Florida Child Injury Lawyer Blog

Deaths occurring from school athletic sports may be rare but they happen more often than one would think. In fact, there have been four deaths of high school football players in this season alone. Reggie Garrett, 17-year-old senior of Texas, jogged off the field after throwing his second touchdown pass. After giving his coach a low-five Reggie collapsed, a little over an hour later he was declared dead. In August, an 18-year-old South Carolina player died during a scrimmage game. According to a deputy coroner, the teen had an undetectable heart defect. In September, in Orlando, Florida, a 15-year-old player collapsed during practic and died after being rushed to the hospital. Finally, a 16-year-old lineman from Chickasha, Oklahoma died after collapsing on the field three days earlier.

List of the most dangerous games:
- Football. Among high school sports, football is the most dangerous. In 2009, 3 players were killed as a direct result from hits taken during a game or practice. Fifteen other players died as from indirect causes, such as an underlying medical condition or heat stroke.
- Wrestling.
- Boys Soccer.
- Girls Soccer.
- Girls Basketball.
If you would like to read more on this topic please see High contact sports can be deadly to children and teens.

In order to prevent children involved in contact sports from sustaining serious personal injuries, or being killed, parents and coaches need to educate themselves on the dangers, risks, and injuries associated with the sport. Sports are a great method of exercise and social interact for children and teenagers, but sporting activities can be inherently dangerous. As such, all reasonable safety precautions should be taken to prevent injuries, reduce the incidents of injuries, and to address or treat injuries when they take place.

On September 7, 2010 at Dr. Phillips High School in Florida, a 15-year-old student claimed that a group of football players beat him up in a locker room. One of the students, whose name will not be released due to student privacy laws, was suspended for 10 days. The suspension was upheld on appeal. Matthew J. Olszewski, one of the lawyers representing the disciplined student, said his client was being made a scapegoat in the alleged hazing incident. Olszewski said he would take discussions to the next level, which may involve the Orange County School Board. The parents of the alleged victim have threatened to sue the school district. If you would like to read more on this story please see Alleged hazing incident by high school football players at Dr. Phillips High School.

Hazing is a term used to describe various ritual and other activities involving harassment, abuse or humiliation as a means of a way of initiating someone into a group. Hazing, over the years, has been popular in colleges and universities when a pledge was being initiated into his or her fraternity or sorority. Hazing has been declared an illegal activity in many schools, colleges and universities. Teachers and other authoritative figures should make their students aware of the dangers of hazing, focusing on both the mental and physical consequences of the act.

A routine investigation headed by cyber crimes detectives led to a Duval County man, who could now potentially face up to 150 years in prison. The man, identified as 25-year-old Cale James Gentry, was arrested in August on child pornography charges after police found pictures and videos depicting child pornography. The pictures and videos were discovered during a routine online search and traced them back to Gentry's computer. Gentry's computer and other "digital evidence" were seized from his home in Jacksonville, Florida. Investigators found hundreds of videos on these devices with children as young as 5.

Gentry faces 10 counts of possession of child pornography. These counts will be prosecuted as second-degree felonies under the CyberCrimes Against Children Act. He could face 15 years per count. Gentry is entitled to a criminal defense attorney to defend the allegations against him. If you would like to read more on this story see Jacksonville, Florida man could face up to 150 years in prison on child pornography charges.

With the advent of the Internet, child pornography is an increasing crime. Having children commit sexual acts has lifetime consequences, both emotionally and physically. If you know someone who posses child pornography you should report it to local authorities immediately so a criminal investigation can be prompted.

In Holmes County, Florida dog owners or other persons responsible for a dog have a duty to exercise proper due care and control of their dog(s) in order to prevent their dog(s) from becoming a public nuisance.

Public nuisance is defined as any dog which:
1. Disturbs and/or harasses person(s) or passing vehicles on public property or on the property of a person other than its owner ofr person responsible of the offending dog(s).
2. Attacks other animals on public property or on the property of another person who is not the owner or person responsible for the offending dog(s).
3. Damages public property or private property that does not belong to its owner or other responsible person
4. Excessively and continuously barks, whines, howls or makes other noises.
5. Creates noxious and offensive odors that can be detected on public property or private property of another person who is not the owner or other responsible person of the offending dog(s).

If dog owners do not comply with this ordinance in Holmes County, Florida they run the risk of having their dog(s) seized, and, in some instances, humanely disposed of. If you would like to read more on the Dog Provisions or provisions of other animals in Holmes County, Florida, please see Holmes County Ordinance No. 10-02.

