian Rocks Beach Bicyclist Hit By SUV | Indian Rocks Beach Bicycle Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26096 — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Bicycle Accident
Where: Indian Rocks Beach | 5th Avenue | East Gulf Boulevard
Who: Bicyclist Barry Cercone | SUV Driver Michael Galloway

Indian Rocks Beach Bicycle Accident Attorney- In a bicycle accident where a SUV has struck a bicyclist moving on 5th Avenue just east of East Gulf Boulevard in Indian Rocks Beach. According to the report, Barry Cercone was riding westbound on the shoulder of the curb lane of 5th Avenue, when he was struck behind by an SUV driven by 41-year-old Michael Galloway.

Police are still investigating the crash.

National Guard Bus Overturns in Crystal River | Crystal River Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26094 — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Florida Army National Guard Bus Overturns
Where: Crystal River
Source: ABC Action News

A bus carrying 30 members of the Florida Army National Guard overturned early this morning in Crystal River. Of the 30 on the bus, 19 were injured and had to be sent to local hospitals or treated on scene in the area. From the report, "A preliminary report by military officials says four buses were moving from one area of Camp Blanding to another when the soldier driving the second bus swerved to avoid a collision with the lead bus and overturned."

The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating this accident and further charges.

Woman Hit in Holiday Hit and Run | Still No Suspects | Holiday Pedestrian Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26092 — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Suspects Still at Large in Holiday Hit and Run Pedestrian Accident
Where: Holiday | Pasco County
Who: Tammy Nunn

In a story related to a previous post about a pedestrian being hit, authorities are still looking for clues and a suspect to a pedestrian being hit in Holiday near Westwood Drive on US 19. According to the local report, "Kraus said witnesses were not able to get a license plate number of the vehicle, and the description of the SUV is "vague."

The Florida Highway Patrol asks for anyone with information to contact them at (352) 521-3888, ext. 191.

Pedestrian Hit and Killed in Tampa | Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26089 — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Fatal Accident
Where: Tampa | Cross Creek Boulevard | Arbor Green Drive
Who: Thomas Lamina | Ernest Holcomb

In a deadly pedestrian accident in Tampa, Thomas Lamina was hit when he was trying to cross at the intersection of Cross Creek Boulevard and Arbor Green Drive in Tampa. The driver of the car involved in the accident, Ernest Holcomb was heading west at the intersection. Investigators are still trying to piece together what happened, and if Lamina was in the road or at a crosswalk. The Local Police did say that no charges are expected to be filed.

Toyota Stuck Gas Pedal Causes St. Pete Car Accident | Florida Product Defect Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)26040 — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: 4 injured in Toyota gas pedal accident
Where: St. Petersburg | Central Avenue
Who: Hoai Luong | Tuan Minh Tran | Luis Anaya-Munoz

A faulty Toyota gas pedal caused the driver of a Toyota Camry to accelerate out of control and ram into the vehicle in front of her, triggering a chain reaction. The accident occurred about 8:30 pm Monday night.

The driver of the Toyota, Hoai Luong, 54, of St. Petersburg, was not hurt in the accident. Luong, and the owner of the car, Tuan Minh Tran, told police that their car is included in Toyota's recall of more than 4.2 million vehicles with gas pedals that stick.

In a news article, police report, Tran told them he took the 2007 Camry to a dealership on Sunday to have the pedal inspected.
Accident reports said Luong was driving the Toyota Camry north on 34th Street and approached the intersection of Central Avenue when the accelerator pedal got stuck.

The Toyota accelerated out of control and crashed into the rear of a 1985 Chrysler sedan driven by Luis Anaya-Munoz, 54, of Largo.

The impact of the collision caused a chain reaction as Munoz struck the car in front of him while Luong's Camry flipped onto its roof, through the intersection and crashed into a Nissan sedan driving south.

Injuries in the crash were said to not be life-threatening, but some drivers and passengers were taken to area hospital.

For safety information provided by Consumer Reports go to our Florida Car Accident website to find a published list of what to do if you are driving a car that accelerates out of control due to a flawed gas pedal.

2 Accidents in Pasco County on US 19 | Pasco County Pedestrian Injury Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25989 — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Two Pedestrian Accidents
Where: US 19 in Pasco County | Mile Stretch Road and Westwood Drive
Who: Brandon Wayne Hensley | Tammy B Nunn

According to a report by the St. Pete Times, two seperate pedestrian accidents occured on US 19 in Pasco County, one was hit while walking into the path of a vehicle near Mile Stretch Road and another was hit while walking across US 19 near Westwood Drive.

Brandon Wayne Hensley was walking near Mile Stretch Road on US 19 in Pasco, when, as the report stated, he walked into the coming path of a car, and was taken to Hellen Ellis Hospital where he was pronounced dead due to his injuries.

In the other pedestrian accident, Tammy B. Nunn was struck by a SUV traveling on US 19 while she tried to cross the road near Westwood Drive. Nunn was taken to Tampa General Hospital in serious condition. The driver of the vehicle who hit Nunn kept driving after the accident.

3 Injured in St. Petersburg Car Crash | St. Pete Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25985 — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: 2 Vehicle Car Accident
Where: St. Petersburg | 38th Avenue and 34th Street
Who: Jennifer Ann Ibarguen | Jon Kenneth Carlson | Charles Stefanik
Source: St. Petersburg Times

In a car crash that sent three St. Petersburg residents to the hospital late Sunday night, 2 cars collided at the intersection of 38th Avenue North and 34th Street South in St. Petersburg. Jennifer Ann Ibarguen was heading west on 38th Avenue when she turned and collided with Jon Kenneth Carlson who was traveling east on 38th Avenue.

Ibarguen and Carlson, along with his passenger Charles Stefanik, were taken to Bayfront Medical Center in serious condition. The investigation of the crash is still being conducted.

Drill Bit Stuck in Women's Head for 11 Months | Florida Medical Malpractice Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25946 — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Medical Malpractice | drill bit burr stuck in woman's head
Who: Donna Delgado
Where: Tampa | Florida

In a shocking report by the St. Petersburg Times, a woman who underwent dental surgery in 2008, was reported to still have a drill bit from the dentist's drill stuck in her head. According to the report, “it was lodged in the right maxillary sinus; the drill bit burr made the 35-year-old woman miserable for nearly a year as she held down a job and cared for her children.”

Delgado had the surgery to remove two decayed teeth but was not healing properly after the dental surgery. She was complaining of headaches, nose bleeds and uneasy feelings. She was also experiencing dizziness and numbness on her right side, where the burr was. Concerned about these symptoms, she was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital on July 19, 2009 for emergency treatment. Doctors performed a magnetic scan which caused the burr to move in her head. Reports say the shifting of the burr could have killed her. Ultimately, the burr was removed by an Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist.

A lawsuit asks for unspecified damages and a jury trial. The dentist who performed the procedure had no comment about the situation.

Read the complete story here.

If you or a family member have been injured due to the fault of another person, you may need to speak to an experienced Florida Medical Malpractice lawyer.

A List of Actions to Take When a Car Accelerates Out of Control | Florida Product Defect Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25933 — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Consumer Reports: Actions to Take When a Car Accelerates Out of Control
Source: The New York Times

As Toyota deals with a massive recall of many of their vehicles with gas pedal flaws, many consumers may wonder
what action to take if they find themself in a car that accelerates out of control?

Consumer Reports recommends the following:

* Brake firmly. Do not pump the brakes
* Put the car into neutral
*Once the car is stopped, turn off the ignition. Because most drivers are not accustomed to putting their car into neutral,
Consumer reports recommends trying out the maneuver in a safe place-an empty parking lot, for example.

Toyota reports the condition is rare, but that overtime some accelerator pedal mechanisms may become worn. As a result of this wear combined with certain operating and environmental conditions, friction in the mechanism may increase and intermittingly result in the accelerator pedal being hard to depress, slow to return or, in the worst case, the accelerator pedal sticks in a partially open position.

10 Month Old Girl Attacked By Family Dog | Holiday Dog Bite Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25885 — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Dog Bite Attack on Child
Where: Holiday | Pasco County
Who: Child Unknown
Source: St. Pete Times

Pasco County Animal services responded to a 10 month old child being attacked by the family dog in Holiday. The 5-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix, named Louie, caused serious injuries to the little girl. The dog is being held at the Paso County Animal shelter. The shelter and the Pasco County Sheriffs Office are both investigating the dog bite.

Check back for more details in this terrible dog bite accident.

Stolen Car Crash at Tampa International Airport | Tampa Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25883 — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Chase Ends in Accidents
Where: Tampa International Airport | I 275

In a stolen car chase that ended in a messy car crash, two suspects were caught but not after causing two crusiers to be involved in accidents. The chase of the two suspects started in St. Petersburg on I-275 heading towards the Tampa International Airport. When the van tried to leave the airport, the two officers tried to box the car in but instead crashed into each other. The van was then followed by another crusier and stopped after the van flipped on I 275.

According to the article, the two suspects Michael Williams and Roshawn Davis were treated for injuries at Tampa General Hospital. Offier Gomez was treated for minor injuries at Memorial Hospital.

St. Petersburg Motorcycle Car Collision | St. Petersburg Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25826 — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: motorcycle | car collision
Where: St. Petersburg | 38th St. and 75th Ave.

The day after a St. Petersburg motorcycle accident killed a 64 year-old man, there has been another motorcycle car collision in the city.

The names of those involved in the accident were not yet available but reports say traffic was blocked on the westbound lanes of 38th Ave. for about another hour after the early morning crash.

Injuries from the accident were said to be minor.

10 Year Old on Bike Hit By Car on Dale Mabry | Tampa Bicycle Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25781 — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Child Injury on Bicycle
Where: Tampa | Dale Mabry Highway and W Bay Avenue
Who: Unknown 10 Year Old Child

In a terrible car accident, a 10 year old was hit and critically injured on Dale Mabry Highway and W Bay Avenue while riding a bike. The uknown child, was rushed to the hospital with life threatening injuries.As reported by the St. Pete Times, Police have no other details involving this child injury accident. Please check back as further information is discovered.

Doctors Amputate Wrong Foot | Florida Medical Malpractice Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25780 — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Medical Malpractice law suit
Source: ABC News

This past week a team of doctors from Peru made international news but for all the wrong reasons. They made the horrific mistake - they amputated the wrong foot of an 86-year-old Peruvian man. Unfortunately they had no other choice but to amputate the other foot, as well.

The elderly man had been suffering from an ulcer that had developed on his right foot. Doctors ordered the ill-fated emergency surgery when the infection grew. Upon realization of the terrible error, doctors performed a second operation the following day, cutting off the infected foot.

The Sabogal Hospital in Lima issued a statement saying that the doctors involved in the operation were being suspended while an investigation began. The patient’s daughter told Peru Radio that her family plans to file a lawsuit.

Child Dies in Fatal Bicycle Accident | Florida Bicycle Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25778 — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: fatal bicycle accident
Who: 12 year-old boy | Mitchell Bowers | Bola Rezk-Alla
Where: Van Dyke Road | Odessa

A young boy who was hit by a car while bicycling on Van Dyke Road died at St. Joseph's Hospital from fatal injuries.

Mitchell Bowers was in the bicycle lane of the road heading west near Currie Ford Drive when he was struck about 6:45p.m. by a car driven by Bola Rezk-Alla, 17, who was also westbound on Van Dyke in a 2001 Honda.

Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office deputies said Bowers, turned left into the path of the car and the driver of the car was unable to stop in time to avoid hitting the child.

No charges have been filed in the accident.

Semi Truck with fertilizer Overturns on US 41 | Hillsborough Truck Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25758 — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Semi Truck Accident
Where: Hillsborough | US 41 near Bloomingdale

In a Semi Truck accident, a truck carrying fertilizer has overturned on US 41 near Bloomingdale Avenue in Hillsborough as reported by the St. Petersburg Times. The cause of the truck overturning is still unclear as reported by officials on the scene. The accident closed lanes from 4 to 6:30 as a cleanup crew cleared debris and fuel from the roadway. The driver of the truck was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

Subscribe to our blog for up to date news about the Tampa Bay Area!

Mountain Biking in Florida?

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25678 — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

My son was home over for a visit after Christmas and we had a chance to spend a day together doing something we both really enjoy -mountain biking! Yea, in Florida!

Since he lives in California, we've been to various places in the West but this was our first experience here.

The Alafia River State Park, located south of Brandon in southern Hillsborough County was our destination.
We were amazed at the hilly terrain, apparently created years ago from extensive excavation work. There were probably 50 to 100 bike riders at the park when we arrived. Once on the trail, however, we saw very few riders.

The park has an amazing variety of trails for mountain bikes, horseback riders and hikers. Some of the trails had sections of very challenging technical riding along with others that were just beautiful rides through the forest. It was a day well spent!

As a Florida Bicycle Accident lawyer, always wear a bike helmet on the trails as protection from injury in the event of a fall.

We've provided a link to a local Florida mountain biking club, Swamp Mountain Biking Club, on our website.

Car Fleeing St. Pete Police Crashes With Cruiser | St. Petersburg Car Crash Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25674 — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

what: car crash | police cruiser
Where: St. Petersburg | 7th St. and 27th Ave. S
who: Yamin Vann | police officer

A St. Petersburg car crash at 27th Avenue S and Seventh Street sent 3 people to the hospital with injuries, one a police officer. Police report an officer was trying to stop a Nissan Altima when the of the vehicle driver sped off.
The officer did not pursue, said Lt. Clevin Wyatt.

The driver of the Altima then crashed into another police cruiser with a woman who had been arrested in the backseat.

Both the woman and the officer were taken to a hospital for minor injuries and observation.

The impact of the collision caused the Nissan to flip on its roof.

The Altima driver also was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. Multiple charges will be made against the driver of the Nissan.

Disney Sued in Fatal Monorail Accident

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25638 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Christine Wuennenberg, the mother of 21 year-old Austin Wuennenberg, is suing Disney World for failing to follow monorail-safety procedures, which lead to the July crash that killed her son.

Federal authorities cited Disney for workplace violations. The most serious citation was for failing to have a workplace free of hazards that could cause death or harm to workers. One of the monorail's trains was changing tracks when it backed into a train with Austin Wuennenberg at the controls.

A separate Federal investigation is pending.

9 Year old in Good Condition After SUV Accident | Tampa Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25617 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Tampa
Who: Joseph Joey Vanhouse | Guillermo Rosales

In the SUV accident where a 9 year old boy was hurt after a car drove through the house in Tampa, the boy is finally in good condition after the accident. Joseph "Joey" Vanhouse was sleeping on his couch when suddenly a SUV plowed into the house where he was sleeping. Vanhouse was then taken to St. Josephs Hospital where he was listed in critical condition.

The Ford SUV ran a stop sign, hit a parked car and then proceeded to the house. Police identified the driver as 17-year-old Guillermo Rosales. The investigation is ongoing.

Tampa Mom Leads Effort For Child Playground Safety | Tampa Child Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25609 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Dangerous Playground Equipment
Who: Katie Guice Raises Money and Awareness
Where: Ballast Point Park | Tampa

The sign posted at the entrance of Ballast Point Park warns parents that a fall to a hard surface from the playground equipment could cause death. The drop is 10 feet. Parents say they have seen some kids fall from the equipment.

Katie Guice's 3 year-old son, Rylan, loves to run and play there but this concerned Mom realized the playground equipment designed for older children posed too many dangers to small children. Lacking the agility of older children combined with having no fear, the park was not a safe place for her child to explore. Guice became a woman on a mission to change that!

She quickly set about trying to make Ballast Point a safer place.
Read the news story about her effort to raise money to make Ballast Point a safer place on our Florida Child Injury website.

Fatal Pinellas Park Pedestrian Accident | Pinellas Park Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25586 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Fatal Accident
Where: Pinellas Park | Park Boulevard
Who: Uknown Pedestrian | Driver of the car Joseph Harlan
Source: St. Pete Times

In Pinellas Park, a homeless pedestrian was crossing Park Boulevard where he was hit and and later pronounced dead from injuries at Northside Hospital. Pinellas Park Police report that the man was crossing from the south to the north in the 5600 block about 11 p.m. when he walked in front of a westbound Cadillac. The driver of the car, Joseph Harlan, will not face any charges according to the report.

Lawsuit in Misdiagnosis of Foot Fracture Demands $475,000 in Damages

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25572 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Medical Malpractice Lawsuit | Misdiagnosis

Karen Stuckless, of Ft. McMurray Alberta, Canada, suffered a fall resulting in foot pain and swelling in her upper foot and ankle. Despite repeated visits to the hospital and her physician, she received inconsistent treatment and alleged misdiagnosis.

Ultimately a CT Scan was ordered by an Orthopedic Surgeon which revealed an undiagnosed foot fracture which had healed out of position, requiring extensive corrective surgery. She also was diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Distrophy, (Global Pain Syndrome.)

Some foot fractures are very difficult to diagnose. The failure to receive a correct diagnosis can result in complications. This woman feels she is now permanently disabled as a result of the alleged misdiagnosis.

She has filed a medical malpractice lawsuit in Canada demanding $475,000 in damages.

