Attorney Blog

The Impact Dangerous Road Conditions Have on Orlando Car Accidents

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Most of us wonder when we hear about an Orlando car accident who was at fault. For some reason, we naturally assume that car accidents are caused by the negligence of someone else, whether someone makes an unsafe lane change or makes a left turn in front of an oncoming vehicle. However, there are other factors to consider when determining who is the culprit in causing an auto accident.

Poor visibility can be a contributing factor in a crash. Sometimes heavy rain or overgrown vegetation can impair your sight, keeping you from seeing potential road hazards.

Defective guardrails and construction can also play a role. If they are not properly constructed, they might not offer you the necessary protection you need in a collision, leading to an even more serious accident.

There are also several other factors that can cause an Orlando auto accident such as potholes, a lack of a median divider and inadequate warning signals of potential dangers.

A serious car crash can lead to a permanent injury. It can leave a victim wondering who will pay for their mounting medical expenses as well as who will care for their family. You might be able to hold someone else liable.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an Orlando car accident, you should contact an experienced Orlando car accident attorney at the Francis Law Group at (407) 363-9939 or (888) 521-2721.

Are Cell Phones Becoming a Distraction for Florida Drivers?

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

As you know, there are many dangers facing Florida drivers when they hit the roadways. Is the use of cell phones while driving one of these dangers?

Many safety advocates have argued cell phones are a danger to Florida drivers. As a matter of fact, numerous studies have been conducted to establish a link between cell phone use and car accidents.

Did you know that Florida does not have any current laws banning the use of cell phones while driving?

Experts also believe that the use of cell phones wile driving pose dangers to not only the driver but to other motorists as well as pedestrians and bicyclists. The belief is that the act of dialing or answering a call can take a driver’s eyes off the road increasing the risk of being involved in a Florida car accident.

Another fear is that some drivers can become so involved in a conversation that they are unable to recognize dangerous situations.

Whether you believe there is a link or not, the fact is that some accidents occur because drivers become distracted by the use of their cell phones. As you know, an Orlando car accident can lead to a serious injury and may leave you incapacitated.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, you should contact an experienced Orlando car accident attorney at the Francis Law Group at (407) 363-9939 or (888) 521-2721.

For more information about this topic, read the article, Cell Phones Can Be a Distraction for Florida Drivers.

Drunk Driving Accidents are a Huge Problem for Florida Drivers

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

When it comes to Florida drunk driving accidents, it is often "the other guy" you have to worry about. You may be a responsible driver, but what about the other driver? Thousands are injured and many more killed in drunk driving accidents each year.

You have probably heard of an organization called Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Their stated mission is, "to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking." This organization has compiled some interesting facts including that about one-third of all drivers arrested or convicted for drunk driving are repeat offenders.

MADD estimates that 11,773 people died in drunk driving accidents in 2008. What's even more shocking is that on average, someone dies in an alcohol-related accident every 45 minutes.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, you should contact an experienced Orlando auto accident attorney at the Francis Law Group at (407) 363-9939 or (888) 521-2721.

For more information on this topic, read our article, Drunk Driving Accidents Plague Florida Highways.

Have You Suffered a Burn Injury From a Florida Auto Accident?

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

We have all seen the results of auto accidents along our Florida roadways, but, have you ever seen one that resulted in a fire or an explosion? It looks like a scene from a Hollywood movie.

Unfortunately, the suffering from injuries resulting from a fiery crash doesn’t end in 2 hours like movies do. It can lead to a victim suffering serious burn injuries that can result in immense pain, significant scarring and permanent disfigurement.

As you can imagine, serious burn injuries can be extremely painful and can damage blood vessels, cause swelling and blistering and can lead to shock. Treatments aren’t any better. If you are badly burned, you may require skin grafting and blood transfusions, to name a few.

The financial hardships can cause even more grief. If you are seriously burned in an auto accident, you may be left wondering how you will pay for your medical expenses or who will take care of your family.

If you are involved in an Orlando car accident resulting in burn injuries, you owe it to yourself and your family to seek experienced legal counsel. You will want someone who can help you argue your case. This is a serious matter that you will not want to handle on your own.

If you or someone you know has suffered a serious burn injury due to a Florida car accident, you should contact an experienced Orlando car accident attorney at the Francis Law Group at (407) 363-9939.

Do You Know What Caused Your Construction Injury?

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you are a construction worker in Florida or if your loved one works in the industry, you need to be familiar with the types of hazards that can lead to injury. Construction workers have jobs that are not only physically demanding, but often dangerous. There are all types of things that can go wrong while working on a construction site.

One of the leading causes of constructions accidents is falls. Gravity is a construction worker’s worst enemy. Many jobs require work to be completed at significant heights and if the appropriate safety measures were not put into place, the outcome can be deadly.

Crane accidents, such as crane collapses, can lead to serious injuries. Defective or malfunctioning equipment and untrained personnel can result in this type of construction accident.

Scaffolding accidents, falling objects and electrical accidents are among the many potential hazards faced by Florida construction workers.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Florida construction accident, you may be able to pursue compensation for the construction injuries. Contact an Orlando workers compensation lawyer at the Francis Law Group at (888) 521-2721 for legal advice.

