Florida Van Accident Kills One Woman, Injures 15 Others

Mon, Jul 19, 2010

Posted in: Accident Lawyers, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death

People travel in groups by van for several reasons, and the obvious logic behind this form of transportation is to save fuel and to keep people safe from the dangers that are always present on the highway.  Tragically, one woman lost her life and 15 others were injured when a church van overturned on Florida’s Turnpike.  Police are still investigating the accident, but they described a gruesome scene.

The latest fatal Florida car accident took place on Saturday at approximately 8 p.m. when the driver of the van carrying 16 people lost control of the vehicle for some reason.  The incident took place 8 miles north of Yeehaw Junction on Florida’s Turnpike in southern Osceola County.  After the driver lost control of the vehicle, the van spun towards the middle of the road, overturned and ultimately came to rest after crashing into a guardrail.  68-year-old Paulette Noel of Pompano Beach was partially ejected from the van and killed at the scene.  15 other people were injured, and three of them suffered what were described as serious injuries.

Florida Car Accident Statistics

First, we’d like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Noel.  Losing a life in such a sudden and violent manner is truly a shocking tragedy, and we hope that the church community around those close to her comes together to support them through this difficult time.  In addition, this fatal Florida van accident will only add to the overall statistics regarding Florida car accidents.  Every year, 200,000 people are injured and another 3,000 people are killed in these occurrences.

Florida Wrongful Death Lawyers

While more would need to be revealed regarding how and why the driver lost control of the van, it could be possible for the family of Ms. Noel to pursue a Florida wrongful death lawsuit.  If such a claim was successful, the family could be awarded damages for medical, funeral and burial costs as well as lost income and loss of companionship.  However, these determinations should only be made with the help of Florida wrongful death lawyers who have been holding those responsible for these tragic losses accountable for years.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Pompano Beach Car Accident Sends Four to Hospital

Tue, Jul 13, 2010

Posted in: Accident Lawyers, Personal Injury

When car accidents occur, they often are the result of something that happens within a split-second that leaves those who are harmed unable to do anything to avoid the collision.  That appears to be what led to a Pompano Beach car accident yesterday afternoon that sent four people to the hospital after two passengers in an SUV had to be extricated with the jaws of life.

According to police, the Pompano Beach car accident occurred just before 3 p.m. yesterday on Florida’s Turnpike near mile marker 65 in the southbound lanes.  Someone driving a Nissan pickup truck had a tire blow out suddenly, and the driver of that vehicle lost control of the truck.  As a result, the pickup collided with a Ford SUV, which rolled over as a result of the collision.  Ultimately, the SUV rolled over the wall dividing the north and southbound lanes and wound up in oncoming traffic to the north.  Finally, the SUV came to rest on its left side.  Four passengers were in the SUV, all of whom were sent to the hospital.

Florida Car Accident Statistics

First, we’d like to express our hope that those who have been injured in this Pompano Beach car accident are able to recover from their injuries.  No identities were given at this point, and no details were available as to their conditions.  Secondly, this incident will only add to the statistics regarding Florida car accidents.  Every year, 200,000 people are injured and another 3,000 people are killed in these accidents.

Pompano Beach Personal Injury Lawyers

While more facts regarding what led to the tire blowout would need to be obtained before making a decision, it is possible that those people who were injured could file a Florida personal injury lawsuit against anyone who was negligent in the crash.  If successful, damages could be awarded for medical costs, property damage, lost income and pain and suffering depending on the specifics of the situation.

This determination, however, should only be made with the help of a Pompano Beach personal injury lawyer who has years of experience in successfully defending the rights of those who have been injured.  If this includes you or someone you love, contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Fatal Miramar Car Accident Takes Life of Sunrise Woman

Thu, Jul 8, 2010

Posted in: Accident Lawyers, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death

Car accidents can occur at any time and in any place, and all it takes is one second of a lapse in judgment or attention for disaster to result.  Unfortunately, there are times when something goes wrong that does not just lead to financial damages and injuries, but to a loss of life.  Tragically, this could be what occurred with a Miramar car accident that took the life of a Sunrise woman Tuesday.