If you feel you may have a Florida Medical Malpractice claim, you should contact an experienced Florida Medical Malpractice lawyer promptly, in order to comply with Florida's presuit investigation requirements, and the time limits imposed on bringing a Medical Malpractice claim. Call our experienced personal injury lawyers Toll Free @ 1-888-344-0840 to discuss your claim.

Florida's New Mandatory Boating Education Course

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25570 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Mandatory Boating Education Course Requirement
Where: Florida | US Coast Guard

If you were born on or before January 1, 1988 plan to complete an approved US Coast Guard boating-safety class, if you operate a boat with a motor of 10-hp or more. This is a new requirement in Florida. As of Jan 1, boaters in this category must also have in their possession a photographic ID card and a boating safety education card.

A few exceptions to this new requirement are:

*Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 and operating a boat within 90 days from time of purchase does NOT need a boating-safety education ID card IF a legal Florida bill of sale is onboard.

*However, after 90 days, all new mandatory educational requirements must be met.

*Exempt from these new requirements are boaters who possess a current United States Coast Guard license.

As a Florida Personal Injury lawyer, I know boat accidents and injuries can occur even among experienced boaters. The Coast Guard strongly urges boaters of all ages to take a Coast Guard approved boating safety class - taught by qualified, highly experienced instructors, there is always something new to learn. For information, call 727-469-8895
Or online @ http://a0701101.uscgaux.info

Hulk Hogan's Ex- Wife Settles Auto Negligence Suit

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25567 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: auto negligence civil suit settlement
Who: Linda Bollea | John Graziano
Source: www.tbo.com

Linda Bollea, the former wife of Hulk Hogan, has reached a settlement in the auto negligence civil suit filed on behalf of John Graziano.

Graziano suffered severe brain injury while riding in a car driven by Bollea's son, Nick Bollea, when he crashed his car into a tree in August of 2007. Debra Graziano, John Graziano's mother was said to be pleased with the agreement.

Linda Bollea, according to her lawyer, Joseph Varner, is pleased to have the auto negligence suit behind her.
Details of the settlement are confidential.

Safety Harbor Man Dies on Howard Frankland Bridge

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25564 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: car accident
Who: Terrence Keith Hoffman
Where: Howard Frankland Bridge

An apparent medical problem caused a 53 year old man, Terrence Keith Hoffman who was driving a Ford Explorer to sideswipe a concrete barrier on the Howard Frankland Bridge and die on Friday, January 22nd.

The Florida HIghway Patrol reported Hoffman of Safety Harbor, was driving south on the bridge when his car hit the concrete barrier. He was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Woman Slams into Car Driven by Hillsborough County Deputy | Hillsborough County Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25563 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: car accident
Who: Shannon Lima-Jones | Hillsborough County Deputy Daryl Bowden
Where: Plant City | Reynolds and John Martin Streets

Failure to yield right of way and driving without proof of insurance were two citations issued to Shannon Lima-Jones of Crystal Springs after she pulled her pick-up truck out into the funeral procession of Sgt. David A. Croft, and into a car driven by Deputy Daryl Bowden, an escort in the procession.

Apparently, Lima-Jones pulled out of the Dairy Queen and made a left turn, cutting through the procession of cars, slamming into a car driven by the deputy.

Deputy Bowden was taken to Tampa General Hospital with serious injuries from the car accident but they were said to not be life-threatening injuries.

Fatal Accident in Defective Gas Pedal Spurs Another Toyota Recall

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25561 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Toyota auto recall | sticking gas pedals
Source: abcnews.com

Toyota, the Japanese automaker who launched the largest recall in U.S. history last fall after incidents of random acceleration resuled in fatal accidents, has just announced an additional recall of 2.3 million vehicles to correct sticking gas pedals.

Four people died in Southlake, Texas, a suburb of Dallas, when a 2008 Toyota sped off the road, through a fence and landed upside down in a pond, the day after Christmas. The car's floor mats were found in the trunk of the car, where owners had been advised to put them as part of the recall. Toyota has made it clear that this latest recall has to do with the gas pedal mechanism itself becoming stuck even if there is no floor mat in the car.

A news article lists the models included in the latest recall and what Toyota drivers need to know.

Safety expert Sean Kane told ABC news that he believes this latest recall may still not be a complete fix of a problem that continues to be linked with serious car accidents and deaths.

If you have suffered an injury due to a defective product or a defective auto you may need to contact an experienced Florida Product Liability lawyer.

Oprah Pushes No Text Pledge | Are You Willing? | Florida Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25555 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: teens | texting and driving | fatal accident
Source: Oprah Winfrey Show

Six thousand people die in fatal accidents each year because drivers are talking, texting and e-mailing behind the wheel. Nearly 500,000 people are injured.

Countless incidents of lives which are changed forever - a fatal accident in which a child is hit head-on by the texting driver of a 5,000 lb. SUV, while riding her bike home from school, a man who dies when a texting while driving teen drifted over the center line and broad-sided him, killing he and his passenger instantly - - these and so many more horrible accidents, all because of a phone call, text message or email. Yet, still so few states have placed a ban on drving and cell phone use!

Kate Moore, an Iowan teenager sends 14,000 texts messages a month. Kate, crowned the fastest texter in the U.S., spoke recently at a legislative meeting at her state capital against texting while driving. Moore states teens are already vulnerable enough on the road as beginning drivers. Teens should focus only on driving. She says the second a teen takes to respond to some "hot gossip", could be the second they drift out of a lane and head-on into another driver. No text is worth risking a life!

Oprah dedicated an entire show to public awareness of the deadly distraction, urging all to make their cars a "No Phone Zone." To date over 50,000 folks have taken an online pledge to not use phones while driving. To take the pledge go to www.oprah.com

Man DIes in Crash on I-95

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25549 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

The body of a victim of a car crash on I-95 was unnoticed by the officer who investigated the scene of the crash. The Florida Highway Patrol said the man was thrown from a car during the crash.

Apparently, a wrecker company who towed the car contacted the car owner, who reported her boyfriend, Delvin Lewis, 29, was missing. The woman was unaware her car was even missing. She found his body in a ditch when she stopped by the scene of the crash.

Details of the one car accident and how it happened are unclear.

T-Bone Car Accidents, Running Red lights, Dangerous Intersections | Why St. Petersburg Looks at Red Light Cameras

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25546 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: car wreck | T-bone car accident | dangerous intersection | Traffic Cameras
Where: St. Petersburg, Florida
Source: St. Petersburg Times

T-bone car accidents, car wrecks at red lights, and drivers who speed through intersections are some of the reasons St. Petersburg is looking at installing red-light cameras at dangerous intersections.

Council member Jim Kennedy presented the idea of traffic cameras at a recent meeting due to a concern for safety. St. Pete transportation director Joe Kubicki stresses the cameras would increase motorist safety, save lives and reduce the number of St. Petersburg car accidents that happen due to running a red light through a dangerous intersection. Our Florida accident attorneys have seen T-bone accidents from drivers running a red light result in catastrophic injury to many motorists.

One criticism of the red light cameras, is however, that although the cameras reduce the number of car accidents at intersections, other cities in the U.S. who have installed them, have seen an increase in rear-end collisions caused by drivers slamming on their brakes to avoid running a red light.

Read the entire news story and more details posted on our Florida Car Accident and Truck Collision news website.

Toyota Recalls More Cars Due to Gas Pedal Defect | Product Liability Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25482 — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Toyota Recall due to Gas Pedal Defect

In a recent recall, Toyota has recalled more than 2 million cars over defective gas pedals.

Toyota Recall January 2010: Toyota is voluntarily recalling 2.3 million vehicles in the United States to fix defective accelerator pedals, the latest in a series of recalls by the Japanese automaker.

The move comes just months after the company recalled about 4.2 million cars to reduce the risk of gas pedals getting stuck under unsecured or improperly placed floor mats and causing sudden acceleration.

The following Toyota Division models are affected:

• 2009-2010 RAV4,
• 2009-2010 Corolla,
• 2009-2010 Matrix,
• 2005-2010 Avalon,
• 2007-2010 Camry,
• 2010 Highlander,
• 2007-2010 Tundra,
• 2008-2010 Sequoia

Coca Cola Truck Hits 3 Cars on I 275 | Truck Accident Lawyer Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com;7274390165@vtext.com (Blog Author)25462 — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Coca Cola Truck 3 Vechicle Accident
Where: Tampa | Interstate 275
Who: Unknown

A Coca Cola truck collided with 3 other vehicles this morning in Tampa, causing a lane blockage on I 275. Details from the accident were not reported at the time of the article. Troopers did report that traffic was very slow coming in and out of Tampa due to the number of cars involved in the accident. No serious injuries were reported. Stay tuned for more information regarding this accident.

Click HERE Subscribe to Our Blog today for instant updates and information in the Tampa Bay Area!

UT Has Memorial for Student Killed in Hit and Run | Tampa Hit and Run Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25461 — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Hit and Run Fatal Car Accident
Who: In memory of Erik Nicoletti
Where: University of Tampa

A memorial is being held today for University of Tampa student, Erik Nicoletti, who was tragically hit and killed by a Hit and Run driver on November 21 of last year, at the intersection of W Kennedy Boulevard and N Boulevard in Tampa.

Parents and friends, as stated in the article, will share stories about Nicoletti at 4 p.m. in Plant Hall's Fletcher Lounge on the UT campus, according to UT spokesman Eric Cardenas.

The driver who hit Nicoleitti, Andres Trujillo , was charged with leaving the scene of an accident with death and violation of probation.

Our hearts go out to all of the friends and family of Erik Nicoletti.

Florida Child Injury Law Blog | Child Injury and Safety Information

jessgut12@gmail.com (Blog Author)25457 — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: New Florida Child Injury Law Blog
Who: Jim Dodson

In our new Florida Child Injury Law Blog we are keeping parents and children up to date on all the specific safety recalls, product information, and injuries common to children. We work hard to keep parents up to date with the information they need to help protect their children in the event of a accident or product defect.

Visit our Florida Child Injury Blog today for more information and subscribe to get instant updates!

Son or Daughter injured? Contact a Florida Child Injury Lawyer today!

Florida Child Injury Prevention Fair This Weekend | Florida Child Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25433 — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

As a Clearwater, Florida Child Injury Lawyer, we often see children who are victims of unintentional injuries. In fact, car accidents are the leading cause of child injury and death, yearly. -But children are also seriously hurt and unintentionally injured in a variety of accidents, including: fall accidents on playgrounds, childhood burn accidents, as well as car crashes and more.

The Emergency and Trauma Services wing at Lee Memorial in partnership with The Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida are hosting a child injury prevention fair this weekend, January 23rd, from 10 am- 2pm at Lee Memorial Hospital in Ft. Myers.
The purpose of the event is to provide fun, interactive activities and information to educate families on how to prevent childhood accidents. Our firm is dedicated to providing the latest news and information, to consumers, on accident and injury prevention. Plan to attend if you are in the area - they are serving healthy snacks, and will have a car seat and bicycle helmet fitting station! Children are encouraged to bring a favorite stuffed animal or doll.

For additional safety information, resources on product recalls and up to date news on child injury and accident prevention, please visit our Florida Child Injury blog website at www.floridachildinjurylawblog.com

Why You Need an Experienced Florida Medical Malpractice lawyer to Evaluate Your Claim

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25423 — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Florida Medical Malpractice lawyer Jim Dodson explains issues involved in evaluating a medical negligence claim. Our Clearwater, Florida Malpractice firm recently posted an article in our medical malpractice document library discussing topics such as the failure to meet the accepted standard of care and more.

If you feel you may have a Florida Medical Malpractice claim, you should contact an experienced Florida Medical Malpractice lawyer promptly, in order to comply with Florida's presuit investigation requirements, and the time limits imposed on bringing a Medical Malpractice claim. Call our experienced personal injury lawyers Toll Free @ 1-888-344-0840 1-888-344-0840 to discuss your claim.

Family of Florida Fatal Car Accident Victim Upset With Driver's Sentence

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25367 — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Who: Amberlee Mervine | Anthony Urso
What: Florida Fatal Car Accident

The family of a Florida car accident victim, who died in a fatal car crash, expressed their anger and frustration with the sentence of the man who killed her in the car accident. Amberlee Mervine was thrown from a car in which Anthony Urso was driving. She suffered a fractured skull and died from fatal injuries sustained in the crash.

Urso, 26, of Valrico, was sentenced to 5 years of probation, including 100 years of community service. His Florida driver's license was revoked for three years.

Urso pleaded no contest to a reduced charge of reckless driving with serious bodily injury in the car crash that killed Mervine. Urso had been previously charged with vehicular homicide. Reports say he was speeding and driving under the influence ( DUI ) but reports say his blood alcohol level did not exceed state limits.

Life After Serious Injuries Suffered in a Car Accident

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25357 — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Source: Florida Car Accident Lawyer | Car Accident Library

Florida Accident Lawyer Jim Dodson has seen the horrific, life-threatening injuries that can be suffered in a serious car accident. He provides a story about a Louisiana woman's road to recovery from a devastating car accident, spending months in the hospital and intensive care, enduring weeks of therapy and rehabilitation; while being cared for by a team of caring medical doctors, nurses and professionals.

Slip and Fall Cases in Icy Winter | Florida Slip and Fall Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25329 — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Slip and Fall Injury

Be thankful that most of our weather here in Florida doesn't get icy enough for people to be injured in possible slip and fall injuries. According to a Cleveland.com article, the EMS units in the area are overwhelmed with slip and fall cases due to the weather and ice on the roads, driveways and walkways.

The thin sheet of ice can lead to several slip and fall injuries that can lead to permanent disabilities and even in some cases death. The article also gives some good information on how to prevent a fall "They suggest using handrails whenever possible and to walk slowly and cautiously over icy sidewalks. Also, people should forget about fashion and wear shoes or boots that will grip the ice, the clunkier the better."

If visting out of state relatives, please be careful when facing these types of conditions.

Man in Motorized Wheelchair Critically Injured in St. Petersburg | St. Petersburg Pedestrian Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25328 — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Man in Motorized Wheelchair hit by Car
Where: St. Petersburg | First Avenue N near 11th Street
Who: Unknown
Source: St. Petersburg Times

Late Tuesday, a man in a motorized wheelchair was hit and critically injured in St. Petersburg after a car collided with him while he was attempting to cross First Avenue N near 11th Street. The man, whose identity was not released, has been taken to Bayfront Medical Center with life threatening injuries and is listed in critical condition.

Traffic homicide Officer Scott Pierce of the St. Petersburg Police Department.said that "the man in the motorized wheelchair crossed in an unmarked crosswalk" and did not have any reflectors or lights on his wheelchair.

Fire Rescue in Hillsborough Saves Mans Life in Accident | Wimauma Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25323 — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Overturns in Accident
Where: Wimuama | Hillsborough County
Who: Hillsborough Fire Rescue | Unknown Man

In a heroic effort by the Hillsborough Fire Rescue, the crew saved a man whose hand was pinned underneath his car after the car overturned in an accident. The fire rescue team managed to free the driver of the car by raising the vehicle with the use of giant airbags. He was transported to Tampa General with non-life threatening injuries.

According to the report, the car was found overturned after going down an embankment. The car accident happened at State Road 674 at Carlton Branch Road. The reason for the accident is still unknown and further investigation is being done by the Florida Highway Patrol.

School Closed in Plant City Due to Sinkhole | Plant City Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25321 — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Sinkhold At Trapnell Elementary School

In the recent development in Plant City, a sinkhole underneath Trapnell Elementary School forces it to close and send students to alternate schools untill the problem is fixed. A sinhole had developed beneath part of the campus over the weekend, near the administrative building and media center.

According to the article, "Trapnell's 570 students are being sent to the new Strawberry Crest High School and Bailey Elementary School until officials determine it is safe to return. Those in grades 3, 4 and 5 will attend classes at the high school, which has plenty of unused capacity, while the rest will attend Bailey."

Parents want their kids to be in a safe place and hope that this problem is fixed soon.

List of Dangerous Car Crash Intersections in City of Tampa | Tampa Car Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25235 — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Crash Data
Where: Tampa intersections
Source: City of Tampa

Tampa Car Crash lawyer, Jim Dodson, provides car crash data, at Tampa intersections, as reported to Tampa police in the past 3 months. The information, updated daily, lists the highest incidence of reported car crashes, and dangerous intersections, within city limits, currently at the following crossroads:

Dale Mabry Hwy N. & Hillsborough Ave. W.
Hillsborough Ave. E. & Florida Ave. N.
Waters Ave. W. & Armenia Ave. N.

We urge all who travel these roads to exercise caution and drive defensively.

Five Mistakes that Can Wreck Your Florida Accident Case, a free consumer guide ,available to car accident victims who have been injured in a Florida accident, written by Personal Injury Lawyer and author, Jim Dodson

Car Hits Channelside Trolley | Tampa Car Wreck Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25179 — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: car accident
Who: Joshua Pelletier
Where: Tampa | Channelside and Cumberland

Late Saturday night, a car and a trolley crossed paths in Tampa, at Channelside. The car wreck took place when Joshua Pelletier, 34, drove his GMC Denali northbound on the downtown trolley tracks at Channelside and Cumberland when he struck a trolley driving southbound, according to police reports.