For more information on this topic, read the article, Five Common Accidents that Lead to Florida Construction Injuries.

Statistics on Florida Car Accidents for 2008

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

It’s not uncommon to drive down the road and see a fender bender. It seems that car accidents are a frequent occurrence on the Florida roads. Everywhere you travel in the state, wrecks can be seen all over the freeways and highways.

So, how common are Florida car accidents? The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provided the Traffic Crash Statistics Report 2008, which showed that there were 243,342 traffic accidents in the state of Florida in 2008. This number is equivalent to 665 traffic accidents each day. Those reported accidents involved 346,610 drivers. These numbers are unsettling.

As you know, a car accident can have life altering effects. Many people involved in a car accident suffer serious injuries that can leave a victim disabled. Some accidents take the lives of victims.

What you may not know is the fact that if you have been involved in a Florida car accident, you may be entitled to compensation, especially if the other driver was at fault. You may be able to recover compensation that includes pain and suffering, loss of income, medical expenses and other damages associated with the injuries you have suffered as a result of the accident.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Florida auto accident, you should contact an experienced Orlando car accident attorney at the Francis Law Group at (407) 363-9939.

Information About Florida Workers Compensation Coverage

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

As you can imagine, an injury while on-the-job can be serious, even life altering. The list of potential effects is limitless and can include physical pain, the inability to work and serious financial problems. It can especially take a toll on your family.

There are many ways you can injure yourself while on-the-job. Numerous accidents are a result of negligence on the part of someone else, including your employer.

Did you know that the Florida Workers Compensation Law requires an employer to pay compensation or benefits when an employee is injured at work? However, it is important to note that the injury in question must be a result from a work-related activity.

The statute states that “the accidental compensable injury must be the major contributing cause of any resulting injuries.” This statement means that the major contributing cause must account for at least 50 percent of the reason why the injury occurred.

You should also know that the Florida Worker’s Compensation Law is complex and may be hard to understand. It is important that you seek professional advice to determine your rights and if you are eligible for workers compensation. You do not want to do this alone.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a work accident, you should contact an experienced Orlando workers compensation attorney at the Francis Law Group at (407) 363-9939.

For more information, read the article, Florida Workers Compensation Coverage.

Teenage Drivers Can Be Dangerous to Florida Motorists

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Human error, distractions, speeding, impaired driving and not fastening safety belts are some of the leading elements in road fatalities. However, teen drivers who are between 16 to 19 years of age are in the highest risk group for fatal crashes. Some other contributing factors are that young drivers do not have the experience behind the wheel, plus they make many aggressive maneuvers and lack the wisdom and driving techniques of mature drivers.

Florida has the third highest rate for fatalities involving teenage drivers, following Texas and California. In Florida, 479 people were killed by teenage drivers and 219 teenagers died, according to the latest reports by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration from 2007. The study revealed that two people died for every one teenager who died.

The state of Florida is urging educators and parents to do their part and monitor teens’ driving by teaching safe driving skills and limiting their driving at night. Simple things like wearing seat belts, driving the right speed, paying attention to the road and limiting distractions can help save lives.

If you have been involved in an accident and would like to get advice or speak with an experienced Orlando car accident lawyer, call The Francis Law Group at (888) 521-2721 to find out what your rights are.

For more information on this topic, read the article, Florida Ranked Third Highest in Teen Car Accident Fatalities.

You Can Help Protect Yourself During a Fall at Work

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

It is an unfortunate fact that people get injured on the job by falling. The two most common ways to get injured is to fall from an elevated height or to slip and fall. Both types of accidents may result in personal injury that could be moderate to severe in nature.

Same level falls are typically known as slip and fall injuries. These work accidents usually occur from water accumulating on floors, fresh waxed or wet floors, foreign objects on floors, poor lighting or when dangerous areas don’t have the correct safety warning signs displayed.

Workers who fall from ladders, vehicles, equipment or machinery can severely injure themselves in these elevated falls. It is important that safety protective gear be worn, and if an injury occurs to get examined right away.

No one wants to fall and get injured, but if you accidently fall there are better ways to do it in order to prevent severe injuries. In order to avoid a face plant, you should turn your head and tuck your chin in to avoid breaking the fall with your hands or elbows. Also, if you are in mid fall, you can twist to the side so that you land on your bottom or side instead of your back.

Employees should make sure they are wearing the proper footwear for their jobs, be patient when walking, and follow rules at work. Employers and building owners have responsibilities to make sure work environments and buildings are safe or else they may be held liable for injuries that occur to the employers or to the public.

If you have suffered from a work injury by falling, call The Francis Law Group at (888) 521-2721 to find out your rights and speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.

Drivers with Bad Eyesight Can Cause Serious Florida Car Accidents

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Thousands of people are misdiagnosed each year when it comes to conditions affecting their vision. Floridians might be affected without even knowing that the optometrist may have made a mistake or the store might have distributed the wrong lenses. Yet others have let their eyesight diminish over time unknowingly.