Holmes County is located in Florida's panhandle and includes the following cities:
Bonifay, Esto, Noma, Ponce De Leon, and Westville.

In Florida and other States, laws are in place for the protection of children. In particular, there are laws in place regarding school buses and student passengers. In Florida, pursuant to Section 316.172, Florida Statutes, a driver approaching a school bus which has the stop signals displayed has a duty to stop and to refrain from passing such a vehicle. This particular statute does not address the situation when the yellow lights are flashing as the stop signals on the side of the bus are being extended. While this particular statute may not be violated by passing the school bus when the yellow lights are flashing, it still may be negligent of the driver to pass the school bus or hit a student walking near the school bus under these circumstances. Flashing yellow lights are certainly a warning and an obvious signal that the school bus is stopping and that children are in the area. To pursue a negligence claim or case in Florida, there does not have to be a violation of a State of Florida statute. Negligence standards are much more broad than the Florida Statutes and each case, incident or accident should be evaluated on its own merits. For the safety of children, slow down any time that a school bus is on the road, about to stop, or stopped.

In Jacksonville, Florida and other communities, children unfortunately are injured at or near school bus stops. A recent accident took place in Jacksonville Florida on Moose Road and New Berlin Road. At the time of the incident, there were approximately 10 children waiting at the bus stop. While waiting, a car drove into the path of the children. It was reported that one child was pinned under a car. The child was bleeding and conscious when he was transported to Shands Jacksonville Hospital for emergency medical treatment and evaluation. The victim is a 9th grader at First Coast High School. You can read more about this story at Student in Serious Medical Condition After Getting Run Over near School Bus Stop in Jacksonville, Florida.

Drivers should slow down and drive with caution and full attention when near bus stops, crosswalks, and school zones. It is amazing that drivers continue to ignore the clear warning signs clearly presented by big yellow school buses and flashing lights.

Gainesville Police Department were recently told by a 13-year-old girl that her grandmother permitted a 36-year-old man, identified as Kendrick R. Johnson, to go into her room and sexually molest her. According to a report the incident began at about 4:40 a.m. The grandmother of the teen allowed Johnson to sleep at her home because Johnson was drunk. The victim told police that her grandmother opened her bedroom door and said, "you have a visitor." Johnson then walked into the room, locked the door behind him and proceeded to sexually molest the teenage girl. The victim said she escaped by telling Johnson she had to use the restroom, left the home and phoned her mother who is out of state. The mother contacted authorities and reported the incident.

In a conversation between the grandmother and Officer Natalie Loveland, the grandmother told Officer Loveland that victim is "beautiful and does not look her age at 13." The grandmother also stated she was not surprised that Johnson was sexually attracted to the victim "because just look at her."

Both, Johnson and the grandmother were booked in Alachua County jail and were each charged with one count of committing a lewd or lascivious battery on someone under the age of 16. They are both entitled to a criminal defense attorney. If you would like to read more on this story please see 13-year-old girl tells Gainesville Police that her grandmother allowed a man to molest her.

People who commit sexual assault upon others are selfish and do not understand the lifetime consequences of their actions, both emotionally and physically. If you know someone or suspect someone is a victim of physical or sexual abuse, contact local authorities so a criminal investigation can be prompted.

A 2-year-old was airlifted in DeLand, Florida after the child was struck by a vehicle. According to City of DeLand, Florida police Sergeant John Anderson, the toddler was apparently sleeping and left inside a vehicle while the child's mother went to a store across the street. The child woke up and attempted to follow the mother across the street. As the child was crossing the street, the toddler was clipped by the mirror of a passing car. If you would like to read more on this incident please see Toddler airlifted after being hit by a car.

This is just one of many reasons why a child should never be left alone inside a vehicle. This child could have suffered from a heat stroke (otherwise known as hyperthermia) or been kidnapped. Either way, leaving a child unattended in a vehicle is dangerous. Children are very susceptible to changing temperatures within a car and they do not appreciate the dangers of their surroundings. Regardless of how "quick" the stop may be, never leave your child inside a vehicle, even if he or she is sleeping.

To read more on the dangers of leaving children unattended inside a vehicle please read Leave a Child Alone in a Car Can Lead to Serious Personal Injuries, Death, and Prison Time in Florida.