The trolley, carrying four passengers and the operator, sustained minimal damage following the car accident.

Pelletier was arrested on suspicion of DUI and failure to drive on a designated roadway.

Man Hits Tree on Clearwater Beach | Clearwater Beach Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25165 — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Clearwater Beach | Causeway Boulevard | East Shore
Who: Unknown Driver

In an early morning car accident on Clearwater Beach, one person was hospitalized and their condition is still unknown. Authorities say the victim was driving a black F150 truck and lost control coming off the roundabout from Causeway Boulevard to East Shore. The truck then moved forward and struck a tree. More details will be released soon. Subscribe to our blog to learn more about local bay area accidents and more from your local Clearwater Beach Car Accident Lawyer.

FDA Consumer Alert of Tylenol Recall 2010 | Product Liability Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25103 — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Tylenol Recall 2010
When: Now
Who: Food and Drug Administration | Johnson and Johnson

In a recent Tylenol recall 2010 article, the Food and Drug Administration has issued a recall of the product. The maker of several over-the-counter drugs, including Tylenol, Motrin and Benadryl, announced a broad-based recall of these and other drugs Friday after receiving complaints of an "unusual moldy, musty or mildew-like" odor.

The FDA criticized Johnson and Johnson for not reacting to consumer complaints quickly.

I-4 Road Work Day 4 Causes Traffic Again | Plant City Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25084 — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: 4th Day of Roadwork on Depression on I 4
Where: I-4 and Branch Forbes Road in Plant City
Source: St. Pete Times

The depression that formed on Interstate 4 near Branch Forbes rRad in Plant City is still being worked on for the 4th day in a row. Road work crews are working day and night to try to repair the roadway but will not be done with the construction until later this weekend. To add to the traffic mess, I-4 detour routes identified by the Florida Highway Patrol were closed, too, on Thursday, after cracks were found on U.S. 92 between Turkey Creek Road and Thonotosassa Road.

We hope this roadwork will be repaired soon for all the Tampa and Lakeland commuters. Check back on our Blog for more updates on the I-4 lane closures and traffic updates.

Here's How to Monitor Your Teens' Texting, Emailing , Cell Phone and Driving Habits | Florida Child Injury lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25053 — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: software program | the Protector
Why: parent concern | teen driving, text messages, emails
Source: www.wsj.com

A new software program is available from the people at Taser International. It's called the Protector. The program is designed to help parents who have concerns about their teen's text messages, cell phone use, emails, video or driving habits. It allows parents to simply monitor their behavior.

Find additional information and contact numbers on our Florida Child Injury Law Blog website.

Teen Driver Kills Brother in Deadly Game of "Chicken" | Florida Fatal Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)25042 — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Wrongful Death| Fatal Accident | ran over her brother
Who: Nicole Brock | Dwight Brock

What started out as a game of "chicken" took a tragic turn last week in Mesa, Arizona. A news article reported the story of Nicole Brock, 16, who had apparently dropped her brother, Dwight, off at a shopping mall when he began jumping on the front of her vehicle, repeatedly.

Nicole responded each time by applying the brakes of her car. Tragically, the game turned, when she was unable to stop in time and ran her brother over. He, sadly, died later at a nearby hospital.

Arizona police speculate that Nicole, a teen driver of only 4 months, may have confused the accelerator with the brake.

No charges have been filed. This horrible accident is a life changing tragedy for the entire family and a horrific lesson in learning.

Eastbound Gandy Blvd Lane to Be Closed | St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24975 — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Eastbound Gandy Blvd Lane Closure
Where: St. Petersburg

To those who use Eastbound Gandy Boulevard to commute will notice a closure of one of the lanes in the next few days. According to the report by the St. Petersburg Times, one lane of Gandy Blvd will be closed to repair a handrail. Also according to the report, "The eastbound left lane will be closed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today through Friday, transportation officials said."

Just a friendly traffic reminder for those of you who travel in this area of St. Petersburg from St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer.

Bicyclist Dies in Kenneth City | Bicycle Car Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24974 — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Bicycle Crash
Where: Kenneth City
Who: Jeffery Prendergrast | Christina J. Rochette
Source: St. Pete Times

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 47 year old Kenneth City man was involved in a fatal bicycle crash when he came into contact with a car on 66th in Kenneth City. Jeffery Prendergrast was crossing 66th and 50th in Kenneth City when he was struck by a vehicle heading southbound. Prendergrast was thrown from his bicycle during the crash and onto the windshield then onto the road. Christina J. Rochette , the driver of the vehicle, was not injured during the crash.

Learn more about bicycle accidents from Kenneth City Bicycle Crash Lawyer here.

Depression on I-4 Causes Traffic | Plant City Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24973 — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Depression in roadway on Interstate 4
Where: Plant City

The depression that formed in Plant City on a stretch of I-4 is stil causing traffic in that area. The depression was first referred to as a sinkhole when travelers saw the roadway sink. According to Marian Scorza, a spokeswoman for the Florida Department of Transportation, "It's merely soil settlement, although the cause is unclear." As the repair begins on the depression, one lane will remain open. According to the article, Troopers said good alternatives are U.S. Highway 92, also called Sam Allen Road, which takes drivers to State Road 39 and then back to I-4; or Thonotosassa Road, where drivers can re-enter the interstate."

We will look forward to some word on the re-opening of this stretch of I -4 soon. Check back for updates on the depression and more information.

New Therapy May Be Helping Paralyzed Patients | Clearwater Personal Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24846 — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Neuro Synthetic Conductive Therapy | treatment for paralyzed victims of car accidents and serious fall injuries
Who: Licensed Massage Therapist | Ken Bryant

Licensed Massage Therapist Ken Bryant says he is helping paralyzed clients who have been seriously injured regain feeling and movement through the use of neuro synthetic conductive therapy.

Personal Injury lawyer Jim Dodson has posted the link to the video which explains the treatment. Bryant warns neuro synthetic conductive therapy should not give patients' misconceptions, saying that although the treatment has the ability to turn muscles on, it is up to the patient to do the work.

Doctors are reluctant to endorse the therapy due to a lack of clinical trials. In the video, Bryant explains the difference between his treatment and traditional reflexology which uses heavy pressure and thumb walking.

Bryant demonstrates the procedure on a woman who became paralyzed following a car accident. In the crash, she broke her back when she flew through the windshield.

Pedestrian Hit and Killed in Motorcycle Accident | Seminole Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24838 — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Motorcycle and Pedestrian Accident
Where: Seminole | Starkey Road near Park Boulevard
Who: Lowell Schissel | Randel Allen Toombs

In a pedestrian accident that involved a motorcycle striking a person walking across Starkey Road near Park Boulevard in Seminole ended in a tragic death. Lowell Schissel of Largo was walking with his wife trying to cross Starkey Road when he was struck by Randel Allen Toombs on his motorcylce. Toombs was taken to the hospital in crictical condition from the accident as well.

The report says that the couple were not using the crosswalk and may have violated the right of way.

Child Dies From Injuries Suffered in Tampa Car Crash | Tampa Wrongful Death Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24827 — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Crash | Fatal accident | Wrongful Death
Where: Bruce B. Downs | State Rd. 54 | Tampa
Who: Jaylin Dominguez one-year-old child | Raul John Bertran, Jr.

Jaylin Dominguez, 1 year old, tragically died on Saturday, from injuries suffered in a car crash last Thursday. Young Dominguez was a passenger in a 2004 Honda along with her parents, Nadine Maldonado, 20, of Tampa, the driver, and Simon Dominguez, 25, of Wesley Chapel.

A news article stated the driver of the other car, Raul John Bertran, Jr., 67, of Brandon, drove into oncoming traffic. He died at the scene of the fatal accident, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Apparently, Bertran was driving south on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. when he crossed the center lane and crashed with the Honda head-on.

Maldonado and Simon Dominguez suffered serious injuries in the car crash. They were transported to St. Joseph's Hospital.

Woman Critically Injured in Crash on I-75 | Tampa Critical Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24825 — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Where: I-75 | Tampa
Who: Amberleen Ochlan | David Coello
What: Car | Tractor-Trailer Collision

Amberlee Ochlan, 27, of Tampa was critically injured early this morning when her car crashed into a tractor-trailer rig along I-75 near Big Bend Rd.

The 2004 Freightline tractor-trailer involved in the crash was driven by David Coello, 45, of Palm Bay. Coello was not injured in the crash, troopers said. News reports say Ochlan rear-ended the rig in the center lane of the interstate.

Ochlan was taken to Tampa General Hospital, where she was admitted in critical condition.

Seminole Man Dies in Motorcycle Crash | Seminole Motorcycle Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24823 — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Where: St. Petersburg | Tyrone Blvd.
What: motorcycle crash
Who: Justin Scott Murray

Justin Scott Murray, 30, of Seminole, died in a motorcycle crash in St. Petersburg along Tyrone Blvd. when he apparently, according to a report, hit a curb and lost control of his 2008 Honda.

Murray was thrown from the motorcycle and hit a signpost. He was wearing a motorcycle helmet and had a motorcycle endorsement on his driver's license. Murray was taken to Bayfront Medical Center.

Fatal Car Accident in Wesley Chapel on Bruce B Downs | Wesley Chapel Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24706 — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Car Accident
Where: Wesley Chapel | Corner of Bruce B Downs and State Road 56
Who: Nadine Maldonado | Simon Thomas Dominguez III
Source: St. Pete Times

Wesley Chapel Car Accident Lawyer: A fatal car accident in Wesley Chapel occured when a vehicle swerved from the Northbound lanes into the vehicles in the other direction. The fatal car crash happened on Bruce B. Downs Boulevard near State Road 56. The driver that has not been named came into contact with Nadine Maldonado and passenger Simon Thomas Dominguez III . They both suffered serious injuries and were taken to St. Joseph's Hospital. The person killed was the unidentified 67 year old.

Check back for more details.

St. Petersburg Jetty Will Be Removed By City | St. Petersburg Personal Injury Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24704 — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Jetty Removal in St. Petersburg

In a release by the St. Petersburg Times, the Jetty that has killed 3 teens in the past year will be coming down by the end of January. The accident that lead to the death of young Paige Alyssa Davison last fall has spurred questions of the Jetty. Many local boaters who travel in that area at night warned that the Jetty did not have lights. Even after Gov Charlie Crist added lights to the Jetty, after these accidents , the Jetty is coming down.

Tthe final decision was made after the Coast Guard told city officials on Dec. 30 that it did not object to the jetty's removal.

We hope after the removal of the Jetty it will help boaters in the St. Petersburg area near Albert Whitted Airport.

PSTA Bus Crash in St. Petersburg | St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24700 — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car | Bus Accident
Where: St. Petersburg | Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street and Pinellas Point Drive S
Who: PSTA Bus Driver and Unknown Pickup Truck Driver
Source: St. Pete Times

A PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) Bus has been involved in a crash in St. Petersburg on the corner of southbound Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street and Pinellas Point Drive S. The PSTA bus crashed into a pickup truck and the driver of the bus and pickup were both taken to Bayfront Medical Center with non serious injuries. St. Petersburg Fire Rescue responded to the accident. The accident is still being investigated.

3 Injured in Seminole Crash on 113th Street N | Seminole Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24555 — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident and Pedestrian Injury
Where: Seminole | 113th Street North
Who: Unknown at time of release

In Seminole, a 3 person car accident that involved a pedestrian being struck after the accident occured sent all involved to the hospital. The accident happened at 113th Street North when one of the cars turned into the complex that includes the Seminole Community Library and St. Petersburg College, officials said. The pedestrian was struck by the trailer, which rolled. All names have not been released at the time of the article. Please check back for more updates about this Seminole car accident.

House Fires Due to Heater Issues | Keep Your House Safe During the Cold | Electric Space Heaters

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24554 — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Electric Space Heaters

With the recent rash of cold weather here in the Tampa Bay area, it is important to use the proper heating methods when trying to keep warm in your home. Portable electric space heaters are a great way to keep warm and keep your electric bill down but do pose great dangers when dealing with them. There have been a few reports of fires in homes this winter season in the Tampa Bay area.

Below are some great safety tips when dealing with portable electric heaters in your home from the Consumer Product Safety Commission:

SAFETY TIPS

Do not use an electric heater as a dryer by placing clothing over it and never use it heater to thaw pipes.
Keep the heater in safe working condition Replace missing guards and controls at once. Never operate a defective heater.
Don't place the heater where children might play near it or where people might trip over or bump into it.
Place the heater on a level surface for stability.
Regardless of the type of heating system you have, install and maintain at least one smoke detector that is in good working condition on each floor of your home

Be sure to stay safe during these cold times in the Tampa Bay area!

Blind Wesley Chapel Woman Seeks Help in Crossing Street | Pasco Pedestrian Safety Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24425 — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Safety
Where: Wesley Chapel | Meadow Pointe Boulevard
Who: Lisa Couture

Lisa Couture walks her children to school everyday which is usually a easy task for someone who has their vision. Couture, who is blind, has numerous obstacles she faces each time she walks to Double Branch Elementary. After counting driveways and traveling through the gate of her subdivision, Couture faces a potentially fatal obstacle on her way to the school: Meadow Pointe Boulevard. She can only listen for cars passing by in hopes to cross the intersection of Meadow Pointe and Chancey Road. Couture would love to have a "Blind Pedestrian" sign there to help warn people driving through the intersection.

In a Pasco County release stated by the St. Petersburg Times, "Because she lives in a gated community, the county won't install signs on her neighborhood's private streets. Because she doesn't live on Meadow Pointe Boulevard, county officials have told her they won't install a sign there either."

Bob Reck, the county's transportation operation manager, is looking into Couture's situation. Florida State law requires drivers to stop completely for pedestrians in crosswalks and also says drivers must yield for blind pedestrians while crossing a crosswalk before moving forward.

We look forward to watching to see what the county can do for Couture, in this difficult situation. Check back for an update or Subscribe to our Blog to get all of the latest news in the Tampa Bay Area.

Photo by FRED BELLET St. Petersburg Times

Dunedin Man Crashes into Tree | Dunedin Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24421 — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Car Accident
Where: Dunedin | State Road 580
Who: William Thomas Simpson
Source: St. Pete Times

A Dunedin man was traveling just south of State Road 580 in Dunedin when he crashed into a tree. William Thomas Simpson was flown to Bayfront Medical Center where he later died after the accident on New Years Eve. Authorities say speed was a factor in the crash and the accident is still being investigated.

Learn more about a Dunedin Car Accident Lawyer.

Two Motorcyclists Critically Injured Following St. Petersburg Crash | St. Petersburg Motorcycle Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24379 — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What: St. Petersburg Motorcycle | Car Crash
Where: Central Ave. and Sunset Drive S. east of Yacht Club Estates
Who: Sherman Miller | Matthew Jones | Jacklyn Nugent | Robert Ford

A car driven by Jacklyn Nugent, 21, swerved to avoid hitting a pedestrian crossing Central Ave. near Sunset Drive S. swerved into the path of two motorcyclists, critically injuring both men, according to a news report.

Sherman Miller, 35, and Matthew Jones, 29, who reportedly were wearing helmets, were thrown from their motorcycles. Miller's motorcycle struck the back of the car, going through the the back windshield and ended up in the back seat. Jones, attempting to avoid a collision with the car, instead struck the back of Miller's motorcycle.

Jones struck the center median and was thrown onto the roadway. Both men were taken to Bayfrornt Medical Center and listed in critical condition. Nugent and the pedestrian, Robert Ford, a homeless man, were not injured in the crash.

Pinellas County Deputy Involved in Car Accident | New Port Richey Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24240 — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: New Port Richey | Mitchell Boulevard | Little Road
Who: Pinellas Deputy William Copley | Julie Bond
Source: St. Pete Times

A Pinellas County Deputy was involved in a car accident in New Port Richey when he drove his jail inmate van into another car. Deputy William Copley was traveling on the intersection of Little Road and Mitchell Boulevard in New Port Richey when he came into contact with a 2003 Range Rover driven by Julie Bond.

The deputy was not carrying any prisoners at the time of the accident. Both were taken to Mease Countryside Hospital for injuries.

Dump Truck Overturns on Tyrone Boulevard | St. Pete Truck Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24227 — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Truck Accident
Where: St. Pete | Tyrone Boulevard and 38th Avenue N

In an early morning accident, a dump truck has overturned on Tyrone Boulevard and 38th Avenue N in St. Pete. The dump truck was carrying gravel and clean up crews are working to clean up the mess. Traffic was blocked as the road was being cleared of debris.

Here is a picture of the truck accident provided by the St. Pete Times:

3 Car Crash in Trinity Kills One | Pasco Car Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24224 — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Car Accident
Where: Trinity | Pasco County
Who: George Kuruvilla | Jacob A. Davis | Heather M. Brandon

In a 3 car accident in Trinity late Monday, one is pronounced dead and two more were hospitalized with serious injuries. George Kuruvilla was stopped at a stop sign and the proceeded south across the intersection of Trinity Boulevard and Garden Lakes Boulevard and came into contact with Jacob A. Davis, and then was pushed into the path of another vehicle driven by Heather M. Brandon.

The 3 car accident claimed one life of the passenger of Kuruvilla's car. Kuruvilla was taken to Bayfront Medical Center, and Davis is also in serious condition at Community Hospital in New Port Richey.