The American Optometric Association (AOA) believes that prevention will protect the public’s health. The association urges patients 61 or younger to have an eye exam every two years, and for those 62 and over, an annual eye exam is recommended.

The AOA also believes that car accidents involving elderly drivers frequently are caused from physical or functional impairments. Many of nation’s population, as well as Orlando’s senior citizens’ eyesight, has deteriorated over time and needs to be checked and treated.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that three times more deaths from traffic accidents occur at night than in daylight. During the day, the iris of the eye constricts to filter limited amounts of sunlight inside, and at night the iris is more open allowing more light in. Due to this function of the eye, depth perception and glare can be an issue for night-time drivers.

More than 11 million Americans have vision problems that have not been corrected according to The Vision Council. This condition can lead to impaired driving and an increase in collisions. It is important for motorists to get their eyesight tested when recommended, since driving a car is the riskiest thing most people do every day. If eyesight goes untested, uncorrected vision can lead to traffic accidents.

For more information on this topic, read our article, Was Your Florida Car Accident Caused by a Driver with Poor Vision?

Florida Highway Patrol Warns Holiday Motorists

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Thanksgiving holiday is a five-day peak travel period for motorists nationwide. In recent years, it has even been ranked as the deadliest holiday for traffic accidents. The top three most dangerous holidays on the road include, Thanksgiving, Labor Day and Independence Day.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an average of 550 Americans lose their lives on a holiday each year. For Floridians, last Thanksgiving proved to be the most dangerous holiday for drivers with 52 fatalities during the five-day holiday break. Furthermore, half of the deaths were alcohol-related.

Florida officials believe that there will be more people on the road during this particular holiday, and they are driving for longer periods of time. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), many of the fatal crashes are related to heavy drinking.

This holiday season the FHP is cracking down on drunken motorists, speeders, and aggressive drivers by deploying all state troopers, even those who typically perform administrative duties, to patrol the roads in order to help reduce the number of fatalities.

Officials want to urge motorists this holiday to be careful and advise drivers to focus on the road. The FHP’s safety tips include these strategies: leave plenty of time to get to your destination, make sure you do not drink and drive, plan the trip well, get plenty of rest before driving, check the vehicle’s tire pressure and fluids, obey all speed limits and eliminate all distractions like texting or talking on the phone.

For more information, read our article, Thanksgiving is Florida’s Most Dangerous Holiday for Car Accidents, for more information.

St. Cloud Car Accident Leaves One Dead, One Injured

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A St. Cloud auto accident that took place outside of a local high school leaves one person dead and another injured. The incident took place on Tuesday morning, February 9, 2010, outside of Harmony High School along Irlo Bronson.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the rush hour incident happened at the intersection in front of the school when two vehicles collided into one another. The cause of the accident was not made available.

One of the victims was an unidentified 57-year-old woman. Unfortunately, she was killed in the accident. Rescue crews transported the second unidentified victim to a local hospital where they were treated for injuries sustained in the accident. The victim’s condition was not made known.

Fortunately, there were no students injured in the wreck

The St. Cloud car accident is still under investigation by local authorities. Authorities believe that the accident was caused by one of the drivers running a red light. They have not been able to determine which driver ran the red light.

This is an unfortunate accident that claimed the life of this victim. We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to her family. We also wish the second victim a speedy recovery.

Deltona Car Accident Kills Elderly Man

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Deltona car accident involving three vehicles leaves an elderly man dead. The auto accident occurred at approximately 2:00 PM on Thursday afternoon, February 18, 2010.

According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened at the intersection of Alladin Drive and Saxon Boulevard. Reports indicate that Joseph Freed Jr, 76, of Deltona, was making a left turn from Alladin onto Saxon in his 2002 Saturn when he was struck by a 1999 Plymouth. The Plymouth was reportedly eastbound on Saxon.

Freed was pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the accident.

The force of the impact caused the minivan to travel into oncoming traffic and into the path of a 2001 Pontiac. The driver of the Plymouth has been identified as Noel Nieves, 19, of Deltona. Rescue crews transported Nieves to Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach. He was treated for minor injuries.

Heather Almany, 36, also of Deltona, and a 5-year-old child, were in the Pontiac at the time of the collision. Fortunately, neither of then were hurt.

The Deltona car accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

This is an unfortunate incident that claimed the life of this 76-year-old man. Our thoughts and condolences go out to all of those that have been impacted by this traumatic event.

Orange County, Florida Car Accident Leaves Firefighter Injured

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Orange Country, Florida car accident leaves six people injured including a firefighter after a car slams into an accident scene. The incident took place on Sunday morning, February 14, 2010, on Colonial Drive and Deer Isle Drive in West Orange County.

According to Orange County Fire and Rescue Lt. Mark Smothers, they were responding to a previous accident that involved a motorcycle and a car when a white car slammed into the accident scene.

“A white car went around the fire truck, realized they were in the wrong lane and then made an abrupt maneuver,” said Chief Tim Driskell. “When they made the turn they turned into a group of people on the side of the road.”