After being knocked out on the football field at Spruce Creek High School, Jordan Peterson's heart stopped. It is speculated by medical professionals that Jordan experienced a rare event called commotio cordis. This is an event that occurs when a person gets hit in the chest at a precise moment during a heartbeat.

Most cases of commotio cordis are fatal. However, death and serious injuries can be avoided or significantly reduced if the rhythm of the victim's heart is restarted by the use of an automated external defibrillator. This is what happened with Jordan - once Jordan was knocked out, his coaches immediately grabbed a defibrillator and shocked his heart back into rhythm.

Dr. Tom Carson, an Orlando, Florida pediatric cardiologist, says speed is important in responding because of potential brain damage. In fact, according to Carson, for every minute your heart is stopped, the chance of sustaining brain damage increases by 10%. The sports most often associated with commotio cordis include baseball, lacrosse, hockey and martial arts - all of which involve a sharp blow to the chest. If you would like to read more on this story please see High school football player's heart stopped after sustaining blunt chest trauma.

Because of the high risk of brain damage, defibrillators should be on hand at practices and games. Also, coaches and other responsible adults should be trained on how to properly use defibrillators instead of waiting on an ambulance to arrive - time is of the essence.

If your teenager has just received their driver's license, this blog will be interesting and helpful to you. Although any driver can get into an accident, new drivers are at greater risk. These accidents can cause severe personal injuries and occasionally death. For example, in 2008, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nine teens between the ages of 16 to 19 died everyday from motor vehicle-related personal injuries. Also alarming, is the fact that leading cause of death among U.S. teens is motor vehicle crashes.

New drivers are at greater risk of being involved in an motor vehicle crash because they are faced with numerous distractions (cell phones, music, passengers, etc.) and lack experience.

Below is a list of safety tips from professional and commercial drivers parents can teach to their children in order to keep Florida's roads safe:

Professional Driver, Racer, Scott Lagasse Jr.:
Lagasse Jr. is a professional stock car driver from St. Augustine, Florida, he has competed since age 7. Lagasse says driving is a privilege, whether it be racing or on driving on the road, and should be taken seriously. Drivers should steer clear of distracted driving such as texting and talking on the cell phone but also need to be aware of their surroundings. Lagasse Jr. warns, do not assume other drivers know you are around them. Think ahead.

Professional Driver, Police officer, Sgt. Vito Terry:
Terry urges that before you drive off in a car, your cell phone should be turned off and placed in the floorboard behind you. To eliminate distractions, Terry also advises new drivers to keep the music volume low and maintain two hands on the steering wheel.
Use your signal turns, especially when changing lanes - it is a state law now.
Follow the speed limits - driving too slow is just as dangerous as driving too fast. Follow the speed limits and gauge the flow of traffic around you.

Ramzi Salameh, the Insurance Guy:
Salameh is a Jacksonville, FL Allstate Insurance Co. personal financial representative. Allstate has instituted a program that encourages all drivers to stay off their cell phones while driving.

Commercial Driver, trucker, William "Fred" Durbin:
Durbin is an independent owner-operator leased on with Landstar Trucking Co. Durbin is also a Landstar 3 Million Mile Safe Driver designee, because he has had no preventable accidents in over 3 million miles driven.
Being very experienced on the road, Durbin urges new drivers to be respectful of other motorists and keep the focus on driving. Also, drivers need to be aware of how much longer it takes for tractor trailers to stop and should, therefore, avoid cutting off big trucks off and slamming on their breaks.

If you would like to read more advice from other professional and commercial drivers please see Professional and Commercial drivers of Florida offer tips on how new driver can keep Florida's roads safe.

Pursuant to Section 4-20 of the Franklin County, Florida, Code of Ordinances, all dogs must be kept under restraint in any residential or commercial property. Dog owners shall exercise due care to keep their dogs from becoming a nuisance. All dog owners will be held responsible for every behavior of their dogs and shall provide adequate food, water, shelter, medical care and a sanitary environment. Dog owners who fail to comply with this section may be charged with a second degree misdemeanor and punished accordingly.

A dog is considered under restraint if it is confined withing the real property limits of its owner or secured by a leash or lead or under the direct control of a responsible person.

Direct control is defined as the immediate, continuous physical control of a dog at all times by means of a leash, cord, secure fence, or chain of sufficient strength to restrain the dog and controlled by a person capable of restraining the dog, or safe and secure restraint within a vehicle. Voice control will be considered direct control when the controlling person is at all times fully and clearly withing unobstructed sight and hearing of the dog.