Man Sues Hospital Over Wrongful Death of Wife | Brandon Wrongful Death Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24217 — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Wrongful Death
Where: Brandon
Who: Mable Mosley | Alvie Mosley

A man whose wife died last year after entering the hospital with complaints of shoulder and neck pain, is now sueing the hospital for her wrongful death. Mable Mosley checked into Brandon Regional Hospital complaining of shoulder and neck pain on a Saturday, last year. She was administered the drug, Duragesic, and reportedly, died from what the hospital described as "choking on her own vomit".

Alvie Mosley, Mosley's husband, alleges the death of his wife was due to the pain medication and states the hospital gave his wife too much of the drug, which contains high concentrations of the narcotic fentanyl. According to the article, Duragesic " should be used only by "opioid-tolerant" people, or people who have taken strong doses of opioids for at least a week."

A statement released by the Food and Drug Administration, reports the drug can be fatal if given in large amounts and to people who are not opioid-tolerant.

If you or someone you know has been affected by a wrongful death, contact a personal injury and wrongful death lawyer to help guide you through the process. This is the first best step you can take to help recover from the loss of a loved one.

Accident in Pasco County Kills Women | New Port Richey Car Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24026 — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Pasco County | Little Road and Grove Road | New Port Richey
Who: Muriel Sinville Vitale | Joshua Michael Brown

According to a report by the St. Pete Times, a 86 year old women has died in a accident in Pasco when she came into contact with a truck. The Florida Highway Patrol said Muriel Sinville Vitale of Port Richey was driving her 2000 Chevrolet Prizm north on Little Road just before 3 p.m. She turned left at Grove Road into the path of Joshua Michael Brown's southbound 2003 Ford F-150. Brown had been taken the hosptial and the report stated he had a 1 year old, Emma Brown, in the truck with him as well but was not injured in the accident.

Motorcycle Accident on Indian Rocks Beach Bridge Kills 1 | Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24021 — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Motorcycle Accident
Where: Indian Rocks Beach Bridge
Who: Travis Eugene Fales
Source: St. Pete Times

In a Indian Rocks Beach Bridge motorcycle accident, Travis Eugene Fales was traveling at a high rate of speed and lost control of his motorcycle, causing him to slide off the bike and into the concrete rail after being ejected from the bike. Fales was not wearing a motorcycle helmet when the crash occured on the bridge. As reported by the police, speed was a factor in the death.

5 Year Old Boy Dies After Accident in Plant City | Plant City Car Accident and Child Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24017 — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident involving a Child
Where: Plant City US 92 Branch Forbes Road
Who: Luis Contrerus | Mario Lopez | Eduardo Ruiz

A 5 year old child who was involved in a six person accident on Christmas in Plant City has died from his injuries as reported by the St. Pete Times. According to the report and the Florida Highway Patrol, "Luis Contrerus was in a car being driven by 25-year-old Mario Lopez when the accident occurred. Lopez was on U.S. 92 when he made a left turn into the path of a 2006 Chrysler 300M being driven by Eduardo Ruiz, 25, of Plant City."

The accident happened near Branch Forbes Road. Lopez was arrested on charges of driving without a license and providing false information to a law enforcement officer. All of the other people involved in the accident were taken to the hospital with serious injuries. All were wearing seatbelts.

Dunedin Crash on State Road 580 Sends One to Hospital | Dunedin Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)24016 — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What:: Car Accident
Where: Dunedin on State Road 580
Who: Unknown Driver

Early Monday morning a one vehicle car crash sent one to the hospital in Dunedin on State Road 580. The driver, who is unidentified at the time of the report, crashed on State Road 580 in Dunedin into a building and a power pole. The driver was then rushed to the hospital with the assistance of a Bayfront Medical Helicopter, reportedly, with life threatening injuries.

Local Hillsborough Firefighter Dies in NC Accident | Hillsborough Car Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23866 — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: NC North Carolina
Who: Hillsborough County Firefighter Joseph Anthony Pipitone

A recent car accident reported in the St. Pete Times that a local Hillsborough Firefighter was involved in a deadly NC accident is simply a tragedy. According to the article, "Joseph Anthony Pipitone was a firefighter at Hillsborough County's Station 40, he was on his way to or from Waynesville, N.C,, where he spent the other half of his life whipping up homemade soups and sandwiches for Nico's Cafe, a Cuban-Italian diner he opened five years ago with his wife, Michelle."

The couple had planned for their retirement to own the cafe. As reported, Highway officials said his Ford Focus slid off a private road and down an embankment, throwing Pipitone from the vehicle not far from his home when he was on his way to pick up some groceries for his family.

The memorial services are today at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Tampa.

Crash on US 301 Kills One | US 301 Car Accident Lawyer Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23864 — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: US 301 I4 in Tampa
Who: Driver Unknown

In a late night accident on US 301, a driver of a Nissan Xterra has died in a car accident near I4 on the exit ramp. According to the report, "the SUV was heading south on the 301 exit ramp to Interstate 4 about 11 p.m. when the driver lost control of the vehicle, which slid off the road into a large metal light pole in the shoulder." The driver has not been identified as stated by the Florida State Troopers that reported the accident.

Off-duty St. Petersburg Police Officer Involved in Hit and Run Accident | St. Pete Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23767 — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: St. Petersburg | 38th Ave. & 4th Street
Who: police officer | Anthony Green | Phillip Meylan
What: hit and run accident

An off-duty St. Petersburg police officer, Anthony Green, according to a news report , who was drunk, was allegedly involved in two hit and run accidents in St. Petersburg on Friday, December 18th.

According to reports, Green was found drunk in his vehicle by police officers at his Shore Acres home after he rear-ended a car of teenagers from Shorecrest Preparatory School. One of the teens, Phillip Meylan reports his car was hit with such force by a Toyota Camry driven by Green, while stopped at a red light, that its back wheels were lifted.

Before Green struck the car at 38th Avenue North, he apparently struck another car at 35th Avenue North while driving north on Fourth Street. Green, a four year veteran of the police force, was driving up on the median when the passenger-side mirror on his Toyota Camry struck the side-view mirror of a Honda. The driver was not injured in the crash.

Green is on administrative leave while the accidents are under investigation.

Pinellas Bayway Reopens After Accident | St. Petersburg Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23583 — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Road Reopens After Accident
Where: Pinellas Bayway in St. Petersburg

The Pinellas Bayway on ramp has reopened after the accident with the cement truck caused a hole in the roadway. The on ramp road in St. Petersburg had been closed since Monday, making early morning travelers take a alternate route. According to the St. Pete Times article about the accident, " One lane opened Wednesday morning; the other opened later in the day. Officials had expected the repairs to be finished by Thursday. The ramp had been closed since about 1 p.m. Monday". The morning commute will be alot easier with this road reopened.

Dog That Killed Pasco County Toddler Euthanized | Pasco County Child Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23497 — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Dog Attack | Pasco County
Who: Dallas Walters | 20-month-old toddler
Where: Pasco County

The rottweiller mix dog that tragically attacked and killed 20-month-old toddler, Dallas Walters, over the weekend at his Great Aunt's house was quickly euthanized. The animal was turned over to Pasco County Animal Services.

Details of funeral services for the child and contact information about how to help the family is available at a link here.

Semi-Truck Overturns and Crashes on I-275 in St. Pete | St. Petersburg Truck Crash lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23481 — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Semi-Truck Crash
Where: I-275 | Pinellas Bayway | St. Petersburg
Who: Preferred Materials Truck driver injured

An I-275 ramp will be closed until at least Thursday, when one lane may be opened, after the driver of a Preferred Materials cement semi-truck hit a guard rail while exiting and overturned.

As a result of the crash, the truck's cement tank came loose, spilling cement all over the roadway and knocking a very large hole in the pavement, according to a news report.

The repairs are expected to take weeks to repair.

The truck driver was taken to Bayfront Medical Center with injuries.

Citrus County School Bus Driver Cited for Careless Driving in Crash | Citrus County Bus Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23478 — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: County Rd. 491 | County Rd 486
Who: Bonnie Tucker | Diane Nix | Joshua White
What: School Bus Crash

Citrus County school bus driver, Bonnie Tucker was cited for careless driving when she failed to stop and as a result, rear-ended a car driven by Joshua White; and then another school bus, operated by Diane Nix of Lecanto. Both White and Nix were stopped in traffic. White's car was pushed off the road according to reports.

The Florida Highway Patrol reports ,Tucker crashed when she became distracted by her dispatch radio and failed to stop in traffic.

Tucker was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital with serious injuries. There were several other minor injuries including those suffered by several Lecanto High School students who were treated at area hospitals.

The FHP continues their investigation of the bus collision.

Deadly Hit and Run in Pasco on SR 52 | Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Pasco

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23356 — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Deadly Hit and Run Car Accident
Where: SR 52 in Pasco County near Moon Lake Road
Who: Marie A Magee

In a deadly hit and run accident a 56 year old women has died and the suspect is still at large. Marie A. Magee was walking on State Road 52 near Ashton Oaks Apartments in Hudson when a car hit her and drove away, heading east on Moon Lake Road, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Reported by and Thanks to St. Pete Times, The Florida Highway Patrol said the car may be a black 2001 Ford Ranger and probably has right front end damage and a broken headlight. They ask that anyone with information call the Florida Highway Patrol at 727-841-4181, Ext 0.

Tampa Police Crackdown on Pedestrian Accidents | Tampa Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23354 — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident Crackdown
Where: Tampa | Kennedy Boulevard and North Boulevard
Source: St. Pete Times

The Tampa Police Department plan to crackdown on pedestrian accidents starting this Tuesday for two days. The pedestrian accident crackdown begins at 8 a.m. at two downtown locations: Kennedy Boulevard and Florida Avenue and Kennedy Boulevard and N Boulevard. According to the article, "Of the 41 Tampa traffic deaths in 2009, 19 were pedestrians. A recent national transportation study ranked the Tampa Bay area the second most dangerous in the country for foot traffic." We have reported on this alarming statistic recently.

The startling fact though is that more than 70 percent of pedestrian accidents happen outside of crosswalks, police said.

Statistics taken from the article:

Tampa pedestrian fatalities

2007: 16 out of 37 total traffic fatalities

2008: 12 out of 32

2009 (through December 8): 19 out of 41

St. Petersburg pedestrian fatalities

2008: 11 out of 33 total traffic fatalities

2009: 7 out of 23

Be on the lookout! Check our pedestrian accident resource for more pedestrian | crosswalk safety tips!

Teen Killed in Polk County after being Hit By Car | Polk County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23333 — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident | Fatal Accident
Where: Polk County | Lakeland | Old Dixie Hwy
Who: Colton Meyers
Source: ABC Action News

A 14 year old boy has been killed when he was struck by a car crossing a road in Lakeland in Polk County. The boy, Colton Meyers, was trying to cross near Old Dixie Hwy and Taylor Rd South when he was struck by a car trying to pass another. Meyers was taken by medical helicopter to Tampa General Hospital in critical condition and was later pronounced dead.

Car Accident Causes Death on I-75 Near Ellenton | Ellenton Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23328 — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: I-75 in Manatee County near Ellenton
Who: Unknown at this time

A fatal accident on Saturday in Manatee County, led to one death and two other people being transported to Bayfront Medical Center. No details of the accident are known, but the Florida Highway Patrol confirmed the fatality. Check back or subscribe to our blog for more details.

Pinellas Park Car Accident Kills Woman | Pinellas Park Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23327 — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Pinellas Park | US 19 Near Mainlands
Who: June Simkins | Arthur Vandomo | Charles Lewis
Source: St. Pete Times

In a 3- car- accident in Pinellas Park, a St. Petersburg woman was killed near US 19 and Mainlands. According to a report by Pinellas Park Police, the victim, June Simkins, was waiting at a stop light on US 19 when she was struck from behind by 85 year- old Arthur Vandomo, and then struck again after being pushed into the intersection by Charles Lewis. June Simkins died from the injuries from the crash. The investigation is still being held and no charges have been filed yet. Vandomo and Lewis were not injured.

Fatal Motorcycle Crash | Indian Rocks Bridge | Fatal Accident Lawyer Indian Rocks

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23304 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Motorcycle Crash
Where: 5th Ave & Indian Rocks Bridge | S.R. 688
Who: Robin Meyer, 59

A fatal motocycle accident took the life of 59-year-old Robin Meyer on Saturday, December 12, 2009.

TBO.com reported the motorcyclist, according to witnesses, was driving in the median when he lost control, hit the bridge guardrail and crashed into a concrete barrier.

Meyer was ejected from his motorcycle and thrown into traffic lanes. The bridge was closed for several hours following the crash.

Pasco County Toddler Killed in Dog Attack | New Port Richey Dog Attack Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23303 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: New Port Richer | Pasco County | Moon Lake
When: Saturday, December 12, 2009
What: 20 month-old Dallas Walters | fatal dog attack Dog Bite

A family birthday party, on Jerome Drive in Moon Lake, turned into a horrific tragedy on Saturday night.

A news article reported 20-month-old Dallas Walters was fatally attacked by a rottweiller, a family dog, at a birthday party at his aunt's house.

Reportedly, the toddler dropped a cookie he was eating on the floor and when he reached to grab it, the dog attacked. Family members immediately pulled the dog from the child, who was taken to Northbay Hospital in New Port Richey, where he was tragically, pronounced dead.

The animal has been taken into possession.

UPDATE:Visitation for Dallas will be from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday at Dobies Funeral Home, 9944 Hudson Ave., Hudson. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m., followed by burial at Grace Memorial Gardens, 17007 U.S. 19, Hudson.

Pitbull Attack Victim Recovering | Tampa Dog Bite and Attack Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23228 — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Dog Bite Pitbull
Where: Tampa | Wood Lake Boulevard
Who: Kelly Doxsey
Source: Tampa Tribune

Kelly Doxsey is recovering from a dog bite attack which happened on November 23rd. Doxsey was attacked by a pitbull while walking with her dog and her 7 -year- old niece on the side walk on Wood Lake Boulevard in the Town 'N Country area in Tampa. The pitbull charged at them and bit Doxsey but finally let go when someone from the dog owner's property came outside. Paramedics took Doxsey to the hospital where she has undergone several surgeries to repair the damage. Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office cited a man who should have been dog sitting and the pitbull was put down.

Clearwater Man Dies in Scooter Crash | Fatal Scooter Accident Lawyer | Clearwater

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23178 — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Scooter | Car Crash | fatal accident
Where: 49th Street | Pinellas Park
Who: Robert Santomaso | Jasper Quach

A news article reports a Clearwater man, Robert Santomaso, 53, who was driving a scooter died after he crashed with a car driven by Jasper Quach, 18.

Santomaso, was driving a European scooter, without a helmet, on 49th St. heading north when he hit a 2008 Mazda driven by Quach, who was driving south on 49th St. about to turn onto U.S. 19.

Reportedly, Quach "quickly turned in front of Santomaso, causing him to hit the ride side door of the Mazda."

Police report the eighteen- year- old driver saw the scooter but thought Santomaso was so far to the right that he believed he was going to drive onto the U.S. 19 ramp, instead of continuing straight.

The fatal scooter accident is under investigation but police have said neither alcohol or speed appear to be factors.

Fatal Hit-and-Run Driver Scolds Child as Sister Lay Dying | Florida Hit-and-Run Fatal Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23170 — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident | Car crash with Scooter
Where: Boynton Beach Florida | Southwest 9th Ave at Southwest 3rd Street
Who: Leticia Flores | Darness Brown | Darneisha Ellis

Leticia Flores, 28, was arrested for leaving the scene of a crash involving a death, at Southwest 9th Ave and Southwest 3rd St in Boynton Beach.

Darness Brown, 10, was fatally injured and her sister, Darneisha Ellis, 13, suffered minor injuries, when their scooter was struck by a maroon Honda SUV driven by Flores.

Flores, who was driving without a license, reportedly, scolded the children for playing in the road and then left the scene of the crash. She later said she left because others had stopped to help the children.

The family of the children were understandably upset at the bond hearing for Flores.

The judge said he had concerns about Flores' immigration status.

Watch for new Signage as FDOT Completes Traffic Re-routing Around TIA | Tampa Bay Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23166 — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Tampa Bay Traffic Re-Routing | TIA
Who: Florida Department of Transportion
When: December 2009

The $215 million reconstruction project Tampa Bay commuters have been enduring is near completion!

After months of confusing lane shifts and changing exits around I-75 and S. R. 60, the FDOT is finished with that part of the road project.

Look for another lane out of TIA to open before Christmas - other than that the remaining road work includes painting, resurfacing and landscaping reports a FDOT spokesperson.

A news report asserts the DOT has installed signs to help guide Tampa Bay commuters to correct lanes. Traffic patterns should be improving and flowing better over the next week according to reports.

Buckle up and avoid accidents by driving safely and defensively!