Rescue crews transported all seven victims, including one victim from the previous crash, to nearby hospitals where they were treated for injuries sustained in the accidents. One of the victims included Orange County Firefighter Chad Lowery who has been listed in stable condition.

Police have not released the names and conditions of the victims of this unfortunate accident.

The Orange County accident is still under investigation by local authorities. The identity of the driver who slammed into the accident scene has not been released.

Our thoughts go out to all the victims and their families who have been affected by this unfortunate accident.

Polk County Auto Accident Leaves Man Dead

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Polk County auto accident involving three vehicles leaves a police officer dead. The incident took place on Monday afternoon, January 18, 2010.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Sharon Kolbinskie, 54, of Lake Wales, was traveling east on State Road 25 when she drove her 1989 Ford station wagon into the path of a 2006 Pontiac sedan that was in the southbound lane. In an attempt to avoid Kolbinskie, the driver of the Pontiac, Federico Vasquez, 23, of Sebring, swerved to the left and into the northbound lane.

Charles Dallas, 56, of Lakeland, was driving a 2006 Ford Explorer and was struck by the Pontiac. Dallas, a longtime Lakeland Police Department K9 officer was pronounced dead at the scene. According to reports, Dallas was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

According to spokesperson Jack Gillen, Dallas was a longtime officer who had received many medals and commendations throughout his career.

"It's a very difficult situation here today," said Gillen. "Charlie was a role model to many officers here."

Katie Boyette, 23, of Bowling Green, was a passenger in Vasquez's car. Neither Boyette, Vasquez or Kolbinskie were injured in the accident.

The Polk County accident is still under investigation by local authorities. However, according to the Florida Highway Patrol, charges are pending following the investigation.

This is an unfortunate accident that reminds us how important it is to wear seatbelts. Our thoughts and condolences go out to those that have been affected by the accident.

Orange County, Florida Car Accident Leaves Prisoner Injured

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Orange County, Florida car accident involving two vehicles, including a Sheriff deputy’s cruiser, leaves a prisoner injured. The incident took place at approximately 2:00 AM on Wednesday morning, January 27, 2010, at the intersection of Semoran Boulevard and East Colonial Drive.

According to Sgt. Kim Montes, the Sheriff deputy’s car driven by Deputy Karen Miranda, was stopped in the left turn lane on East Colonial Drive when the accident occurred. According to witnesses, Miranda was struck by another car as she was making a left turn onto Semoran Boulevard. The witnesses reported that the car that struck Miranda had run a red light.

Rescue crews transported Miranda to Florida Hospital East where she was treated for minor injuries sustained in the crash.

Miranda was transporting prisoner Wendell Jackson at the time the accident occurred. Jackson was taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center where he was listed in serious condition.

The driver of the BMW that ran the red light and struck Miranda’s police cruiser has been identified as Wasimm Suleiman, 29, of Orlando. Neither Suleiman nor any of his passengers were injured in the two-vehicle wreck.

The Orange County, Florida accident is still under investigation by local authorities. However, police did issue Suleiman a citation for running a red light.

Orange County, Florida Accident May Have Been Caused by Street Racing

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Orange County auto accident involving two vehicles may be a result of an illegal street race. The incident took place on Wednesday morning, January 20, 2010, near Silver Star Road and Hiawassee Road.

According to Florida Highway Patrol Sgt. Kim Montes, witnesses outside of the Silver Hills Apartments saw a white Cadillac and a black BMW racing around midnight. The BMW apparently lost control and flipped over. The BMW then slid into a traffic control box and finally coming to a stop after it hit a metal fence.

Witnesses said they saw two men exit the BMW. One of them got into the Cadillac while the second person hopped into a white Dodge Magnum. Both vehicles fled the scene before police arrived. The BMW was reported as being stolen.

As police were taking statements, one of the witnesses saw the Cadillac driving down the road. Police stopped the car at Hiawassee Road and Almena Street and identified the driver as 22-year-old Kyle Jay Baronville.

Police discovered marijuana, cocaine and a handgun inside the Cadillac and arrested Baronville. Police also discovered blood spatters inside of the Cadillac and believe that someone may have been injured in the incident.

The Orange County car accident is still under investigation. However, investigators have not confirmed whether the accident was a result of an illegal street race.

Kissimmee Truck Accident Involves 3 Semis

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Kissimmee truck accident involving three semis leaves two injured when one of the trucks blows a front tire. The incident took place at approximately 12:30 AM on Tuesday morning, January 12, 2010, on the Florida Turnpike.

According to authorities, an 18-wheeler blew a front tire along the Florida Turnpike causing a Target semi-tractor trailer to slam into the back of it. The force of the impact caused the Target truck to burst into flames. The Florida Highway Patrol indicated that they believe that the fire was caused by damage sustained by the refrigerator in the Target truck.

Rescue crews transported the occupants of the Target truck, a driver and his brother, to a nearby hospital where they were treated for injuries sustained in the wreck. Their injuries were described as non-life threatening.

A third big rig was also involved in the accident, as it hit debris from the collision of the first two trucks. The fuel system of the truck sustained damage.

There were no other injuries reported in the crash.

