Florida Child Injury Lawyer Blog

In Florida and in other states, there is a problem with bullying in day care centers, schools, playgrounds and other locations. Unfortunately, the extent of bullyinng has even reached the youngest of children in a social or school setting.
Because bullying can be present even with the youngest of children, age, it is helpful to teach children right from wrong, good from bad, and acceptable behavior versus unacceptable behavior. Sesame Street is a long time running children show that first aired on PBS in the 1960s. The CNN Website recently posted a story about a Sesame Street video on the subject of bullying. This educational video teaches children that bullying is wrong and how to handle or respond to the taunts, teases, and bad acts of a bully.

Unfortunately, children suffer personal injuries, both emotionally and physically as a result of bullying in day care centers, preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. Many bullying incidents could've been prevented with more hands-on supervision and intervention by parents teachers, coaches and other school officials. Do your part by teaching your children about the dangers and problems with bullying. Don't tolerate bullying.

In Jacksonville, Duvall County, Florida and other locations throughout the United States, there is a problem with motorist ignoring stops school buses. In Florida, it is the law that a driver must stop when a school bus is stopped with flashing red lights activated and stop signs extended. Unfortunately, Florida drivers tend to ignore these flashing red lights and stop signs and drive right pass stopped school buses. The Florida times Union website recently reported a news story on this problem. It is estimated that almost 2,000,000 incidents (that's right Two Million incidents) take place every year involving a driver who ignores stopped school bus and drives past the school bus. In Florida, a driver can be find up to $500 for this driving violation or this traffic citation. It is important for the safety of children that all drivers be on the lookout for school buses whether stopped or not. Unfortunately, many such incidents have resulted in serious personal injuries to children. Many of these Florida pedestrian accidents / automobile accidents would have been avoided if the driver has stopped and obeyed Florida traffic rules and regulations pertaining to school buses. For more information on this topic see Drivers Frequently Ignore Stop School Buses in Jacksonville Florida in other cities.

In the early morning hours and the afternoon hours, thousands of Florida children travel to school in a county school bus. Unfortunately, many children are injured while on the bus or while walking to or from the bus stop. In Sanford, Florida, it was reported that a 14 year old boy was hit by a car while standing at a school bus stop. The driver of the vehicle stated that he did not see the boy because there was dew on his windshield. The driver was issued a citation for careless driving. The boy suffered personal injuries as a result of this school bus stop pedestrian / automobile accident. See 14 Year Old Hit by Vehicle at School Bus Stop.

It has been reported that at least 12 children have been hit by vehicles in the Central Florida area since the 2011 - 2012 school year began.

Florida has specific traffic laws and regulations regarding school zones, passing, pedestrian crossings, and other traffic matters. See Florda Traffic Laws and Regulations.

Latchkey kids are children who return from school at the end of the school day to a home without parental supervision. Is your child ready for the responsibilities that go with being a latchkey kid? This is an excellent question and one that does not always have a legal answer or a practical answer to it. Ideally, a child should be supervised in an after school program, by a relative, or by a trusted family friend. There are a number of latchkey children who by the choice of the parents / guardian or by practical or financial circumstances. You can read about the factors that a parent should consider in allowing a child to be a latchkey child at an article posted by the Jacksonville Times Union Website / Newspaper - Is Your Child Ready for Latchkey Responsibilities?

The Winning Kids Club is an organization that was founded and is operated by Gail Ghigna Hallas. The organization is based in Lehigh Acres, Florida. This non-profit organization offers classes in creative writing, guitar, Braille Literacy and tactile art for sighted and blind children in Lee County, Florida. Gail works with children with the help of Paxton - a helpful and resourceful St. Bernard dog weighing in a 165 pounds.

Organizations like the Winning Kids Clubs make a difference in a child's life, school, and community. Hats off to Gail Ghigna Hallas, Paxton, and all others who make the world a better place. See Winning Kids Clubs Visit Lee County, Florida School.

In Gainesville, Florida, a teen was sentenced to 15 years in prison for aggravated child abuse. Michael Devante Williams, age 19, was arrested earlier in the year for beating the 18 month old child of his girlfriend. The toddler suffered a bruised lung, a bruised heart, and a fractured rib. Mr. Williams had stated that he wanted someone else to feel some pain. Mr. Williams pled guilty to the criminal charges. The criminal charges could have resulted in a 30 year prison sentence.

Children should not be subjected to abuse, physical violence, neglect or corporal punishment. A child should be nurtured and cared for rather than beaten and put at risk for serious bodily harm and even death. You can read more about this story at Gainesville, Florida Teen Gets Prison Sentence for Beating Gainesville Toddler.

In Florida, swimming pools are in practically every community. In most instances, swimming pools provide fun and enjoyment for children as well as great scenery for a home. Unfortunately, at times, swimming pools can also be traps or areas of dangers for young children. It is well known that children are curious and do not always appreciate the dangers of swimming pools or other areas that seem interesting and fun to children. It was reported by the Jacksonville Times Union newspaper / website that an 18 month old girl drowned in a swimming pool in Satsuma (Putnam County), Florida. It was reported that family members and Putnam County Fire Rescue paramedics were unable to revive the child. See Toddler Drowns in Putnam County Swimming Pool.