Hit-and-Run Wheelchair User Seriously Injured | St. Petersburg Hit-and-Run Accident and Injury lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23165 — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Hit-and-Run Accident with Serious Injury | Pedestrian Crosswalk
Where: 16th ST. S. and 13th Ave. S | St. Petersburg
When: December 8, 2009
Who: Shirley Ann Lavine

A 55-year-old woman, Shirley Ann Lavine, was attempting to cross the road at 16th St. S. near 13th Ave. S., within a crosswalk in her wheelchair, when she was hit by a car in St. Petersburg. Seriously injured, Lavine, was thrown 170 ft. during the crash and was taken to Bayfront Medical Center. The driver of the car left the scene, speeding driving down 14 St. S. according to a Bay News 9 report.

Authorities are looking for a mid-size light-colored car possibly with a Loyola University front license plate in this hit-and-run accident.
Police are asking if anyone has any information to please call detectives at 727-893-7780.

Man in Wheelchair Killed Crossing US 41 | Bradenton Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23059 — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident
Where: Brandenton | US 41
Who: Theodore C Evans | Robert L Stannard

Theodore C. Evans of Bradenton was crossing US 41 near 66th Avenue North Monday night when he was struck and killed. According to the Tampa Tribune article, "He had crossed the northbound lanes and ended up in the center turn lane, where he was it by a southbound 1999 Ford Expedition driven by Robert L. Stannard, 69, Bradenton." The accident lead to no injuries of the passengers in the car, and no citations were given.

Single Car Crash in Polk Claims One | Polk Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23057 — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Single Car Accident
Where: Polk
Who: Joseph A Geick and three passengers
Source: Tampa Tribune

A single car crash happened in Polk where a car lost control and flipped and landed on its roof near Starling and Eagle Lake Loop roads. Joseph A. Geick of Winter Haven was driving his Ford Tarus when he lost control going around the loop and flipped the car on the roof. Three of his passengers were not injured in the accident, but Geick was partially ejected and died at the scene.

School Bus Runs Red Light and Crashing into Car in Hillsborough | Hillsborough Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)23050 — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident with School Bus
Where: Hillsborough | 17th Avenue
Who: Andrew Dixon | Dabarash Santiago-Albizu

In a school bus accident that led to a crash with another car, Andrew Dixon was driving the school bus in route to Phillips Shore Elementry School when he ran a red light on 17th Avenue in Hillsborough, crashing into another car driven by Dabarash Santiago-Albizu. The crash involved some school children who suffered minor injuries and were taken home from the scene. Albizu was taken to Tampa General Hospital with minor injuries. The school bus driver Dixon was cited for running a red light.

Be sure to check out other blog entries and subscribe to our blog!

34th Street In St. Petersburg Pedestrian Accident | Pedestrian Death Lawyer in St. Petersburg

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22999 — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: St. Petersburg | 34th Street
When: Friday | December 4, 2009
What: Pedestrian Fatal Accident
Who: Robert E. Fields | Barbara E. Cali

A pedestrian, Robert E. Fields, 53, was fatally injured on Friday, December 4, 2009, as he was attempting to cross 34th Street in St. Petersburg in the 300 block.

Fields was hit by a car driven by Barbara E. Cali, 27, of Bradenton, in the fatal accident. According to a St. Petersburg news article, Fields stepped off the median when he was struck by Cali's Mazda sedan as it headed south in the middle lane.

Fields died at Bayfront Medical Center. Although the details of the accident are unclear at this time, this is yet another tragic story of a pedestrian and car collision on our local roads.

Pedestrian Injured in US 19 Crash in Clearwater | Clearwater Pedestrian Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22869 — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident
Where: Clearwater | Bellair and Nursey Roads
Who: Ivonne B Ramos-Solis | Terry L Howell
Source: Sp Times

Around 5 pm, the usual rush hour traffic was backed on US 19 in Clearwater at Belleair and Nursey Roads due to a pedestrian accident. Ivonne B. Ramos-Solis, the pedestrian, was trying to cross the intersection and had the signal that allowed her to do so, but was struck by a car driven by Terry L. Howell of Ohio. Ramos-Solis was taken to Bayfront Medical Center with critically serious injuries.

The investigation continues. Police officers closed the northbound lanes of U.S. 19 at Belleair Road for the investigation, which held up traffic.

St. Petersburg Officer Hit in Crash | St. Petersburg Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22868 — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Motorcycle Accident
Where: St. Petersburg | 34th Street and 5th Street
Who: Officer Randall Bricker | Destiny Bedonia Valentine

A St. Petersburg officer was hit by a SUV while crossing an intersection in St. Petersburg at 34th Street and 5th Street.

The officer, Randall Bricker, was crossing the intersection while the light turned yellow and was hit by a 2003 SUV driven by 18- year -old Destiny Bedonia Valentine.

The crash sent the officer to the hospital with minor injuries and Valentine refused medical treatment. The investigation continues.

Elderly Women Hit While Crossing Street | Brandon Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22867 — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident | Death
Where: Brandon | Bloomingdale and Patterson Road
Who: Julia Jacobson | Joseph Stevens

An elderly woman who lived at an assisted living facility was killed when she was struck by a car while trying to cross the street in Brandon reports a recent news article. Julia Jacobson who lived at the Claridge House at the Bridges, was trying to cross Bloomingdale Avenue and Patterson Road when she was struck by a car driven by Joseph Stevens when she crossed into his path. The death is still being investigated. The assisted living facility did not comment on why Jacobson was out by herself.

5 Deaths in Van Rollover Crash | Florida Fatal Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22682 — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: November 29, 2009
Where: Interstate 10 | Baton Rouge Louisiana
What: Van Roll-over crash | 5 deaths

Tragically, a mini-van filled with children crashed on Interstate-10 when the front tire blew, causing the driver to clip a delivery truck and roll over several times.

A police report stated the driver of the van and four children died. The van was carrying 13 children, many of whom were critically injured in the crash.

According to news reports, only the driver and the front seat passenger were wearing seat belts.

Louisiana just passed legislation requiring seat belts to be worn in both the front and back seats of a car.

This was a horrific accident and another sad reminder of the importance of buckling up and safely transporting children in either child safety restraint seats or booster seats, according to their size and age.

Car Crash in Ruskin Kills Family of 3 | Ruskin Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22606 — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Ruskin | Hillsborough County | Intersection of 30th Street SE and 21st Avenue SE
Who: Eduardo Herrera Sr. | Gerald, Sylvia and son, Jarod Pittman

A two vehicle crash in Ruskin in Hillsborough County killed three family members and injured another. The vehicles involved in the crash were a sedan and an SUV.

The Pittman family, Gerald Jr., 29, Sylvia, 27, and their five-year-old son, Jarod, all tragically died at the scene of the crash when their sedan slammed into a pole. The accident happened at the intersection of 30th Street SE and 21st Avenue SE.

Although details of the accident are unclear at this point, reports state that Sylvia Pittman ran a stop sign and hit an SUV driven by Eduardo Herrera Sr., who deputies say appeared to have been drinking.

Sheriff's office spokesman, J.D. Callaway stated a DUI investigation is under way on Herrera-Loa to determine "if there's any culpability on his part."

Car Hits Pedestrian on Gulf to Bay | Clearwater Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22602 — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident
Where: Gulf to Bay Boulevard | Keene Road | Clearwater
Who: Patricia Syraski

In an accident in which a pedestrian was hit by a car on Gulf To Bay Boulevard and Keene Road, the victim was transported by helicopter to the hospital due to the injuries in which were incurred. The pedestrian accident closed westbound lanes of Gulf to Bay near Keene. Patricia Syraski, a nurse, struck the pedestrian and began to do CPR on the victim after the accident.

Charges Pending in Tiger Woods Car Crash | Car Crash Lawyer in Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22584 — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: Friday, November 27, 2009
Where: Isleworth |Orange County | Florida
What: Golfer Tiger Woods | Car Crash

Famous golfer, Tiger Woods received minor injuries after crashing his car into a fire hydrant and a neighbor's tree on Friday morning in his gated community of Isleworth, near Orlando Florida.

Reports say he was found by police bleeding and semi-conscious on the ground near his vehicle. His wife told authorities she had smashed the rear window of his sport-utility vehicle with a golf club to try to rescue Mr. Woods.Woods has accepted responsibility for the driving accident in which he received facial lacerations.

There was much speculation following the car crash. A man who worked out with the well known golfer at a fitness center after knee injury forced Woods to have major knee surgery, stated he hoped the accident would not adversely affect his future on the links.

Woods took an eight-month break from the game following surgery and returned to tournament play in February.

The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the car crash and charges are pending.

Photographs Seen on Facebook Used to Deny Disability Claim | Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22554 — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: November 2009
Where: Canada
What: Disability Insurance Denied | Facebook photographs

A Wall Street Journal news article reported a woman who was receiving benefits from a disability insurance company for major depression was denied benefits for sick-leave after photographs were posted on Facebook of her enjoying herself on vacation.

She had been diagnosed with depression and was receiving disability payments from her insurance company. Her psychiatrist recommended that she go on vacation when she was feeling depressed. She took several 4-day trips including a cruise.

Like many people, she posted photos of her cruise on her Facebook account for her friends to enjoy. Her disability insurance company, as part of its continuing investigation of her claim, found her Facebook page and stopped her disability payments. They felt the photos showed that she was not too depressed to work.

She and her lawyer are attempting to fight her denial of benefits, but she is concerned it may be difficult to win.

As a Florida Personal Injury Lawyer, our offfice encourages clients to discontinue use of Facebook anytime they have an injury claim pending, in order to prevent this kind of misunderstanding from occuring.

Alleged Misdiagnosis of Foot Fracture Results in Medical Malpractice Law Suit Florida Medical Malpractice Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22550 — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Karen Stuckless, of Ft. McMurray Alberta, Canada, suffered a fall resulting in foot pain and swelling in her upper foot and ankle. Despite repeated visits to the hospital and her physician, she received inconsistent treatment and alleged misdiagnosis.

A news article reported that ultimately a CT Scan was ordered by an Orthopedic Surgeon which revealed an undiagnosed foot fracture which had healed out of position, requiring extensive corrective surgery. She also was diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Distrophy, (Global Pain Syndrome.)

She has filed a medical malpractice lawsuit in Canada demanding $475,000 in damages.

Woman Dies in Tampa Crash Thanksgiving Night | Tampa Fatal Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22501 — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: Thanksgiving Night, November 25, 2009
Where: North 34th St and East Ellicott Ave | Tampa
What: Car Crash | Death

A car crash in Tampa at the intersection of N. 34th St. and E. Ellicott Ave. sent three people to the hospital, and fatally injured another driver. The crash occurred on Thanksgiving night.

Reports state that James Alexander Canadiate, 29, the driver of a 1994 Infinity J30 struck a 2003 Ford Taurus that had just stopped at a stop sign and moved into the intersection.

The driver of the Taurus, Betty Jean Tolbert, 49, was killed in the crash.

All three occupants of the Infinity, including Candiate's pregnant wife, Kechia Fulks, 35, and 3-year-old Elijah Canadiate, were taken to St. Joseph's Hospital where they were listed in stable condition, police said.

The wreck is under investigation. It is not know whether speed or alcohol played a part in the accident.

"Survivor's Guide to Florida Wrongful Death Claims" by Personal Injury Lawyer Jim Dodson

3 UT Students in Car Crash on Davis Island | Car Crash Lawyer Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22399 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: Tampa | Davis Island
When: November 24, 2009
What: Car Crash | 3 University of Tampa Students

University of Tampa is still reeling from the sad news of the death of Erik Nicoletti, the tragic victim of a weekend hit-and-run accident on Kennedy Blvd.

-And now news reports say 3 students (from the university) crashed a car on Davis Island early Tuesday morning. Police report Michael L. Fernand, 20, lost control of his car and crashed into a concrete wall. Two passengers were in the car, Michelle Sams and Jorge Jimenez, both 20.

Reports say Sams, who was in the back seat, lost alot of blood and was taken to Tampa General Hospital, She has a lacerated liver and is in critical condition. Fernand and Jimenez were treated for minor injuries.

Bob Uray, the Dean of Students at UT, said the school has received calls from concerned parents. The school plans a formal address to students on personal safety.

Dangerous Children's Toys | Florida Child Injury Lawyer | St. Petersburg

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22394 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: November 24, 2009
Where: St. Petersburg | All Children's Hospital
What: Dangerous Toys Presentation | Florida Public Interest Research Group

The Florida Public Interest Research Group presented a report at All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg alerting parents to toys that could be dangerous for their children. The advocacy group also has a new website, http://toysafety.mobi, which allows parents to post problems or concerns with toys and also check the safety of toys.

Emergency room doctor, Ricardo Jimenez, reported in a news article, that All Children's hospital sees many toy-related injuries every year. Jimenez asserts all toy-related injuries are preventable.

Among those he listed were choking, the most common fatal injury, eye injuries, aspiration and strangulations.

St. Petersburg Man Killed Crossing Street | Pedestrian Wrongful Death Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22227 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident | Death
Where: St. Petersburg | 62nd Avenue
Who: Geoffrey C Owen | Kathleen Edyth Prince

In a pedestrian accident, a St. Petersburg man was killed trying to cross a St. Petersburg street. Geoffrey C. Owen was crossing 62nd Avenue N were he stepped infront of a Toyota Echo driven by Kathleen Edyth Prince. The Florida Highway patrol is still investigating this accident.

St. Petersburg Crash Injures 3 | St. Petersburg Car Crash Lawyer Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22219 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: St. Petersburg | 15th Avenue
Who: Nathan Anthony Williams | Javantae Rashad | Deontae Ramon Ross

In a St. Petersburg car accident, three were injured when a car ran over a curb at a high rate of speed then flipped and crashed into a fence landing on a tree. According to the report, Williams was on 15th Avenue S at a high rate of speed about 2:25 p.m. in 1997 Ford Crown Victoria when he hit a curb at the intersection of 46th Street. Nathan Anthony Williams and his passengers, Javantae Rashad Ross and Deontae Ramon Ross were taken to Bayfront Medical Center. The investigation continues into this accident.

Hit and Run Victim Finally Going Home | Safety Harbor Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22218 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Andrew Hall Accident

In the tragic event of Andrew Hall, he is finally going home after the accident in which he lost one of his legs. As it stated in the orginial article,

On the morning of April 20, Andrew Hall, 19, was standing outside his apartment, waiting for a friend.

Then the Honda slammed into his body, and witness Krista Hyde called 911. Read the complete story about Andrew Hall here.

Van Carrying Children Blows Rear Tire and Flips | Child Injury Lawyer Tampa | St. Petersburg

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22217 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: Sunday, November 22, 2009
Where: I-275 | Lois Ave. Exit
What: 15 Passenger Van Crash | Tire Blew

Fourteen people, mostly children, were taken to area hospitals on Sunday, after the 15 -passenger van in which they were riding blew a rear tire and crashed into a median and flipped on its side. Ruthie Maynard-Jones was part of a caravan of parents, coaches and siblings following behind the Ford-E-250 when it hit the concrete barrier.

Reports say fortunately, none of the injuries suffered in the impact were thought to be life-threatening. The young people, mostly girls were returning from a cheerleading competition in Lakeland when the crash occurred. They are part of an organization called the Childs Park Rattlers, a youth football and cheerleading organization in St. Petersburg.

The children involved were: Tiara Cooper, 12; Angela Collins, 13; Jamesha Harris, 13; Diaminique Jordan, 12; Deasia Land, 11; Erica Lee, 12; Tatiana Martin,11; Kalin Spivey, 13; Bashyala Williams, 11; Teema Cooper, 15; Deosha Dandy, 15; Rashauna Garvy, 13; Tekerra Lambert, 13; Teanna Spinks, 15; and James Boone, whose date of birth was unknown.

Man Charged in Tampa Pedestrian Hit-and-Run | Tampa Pedestrian Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22215 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: Saturday, November 21, 2009
Where: Tampa | Hillsborough County | Kennedy Blvd.
What: Hit-and-Run Pedestrian crash | brain injuries

Andres Trujillo was arrested on Sunday for his involvement in a hit-and-run accident which tragically left Erik V. Nicoletti, a 20-year-old University of Tampa student, in critical condition and on life support at Tampa General, according to a morning Tampa Bay news article .

Nicoletti's friend, Cree Alisha Riley, 19, was also seriously injured in the impact, but her condition is now reportedly, stable and improving.

This horrific accident is a tragic example of the need to carry uninsured motorist coverage on your own vehicle, which will cover you as a pedestrian if you are hit by an under-insured driver.

Pedestrian Struck by Bus in Hillsborough County | Hillsborough County Pedestrian Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22196 — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: Tampa | Bruce B. Downs Blvd
When: November 21, 2009
What: Pedestrian Collision with Bus

A Hillsborough County Regional Transit Authority bus, which was not carrying passengers, struck and killed a man early on Saturday in Tampa.

The bus driver, Carl M. Darby, 61, was not at fault according to news information from the sheriff's office about the collision.

The pedestrian, Robert L. Lewis, 66, apparently did not see the bus coming when he stepped into its path on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. across from the James A. Haley VA Medical Center.

Head-on Collision Injures Deputy and Driver | Pinellas County Car Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22193 — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: Dunedin | Bayshore Drive | Pinellas County
When: Saturday, November 21, 2009
What: Head-on collision | Sheriff deputy | driver

A Pinellas County Sheriff Deputy was involved in a head-on collision with a wrong-way driver. Deputy, Jana Demperio, 42, was driving north on Bayshore Blvd. in Dunedin when a vehicle driven by Marie Elise Spirtos of Tarpon Springs struck Demperio's cruiser.