Commuters were inconvenienced for approximately six hours, as crews cleaned up the accident along the turnpike, including a 200-gallon diesel fuel spill, according to authorities.

The Kissimmee accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Oviedo Accident Leaves a Man Dead

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Oviedo accident involving a man who was working on a car in a local parking lot is killed when the vehicle rolls over on top of him and crushes him to death. The freak accident took place on Sunday, January 10, 2010, in Seminole County, at a Goodwill Industries parking lot.

According to the Oviedo Police Department, the incident occurred in the Goodwill Industries store parking lot at 1819 Alafaya Trail in Oviedo. According to police, there were several witnesses who say they saw the man examining the car’s engine, when the car rolled over and crushed the victim. It has not been determined what was wrong with the vehicle

Rescue crews from the Oviedo Fire Department removed the man from the bottom of the car and transported him to Winter Park Hospital. The 28-year-old male victim was pronounced dead at the hospital from injuries sustained in the freak accident.

Police have not yet released the name of the male victim.

The fatal Oviedo accident that claimed the life of the male victim is still under investigation by local authorities. It has not been determined if anyone else was with the man or if anyone else was injured in the accident.

Altamonte Springs Car Accident Leaves 2 People Seriously Injured

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Altamonte Springs car accident involving a stolen car leaves two people injured after the auto thief attempts to flee police and runs a red light. The incident took place at approximately 12:30 AM on Wednesday morning, December 30, 2009, north of Orlando.

According to police, the accident happened at the intersection of state roads 436 and 434, when a stolen Honda ran a red light and slammed into another car. Altamonte Springs police report that the Honda was stolen from the Altamonte Springs area.

Winter Springs police spotted the stolen car. The unidentified driver fled police after they made an attempt to stop the vehicle. The stolen car then sped towards the intersection, ran a red light, and slammed into the second car.

Rescue crews had to cut the unidentified driver from the second car in order to remove him. The driver was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center and treated for life-threatening injuries sustained in the crash. The suspect was also taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center and treated for life-threatening injuries.

According to hospital officials, both drivers are reported as being in serious, but stable condition.

The two-vehicle Altamonte Springs accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Orlando Area Accident Leaves an Elderly Lady Dead

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A car accident in the Orlando area involving three vehicles and a Lake County Fire Rescue truck leaves an elderly lady dead and several others injured. The chain-reaction crash took place at approximately 8:30 AM on Friday morning, December 25, 2009, approximately seven miles north of State Road 50.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 2004 Hyundai, with three people on board, rear-ended a Lake County Fire Rescue truck, which had reportedly slowed abruptly in the center lane. The rescue truck was in the process of making a U-turn in response to an emergency call.

The victim, Virginia Sellitto, 88, of Titusville, was taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center where she was pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the wreck. The driver of the Hyundai, Kathleen Higgins, 58, was also taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center where she was treated for serious injuries. The third passenger, Paul Sellitto, 67, also of Titusville, suffered minor injuries.

The force of the impact caused the Hyundai to hit a Dodge Ram truck, which then collided with a Ford F-150 truck. According to reports, the driver and passenger inside the Dodge truck were also treated for minor injuries.

The Orlando accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Police Cruiser in Orlando Pedestrian Accident Injures Child

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

An Orlando pedestrian accident leaves an elementary student in critical condition after being struck by an Orange County Deputy Sheriff’s car. The pedestrian accident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, December 9, 2009.

Orlando Police report that Marqueasha Sabrii Henderson, 6, a kindergarten student at Orange Center Elementary school, was startled by a horn and ran in front of a police cruiser. The incident took place in front of the elementary school while Henderson was crossing John Young Parkway at Orange Center Boulevard, which is a six-lane road. Lt. Julie Blackmon was reported as the driver of the 2006 Chevrolet Impala that struck the student.

Henderson suffered life-threatening injuries and was rushed to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. She has been reported as being in critical, but stable condition.

Police originally believed that the kindergarten student was crossing the street with her mother, Lawanda Gandy, and her two sisters when she was struck. However, police later determined that the woman seen with the child in the crosswalk was not her mother. Police have not yet identified who the woman was.

Police have described Blackmon as a 23-year sheriff’s veteran who works for the agencies youth services division. That division supervises school resource officers.

The Orlando pedestrian accident is still under investigation by local authorities. However, police do not believe that speed was a factor in the accident.

Orlando Accident Leaves Teen and her Mother Dead

Sat, 26 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

An Orlando car accident involving one vehicle leaves a 14-year-old Jacksonville girl and her mother dead. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, December 5, 2009 in an Orange County resort when the sport utility vehicle (SUV) the teen was driving overturned in a retention pond.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Ariel King, 14, of Jacksonville, was driving a 2004 GMC Yukon with her family on board, when she lost control of the SUV and drove through a fence. The vehicle overturned upside down in a retention pond trapping several family members. The incident began in the parking lot at a resort off South International Drive.

Dana King’s, Ariel’s mother, body was retrieved from inside the vehicle. Rescue workers pronounced her dead at the scene.

Rescue crews transported Ariel to a nearby Orlando hospital where she was placed on life support. She eventually died from her injuries sustained in the accident.

