If you’ve driven by a shopping center, chances are you’ve seen them: costume-wearing advertisements. They spin, they twirl, and they dance to attract business. But according to a few South Florida cities, they also distract drivers.
Hallandale Beach is attempting to eliminate “human signs” from its roadsides by passing an ordinance banning them. But the ordinance, enacted in early January, has yet to be enforced.
The ban has been halted because local business owners are claiming that it violates freedom of speech. They argue that costume-wearing human advertisements are no different than billboards. The owners also argue that in a tough economy, the ordinance is crippling to their business.
Several other cities in Florida are also trying to curtail human advertisements. Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale do not allow off-site advertising. Coral Springs prohibits costumes, characters, or mascots from being used to draw attention to businesses. And Palm Beach County is considering how to keep human signs from interfering with traffic and blocking sidewalks.
For the time being, human advertisements are likely to remain a street-corner staple. Our Treasure Coast auto accident attorneys urge all Florida drivers to stay focused while driving.
Car Accident? A Florida Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
If you or someone you love has been injured by a distracted driver in Florida, the law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, can help. We have provided legal assistance to car accident victims in South Florida and the Treasure Coast since 1975.
Call us today at (800) 299-8878 or fill out our convenient online contact form for a free consultation.