Spirtos was taken to Mease Dunedin Hospital with injuries. The collision happened at low speed according to a news article. Preliminary investigations indicate alcohol might have been a factor in the accident.

Deputy Demperio was also treated at the hospital for injuries from the crash.

Hit-and-Run Accident Critically Injures Two Tampa Pedestrians | Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22192 — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Who: Erik V. Nicoletti | Cree Alisha Riley
Where: Tampa | Kennedy Blvd
What: hit-and-run pedestrian accident

A University of Tampa student, Erik V. Nicoletti, 20, and friend, Cree Alisha Riley, 19, suffered critical injuries Saturday, on Kennedy Blvd, when a hit-and-run driver ran over the curb and onto the sidewalk, hitting both victims.

The driver of the grey sedan did not stop and later abandoned the car near the intersection of N. Dale Mabry and Lambright Ave.

Police are investigating the pedestrian crash and are looking for anyone who may have information to help in the investigation.

UT students, Steve DePalo and Matt DePietro say they watched as the car hit two people, not knowing until later, that one was their friend, Nicoletti. They were quoted in a news report saying they can't believe their friend is alive.

Nicoletti was taken to Tampa General Hospital where he is undergoing surgery. His family has flown in from New York to be by his side at the hospital.

Study: Pedestrians and Bicyclists Not Safe on Local Florida Roads | Florida Pedestrian and Bicyclist Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22172 — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Florida's road design has been cited for the reason the state was listed as a treacherous place to travel for pedestrians and bicycle riders. Results of the study have been released by Transportation for America and the Surface Transportation Policy Partnership in their study "Dangerous by Design."

An article in the St. Petersburg Times reports a stretch of U.S. 19 in Pasco County to be the most dangerous in the whole country! If you drive U.S. 19 from St. Petersburg to Spring Hill, you'll find a roadway that is 120 ft. wide, traffic traveling at Interstate speeds, interrupted sidewalks, infrequent crosswalks and a myriad of fast food restaurants and gas stations.

We're lacking the infrastructure to safely move people here locally. What do we need to prevent pedestrian and bicyclist injury and death? More and better sidewalks, wider medians, signals at intersections, marked crosswalks - what the report calls "complete streets."

DOT safety programs engineer, David Skrelunas, says the Tampa Bay area will "hopefully" get off the top of the list in these types of studies - next year.

Miley Cyrus' Tour Bus Driver Killed in Crash on I-85 | Florida Car and Bus Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22165 — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Bus Collision
Where: Interstate 85, south of Richmond Virginia
When: Friday, November 20, 2009

The driver of a tour bus belonging to popular entertainer, Miley Cyrus, was killed when the bus ran off the road, hit an embankment and overturned. The bus apparently skidded several hundred and landed on it's side in a ditch. Cyrus was not a passenger on the bus at the time of the crash.

Bus driver, William G. Douglas of Austin Texas died at the scene. Nine members of the production crew escaped the bus through a crashed windshield. One member, Marty Zilio, who was injured in the crash, was taken to the hospital .

The collision is under investigation. Speed and weather were not thought to be factors in the crash according to a CBS news report.

Local Tampa Police Officer Injured in Cozumel Car Crash | Tampa Car Crash Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22125 — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Cozumel Mexico | Tampa
Who: Andrea M Law | Officer

Officer Andrea M. Law was on vacation with her friends when it turned into a tragic event for the newly assigned resource officer for Stewart Middle School as reported by the St. Pete Times. Law left on a Carnival Cruise ship on Sunday headed to the Caribbean. She and four friends who rented a Jeep were involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle. All five of the people involved were injured. Only Law and one other person injured were flown back to the United States.

Early Morning Crash in Pinellas Park Kills Bicyclist | Pinellas Park Bicycle Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22118 — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Bicycle Accident
Where: Belcher Road and 118th Avenue | Pinellas Park
Who: Bicyclist Unknown at this time

In a tragic accident early Friday morning, a bicyclist was hit and killed in Pinellas Park. The accident happened at Belcher Road and 118th Avenue. As reported by a local news company, the accident is still under investigation. It is unclear whether the driver was at fault for the death. The report also showed the bicyclist was wearing the proper reflective material and that fog seemed to not be a factor in the accident. Check back for more updates.

Texting Driver Crashes into Bicyclist Causing Head Injury | Bicycle Head Injury Lawyer Clearwater

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22068 — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

While Florida law makers consider whether or not to pass legislation banning texting and driving here's yet another news story showing the dangers of this distracted behavior to public safety (other drivers, pedestrans, and bicyclists).

A New Jersey bicyclist, wearing reflective clothing was hit by a driver of a car who was texting while driving. Robert Scharrer drifted onto the shoulder of the road and crashed into cyclist, Lisa Granert of Cherry Hill.

Granert suffered head injuries and broken bones.
Scharrer was charged in the bike collision and was also charged with drug possession.
His text message was apparently about a drug deal.

Here Are the 2010 Top Safest Cars in Crash Tests | Florida Car Accident and Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22061 — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety released its top safety picks this week for the safest new vehicles.

Ford Motor Co. and its Volvo unit received the most awards, followed by Japanese automakers Subaru and German automaker Volkswagen AG and its Audi unit.

Subaru, with a 13% sales increase in 2009 attributes its safety success to a low sitting engine design that moves down and under passengers in the event of a front collision.

The number of awards was reduced substantially this year due to tougher requirements for roof strength, according to a news report. The Honda Accord and Ford Fusion dropped off the list because 2010 versions did not earn high enough scores on the roof test.

The Toyota Camry would have made the list if it had received the highest rating for rear crash protection. The Institute reported the Camry's seats and head restraints were rated marginal for protection against whiplash injuries.

Vehicles are selected for best protecting motorists in front, side and rear crash tests based on institute evaluations during the year. The vehicles must have electronic stability control (ESC) to qualify for the award.

The Institute's evaluations are used by car companies to lure safety-conscious consumers to showrooms.

Protect Your Children | Fire Safety 101 | Pinellas County Child Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22008 — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Five hundred forty children ages 14 and under die each year in home fires. Children ages 5 and under are 1.5 times as likely as the population, as a whole, to die in home fires.

This week a 6 year- old child in Port Richey died tragically in a house fire. Please go to our consumer advice document library where we have posted an article, entitled "Fire Safety 101" and read some valuable safety information for you and your family.

Prevent this tragedy from happening again.

5 Critical Factors Which Resulted in Substantial Florida Fall Case Settlement Part 2 | Florida Slip and Fall Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22002 — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Click here for the second of a two part article written by Florida Slip and Fall lawyer Jim Dodson. In the article, he lists five critical factors from a recently settled fall case which resulted in a substantial settlement for his client, who suffered serious injuries on an unsafe premise.

Hiring an experienced slip and fall lawyer is an important step in protecting your claim. Request a copy of Jim Dodson's FREE consumer guide, "Dangerous Trips to Avoid in Your Fall Case" and learn what you need to know to successfully pursue a fall claim.

Don't hurt your case after you've been injured!

Crist Wants Ban on Texting While Driving | Car Accident Lawyer in Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)22000 — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Texting While Driving Law
Who: Gov Charlie Crist

In an article released by Bay News 9, Gov. Charlie Crist wants the ban on texting while driving to happen immediately due to the dangers texting while driving poses to public safety. Crist urged Julie Jones, executive director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, to look to pass the bill.

We published a study of the effects of teen driving while texting, and it just confirms the dangers of this growing problem that Florida drivers are facing. This law is also opposed to talking on the cell phone while driving.

Pedestrian Hit By Car in Seminole Suffers Serious Injuries | Seminole Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21998 — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident
Where: Seminole | Seminole Boulevard
Who: Timothy G DeCamp Jr. | Jasmina Woltcheck

In a pedestrian injury accident in Seminole, Timothy G. DeCamp Jr was crossing Seminole Boulevard and was struck by a car. As officials said, Decamp was not in the designated crosswalk when he was hit. He was taken to Bayfront Medical Center with serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle was Jasmina Woltcheck. The accident is still being investigated by authorities.

Clearwater Man Dies in Bicycle Car Crash | Clearwater Bicycle Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21932 — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: November 17, 2009
Where: Clearwater, Martin Luther King Ave. and LaSalle
What: Bicycle Car Crash Death

A Clearwater man, Willie P. Nelson, 52, died at Morton Plant Hospital today from fatal injuries he sustained in a bicycle car crash from a report by the St. Pete Times.

Nelson, according to a report from Elizabeth Watts, public safety spokeswoman, was riding a bike when he may have failed to yield the right of way to a GMC van at the intersection.

Do You Have Smoke Detectors in Your Home? Child Dies in House Fire | Child Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21893 — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: Sunday, November 15, 2009
Where: Port Richey
What: 6 year-old killed in house fire

Gulf Highlands Elementary School student, Bryce Atkeson sadly, died of injuries he suffered when a fire broke out in his home Sunday night. The cause of the fire in being investigated according to a news report. Two other children were not injured in the fire but an adult resident of the home suffered second degree burns.

Three thousand people die in their home fires each year in the U.S. Fires often occur while people are asleep and the smoke may not awaken them until it is too late.

If you do not have smoke detectors in your home, get them!
Working smoke detectors should be on every level of your home, outside all sleeping areas and even inside each bedroom.
If you have them, check your batteries.
Replace batteries once a year.
And plan for the unexpected, make a family fire escape plan.

Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Reminder | Pedestrian Crosswalk Collision Lawyer | Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21884 — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

The recent "Dangerous by Design" report ranked cities nationally for pedestrian safety. Tampa and St. Petersburg were listed among the worst Florida cities, as we noted in a previous blog.

Pedestrian safety experts say motorists are less likely to yield to pedestrians in areas where speed limits are in excess of 30 mph. Many of our local streets have speed limits posted between 35-50 mph.

Just last week, I was driving on West Bay Drive in Largo, when the traffic slowed ahead of me and came to a stop momentarily. A woman pedestrian stepped off the curb (not at a designated crosswalk) and began to cross multiple lanes of traffic with drivers signaling her to cross with the "all is clear" sign. I feared for her safety! There was no way these motorists could predict how the unsuspecting drivers in the outside lanes would react to suddenly seeing a pedestrian in the road.

This was so dangerous and could have resulted tragically in a collision, with serious injury or even death.

Safety experts warn us to be safe, stay within designated crosswalks, even those that are well marked with signals and flashing lights are often ignored by motorists. And always make eye contact with motorists as you proceed across a roadway whether at a signal, stop sign or crosswalk.

Plant City Motorcyclist Dies in High Speed Crash | Plant City Motorcycycle Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21832 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Motorcycle Accident
Where: Frank Griffin Avenue | Plant City
Who: Jayques Andre Wright

A Plant City motorcyclist driving at a high rate of speed is dead after loosing control and crashing near Frank Griffin Avenue. The report from the scene was that Jayques Andre Wright was riding at a high rate of speed. As the report from the St. Pete Times states, Wright was not wearing a helmet. He was taken to South Florida Baptist Hospital where he later died.

Man from Plant City Motorcyclist Dies in High Speed Crash

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21828 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

3 Teens Killed in Car Crash into Canal | Coral Springs Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21813 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Coral Springs
Who: Sea Maxey | Evan Sinisgalli

In a report by the Tampa Tribune, 3 teens were killed when involved in a crash into a canal in Coral Springs. 16-year-old Sea Maxey was driving and was struck by another car. The car then continued to move in reverse and struck a guard rail and drove off the road into a canal. A passenger, Evan Sinisgalli, managed to escape before the vehicle went into the canal. The other passengers were killed in the crash.

Man Dies in Accident with Fire Engine | Brooksville Car Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21812 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident | Fire Truck
Where: Brooksville | Hernando County
Who: Christopher Carl Smith

A 9pm accident in Brooksville claimed the life of a man when the pickup truck he was driving came into contact with a fire engine. Christopher Carl Smith was heading east on Centralia Road in Hernando County when he struck the front of the Fire Truck. Smith died from his injuries and two of the fire department workers were injured, as well.

Pedestrian Killed on Hillsborough Ave Trying to Cross | Tampa Pedestrian Wrongful Death Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21808 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident
Where: Hillsborough Avenue near 34th Street Tampa
Who: Harold Darrell | Uknown Pedestrian | Willie Davis Jr

In a tragic event, a pedestrian was struck and killed by three cars while trying to cross Hillsborough Avenue near 34th Street in Tampa. Harold Darrell was driving on Hillsborough Avenue and did not see the man trying to cross the street against the crosswalk sign, and struck him. Two other cars, one driven by Willie Davis Jr., and another unknown driver hit the man also. The name of the pedestrian is not being released at this time.

4 Injured in Crash with Unmarked Police Car | St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21805 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident | Crash
Where: St. Petersburg
Who: Officer Gregory Shone | Lura Goldsmith

In an accident which occured late Sunday evening according to the St. Pete Times, an unmarked St. Petersburg police car and another vehicle crashed into each other injuring 4. Officer Gregory Shone was in pursuit to assist another officer when Lura Goldsmith pulled in front of Shone. Goldsmith was intoxicated when the accident occurred and was charged with driving with a suspended license. Goldsmith had two passengers with her who were taken to the hospital after the accident.

Suffered Damages Due to Someone Else's Negligence? Understanding Compensatory Damages | Florida injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21770 — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Have you suffered losses (loss of wages, mental anguish, pain and suffering, disability, medical expenses) because of the negligence of someone else?

Click the link here to find what compensation you may be entitled to receive. The information is provided by Florida injury and Medical Malpractice lawyer Jim Dodson and is listed in our Frequently Asked Questions library under compensatory damages.

Involved in Florida Accident and Don't Know What Damages You May Be Entitled To? | Accident and Personal Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21769 — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Maybe you or someone you know have suffered damages in a Florida accident. Click the link here to be taken to our accident and injury Frequently Asked Questions library. There personal injury lawyer Jim Dodson discusses what punitive damages are, who may be entitled to them and if they can be paid.

Oldsmar Crash Closes Tampa Road | Oldsmar Car Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21725 — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Oldsmar | Tampa Road
Who: Louis Anthony Diaz
In an accident this morning, Tampa Road is closed due to the crash near the railroad tracks at State Road 580. The accident occured about at 9:40 am. The investigation is ongoing and road closures were due to the authorities iinvestigating the crime scene.

Update: The man was killed at the scene of the accident. Louis Anthony Diaz. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Mr. Diaz.

Pasco Crash Injures 4 | Pasco County Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21723 — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident Crash
Who: Rose Mary Daniel | Kenneth Lester Stewart | Russell Monin | Nancy Morgan
Where: Kent Grove Road | Pasco County

In an accident that happened Thursday, Rose Mary Daniel, 59, of New Port Richey, was driving her 1994 Chevy Blazer south on Kent Grove Road about 4 p.m. when she rear-ended Kenneth Lester Stewart. Both vehicles were sent spinning off the road after the crash. Russell Monin and Nancy Morgan were passengers of Stewart and were injured in the crash. The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating whether alcohol was a factor.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities for Pedestrians Study | Pedestrian Injury Attorney in Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21702 — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

In a recent article by ABC News the top 10 most dangerous cities for pedestrians are identified. Several Florida cities are at the top of the list.

The report, by Transportation for America and the Surface Transportation Policy Partnership, asserts that states simply aren't spending enough to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility. The 10 most dangerous metropolitan areas for pedestrians in 2007-2008 were Orlando, Tampa, Miami and Jacksonville, Florida; Memphis, Tennessee; Raleigh, North Carolina; Louisville, Kentucky; Houston; Birmingham, Alabama; and Atlanta. Read more from the article "City Streets a Mortal Threat to Pedestrians".

Dancing With the Stars Lawrence Taylor in Crash in Florida | Florida Car Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21698 — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident | Crash
Where: Florida
Who: Lawrence Taylor

In a recent report, Lawrence Taylor, the ex-New York Giants linebacker, was allegedly charged with leaving the scene of an accident with property damage following the incident in Florida on Sunday. When questioned by authorities he reportedly said he hit a guard rail. Taylor was on the eighth season of Dancing With The Stars this past year.

US 19 Crash with Pedestrian and FHP Officer | Clearwater Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21578 — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident | Pedestrian Injury
Where: US 19 in Clearwater | Curlew Road
Who: Rlandy Abbarno | John Manna | Marion Carl Nest
Source: Sp Times

In the aftermath of a accident that happened late Tuesday night on US 19 in Clearwater which involved a Florida Highway Patrol Officer and a pedestrian, a truck driven by Rlandy Abbarno had struck the officer and the other cars at the scene of a earlier accident that was being cleaned up. Officer John Manna and pedestrian Marion Carl Nest were both taken to the hospital with injuries from the crash.

Study: Pedestrian Crashes Down in St. Petersburg | St. Petersburg Pedestrian Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21553 — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Some of the most dangerous places for pedestrians, according to a new report, are cities in the South – in areas that built streets mainly for automobiles. It's not surprising, the safest cities have many miles of bike lanes or sidewalks.