There were several other family members injured in the accident including 3-year-old Brealyn Nesmith, who was also placed on life support. Brad Nesmith, 33, and Taylor Nesmith, 13, were able to escape the submerged SUV and suffered only minor injuries.

The Orlando accident is still under investigation by local authorities. The cause of the accident has not yet been determined.

Orlando Auto Accident Kills One

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

An Orlando auto accident involving a single car leaves one man dead and one seriously injured when the vehicle they were riding in veered off the road and crashed into a ditch. The incident took place at approximately 2:15 AM on Sunday morning, December 13, 2009.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Israel Martinez Gutierez, 31, of Orlando, was traveling on Apopka Boulevard near Hiawassee Road, when he lost control of his 1992 Nissan. Reports indicate that he lost control of the vehicle and veered off the road and crashed into a ditch. The Nissan then flew out of the ditch and struck a pole and fence, finally coming to a stop on its roof.

Rescue workers transported Gutierez to Orlando Regional Medical Center where he was treated for serious injuries sustained in the crash.

Hector Castano, 25, of Orlando, who was a passenger in the Nissan, died due to injuries that he suffered.

The Florida Highway Patrol has not determined why Gutierez lost control of the vehicle. The Orlando car accident is still under investigation by local authorities. Charges have not been filed as of yet and the police have not determined whether alcohol was a contributing factor in the fatal crash.

Florida Car Accident Leaves One Motorcyclist Dead

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Florida car accident, results in the death of a man when his motorcycle rear-ends the back of a sport utility vehicle (SUV). The incident took place at approximately 10:30 AM on Friday morning, November 27, 2009 on Interstate 75.

According to the Florida High Patrol, Stephen H. Webster, 65, of Mississippi, was traveling northbound along Interstate 75 just south of State Road 26, when he struck the back of a 2001 GMC driven by Megan N. Menendez, 25, of Ocala. Menendez had slowed her SUV to approximately 60 mph due to heavy traffic. Webster was unable to slow down his 2000 Harley Davidson in time and rear ended the SUV.

Webster was thrown from the motorcycle due to the force of the impact. Rescue workers transported him to Shands at the University of Florida. He was pronounced dead later that night.

Menendez was not injured in the accident. Karen Sanders, 34, of Gainesville was traveling in the SUV at the time of the accident. She was not injured.

The two vehicle accident is still under investigation by local authorities. The Florida Highway Patrol has indicated that heavy holiday traffic may have been a contributing factor in the crash. There were no other injuries reported.

Osceola County Motorcycle Accident Kills Man, Driver Flees the Scene

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A tragic Osceola County motorcycle accident claimed the life of one man early Sunday morning on November 22, 2009 at approximately 1:45 AM. The driver fled the accident scene, leaving the motorist on the ground.

Florida Highway Patrol troopers are now trying to locate the driver of the hit and run accident. It is believed that this crash could have been caused by road rage.

Carlos Cepeda was traveling on Osceola Parkway that morning and notices a white van. “It kind of fish tailed on the side of the grass and almost tipped over, but it caught itself and kept going straight.”

Carlos later found Raul Alicea Nogueras, the motorcyclist, on the ground. According to Carlos, they called 911 and lifted the motorcycle off of him. Nogueras wasn’t breathing and appeared to be struggling for air.

The driver of the white van was heading eastbound on Osceola Parkway next to Nogueras, according to FHP troopers. The van apparently swerved to the right and struck Nogueras, which forced him off his bike and he slid onto the shoulder.

Forty-two-year-old Nogueras died at the hospital from his injuries.

Investigators believe that the white van was either a Ford Windstar or Chevrolet Astrovan. They said that the van may have damage on its right side.

Deputy and Driver Injured in Davenport Car Accident

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Davenport car accident that occurred on Sunday, November 29, 2009, injured a Polk County Sheriff’s deputy and another driver. Luckily, the injuries were only minor.

The accident took place on U.S. 27 near the Interstate 4 entrance ramp at approximately 1:40 AM, according to reports.

Deputy Zulaika Vizcarrondo was traveling southbound on U.S. 27 in emergency mode in route to a call of a fight in progress. Her vehicle hit a 2005 Toyota Scion that was driven by 24-year-old Michael Boyette, of Odessa. Boyette was crossing U.S. 27 from a side access road on his way to the Interstate 4 westbound ramp, said the Sheriff’s Office. The front driver’s side of the patrol vehicle hit the front passenger side of the Toyota.

Boyette and Vizcarrondo were both wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision and sustained only minor injuries. They were taken to Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center for treatment.

Investigators are still looking into the details of the Davenport accident.

Recent Polk County Accidents Show the Dangers of Distractions

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

There is no doubt that driving while distracted is dangerous. Motorists often take their eyes of the road to dial or pick up a ringing cell phone. Some people have even admitted to texting and driving. However, recent accidents have brought a new danger to light, which is walking while distracted.

Parents of teenagers are now faced with a new fear that involves youth on foot. Two recent Polk County accidents have brought attention to the phenomenon of distracted pedestrians.