According to police, the latest fatal Florida car accident took place just before 8 p.m. on Tuesday evening in the 2900 block of Southwest 145th Ave.  The woman who was killed has been identified as Sara Brockwell, 83.  The only details of the collision that are available at this time are that there was a collision between Ms. Brockwell and another motorist, and that the other motorist suffered what is described as minor injuries.  Police are continuing to investigate the accident in an attempt to identify a cause.

Florida Car Accident Statistics

First, we’d like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Brockwell.  While no one can identify what led to the crash at this point, the end result is one that will certainly be met with shock and deep sadness by those who were close to her.  In addition, this incident will only add to the statistics regarding Florida car accidents.  Every year, approximately 250,000 such accidents take place, injuring 200,000 and killing another 3,000 people.

Miami Car Accident Lawyers

While it’s clear that more facts need to be uncovered before any assignment of fault can be made, if it turns out that the other driver was at fault for this Florida car accident, it’s possible that the family of Ms. Brockwell could file a Florida wrongful death lawsuit.  If successful, damages could be awarded for several real and intangible forms of loss incurred by those who love her.

If you or someone you love has been harmed by another driver in a Florida car accident, you need to seek the help of Miami car accident lawyers who have a long history of holding those responsible for these incidents accountable.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Fatal Coral Springs Car Accident Takes Life of Plantation Man

Mon, Jun 28, 2010

Posted in: Accident Lawyers, Personal Injury

We learn soon after taking the wheel of a vehicle for the first time to expect basic mistakes from other motorists.  This is why we’re taught to drive defensively, as the only sure-fire way to avoid unnecessary collisions is to anticipate problems that could arise.  Unfortunately, most drivers cannot foresee certain mistakes that would never be expected, and tragically, one such mistake took the life of a young man in a fatal Coral Springs car accident that occurred early Sunday morning.

According to police, the accident occurred at approximately 5:30 a.m. on the 9200 block of Riverside Drive in Coral Springs when the man who was killed, Christopher Lee Hamby of Plantation, was moving in an eastward direction in the westbound lanes.  Mr. Hamby was 26 years old.  He collided head-on with a Honda Odyssey van driven by Mohammed Rehman, 53, of Coral Springs, and the van contained two children as passengers.  While Mr. Hamby was killed, the three occupants of the van were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of injuries whose severity were not detailed.

Florida Car Accident Statistics

First, we’d like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Hamby.  No one yet seems to understand what led him to drive the wrong way down a busy street, but those close to him are certainly suffering from grief and shock today.  Additionally, this latest fatal Florida car accident will only add to the statistics that are kept in this regard.  Every year, approximately 250,000 Florida car accidents take place, injuring 200,000 people and killing another 3,000.

Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Lawyers

In addition to the addition to statistics, the family that was injured by this collision could also have legal rights, as they apparently did nothing wrong based on the facts provided.  If damages were awarded to those who were harmed, they could include compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering and the like.  However, this sort of analysis needs to be done with the help of Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers who understand how to properly view these terrible situations and to obtain justice for injured clients.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Fatal Fort Lauderdale Auto Accident Goes to Trial

When we see a police cruiser speeding down the road with its lights on and sirens blaring, most of us pull off to the side of the road and give it clear passage.  We do so because it’s expected of us and because we all assume that the cruiser is headed to a destination to conduct important police business that involves our collective safety and protection.  Tragically, it seems that the start of a vehicular homicide trial for a former police officer shows that there are certain times when even the police can be accused of reckless behavior that leads to substantial, irreversible harm.