"Complete" streets is a term used by Transportation for America and the Surface Transportation Policy Partnership within metro areas that provide separate areas for walking or biking, or at least roads with clearly marked space for other forms of transportation.

A report by the Christian Science Monitor asserts that Florida is home to four of the five worst metro areas for walking or biking: Orlando-Kissimmee, Tampa-St. Petersburg, Miami-Fort Lauderdale, and Jacksonville. The other metro area listed in this group of five was Memphis, Tenn.

Many cities need to think about making their streets safer for all ages. Adding sidewalks and bike paths is necessary not only for public safety but also for public health. Elinor Ginzler, director for livable cities at AARP believes "infrastructure is not geared towards older individuals, which contributes to their higher death rate."

More money must be spent on bicycle and pedestrian safety in cities. Geoff Anderson, co-chair of Transportation for America reports, pedestrian deaths represent 11.8 percent of all traffic fatalities, but only 2 percent of highway funds are spent for pedestrian safety.

Although St. Petersburg ranked low in the past it has now made numerous improvements, thanks to Vision 2000 plan.
The city has installed 83 miles of infrastructure for bicycles, added 13 miles of sidewalks, and improved crosswalk safety. St. Pete has reduced pedestrian crashes by more than 50 percent since 2000, and serious injuries are down even more.

Unrestrained Child Injured in Tampa Car Crash | Injury Lawyer in Tampa Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21494 — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A child riding in his mother's lap, rather than in a child restraint seat, received injuries on Monday when his mother,
Yamile Campuzano-Martine, 36, lost control of her car which jumped the curb and crashed in the fish aquarium exhibit at the Tampa International Airport.

The woman was cited for careless driving and for not having the child in a proper child restraint device. Fortunately the child's injuries appear to be minor according to a news report .

Anyone, particularly parents, who take on the responsibility of transporting children in their car must assume the worst can always happen. -And it does all too frequently. I see it in my practice as a injury lawyer everyday. The child could have been seriously injured.

Never move a car, even a short distance, without ensuring you and your children are properly secured in seat belts. It's the law!

Actor James Woods Sues Hospital in Alleged Wrongful Death Claim | Wrongful Death Lawyer in Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21426 — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: Kent Hospital Rhode Island
Who: Actor James Woods
What: Wrongful Death | Medical Malpractice Lawsuit

A wrongful death lawsuit has been filed by actor James Woods against Kent Hospital in Rhode Island. Woods is seeking "justice" for his younger brother, Michael Woods, who died of an apparent heart attack in 2006.

Woods, a two time Oscar nominee claims his brother received negligent medical treatment and his wrongful death is at the hands of the hospital's staff, according to a news report.

A jury has been chosen and opening statement are to begin Monday, November 9, 2009.

If you are suffering from overwhelming consequences due to the unexpected death of a loved one, you have many unanswered questions. Request a no cost copy of Florida Wrongful Death lawyer Jim Dodson's consumer guide, "Survivor's Guide to Florida Wrongful Death Claims" before you make any decisions.

Young Boy Critically Injured in Clearwater Crash | Accident Lawyer in Clearwater

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21384 — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: Saturday, November 7, 2009
Where: Clearwater, Belcher Rd. and Cleveland St.
What: Car Crash | Child Critical Injury

A horrific Clearwater accident, at Belcher and Cleveland, has left a 7 year old boy with critical injuries. A news report states the car in which the child was riding ran a red light at the intersection and hit a pickup truck.

The child, police say, was not in a seat belt but was riding in the back cargo area of a Ford Explorer. He was ejected from the vehicle and became pinned between a pole and a third car that was hit by the pickup truck.

This tragedy is a stark reminder of the responsibility we undertake when we operate a car and transport a child or children.
Always assume the unexpected will happen.

Dunedin Man Dies in Motorcycle Pickup Truck Collision | Dunedin Motorcycle Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21360 — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: Dunedin, Curlew and Fisher Rds.
When: Friday, November 6, 2009
What: Motorcycle | Truck Collision

Pinellas County Sheriff's deputies report the death of a Dunedin man in a motorcycle truck collision. Daryl Miles, 44 of Dunedin, the driver of the motorcycle dies at Mease Countryside Hospital on Friday following an early morning crash.

Bay News 9 reported the accident occurred at Curlew and Fisher Rds. when Miles collided with a pickup truck driven by 16-year-old Jordan Francis. Francis and his sister, Brenda Francis, 15.

Investigators are still trying to determine who was at fault in this crash.

Golf Cart Safety for Sun City Center Gets Nod from Hillsborough County Commissioners | Hillsborough County Golf Cart Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21302 — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Who: Sun City Center Residents
Where: Hillsborough County, Tampa
What: Paved Golf Cart Path across U.S. 301

Sun City Center residents got what that have worked so hard for over the past 3 1/2years - a golf cart path that will safely allow them to cross busy U.S. 301 to Walmart. One thousand Americans are injured each month in golf cart collisions. Crossing a busy intersection such as this one without the added safety of a paved path leaves residents extremely vulnerable to suffering critical injury in an accident. An average golf cart weighs about 800 lbs. while an average motor vehicle weighs in at 4,000 lbs.

Hillsborough County commissioners obviously agree and voted unanimously this week to spend between $250,000 and $300,000 for the paved path, as was reported by the Tampa Tribune.

This mobilized group of residents organized, met with local politicians and gathered 4,400 signatures petitioning for political support. The group called themselves GolfCarts2Walmart!

Rick and Stan Whitcomb, developers of Commonwealth Office Plaza near the intersection, have agreed to grant the county an easement across their property for the cart path. Money for construction will come out of the county's critical accident mitigation fund, which can be used for practically any transportation project that concerns traffic or pedestrian safety, said Bob Gordon, public works director.

-Way to go Sun City Center, the voice of the people was heard!

Tampa Mom Checks on Her Teen Driver With Hidden Cameras | Tampa Accident and Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21236 — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A local Mom, whose teenage daughter had just learned to drive, was concerned about her safety. - A very natural response experienced by virtually all parents of new teen drivers.

Well, apparently Conchita Canty-Jones' concern was so much so, that she partnered with Tampa Bay's 10 and some technicians in a Pinellas Park business, Privacy Electronics, and had 2 pin- sized cameras installed in the family car to monitor her daughter, Coco's new driving skills over the course of six days.

Research statistics have shown that a new teen driver often falls prey to a lot of distractive behaviors. Coco had her share, as well, according to a report on 10 Connects.com - Talking on her cell phone was high on the list.

Jim Roberts of Safer Dixie Driving School warns of the dangers of cell phone use while driving. He says it greatly affects reaction time. When a driver is distracted by talking, they are unable to respond to a pedestrian stepping off a curb or a car pulling out in front of them because their peripheral vision is limited.

Although, installing cameras in a teen's car may not be possible for many, the news article lists some valuable tips for parents to protect their new drivers from accident and injury.

Statistics show 70% of teen crashes are considered avoidable and car accidents kill more U.S. teens than alcohol, drugs and suicide combined. Have that talk with your teen today!

Pedestrian Critically Injured When Struck in Car Crash | Pedestrian Car Crash Lawyer Pinellas County

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21216 — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

When: Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Where: Ulmerton Rd. and 38th St. N.
What: pedestrian struck in car crash | critical injuries

A pedestrian was critically injured Wednesday night at Ulmerton and 38th Street N. when struck by a car driven by B. Gray Gibbs, of St. Petersburg.

The Florida Highway Patrol reported, in an article in the St. Pete Times, some friends were at the intersection when the victim tried to cross Ulmerton Rd. It was unclear why the pedestrian stopped halfway across the road and attempted to return.

The unidentified person was taken to Bayfront Medical Center. Gibbs was not injured in the accident.

The pedestrian car crash is still under investigation and full details are not yet available.

How Contacting an Experienced Slip and Fall Lawyer Early On Wins Fall Case Client $675,000 Part 1 | Clearwater Slip and Fall Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21153 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you or someone you know has been injured in a slip and fall accident. Read a recent post to our document library.
Florida Slip, Trip, Fall and Unsafe Premises lawyer Jim Dodson discusses a case he settled in recent months in which a client's decision to contact him early on, following his fall injury, resulted in a $675,000 settlement.

Attorney Dodson warns not to settle with an insurance adjuster too soon before the full extent of injuries are known. His client's symptoms began as complaints of low back pain, but later developed to be far more serious.

Early and prompt documentation of the accident site (which included broken, crushed sidewalk and inadequate lighting) by an experienced slip and fall lawyer preserved the strength of our client's claim.

For a free consultation about your fall case call our offices at 727-446-0840 or request a free copy of Jim Dodson's consumer guide, "Dangerous Trips to Avoid in Your Fall Case."

School Bus Crash in Ruskin | 10 Children Hurt | Child Injury Lawyer in Ruskin

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21146 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: School Bus Accident | 10 Children Injured
Where: Ruskin
Who: Olga Guerrero | Douglas Hayes | Terminix Truck

In an accident which happened this morning involving a Ruskin School Bus, 10 children were injured in the crash involving a Terminix truck. As noted by St. Pete Times, Olga Guerrero, was headed east on SE 21st Avenue, approaching SE Sixth Street, on its way to Beth Shields Middle School were she violated the right away of a Terminix truck driven by Douglas Hayes. Guerrero was cited with violation of right of way. The children were taken to local hospitals in the area. In the event of a school bus accident or crash, the driver is investigated for drug or alcohol use.

School Bus Driver Cited: Truck Crash Sends 10 Tampa children to Hospital | Tampa Child Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21145 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: Tampa, 21st Ave. Southeast & Sixth Street Southeast
When: Wednesday morning, November 4, 2009
What: School Bus | Truck Crash

A school bus driver, Olga Guerrero, of Ruskin, who was carrying 39 children to Beth Shields Middle School, was cited this morning for violation of the right of way, following a collision with a Terminix truck driven by a Valrico man, Douglas Hayes.

A morning news article reported Guerrero and 10 school children riding on the bus were taken to area hospitals for minor injuries following the crash. Hillsborough County deputies reported that Hayes was not injured in the wreck.

This accident could have resulted in much more tragic results. We hope the children who were injured recover quickly and completely.

Motorcylist Killed in Crash by Teen in Sea Breeze | Sea Breeze Wrongful Death Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21134 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Motorcycle Accident Crash
Where: Sea Breeze | State Road 87
Who: Richard Lacquement | Anne Hamby

In a tragic motorcycle accident that happened in Sea Breeze Florida, a motorcyclist, Richard Lacquement was traveling south on State Road 87 when 18 year old Anne Hamby turned in front of the motorcycle and crashed into it, as documented by WKRG news. Lacquement was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. The wrongful death crash is still being investigated in this traffic accident.

All Children's Hospital New Facility | Child Injury Lawyer in St. Petersburg FL

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21130 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: All Children's Hospital
Where: St. Petersburg | Tampa Bay Area
Source: Tampa Tribune

In the new building and facility that will launch the new All Children's Hospital, a celebration is taking place to honor the new site. A time capsule is being constructed to honor the new state of the art technology going into the new hospital. The mother of a former patient is said to say something at the event. Her daughters boxing glove, who was giving to her by her grandfather, signifies the fight to save her life and will be placed into the capsule. All Children's Hospital is said to open next month. This is a great advancement in the care for children injured in the Tampa Bay Area.

Photo By Tampa Tribune

Pit Bull Killed by Tampa Police in Dog Bite Attack | Tampa Dog Bite Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21127 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: Tampa | Hillsborough County
When: November 3, 2009
What: Dog Bite Attack | child injury

A Tampa Police officer shot a pit bull that bit him and chased at least three other people on Tuesday, November 3rd.
Two of those people were children on their way to school. The other man, Darren Pickney, was walking to work when he realized he was being chased by two vicious dogs. The second dog ran off when the deputy arrived but was later seized by animal control officers.

A news report said the pit bull dogs' owner moved out of his house because he was facing eviction and left the dangerous dogs behind.

Pickney who hurt his back and split his finger trying to escape the dogs' attack was obviously shaken from the ordeal. He remarked he will now walk with a stick to protect himself from aggressive dogs. Thankfully, the children were able to escape the pit bulls without injury.

Teen Cited with Reckless Driving After Crash | St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21121 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident | Crash Into Mailbox
Where: St. Petersburg
Who: Colin Scott Knapp

In a car accident that involved a 18 year old teen and a mailbox, the driver, Colin Scott Knapp , has been charged with reckless driving. As stated in the article from the St. Pete Times, Troopers said Knapp, of Pinellas Park, was heading west on 62nd Avenue N around 5 a.m. Monday when he lost control of his two-door Acura and hit a raised curb. Knapp then collided with a concrete mailbox and his Acura overturned, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

Birth Defects Linked to 2 Antibiotics: CDC Study | Personal Injury Lawyer | Clearwater Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21088 — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Although most women avoid taking drugs during pregnancy, an infection can pose a risk to mother and baby and must be treated. And while many antibiotics have been used safely for decades, resistant strains of bacteria are now forcing doctors to use a wider array of antibiotics. For some, little data exist.

A new study by the U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention announced in a report most commonly administered antibiotics (penicillin, erythromycin and others) during pregnancy did not seem to be associated with the birth defects they studied.

However, the CDC study did identify two types of antibiotics linked with a higher risk for several birth defects: nitrofurantoins and sulfonamides, sometimes called "sulfa drugs," which are prescribed for urinary tract and other infections. Some of the birth defects identified included: anencephaly, a fatal malformation of the skull and brain, congenital heart defects, eye defects, choanal atresia (a blockage of the nasal passage), transverse limb deficiency and diaphragmatic hernia, an abnormal opening in the diaphragm that results in severe breathing difficulties.

The author of the study stresses the chances of having a baby with a birth defect is very small, even if an antibiotic has been linked to an elevated risk.

Women should, however, be cautious about taking either of these mentioned types of drugs during pregnancy and should discuss other options with their doctors.

Will Driver's Ed Cutbacks Cost Lives and Collisions? | Clearwater Car Collision Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)21064 — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Learning how to drive a car may be a responsibility that shifts back to parents and some parents don't want the responsibility, according to a St. Petersburg Times report. A local teen told his Driver's Ed teacher he'd rather not learn to drive from his Mom. She is an aggressive driver, speeds and swerves in and out of traffic!

Unfortunately, Florida school districts will again be cutting budgets due to shortfalls in state education spending. Driver's Education programs will be cut back or eliminated altogether.

John Bolen, past President of the Florida Professional Driving School Association said without any training at all, "we will pay for it in lives and collisions." Northeast High instructor, Dave Redding believes it is the most important class his teen drivers will ever take.

In Florida, drivers ages 15-19 have the second-highest crash rate, being involved in more than 32,000 car collisions in 2008.

Driver's Ed is not required, eventhough state Rep. Kevin Ambler tried unsuccessfully to make it a requirement before getting a license. Hillsborough high school students came up with the idea after losing a friend who was killed in a car accident in 2006.

Parents may be forced to take over the wheel, and some teens don't want that! Where are our priorities? It's tragic that we have to face this issue which affects the health and safety of us all.

Texting and Driving Costs Teen $5,000 | Car Wreck Lawyer Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20912 — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A New York teen learned a tough lesson recently!

He was just doing what half of all American adolescents do, according to an insurance study - driving while texting!

An article reports the eighteen year old wrecked his first car, a gift from his parents - and now has to pay over $5,000 to have it repaired.

A new law just went into effect in New York State so those who continue this dangerous behavior will now be slapped with a $150 fine.

One hundred teens died in accidents, over the past 5 years in New York and Long Island, caused by texting drivers.

Child Severely Burned in Coleman Heater Explosion Case Goes to Trial | Child Injury Lawyer Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20906 — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Eleven year old, Trevor Dennis' case goes to trial this week in an Orange County, California courthouse.

His lawyers, Bisnar | Chase, allege the boy suffered catastrophic injuries, 4 years ago, when a propane heater exploded, causing a fire in his family's camping trailer.

Coleman, the manufacturer of portable heaters, is being sued over an alleged defective heater that was sold to the family. Reportedly, Coleman has formally denied its heater was defective. A jury will decide whether or not the company had prior knowledge that its heater was dangerous.

The lawsuit also alleges that Coleman used a faulty design and had received numerous complaints concerning the safety of the heater in the past. Apparently, they did nothing about trying to recall the product or at least warn the public.

The young boy suffered permanent and disfiguring injuries and was severely burned all over his body in the tragedy. As a result, his family has incurred hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical treatment for the boy.

The child and his family have suffered horrifically. It will be up to the judge and the jury now to decide what is fair and just. This is how our civil justice system works. Our thoughts are with them all.

Bicyclist Hit on US 92 By Officer | Hillsborough County Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20892 — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Bicyclist Hit | Accident
Where: US 92 Hillsborough County
Who: Deputy Michael Hannaford | Johnathan Loschen

In a bicycle accident late Sunday night, a report indicated the victim was under the influence of alcohol and was hit while riding his bicycle and struck by a Hillsborough County Sheriff's vehicle. A news article stated that Michael Hannaford was on routine patrol heading west on U.S. 92 near Mobile Villa Drive when Jonathan Loschen rode his bicycle into Hannaford's path about 10 p.m. Loschen was taken to Tampa General but died due to his injuries. It was reported that he had a blood alcohol level of .27, three times the legal limit in the operation of a bicycle.