The first pedestrian accident occurred last September when a 14-year-old boy was killed after walking into traffic in Davenport. He had been sending a text message at the time, according to Polk Sheriff’s Office officials.

Last October another accident took place when 18-year-old Robert Lopez, Jr. was hit and killed by a passenger train as he walked along the railroad tracks in Auburndale. Lopez was listening to music on his earphones.

Apparently, pedestrian accidents similar to these two are becoming more common, especially in large cities where more people walk among vehicles. According to Dr. Nick Jouriles, a former president of the American College of Emergency Physicians, “people have earbuds in and they just aren’t really listening (for traffic) or watching. We have seen a whole bunch of people on their iPhone or Blackberry who walk out into traffic or step into a ditch and roll their ankle. We have been seeing more and more of those injuries.”

Three Separate Polk County Car Accidents Resulted in Three Deaths

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Three people were killed in three separate car accidents on Friday, November 13, 2009 and in the early morning hours of Saturday, November 14, 2009. Authorities said that the three people who were fatally injured include a man and two teenagers.

The first Polk County car accident occurred at approximately 7:30 PM on Friday on Dundee Road. The crash involved 17-year-old Amber Shaw, of Eagle Lake. She was traveling west on Dundee Road when her green 1999 Hyundai went onto the north grassy shoulder, then veered back onto the road. The vehicle then started rotating into the eastbound lane, where Shaw was hit by another vehicle on the driver’s side. Shaw was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.

Another car accident in Polk County occurred early Saturday and resulted in the death of 18-year-old Mark E. Tourigny of Davenport. Davenport was killed when the vehicle he was riding in struck a tree on Deen Still Road at about 3:00 AM.

The third auto accident took place early Saturday morning when a vehicle veered left onto the shoulder of S.R. 33. The vehicle struck a guide wire, which caused the car to rotate clockwise. Brian Charles Dier, 29, of Lakeland, was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle.

Three UT Students Involved in Davis Islands Car Accident

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Three University of Tampa students were involved in a car accident, just hours after a candlelight vigil for a fellow schoolmate who was fatally injured in a hit-and-run accident. One of the students was critically injured in the Davis Islands car accident.

The car accident took place at approximately 3:20 AM and many University of Tampa officials were not sure how much more they could take.

According to Tampa police, 20-year-old Michael Louis-Fernand, was the driver of a 2009 two-door Volkswagon GTI. Louis-Fernand was traveling west on W. Davis Boulevard toward the end of the island, when he apparently lost control of his vehicle, hit a curb and crashed into a concrete wall that surrounded a home at 523 Erie Avenue. The people living in the home were not injured.

Michelle Sams, 20, and Jorge Jimenez, were passengers in Louis-Fernand’s car. Sams was riding in the backseat at the time of the crash. She was transported to Tampa General Hospital where she was listed in critical condition on Tuesday, November 24, 2009. According to Sams’ mother, Donna, Michelle sustained a lacerated liver and lost a lot of blood. Donna said that she was told that Michelle was “almost gone.”

Donna and Steven Sams, who reside in Wilton, Connecticut, were preparing to fly to Tampa to be with Michelle.

Investigators are looking into whether or not alcohol was a factor in the accident. A blood sample was taken from Louis-Fernand by police, but the results could take several weeks.

Car Accident on Chickasaw Trail Kills One and Injures Two Others

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to Florida Highway Patrol, a man from Orlando and two other people were seriously injured early Sunday, November 29, 2009 in a two-vehicle accident on Chickasaw Trail.

Unfortunately, the passenger in the 2000 Dodge Caravan, Hason Mendoun, died from his injuries at Orlando Regional Medical Center. Souad Sadiqu, Mendoun’s 41-year-old wife, sustained serious injuries in the crash and was also transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center. It appears as though Sadiqu was driving at the time of the fatal car accident.

Thirty-six-year-old Melvin Munoz was driving the other vehicle involved in the crash. Munoz was listed as being in critical condition at Orlando Regional Medical Center, according to Florida Highway Patrol.

FHP troopers stated that Sadiqu was heading northbound on Chickasaw Trail when she tried to turn left onto Sun Springs Circle and hit Munoz’s 2006 Infinity. Munoz was driving south on Chickasaw Trail. Sadiqu told troopers that she did not see Munoz’s vehicle when she turned, according to the report.

Florida Highway Patrol troopers are still investigating the details of the accident.

OSHA Finishing Disney Investigations

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is almost finished with its investigation into a summer accident at Universal Orlando, as well as probes into three summer incidents that occurred at Walt Disney World. These probes have not been resolved.

According to an OSHA spokesman, all three of its investigations involving Disney are still continuing, including the monorail accident on July 5th. The monorail accident resulted in the death of the 21-year-old driver Austin Wuennenberg. The other accidents being reviewed led to the deaths of Mark Priest, 47, and Anislav Varbanov, 30.

The summer accident involved Universal Orlando’s Dueling Dragons roller coaster, which was occurred just four days prior to the monorail accident.

OSHA has up to six months to finish its investigation into the accidents. There are not any anticipated delays that will make the investigation go beyond the six-month deadline.