The criminal trial centers on a fatal Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident that occurred on June 19, 2006 when former police officer Alexander Griss was speeding at a rate of more than 90 miles per hour when he crashed into Althea Tobias McKay.  Ms. McKay was crossing the street at Southeast 21st Street and Federal Highway at about 5:21 a.m.  As a result of the collision, Ms. McKay was thrown 112 feet from the point of impact and was killed as a result.

Prosecutors are alleging that the officer was not responding to an emergency at the time, but rather he had just completed his duty for the day.  He has been charged with vehicular manslaughter and the trial for his prosecution is beginning.  If convicted, Mr. Griss faces up to 15 years in prison.

Florida Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Unfortunately, no amount of prison time will ever reverse the result of this fatal Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident for the family of Ms. McKay.  In addition, incidents like this one wind up becoming part of the statistics that record Florida pedestrian accidents.  Every year, more than 8,000 Florida pedestrian accidents occur, injuring approximately 7,800 people and killing another 500.

Fort Lauderdale Wrongful Death Lawyers

Even though it’s not clear whether or not the family of Ms. McKay ever filed a Florida wrongful death lawsuit, it would possibly be too late for them to do so now since the Florida statute of limitations for such actions is two years from the date of the incident.  However, this case should alert anyone that such actions are possible regardless of the person who is responsible for the death that occurred.

If you have lost someone you love because of the negligence or recklessness of someone else - even if it was a police officer whom you believe was in the wrong - you need to seek the advice and the help of Fort Lauderdale wrongful death lawyers who understand the nature of these situations and who can fight to obtain justice for your suffering family.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Fort Lauderdale Auto Accident Leads to Death of Scooter Driver

Wed, Jun 23, 2010

Posted in: Accident Lawyers, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death

Many people make economical choices for transportation for many reasons, and one popular choice is that of a scooter.  Scooters are small, can generally reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour and are convenient for local transportation because of their very low fuel costs.  However, scooters also leave those who drive them completely exposed to harm from larger vehicles.  Tragically, the driver of a scooter was killed last night in a Fort Lauderdale auto accident.

The accident took place just before 8:30 p.m. last night near the intersection of Davie Boulevard and Southeast Third Avenue.  According to police, the driver of a 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee was making a left turn onto Southeast Third Avenue and collided with the westbound scooter that was moving down Davie Boulevard.  The scooter driver, whose identity is being withheld until the family can be notified, was rushed to Broward General Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.

Florida Auto Accident Statistics

First, we’d like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of the person on the scooter who was killed.  Receiving that sort of tragic news from police is about the worst thing anyone can experience, and we hope that those who knew this person are able to come together and to work through their grief.  In addition, this Fort Lauderdale auto accident will only add to the statistics regarding Florida auto accident statistics.  Every year, approximately 250,ooo such crashes occur, leading to 200,000 injuries and almost 3,000 fatalities.

Fort Lauderdale Auto Accident Lawyers

No indication was given at this point as to which driver was at fault for the accident.  If it turns out that the scooter had the right of way and that the Jeep turned left in a negligent manner, the family of the scooter driver could potentially bring a Florida wrongful death lawsuit.  If such a claim was successful, damages could be awarded for funeral, burial and medical expenses as well as lost income and other forms of compensation.

However, these determinations need to be made with professional help.  If you have lost someone you love in a collision, you need the help of Fort Lauderdale auto accident lawyers who have spent years obtaining justice for suffering families.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Southwest Ranches Auto Accident Leads to One Fatality

Tue, Jun 15, 2010

Posted in: Accident Lawyers, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death

Driving on the highway may seem simple and instinctive to those who use these roads regularly, but the truth of the matter is that there are several particularities that must be remembered in order for everyone to remain as safe as possible.  Tragically, one man lost his life yesterday when at least one if not both drivers involved in a fatal Southwest Ranches auto accident seemed to forget a few basic highway norms.

The latest fatal Florida auto accident occurred at approximately 6 a.m. in the southbound lanes of U.S. 27 near Griffin Road in Southwest Ranches.  The man who was killed, Kenneth Duckworth, 69, was driving his Toyota in the left lane of the highway at what was described as a slow rate of speed.  Unfortunately, Duckworth was rear-ended by a Ford pickup truck being driven by 28-year-old Christian Mantiel.  The impact sent Duckworth’s vehicle skidding off of the road, where it ultimately stopped moving in a grassy area.  Mr. Duckworth did not survive the crash.

Florida Auto Accident Statistics

First, we’d like to extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Duckworth.  Losing someone so suddenly is truly tragic, and unfortunately this latest fatal Florida auto accident will only add to the statistics regarding auto accidents in Florida overall.  Every year, almost 200,000 people are injured and almost 3,000 people are killed in Florida auto accidents, and that number has remained steady for some time.

Florida Auto Accident Lawyers

If the family of Mr. Duckworth decide to file a Florida wrongful death lawsuit, such a case could come down to an analysis of Florida’s comparative negligence standard.  While Mr. Mantiel could be at fault for rear-ending another vehicle, the slow driving in the passing lane by Mr. Duckworth could have an effect on a court’s ultimate decision in a case.  If the case went to a jury, any damages awarded to the family of Mr. Duckworth would be reduced by the percentage that the jury found Mr. Duckworth to be at fault.

All of this should tell anyone who has lost someone they love on the roads to seek the help of Florida wrongful death lawyers who have years of experience in fighting successfully for the rights of their clients in these comparative negligence situations.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Fatal Coral Springs Motorcycle Accident Claims Life of Teen

Mon, Jun 7, 2010

Posted in: Accident Lawyers, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death

Motorcycles are exhilarating vehicles to drive, as their performance capabilities continue to improve with time.  While these vehicles can be extremely fun and even economical, combining their speed and the danger they present with teen-aged drivers can be a volatile mix.  Tragically, this mix led to the death of a young person over the weekend who was killed in a fatal Coral Springs motorcycle accident.

The accident took place on Saturday at approximately 11:30 a.m. Michael Ferraz Lanzoni, 17, a resident of West Palm Beach, was driving his motorcycle in an eastbound direction near the 9000 block of Wiles Road in Coral Springs.  Andrea Baigorria, 21, was driving her 2005 Ford Escape and was attempting to turn left from the westbound lanes of the road.  The motorcycle struck the SUV and Lanzoni was thrown from his motorcycle.  He was killed at the scene.

According to authorities, Lanzoni was wearing a helmet and was traveling at a high rate of speed prior to the crash according to witness accounts.  No word was given regarding the assignment of fault in the crash, and the police stated that an investigation was ongoing in order to come to that conclusion.  It simply appears that Baigorria misjudged the speed of the motorcycle before making her turn, but the investigation will likely come down to how fast the motorcycle was moving at the time.

Florida Motorcycle Accident Statistics

First and foremost, we’d like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Lanzoni family.  To lose someone so suddenly at only 17 years of age is truly tragic, and we hope that the family is somehow able to come together and overcome what is certainly an overwhelming amount of shock and grief.

Unfortunately, the latest fatal Florida motorcycle accident will also become part of the table of statistics regarding these incidents in the state.  In 2008 alone, there were almost 10,000 Florida motorcycle accidents, leading to more than 9,000 injuries and more than 500 fatalities.

Contact a Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

If you have lost someone you love in a Florida motorcycle accident and the other driver was negligent, you could have legal options that include recovering damages for funeral and burial expenses, medical costs, lost income and loss of companionship, but you’ll need the help of Florida motorcycle accident lawyers who understand how to successfully fight for the families of those lost.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Coral Springs Pedestrian Accident Leads to Fatality

Most pedestrians understand that taking to the streets where vehicles are present involves a certain amount of risk.  While this is understood, it does not mean that everyone can be prepared for mistakes made by motorists.  Tragically, a Coral Springs man lost his life last night in a fatal Florida pedestrian accident, and at this point the details remain murky given the recent nature of the incident.

The latest fatal Florida pedestrian accident took place just after 11 p.m. last night in Coral Springs on University Drive just north of Riverside Drive.  The pedestrian, 58-year-old James Patrick Welsh of Coral Springs, was crossing the street when he was struck by a 2002 Kia that was being driven in a northbound direction by 23-year-old Suhaib Talib Al-Janabi.  Mr. Welsh was killed as a result of the collision, and the driver was not injured, as is typically the case with Florida pedestrian accidents given the obvious advantage of protection provided by being inside a moving vehicle.

Police are asking for assistance from any witnesses who may have seen what occurred and what led to the accident, and an investigation is only beginning.  No word was given as to whether the driver was arrested or whether there was any presence of alcohol or other intoxicants in the driver’s system at the time of this crash.

Florida Pedestrian Accident Statistics

First, we’d like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Welsh.  Losing someone so suddenly and in such a violent manner is truly tragic, and we hope that his family and friends are somehow able to recover from the shocking amount of grief and sadness that they are all certainly struggling with today.

Unfortunately, this situation only adds to the data involving Florida pedestrian accidents.  Every year, there are approximately 8,000 such accidents, and they lead to more than 7,500 Florida pedestrian injuries and more than 500 fatalities.  These numbers have remained consistent in recent years.

Florida Wrongful Death Lawyers

Secondly, it should be noted that if it’s concluded that the driver was at fault for this incident, the family of Mr. Welsh could possibly bring a Florida wrongful death lawsuit against him.  If it’s successful, the family could recover damages including compensation for medical, funeral and burial expenses as well as other damages depending on the specifics of the case.  If you have lost someone you love as a result of any sort of Florida auto accident, you need the help of Florida wrongful death lawyers who have a long track record of holding those responsible for these sorts of losses accountable.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Lauderhill School Bus Accident Injures Six People

Thu, Jun 3, 2010

Posted in: Accident Lawyers, Bus Accident Lawyers, Personal Injury

School buses are a daily way of life for millions of children and millions of motorists who share the roads with them around the United States.  Parents trust the drivers and those who maintain these vehicles twice every day to deliver their children to and from school safely.  For the most part, this trust is rewarded.  However, there are times like this afternoon when that trust is violated for one reason or another.

A Lauderhill school bus accident occurred this afternoon at approximately 3 p.m. that involved four vehicles including the school bus.  It took place on the 3400 block of West Sunrise Boulevard, and six people were injured as a result of it.  None of those injured were students, but the potential for serious injuries remains.  Rescue workers stated that one of the people involved in the latest Florida bus accident was trapped inside a vehicle.

Aside from the trapped driver, who was taken to Broward General, three other injured people were taken to the same hospital and two others were taken to Plantation General Medical Center.  Authorities did not release information regarding the conditions of those who were hurt.  Details regarding how the crash occurred were also not released until more investigation can be completed.

School Bus Accident Statistics

Unfortunately, this latest Florida bus accident is far from the only such incident that occurs on an annual basis in the United States.  Approximately 27 people who are of schooling age die every year in school bus accidents, and almost one half of all school bus accidents involve collisions on the front end of the vehicle.  In addition, of those 27 annual fatalities, 20 of them on average are pedestrians who are not school bus passengers.

Florida Personal Injury Lawyers

First and foremost, we’d like to express our hope that everyone who was harmed in this Florida bus accident is able to ultimately recover from the injuries that were incurred as a result of this accident.  We like anyone else are thankful that no one was killed, but we anxiously await further information regarding the conditions of those who are suffering in the aftermath of this incident.

Secondly, those who were not at fault for this collision could have legal options available to them that include the filing of a Florida personal injury lawsuit.  If successful, damages recovered could be compensation for property damage, medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering.  If you or someone you love has been harmed in any sort of traffic accident, you need the help of Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers who have the experience and skill necessary to successfully fight for the rights of those wrongfully harmed.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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