Boy Hit at Halloween Event in Clermont | Clermont Child Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20890 — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Child Accident | Hit By SUV | Killed
Where: Clermont | Central Florida
Who: 8 Year old Boy

In a tragic event, a boy who was participating in a church event that was focused on safety was killed by an SUV. Clermont police said the child was with his father's girlfriend while crossing a street when the crash occurred. The women was also hit but only suffered minor injuries. This is a tragic event and our hearts go out to the family of this little boy.

Bicyclist Hit on Bruce B Downs in Tampa | Tampa Bicycle Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20889 — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Bicycle Hit | Accident
Where: Bruce B Downs | Bears Avenue

A man riding his bicycle was hit on the corner of Bruce B. Downs and Bears Ave., in a release by the Tampa Tribune. The roadway was closed for about an hour and blocked southbound lanes while the investigation was being held. The victim was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital emergency room for his injuries. The accident is still being investigated.

Motorcylist Dies and Passenger Injured As Well | Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20888 — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Motorcycle Accident | Car
Where: US 301 | Tampa
Who: John Wyatt | Wilma Wyatt | Wayne Timothy Gardner
Source: Sp Times

Late Friday night a motorcycle with two passengers and a Camaro were involved in a accident killing one of the people on the motorcyle and injuring the other. The couple on the motorcycle John Wyatt, 75, and Wilma Wyatt, 59 were traveling on US 301 and were struck when Wayne Timothy Gardner pulled onto the median and into the path of the couple. John Wyatt died at the scene.

Window Tint Cited in Hulk Hogan's Son's Crash | Did You Know Officers Have Discretion? | Car Crash Lawyer Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20878 — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Two Years ago Nick Bollea, Hulk Hogan's son, was involved in a tragic car crash and received several citations - one of which was illegal window tinting.

Although illegal window tinting did not contribute to the crash which left his friend, John Graziano III critically injured, it was one of the tests conducted by traffic investigators at the accident scene.

Polk County Sheriff's office are cracking down on illegal window tinting because of the safety issue. Sometimes law enforcement officers are unable to see inside a vehicle, even with a flashlight, because the windows are so dark.

A report by the Ledger.com states as in any traffic violation, it is an officer's discretion to issue a citation, but some law enforcement officers are now relying on a device called a window tint meter to determine if the sunscreen on the windows is too dark. The devices cost $150.

Those who are caught breaking the law could receive a $99 citation, but the article states many officers are lenient because most people don't know there is a window tint law.

Shoulder Harnesses Reduce Chance of Neck Injury in a Collision | Collision and Neck Injury Lawyer in Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20851 — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you are driving around in an older car that did not come equipped with seat belts - here's some safety information!

* Shoulder harnesses started becoming mandatory equipment in vehicles manufactured after 1990.

* The use of only a lap belt will double your odds of living through an accident.
* The use of a shoulder harness and a lap belt increases your odds of surviving a collision by three to four times.
* You are at serious risk for experiencing neck and shoulder injuries if you are involved in a collision and you are wearing just the lap belt.

Shoulder harnesses may be available that can be retrofitted for your vehicle.

For more information you can call the Department of Transportation's Auto Safety Hotline at (800) 424-9393.
Information provided by http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_13662121

Protect Your Child's Future | Never Allow a Child on a Bike Without a Helmet | Clearwater Bike Injury Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20850 — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Clearwater Police Department, Amscot and Americorp Clearwater gave out 45 free bicycle helmets this week.

Clearwater Police Sgt. Juan Torres stressed the importance of wearing a helmet both for adults and children. Over the years, he has seen far too many serious injuries from bike falls, resulting in head injury.

The worst case he saw was when he was a cop in New York. A man, who was not wearing a helmet, lost control of his bike while going down a hill, hitting the gound head first. He suffered a serious head injury which resulted in being a coma, losing consciousness, memory loss, and could barely speak.

An article in the Clearwater Beacon newspaper lists tips for how to fit bicycle helmets properly.

8 Things You Must Do If You've Been Injured in a Bicycle Accident

Will Sun City Center Get a Golf Cart Path Across U.S. 301? | Sun City Center Golf Cart Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20845 — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A group of senior citizens, from Sun City Center who call themselves GolfCarts2Walmart , may get what they have been asking for - a path to safely allow them to cross busy U.S. 301 from their Dell Webb community to Walmart.

Low speed electric vehicles get folks around in this south Hillsborough County community. They shuttle to restaurants, doctor's visits and other shops, but a safe pathway to the Walmart store would give them access to cheaper prescription costs and stretch their retirement dollars.

An article published on tampabayonline reports Hillsborough County commissioners will make a decision on Wednesday.
If approved, money for construction of the golf cart path will come out of the county's Critical Accident Mitigation fund, which can be used for practically any transportation project that concerns traffic or pedestrian safety.

Do You Know a Deserving Child Who Would Love a New Bicycle for Christmas? | Bicycle Accident Lawyer Clearwater

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20798 — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Dodson Law Firm is pleased to team up with our friends at Bicycle Outfitters in Seminole, to provide bikes to 5 deserving kids this Christmas!

If you know a child, age 12 or under, who has a special story and is deserving of a new bicycle, submit your reasons and description of the child in 150 words or less by December 1, 2009 for a chance to win.

Winners will be announced by December 10th.

Go to our website, www.JWDodsonLaw.com today and click on the "Bikes For Kids for Christmas" banner to enter.
Don't delay, Christmas is just around the corner!

As always, we are dedicated to providing safety information to the public through our online resource library in an effort to educate and protect you and your family from unintentional bicycle accidents and injuries. Check it out!

Are You Prepared if an Uninsured Motorist Hits You? | Car Accident and Injury Lawyer Clearwater

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20758 — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

AAA, the car safety people, report the number of uninsured drivers on the road is rising.

What does that mean to you and your family? Your chances of being hit by someone without insurance is also growing. You need protection to cover losses caused by drivers without insurance or without enough insurance!

In today's tough economy, more and more people are looking for ways to save money. Cutting back on insurance premiums either by reducing policy coverage or allowing policies to lapse altogether are becoming more frequent occurrences.

Check your car insurance policy today. Make sure you have uninsured motorist coverage to adequately protect yourself before the unexpected happens. No one ever thinks they will be involved in a car accident.

For all you need to know about car insurance in Florida, request a free copy of my book, "Buying Car Insurance: The Ultimate Guide to Irresponsible Drivers in Florida." It's easy to read and understand and it's written by someone who does not sell insurance!

Recent Fatal Boat Crash Causes Clearwater Council to Install Warning Lights on the Pass | Clearwater Fatal Boat Crash Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20757 — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

The decision came three years after it was first proposed by Clearwater's Marine Advisory Board, but a report by the St. Petersburg Times says the City Council has decided navigational warning lights are needed on the Clearwater Pass jetty.

The decision comes on the heels of a fatal boat crash on October 2nd which killed 17 year old, Paige Alyssa Davison and injured several of her friends. The teens crashed into a dark jetty at St. Pete's Albert Whitted Airport.

Another boating hazard will be removed - an 85,000-pound block of concrete submerged below the surface of Clearwater Harbor off the Seminole Boat ramp.

A series of yellow flashing lights on the jetty will warn boaters to steer clear of it.

A good decision by the council which will, hopefully, prevent another tragedy.

Keep School Children Safe | "Avoid Harm Obey the Stop Arm" | Child Injury Lawyer Polk County

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20702 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

It's National School Bus Safety Week!

An article published on newschief.com reports it's an opportunity for the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to use the five day event to stress school bus safety, by drawing attention to bus transportation and bus drivers' efforts to keep children safe, as well as Florida traffic law around buses.

The theme for this year's National School Bus Safety Week is "Avoid harm. Obey the Stop Arm." The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles advises drivers to make the roads safer for school buses and the children who ride them by observing the law, staying alert and obeying signs and traffic signals.

Polk County officials safety reports say accidents are down these past two years. A school bus death has not occurred in several years.

The American School Bus Safety Council and AAA South agree school bus safety is a shared responsibility between motorists, students and parents.

We all have to do our part - remember, motorists traveling in the same direction as the school bus must stop until children move out of the roadway and the bus lifts the stop arm!

Bucs Player Marcus Johnson Gets Arrested for DUI | Car Safety Accident Lawyer in Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20686 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: DUI Arrest
Who: Tampa Bay Bucs Player Marcus Johnson
Where: Dale Mabry Highway | Tampa

A recent article released by ABC Action News involves a DUI arrest of Tampa Bay Bucs player Marcus Johnson,who was found asleep in the middle of Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa. The investigator found the odor of alchol in the rental car that he had rented. He refused to take a blood alcohol content (BAC) test at the Hillsborough County Jail.

Bed Bath & Beyond Blinds Recalled After 2 Near Deaths with Children | Child Injury Lawyer in Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20684 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Product Recall | Unsafe Premises
Who: Bed Bath & Beyond Blinds | Louis Hornick & Company

In a recent report, information was released by The Examiner stating 2 young children were nearly strangled to death after becoming entangled in the cords which operate a roman shade sold online and in Bed Bath & Beyond stores.

The importer, Louis Hornick & Company is providing consumers with a free repair kit to repair the shades. The kits will be available at the end of November. Until then, consumers should stop using the shades. The article states that the recall includes all colors and sizes of the Dublin Energy Solution Roman Shades. Color selections include navy, khaki, cream, and chocolate. A label on the back of the blinds reads, “Cords and bead chains can loop around a child’s neck and STRANGLE.”

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission is still gathering reports of incidents involving these shades, sold during August 2007 through September 2009.

If you believe you may have purchased this product, take the necessary precautions to protect your children from potential danger!

Actor Brad Pitt Involved in Motorcycle Accident | Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20680 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Motorcycle Accident
Who: Brad Pitt
Source: The Examiner

Actor Brad Pitt was involved in a motorcycle accident with a parked car. Reports say the paparazzi were following Pitt too closely, causing Pitt to hit a parked car while riding his new motorcycle. As a result, he had minor injuries and exchanged insurance information with the parked car owner. The bike would not start after the wreck and Pitt had to call friends to come help him out.

Bradenton Man Killed on I-75 | Bradenton Car Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20677 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident Death
Where: Sarasota | Bradenton
Who: George Jepsen | Darien Grable

According to the Florida Highway Patrol and Herald Tribune, George Jepsen of Bradenton was killed while walking on I-75 after a crash involving another car that had crossed into oncoming traffic. Jepsen got out of the car after the crash, and then a third vehicle, driven by Darien Grable hit him. Matthew Young lost control of his SUV which caused the intial crash to happen and was taken to Manatee Hospital with serious injuries.

Can You Drive and Text and Not Cause an Accident? | Florida Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20675 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

It happened again this week - I was driving along on I-4 and a young adult driver who was texting, passed me!

An article in the Orlando Sentinel newspaper reports this distracted driving behavior is not just limited to young or novice drivers. A teacher in the Orlando area recently caused an accident while texting and driving.

AAA South and Melbourne State Senator, Thad Altman want Florida to join with the other 18 states in the U.S. and ban texting while driving. The proposal is expected to be taken up during the regular session next spring.

Florida has no laws banning the use of cell phones while driving, and Altman's legislation doesn't directly address drivers talking on a cell phone.

Instead, his legislation would prohibit the reading, typing and sending of an electronic message while a person is driving. A violator would face a nonmoving-traffic ticket.

One Car Wreck in Palm Harbor on US 19 | Palm Harbor Car Accident Attorney

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20674 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Car Accident
Where: Palm Harbor | US 19

This morning a one car wreck on US 19 in North Pinellas City Palm Harbor is holding up traffic. The traffic has southbound lanes from Tampa Road to Nebraska tied up. This area is highly active in the hours when everyone is trying to commute to work. Check back for more updates on the accident and who was involved. Information about the accident provided by the Tampa Tribune.

Gasparilla Raises Questions for Locals | Gasparilla Time in Tampa

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20448 — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Gasparilla Parade
Where: Tampa

It's that time of the year again - the annual Gasparilla parade in Tampa. Local authorities are getting prepared for the event with more law enforcement officers in an effort to clean up the actions of some of the people who attend. The annual parade brings to mind the questions and concerns of local homeowners who would like to see the parade moved to another location due to the number of crimes committed in their neighborhood during the event.

So many area folks celebrate this fun event. It's a great time for young and old!

Let us know what you think about the situation by leaving us a comment!

Pedestrian Hit and Run Accident in Largo | Largo Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20444 — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Pedestrian Accident | Death
Where: Ulmerton Road in Largo
Who: Tony Allen Sorenson
Source: St. Pete Times

In a tragic pedestrian accident ,which resulted in the death of a 41 year old Fort Myers man, investigators are still looking for the suspect. Tony Allen Sorenson was trying to cross westbound lanes of Ulmerton east of Coral Way when he was struck by what investigators say was a silver F-150, which fled the scene. Sorenson was taken to Largo Medical Center where he later died due to his injuries. You can contact the Florida Highway Patrol at (813) 631-4020 with any information.

Truck Hits Semi on I-75 in Pasco | Wesley Chapel Truck Accident Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20441 — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Semi Truck | Car Accident
Where: Wesley Chapel | Pasco
Who: Rajendra Ram | Dionisio Lopez | John C. Heiby
Source: St. Pete Times

A driver has struck a semi truck on I-75 carrying 8,500 gallons of fuel which caused debris to liter the highway, early Thursday morning in Wesley Chapel in Pasco County. The driver of a 2003 Toyota Tundra, Rajendra Ram , was driving north on I-75 and could not stop in time for traffic that was slowing. Ram was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital by helicopter in critical condition where he later died. The driver of the semi, Dionisio Lopez , had only minor injuries.

Troopers also reported a third vehicle that was struck from the debris in the highway, a 2008 van driven by John C Heiby. Heiby was not injured in the accident.

Trash Man Hit While Working in Brandon | Car Accident Injury Attorney in Brandon

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20440 — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Truck | Car Accident Death
Where: Brandon | Parsons Avenue
Who: Lloyd Cribbs Jr | Unknown Worker

The tragic death of a sanitation worker killed while working on the northbound lane of Parsons Avenue is still being investigated this morning, as reported by the St. Pete Times. Lloyd Cribbs, Jr. was driving his Toyota pickup and crashed into the back of the Company Republic Waste Services trash pickup truck and pinned the worker against the two vehicles. The name of the worker who was killed at the scene has not be released yet.

Two New Articles about Golf Carts and LSV | NEV Vehicles | Information Lawyer

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20349 — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Florida Golf Cart and Low Speed Vehicle Accident Lawyer, Jim Dodson has recently published two new, must- read articles about accident information regarding golf carts in Florida, as well as low speed vehicle and neighborhood vehicle injuries and accidents in Florida.

Accidents involving these vehicles are all too common in Florida, but they are handled differently then the typical car accident in Florida.

Click Here to Read "Golf Cart Accident Information Article"

Click Here to Read " LSV and NEV Accident Information Article"

GM Money Back Program | Only 15 out of 400 Have Returned Cars | Car Accident Lawyer in Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20338 — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: GM Program Guarantee | Car
Who General Motors

A recent article released by the Tampa Tribune, reports only 15 of the 400 participating cars have been returned in a special "money-back- free guarantee" program. The highly advertised GM program allows car owners to return a car without owing the company anything - if they dislike the vehicle! Most of the people who have bought these cars have, instead, opted to receive a $500 rebate. The program runs through Nov. 30. In the process, customers may return any new 2009 and 2010 Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC or Buick vehicle for a refund of the purchase price and sales tax, if they are dissatisfied with the vehicle.

4 year old Child Permanently Injured in Dog Attack | Dog bite lawyer Pasco County

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20337 — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Where: Pasco County, Zephyrhills
When: October 19, 2009
Type: Permanent Child injury | Dog Bite Attack

A young boy was bitten by a dog, whose breed has not yet been released, and may have to live with a permanent injury as a result of the attack, a report from the Tampa Tribune states.

Dylan Robert Medlock was being cared for by Pamela Pelham while his mother, Mary Reaves, ran errands - when Bo, the dog, broke free of his chain and ran to them.

The 4 year old child suffered numerous injuries in the dog bite attack including: bites with punctures and bruising to his right biceps and right forearm, a bite on his lower left leg, causing tearing to the skin and muscle. The dog also broke the youngster's left leg in two places. He required surgery and will likely walk with a limp as a result.

The dog is not up to date on its shots and is not properly licensed.

Orange Park Girl Still Missing | Investigators Baffled | Child Injury Lawyer in Florida

jim@jwdodsonlaw.com (Blog Author)20336 — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What: Orange Park Girl Missing
Where: Orange Park | Florida
Who: Somer Thompson

In the recent disappearance of a young Orange Park girl, investigators are still looking for clues explaining what happened on her way home from school. Somer Thompson and her sister were walking home from school on Monday when Somer began to "squabble" with another child. Apparently, her sister asked her to stop and the child became upset and decided to walk ahead of the group. She has not been seen since.

Investigators are looking for any tips they could help them in this case. Our hearts go out to the parents and we hope she is found soon.