The Orlando Sentinel reported that Universal Orlando’s debt ratings went up last week by Moody’s Investors Service, after the resort’s $1.6 billion capital restructuring earlier this month. Universal had been looking at an April 1 deadline to refinance its debt.

Orlando Truck Accident Kills Bicyclist

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A tragic Orlando truck accident on Monday, November 23, 2009, led to the death of a bicyclist. The collision caused numerous intersections in downtown Orlando to be closed during the afternoon.

The crash took place at Church Street and Hughey Avenue. Investigators are still looking into the accident and police have been trying to piece together exactly what happened.

Based on information from the traffic homicide unit, the accident occurred at about 9:30 AM. It appears as though the truck was traveling eastbound on Church Street and was turning right onto Hughey, heading southbound. The semi then collided with the bicyclist, 46-year-old Elroy C. Daniel. Daniel was run over by the semi truck.

Daniel was killed in the Orlando accident and his bicycle was destroyed, as parts of it were stuck under the tractor.

Kenneth Thomas Carter III, 26, was driving the truck at the time of the crash and had a passenger traveling with him. He has been cooperating with the police as they investigate the crash.

According to Barbara Jones with the Orlando Police Department, “he’s (Carter) distraught about it. Right now, he’s going to have to give his testimony. But it’s not always about testimony. It’s gonna be about physical evidence and other people who saw what happened.”

Tiger Woods Injured in Orlando Car Accident

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Florida Highway Patrol reported that Tiger Woods was involved in an Orlando car accident that occurred at approximately 2:25 AM on Friday, November 27, 2009. Woods was driving a 2009 Cadillac SUV and no one else was in the vehicle with him at the time of the crash.

The Florida Highway Patrol initially stated that Woods’ injuries were serious, but Glenn Greenspan, a spokesman for Woods, reported that he was treated and released from the hospital already. Greenspan stated that Woods was in good condition. The hospital also released a statement and described the auto accident as minor.

The police report stated that Woods pulled out of the driveway of a residence and as he began to travel on Deacon Circle, hit a fire hydrant. He then hit a tree.

The Orlando Sentinel reported that the airbags in Woods’ SUV did not deploy. According to the newspaper, airbags generally are not activated if the vehicle is going less then 33 MPH.

Mark Steinberg, Woods’ agent, said that the golfer is fine. However, Golf World magazine editor Ron Sirak reported on ESPNEWS that Woods sustained “facial lacerations.” Mayor Gary Bruhn of Windermere also mentioned that Woods had facial lacerations.

The crash is still under investigation, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Charges are pending. It is not believed that alcohol played a role in the Orlando accident.

One Person Died and Four Others Were Injured in a Fort Meade Car Accident

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Fort Meade car accident in Polk County led to one death and three injuries on Wednesday, November 25, 2009. This fatal Polk County accident occurred on Highway 98 East and according to Polk County Sheriff’s Office, all of the lanes on the highway were closed as a result. The crash occurred in the 4100 block of Highway 98 East.

Highway 98 E was shut down east of Lake Hendry Road and west of Lake Buffum Road. It was strongly recommended that cars take alternate routes to get to their destinations.

The tragic Fort Meade car crash resulted in the death of one female passenger and injuries to four other occupants in the vehicle. Apparently, the pickup truck they were traveling in crashed into a tree.

The female passenger was thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene of the accident. The other occupants in the pickup truck, which included the driver and two other passengers, were transported by emergency responders to Lakeland Regional Medical Center.

The Polk County Sheriff’s office was notified of the deadly car accident at approximately 8:36 AM.

Based on a preliminary investigation, the pickup truck was heading eastbound on Highway 98 when the driver appeared to have lost control of the vehicle as it negotiated a northbound curve. The pickup truck veered off the highway, flipped and struck a tree, according to a Sheriff's Office statement.

The latest news report regarding the accident did not give the names of the victims, because they have yet to be released.

Orlando Made the Top 10 List of Most Dangerous Cities for Pedestrians

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you are in Orlando, you may want to think twice before crossing one of the city’s busy intersections. According to a report by Transportation for America and the Surface Transportation Policy Partnership, over 43,000 pedestrians were killed this decade on roads that the authors say don’t have adequate crosswalks and other safety features.

Not a lot of money goes towards such safety measures, despite the fact that pedestrians account for 11.8 percent of all traffic-related fatalities.

James Corless, director of Transportation for America, was quoted in an ABC News article as saying, “as Congress prepares to rewrite the nation’s transportation laws, this report is yet another wake-up call showing why it is so urgent to update our policies and spending priorities.”

The report is titled, Dangerous By Design: Solving the Epidemic of Preventable Pedestrian Deaths (and Making Great Neighborhoods). It compiled a list of the top ten most dangerous cities for pedestrians and believe it or not, four of these cities are in Florida. According to the report, Orlando, Tampa, Miami and Jacksonville are among the ten dangerous cities.

The rankings were based on information gathered from all 360 metropolitan areas in the country. Orlando toped the list because the city has 2.9 pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents.