August 15, 2009
Florida Underage Drunk Driving
Drunk driving laws exist for a reason – to protect passengers and drivers against devastating injuries due to drivers who are on the roads while under the influence. While drunk driving is a nationwide problem, it is particularly dangerous when young people are behind the wheel – and businesses and individuals can face consequences if they serve alcohol to teenagers and people under age 21.
Florida’s drunk driving law (also known as the dram shop law) allows the victims of drunk driving accidents to sue liquor-licensed companies, such as restaurants, bars or hotels, who knowingly serve alcohol to underage drinkers. If a bar does not ask for ID or ignores a blatantly fake ID card, they may share liability with a drunk teen who gets into a car crash after drinking at their establishment and causes injury or death.
In addition, parents of minors who knowingly serve alcohol can be on the hook if the teens drive drunk. While social hosts are not responsible if over-21 drinkers imbibe at their house, then get into a drunk driving accident, they can face penalties and may pay hefty damages in drunk-driving lawsuits involving teens.
Liquor stores generally do not face the strict liability imposed on social hosts and drinking establishments because they sell closed containers. If they sell a closed container to a minor who then leaves the premises, they are usually not responsible for injury, property damage or death related to a teenage drunk driving accident resulting from liquor bought at their store.
If you are thinking about filing a lawsuit against an establishment that served liquor to a minor, be prepared to find evidence to support your claim. Bank statements can reveal transactions at the bar in question, while video cameras can record negligent actions. These and other avenues should be explored by the experienced crime victim accident attorney you retain for your lawsuit.
The law is complex and often confusing – don’t go it alone if you’ve suffered property damage or injury due to a teenage drunk driving accident. Look for a Florida crime victim attorney with experience investigating and litigating Florida teenage drunk driving claims. He or she will be able to evaluate your case and tell you whether it’s worth pursuing in court. If your claim is convincing and well-documented, a jury can award you financial damages relating to calculable and non-calculable losses.
CONTACT THE ACCIDENT LAW OFFICES OF PHILIP DEBERARD FOR A FREE DRIVERS SAFETY CONTRACT FOR PARENTS AND NEW DRIVERS. CALL 1-800-299-8878
www.flainjurylawyer.com
July 21, 2009
Life Jackets
Life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs) are an important part of water safety. They are designed to keep your head above water and in a position to facilitate proper breathing. Use life jackets that are tested by Underwater Laboratories and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
There are several different types of life jackets that come in different sizes. Using the guidelines at the bottom of the page, make sure that you have the correct life jacket for every member of your family. When purchasing a life jacket, talk to the sales representative about the size and weight restrictions.
Safety Tips
Teach children how to put their life jackets on.
Make sure all straps are belted and in the right buckle.
Loose straps should be tucked securely.
Life jackets should fit snugly and not ride up the individual’s torso.
For children, try the jacket on the child and then lift him up by the top of the jacket. The jacket should not ride up over the chin and ears. If it does, try the smaller size. If you can’t drop a size – due to a weight restriction, find a jacket that has a crotch strap.
Make sure life jackets are not torn or leaking. Always dry life jacket before storing.
Life Jacket Safety Chart
Type I – Off-shore Life Jacket
Used in open or coastal waters and potentially rough seas where quick rescue may not be available. Will turn unconscious individuals face up in the water.
Sizes Adult
90 pounds or more
Child
89 pounds or less
Type II – Near-shore Buoyant VestUsed for general boating in calm water where quick rescue is available. Will turn most individuals face up in the water.
Sizes
Adult
90 pounds or more
Child
89 pounds or less
Infant
30 pounds or less
Type III – Flotation Aid
Used for general boating activities such as canoeing, kayaking, hunting and fishing, on calm water where quick rescue is available. Will provide face-up position in calm water, but is not intended to turn or maintain an unconscious individual face up in the water.
Sizes: Vary. Should be stated on tag sown to inside of vest with specific weight limits.