Franklin County is located Southwest of Tallahassee (Leon County) and includes the following cities: Alligator Point, Apalachicola, Carrabelle, and Eastpoint.

It is clear that guns are unsafe in the hands of anybody who is not experienced with guns, who does not understands the mechanism and safety features of the gun, and who is not plainly focused on the use of the gun as opposed to other activities. Gun play, whether by a toddler or a college student or anybody else, is dangerous and, at times, ends with the death of a person. In Tallahassee, Jason Keiran (age 20), died when he accidentally shot himself with his roommate's gun. Vicki Keiran was interviewed by the media and stated that "it was kids messing around with a gun." This is certain a tragic loss for Vicki and her family. You can read more about this story at Mother of Winter Park FSU student who died in accidental shooting: 'It was a senseless act'.

Hopefully, others will take notice of Jason's death and take precautions so that similar events do not happen. In particular, I would recommend the following:

Lock up all guns and the house;

Only take out guns for inspection, cleaning, and for use at a gun range or other safe location;

Never play with a gun especially around other people including but not limited to children;

Educate yourself and all other adult members of the household as to the proper use of the gun including but not limited to the safety settings for the gun;

Never have the gun open and accessible during any party or get together especially those that involve alcohol; and

Respect guns and the power and dangers that they yield.

When there is a death from an accidental shooting, there may be criminal proceedings that result from such an incident. In addition, some homeowner's insurance claims are made when there is an accidental shooting involving the negligence of others. Some claims are made for incidents that take place in the home covered by the insurance and some are made for incidents that take place outside the home but caused by a person covered under the homeowner's insurance policy.

The University of Florida has seen a dramatic decrease in the number of students sent to the hospital for alcohol-related problems. For example, last fall only 8 students, all of who lived on campus, were sent to the hospital for alcohol poisoning, compared with 26 students in fall 2006. This recent decrease is not surprising to administrators at the University of Florida, in fact it coincides with a time in which the University of Florida has expanded advertising campaigns, educational efforts and punitive measures aimed at reducing alcohol abuse. Also, UF has seen decreasing rates in binge drinking and dropped in the "party school" rankings.

However, some of the locals offer a different reason for the decrease in UF's alcohol-related statistics - they attribute the reduction to the University's rising academic standards. One Gainesville bar owner said the culture changes the more difficult it becomes to be admitted into the school.

UF had its first mandated online alcohol education program for students in 2006. Then, in 2007, the University instituted advertising campaigns such as "sketchy drunk guys" and other novel messages. Plus, UF's President, Bernie Machen has been focused on the issue of alcohol abuse since his arrival. If you would like to read more on this topic please see UF experiences a substantial decrease in alcohol-related hospitalizations.

Parents should teach their children about the risks of alcohol abuse, especially before they send their children off to college. consuming too much alcohol can result in personal injuries and sometimes death.

An all terrain vehicle (ATV) accident occurring in Pasco County, Florida sent four teens to the hospital. The teenagers remain in the hospital - one in serious condition, two in stable condition and one in critical condition. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the accident is being treated as a criminal hit-and-run.

The FHP (Florida Highway Patrol) reported that the operator of the ATV pulled into the path of a Ford Ranger pick up truck. The pick up truck collided with the front of the ATV, throwing off all four teens. If you would like to read more about this accident please see 4 teens remain in hospital after hit-and-run accident in Pasco County, Florida.

ATVs are powerful devices. They are also attractive to youths because one does not need a driver's license to operate an ATV. Parents who allow their children to ride or drive ATVs and owners of ATVs should make sure that children wear approved gear, especially helmets. Helmets dramatically decrease the severity of personal injuries and in some ATV accidents prevent a serious head injury from occurring. percentage of sustaining serious personal injuries and death. If you would like to read a more in depth analysis about the dangers of ATVs please see CBS News Reports on Dangers of Personal Injury to Children from ATV (All Terrain Vehicles).

In Florida, there are many traditions. Just because something is a tradition does not mean that it is a good thing. Take hazing for example. Hazing has been around for years and it is done in the spirit at times of tradition, fun for some, and, yes cruelty. Hazing should stop at all levels of education and sports. It is interesting to note that hazing even continues into the NFL. Of course, the hazing in the NFL is typically a bad haircut or something much less than a beating. However, it is important that we teach our children that hazing, in any form, should not be tolerated and every attempt should be made to prevent and get rid of hazing in sports. In Orange County, Florida, a student has accused football players of hazing. There is a pending investigation of the matter. Currently, the Orange County School District is requesting medical records of the victim to find out more about the injuries caused by the alleged hazing. You can read more about this story at Orange County Schools Want Victim's Medical Records.

It is unlawful for dog owners in DeSoto County, Florida to permit their dog(s) to be a nuisance. If the owner is notified by an officer that their animal is a nuisance, the owner must immediately and permanently stop the nuisance. See Section 4.2 - Nuisance domestic animal.

Nuisance is defined as a domesticated dog(s) that
1. Is allowed to run at large or habitually destroy or damage property other than that of its owner.
2. Habitually lives out of garbage cans;
3. Digs holes on property other than that of its owner;
4. The dog barks or makes other utterances so as to interfere with the use and enjoyment of neighboring residential properties by their landlords or tenants;
5. Or, the dog exhibits or shall have any exhibited any tendency toward attacking, biting, mauling or otherwise injuring people or other animals.

Proper restraint of a dog(s) exists when the dog(s) is withing the real property limits of its owner, or is secured by a leash or lead, or is under the immediate voice control of a responsible adult. See Section 4.1 - Definitions.

DeSoto County, Florida is located in Central Florida towards the West Coast of the State and includes the following cities: Arcadia, Brownville, Cubitis, Fort Ogden, Hull, Lake Suzy, Lansing, Nocatee, Southfort, Pine Level, and Platt.

It is unlawful in Escambia County, Florida for a dog to be off the premises of its owner or person responsible for the dog, if the dog is not under the direct control of its owner, person responsible for the dog(s) or other person. Dogs deemed not under direct control shall be considered unlicensed animals and private nuisances and owners run the risk of having the dog seized, restrained, impounded and disposed of. See Escambia County Ordinances, Chapter 10 - Animals, Section 10-12.

Direct Control is defined as the immediate, continuous physical control of a dog at all times by means of a fence, leash, cord or chain of sufficient strength to restrain the dog.

Owner is defined as any person, firm, corporation or organization possessing, harboring, keeping or having control or custody of an animal. Or, if the dog is owned by a person under the age of 18-year-old, that person's parent or guardian.

Escambia County is located in Florida's panhandle and includes the following cities:
Bellview, Brent, Brownsville, Century, Cantonment, Ensley, Gonzalez, Molino, Muscogee, Myrtle Grove, Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, Perdido Key, Warrington, and West Pensacola.

Continue reading " Is There a Dog Leash Law in Escambia County (Pensacola) Florida? " »

In Florida and many other States, football is a tradition and the talk of the big cities and small towns in the Fall. Especially at the beginning of the Fall football season, the weather in Florida can be quite hot and typically feels like the scorching weather of the Summer well into September and other months. Because of this, it is important for coaches, league administrators, and parents to do their part to keep children safe and well hydrated. Yes, conditioning is an important part of football but close attention should be paid to the age, size, and physical abilities of the players especially the younger ones. Youth football is loaded with players that will play at the high school or college level. It is important that all players (talented ones and the not so talented ones) are kept safe so that serious personal injuries are avoided. Of course, from time to time, heat related incidents and health complications can occur even with all reasonable precautions taken for rest, shade, and hydration. Many such incidents can be avoided with the health and safety concerns are put front and center over the competitive desire to win and condition the children into stellar, tough athletes and young men in the future.

In Ocoee, Florida, four children experienced heat related symptoms at a Pop Warner Football game. From the article posed in the Orlando Sentintel, it was reported that Firefighters responded to the scene and a few people (adults / children) were hospitalized. For more details of this incident, see Hospitalizations - Ocoee, Florida - Pop Warner Football.

In Jackson County, Florida all dog owners must exercise proper care and control of their dog(s) to prevent them from becoming a public nuisance. See Jackson County Code of Ordinances, Section 10-1: Restraint of Cats and dogs.

"Public nuisance" is defined as and dog(s) which:
1. Disturbs or threatens to disturb passersby or passing vehicles;
2. Attacks or threatens to attack other animals;
3. Damages or threatens to damage private or public property; or
4. Run at large.

For you dog(s) to not be considered "running at large" they must be:
1. Currently vaccinated for rabies, is wearing a collar with a tag demonstrating the current rabies vaccination and containing the name and address of the owner; or
2. Under the control of or in the presence of its owner or its owner's designee; or
3. A hunting dog when present of private property with the prior permission of the property owner.

You can read more of the Dog Provisions of laws concerning other animals, including dogs classified as dangerous, at Jackson County Code of Ordinances, Chapter 10 - Animals.

Jackson County is located West of Leon County (Tallahassee) Florida and includes the following cities: Alford, Bascom, Campbelltown, Cottondale, Graceville, Grand Ridge, Greenwood, Jacob City, Malone, Marianna, and Sneads.

Washington County, Florida has different restraint requirements for dogs regarding the location of the dog(s) (i.e., whether the dog(s) is on or off the property of its owner or custodian).

Pursuant to Section 12-30(a) - Restraint and Confinement to Property, dog owners or custodians of dogs must exercise diligence and reasonable care to prevent their dog(s) from leaving their premises. Lawful restraint exists when the dog is:
1. Enclosed within a secure enclosure such as a house, building, fence, pen, or other enclosure where the animal escape by climbing, digging, jumping or otherwise. Such enclosure must be securely fastened any time the animal is left unattended.
2. On a leash, which is held by a responsible person.
3. Off a leash, but under the voice control and obedient to that person's commands and that person is present with the dog(s) at all times.

Section 12-30(b) governs dog(s) that are off the property of its owner or custodian. Pursuant to this part of the ordinance, owners and custodians of dog(s) must exercise diligence and reasonable care to keep their dog(s) under restraint while off the owner's or custodian's premises. The following are acceptable methods of restraint: The dog is
1. Located inside a parked vehicle provided it does not endanger the animal.
2. Confined within a secure enclosure with permission of the occupant of the property where the animal is temporarily located.
3. On a leash held by a responsible person.
4. Under the control of a responsible person and obedient to that person's commands to the extent that the animal will not trespass on the property of others.
5. In a securely fastened cage or animal carrier with adequate ventilation and room for the animal.

Washington County, Florida is located in Florida's panhandle and includes the following cities: Caryville, Chipley, Ebro, Greenhead, New Hope, Sunny Hills, Vernon, and Wausau.

Recently, the State of Florida Department of Agriculture released a list of injuries occurring in Florida theme parks so far this year. The list showed 11 visitors to state theme parks had sustained injuries, most of them minor. Also revealed by the Department of Agriculture's list, was that two new roller coasters were the main cause of rider injuries during the second quarter of the year.

Walt Disney reported 9 injuries from April to June of this year, among them was a 54-year-old man who, after going on Expedition Everest in Walt Disney's Animal Kingdom, had troubled breathing and later had a heart attack. Also, at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, a 36-year-old man and a 45-year-old woman both sustained back pain after going on the theme park's ride, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.

Under an agreement with the State of Florida, the State's major theme park operators are required to report details of injuries in exchange for avoiding government ride-safety regulation. If you would like to read more on this story please see Florida's Department of Agriculture reveals personal injuries sustained at Florida theme parks.

Continue reading " Florida Theme Park Injuries - Reports to Florida Department of Agriculture " »

The high school football season is now in full force. The Orlando Sentinel reported that a 9th grade football player collapsed during practice and later died at the hospital - Florida Hospital (Apopka). Due the age of the player and the circumstances of this death, an autopsy will be performed to determine the cause and contributing factors to his death. When a football player collapses in Florida and other warm weather States, there is a concern or question whether dehydration, heat exhaustion, or hyperthermia was a cause or contributing factor to the death of the student player. On the day of the incident, the local temperature was in the high 80s (87 - 88). You can read more about this story at Wekiva (Florida) Football Player Collapses at Football Practice - Later Dies.

With football season in play, it is important for all schools and coaches to put the safety and well being of the player over all other concerns like winning. There is a great deal of pressure on coaches and players alike to perform. Yes, jobs and college scholarships are at stake; nevertheless, the overall well being of each and every player is far more important than the advancement of a few or the glory of winning. Coaches should provide scheduled water and rest breaks at practice Furthermore, coaches and trainers should be alert to any signs of fatigue or injury and respond accordingly.

In Okeechobee, Florida, dogs are prohibited from being at large or running at large. Any person who fails to exercise due care or control over their dog, or take the dog out of a secure enclosure or building and thereby allows the dog to run at large, shall be deemed in violation of section 10-8 of the Code of Okeechobee County, Florida.

"At large" is defined as not limited to any particular place, district, person, matter or question; open to discussion or controversy; not precluded, free; unrestrained; not under corporal control; as a ferocious dog so free from restraint at to be liable to do mischief; or not under the voice command of the dog's owner or custodian, or competent person designated by the owner or custodian. "Control" is defined as the regulation of the possession, ownership, care and custody of dogs. "Running at large" is defined as wandering or straying of a dog of the premises of its owner or keeper.

It is important to keep your dog under control because dog bites can inflict serious and sometimes permanent injury to adults and children alike. As a dog owner whose dog does inflict injury onto another, you will be liable for the damages resulting from the dog bite or other attack.

Okeechobee County, Florida is located in Central Florida towards the East Coast of the State and includes the following cities: Cypress Quarters and Okeechobee.

Section 10-63 of the Gadsden County, Florida, Code of Ordinances, prohibits dogs on public places if not under direct control. For purposes of this section, "direct control" is defined as:
1. The immediate, continuous physical control of a dog at all times by means of a secure fence, leash, cord or chain, or other means of sufficient strength to restrain the dog and the dog is controlled by a person capable of restraining the dog. Or, the dog is safely and humanely secured within a vehicle.
2. There is an exception made for hunting dogs and specifically trained dogs.

Also, under this section, a duty is created for dog owners to maintain direct control of their dog.
1. Dog owners or persons responsible for the care, custody, or control of any dog may not allow their dog to go on any public street, road, park or other public property if the dog is not under the direct control of the owner or person responsible for the dog.
2. However, this does not apply if the dog is on the premises of its owner or premises of the person in care, custody, or control of the dog.
3. There is also an exception made for hunting dogs or specially trained dogs.
4. Dogs not under direct control may be seized, restrained, impounded, and disposed of.

If your dog is found running at large and not under direct control on the property of another without the property owner's consent, the property owner or tenant is legally permitted to restrain the dog in a humane manner under section 10-59. After restraining the dog, the property owner or tenant is to immediately notify the director of animal control, who may then impound the dog.

Violators of this section risk incurring civil penalties ranging from $100-$500.

Gadsden County is located in North West Florida and includes the following cities:
Chattahoochee, Greensboro, Gretna, Havana, Midway, Mount Pleasant, and Quincy.

Jackisha Baynard is still recovering from severe personal injuries she sustained after she tumbled out of a Miami-Dade school bus. The driver of the bus told investigators the students were being rowdy and throwing raisins on the bus. The driver also told investigators that instead of taking the children to their destination, he chose to return the children to school.

An investigation conducted by the Miami-Dade County (Florida) School Board indicated that the driver, Jean Michael, was at fault. Apparently, Michael drove off without realizing that Baynard was lying in the street as Michael moved away. The investigation revealed that when Baynard fell out, her head made contact with the roadway, knocking her unconscious. The report also revealed that if Michael would have checked all the mirrors while the bus was in motion, he would have seen the emergency exit door was open.

According to Baynard's attorney, the law in Florida is that a bus must stop when an emergency door is open and the bus driver is required to maintain order on the bus.

Michael has been suspended and all other bus drivers were sent by the School Board to additional training. Michael is entitled to an attorney if charges are placed against him. If you would like to read more on this story please see Student falls from bus in Miami-Dade area, school bus driver at fault.

A 3-year-old boy of South Florida has died after he was left inside of a sports utility vehicle (SUV) for more than an hour. According to Miami-Dade police reports, the boy was found inside a Ford Expedition outside the child's family home. Rescue workers rushed the boy to a nearby hospital, where he was in critical condition but he later died. It is unclear whether or not anyone will be charged in this child's death. If you would like to read more on this story please see Miami boy dies after being left in a SUV.

This child's death is a tragedy for his family and community. During these summer months it is imperative parents, guardians, babysitters, day care providers and employees check their vehicles to ensure they do not leave a child inside. The temperature inside a vehicle can increase well above 100 degrees and can differ from the temperature outside by more than 20 degrees. Also, a child's body does not adjust to changes in temperature as well and as quick as an adult's body. Therefore, children are much more susceptible to hyperthermia, or heat stroke. In Florida, children are at risk for hyperthermia-related injuries year round due to the extreme hot temperatures throughout the State. Prison time and punishment vary across the State of Florida for these type of incidents.

If you would like to read other articles on hyperthermia incidents please see Death Results From Children Being Left in Cars and Don't Leave Children in Vehicles to Go Grocery Shopping - It Is Dangerous to Children and Can Get You Arrested.

Pursuant to Walton County, Florida, Code of Ordinances, Section 5-29, all dogs, when not on the owner's premises or on the premises of a consenting person, shall be and remain under the direct control of a person competent to control the dog at all times.

"Direct Control" is defined as the immediate and continuous physical control of the dog at all times by means of a fence, leash, cord or chain of sufficient strength to restrain the dog, or in a vehicle. However, animals under "direct control" shall at all times have access to shelter, water and food.

Walton County is located in the Florida panhandle and includes the following cities:
DeFuniak Springs, Freeport, Miramar Beach, Paxton, Point Washington, Redbay, and Santa Rosa Beach.

Dog owners in Walton County, Florida need to exercise due care and common sense. Compliance with your County's laws will reduce or prevent the likelihood of a serious dog incident that can cause serious or permanent personal injuries to children and adults alike. Leashing your dog, when off your property, is a simple way to reduce the risk of incurring any liability for injuries caused by your dog. If you would like to read more of the Dog Provisions of Walton County, Florida please see Code of Ordinances of Walton County, Florida.

In Florida, day care centers have a duty to provide a safe haven for children under their care. Unfortunately and tragically, some day care workers use their position of trust to commit horrendous and unspeakable acts of child and sexual abuse on children under their care. Many such acts go unreported without any intervention by law enforcement or the state of Florida. The Miami Herald recently reported that Edgar Cerezo was arrested for allegations involving sexual acts on a four year old girl in his wife's day care center - The Clara Cerezo Child Care Center. If convicted, Mr. Cerezo faces a possible sentence of life in prison. Of course, Mr Cerezo will be entitled to legal representation by a Florida public defender, or Florida Criminal Defense Attorney and it will be the State's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. You can read more about this story at Miami-Dade County Day Care Worker Accused of Attacking Four Year Old Girl.

Day care center abuse, assault, and neglect incidents continue to take place in Florida and other States. Responsible and caring child care workers should be supervising the children rather than those adults intent on preying and abusing children.

Continue reading " Miami (Kendall) Day Care Center Worker Investigated for Alleged Sexual Assault on 4 Year Old Girl " »

In Gulf County, there are county ordinances that regulate the licensing, classification, confinement and disposal of dogs and cats. Pursuant to the Gulf County Code of Ordinances, dog owners have a duty to prevent domestic animals (dogs and cats) from running at large. Under the definition section of the Code of Gulf County Ordinances, the following definitions apply:

"At Large" is defined as an animal when off the property and not under restraint.

"Confined" is defined as within a building, pen fenced yard, vehicle, on a leash or on a chain.

"Restraint" is defined as confined within the real property limits of its owner or secured by a leash or lead.

It is important for dog owner in Gulf County to keep control of his or her dog. Confining a dog to a particular area and / or utilizing a leash at all times off the property will help prevent incidents in which a dog, for cause or not cause at all, bites an adult or a child. Dog bite injuries continue to occur across the State of Florida and involve serious injuries that involve costly medical bills, pain and suffering, and permanent scarring and disfigurement. You can read more these regulations at Gulf County Animal Control County Ordinances.

Gulf County is located in Florida's panhandle on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico and includes the following cities: Port St. Joe and Wewahitchka.

In Hardee County, Florida, a down owner has a duty to maintain possession, charge, custody or control of a dog and shall not allow the dog to run "at large". When a dog is off the premises of the owner, there is a duty to keep the dog on a leash or otherwise under the direct control of the dog owner pursuant to Section 4.105 - Dogs and Cats at Large - Restrictions - Code of Hardee County Ordinances. Direct Control is defined as immediate and continuous physical control of an animal at all times such as by means of a fence, leash, cord, or chain of specific length. For specially trained dogs, Direct Control is defined as dogs that respond to oral or aural control assuming that the person controlling the dog is within the unobstructed sight and hearing of the dog.

You can access the Animal Control County Ordinances for Hardee County and also read other information at Hardee County Animal Control.

It is important for dog owner in Hardee County to follow Animal Control ordinances and also to exercise due care and common sense when owning a animal. Compliance will help prevent the incidents of serious dog bite incidents that cause serious personal injuries to children and adults alike.

Hardee County, Florida is located in Central Florida just south of Polk County and includes the following cities: Bowling Green, Wauchula, and Zolfo Springs.