It was a sad day and a great loss for the family, neighborhood, and community. As you can see, swimming pools are dangerous especially for children. All pool owners should take precautions to safeguard the pool area for children residing in the home as well as any children who may visit the home.

In Polk County, Florida, a school bus aide recently resigned from her position following an incident that took place on a school bus. The incident was videotaped. It was reported that school bus monitor - Hattie Yvonne Branch - hit a 14 year old child and bite him twice. While there may have been some behavior issues with the child on the bus, a school bus aide should calmly respond to the behavior. The school bus aide now may be facing criminal child abuse charges for her acts. She will be entitled to representation by a Florida criminal defense attorney or the public defender's office. See School Bus Aide - Attack on Polk County School Bus.

Unfortunately, children suffer injuries in schools and day care centers including transportation to and from the school or day care center. At times, the injuries are unforeseeable and could not have been prevented. In other instances, the injuries could have certainly been prevented with better and more responsible adult supervision. The book titled - The ABCs of Child Injury - Legal Rights of the Injured Child - What Every Parent Should Know- has chapters on School Injuries, Day Care Injuries, Medical Treatment / Medical Bills, Damages / Compensation, and other topics.

A one year old child died on Monday in Orlando, Florida as a result of injuries suffered from an automobile accident. The car that the Florida child was riding in hit a pole when the driver lost control in rainy weather conditions. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the child was sitting in a car seat; however, the car seat was not secured properly to the family SUV. The car seat that Darvin Thomas Jr. was siting in was thrown out the rear door of the SUV. The child's mother was also injured in the accident. The Florida Highway Patrol stated that the mother was not wearing a seat belt. Darvin Thomas, the driver and father of the child also suffered minor injuries. Officials from the Florida Highway patrol report that the driver was driving without and license and the tires were worn on the SUV. Since a death resulted from this accident, local law enforcement and / or the Florida Highway Patrol will conduct a full investigation into the cause and preventability of the death of the child.

In the State of Florida, children under the age of 5 must be properly restrained while riding in a motor vehicle. The law also requires children under the are of 3 to be fastened in a separate safety seat. Every time you place your child in a car seat, make sure it is properly installed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers child car seat safety inspection stations. Certified technicians will inspect you child's car seat to verify proper installation. Check the NHTSA website to locate a car seat inspection location near you. For more information see, Tragic Automobile Accident Reported in Orlando Florida- Toddler Ejected From SUV and Dies.

A six year old child suffered 2nd degree burns in a fire that broke out in a Deltona, Florida duplex on Tuesday morning. The Fire Department stated that the fire engulfed the entire duplelx. Seven people were rescued from the burning house, however the six year old boy suffered severe burns to his back, shoulder, head, and ears. The boy was airlifted to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, home fires caused about 85% of all fire related deaths in 2010. Education is key to preventing fire related deaths. Have your family practice fire evacuation from your home. Teach your children about basic fire safety. Discuss with your children what to do if they smell smoke. Check your batteries in all smoke detectors and change batteries twice a year. Make sure all family members know how the smoke detector alarm sounds. Make sure your home has a working fire extinguisher. For more information see, 6 Year Old Suffers Personal Injuries in Duplex Fire in Deltona Florida.

Teaching children about safety can help prevent many unfortunate accidents and incidents from taking place. In some Florida cities and towns, "safety towns" have been created to teach children about traffic and pedestrian safety. The "safety towns" are minature versions of towns that have streets and crosswalks. The "safety town" concept is a great way to teach children about crosswalks, bus stops, and the dangers of traffic and busy intersections. You can read more about the concept and usefulness of "safety towns" at Teaching Children in Florida Safety Towns.

It is well known that children (especially young children) lack good safety awareness. Because of this, it is important for drivers to slow down in and near school zones, bus stops, parks, playgrounds, and all other locations where children play, walk, or ride bicycles. By slowing down and reducing driver distraction, many automobile accidents involving child pedestrians and bicyclists can be avoided.

When a child is a victim of an accident and suffers serious personal injuries, many challenges are presented to the parent caring for the child. How are the medical bills going to be paid? Who is legally responsible for the medical bills? What insurance benefits are available? What are the legal rights of the injured child? The book titled - The ABCs of Child Injuries - Legal Rights of the Injured Child - What Every Parent Should Know - has chapters on Automobile Accidents, Medical Bills / Medical Care, Damages / Compensations, and other topics. You can receive a free copy of this book at The ABCs of Child Injury.

A Winter Park high school student was arrested following a fight at Lake Howell High School. A 17 year old male student was arrested and charged with aggravated battery. According to witnesses, a male and female student were arguing. The argument escalated in to a physical fight. The Sheriff's department reported that the male student pushed the female student to the ground causing her head to hit the concrete pavement. The female student was transported to the hospital by ambulance and treated for a head laceration.

Any type of school violence is unacceptable. Most schools have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to fighting and bullying. Schools should be addressing violence through educational programing and curriculum development. Schools should provided students with not only academic support, but also emotional support. School guidance counselors can be helpful to students who are dealing with bullying or other violent situations. If your child is being threatened or feels unsafe at school, you should contact the school administration for some help and advice. When parents and school faculty work together, the community as a whole benefits. For more information on Fight at Lake Howell High School Leads to Personal Injuries and an Arrest.

In Florida and other states, young athletes play various sports including football, baseball, soccer. and lacrosse. Unfortunately, traumatic brain injuries are common in youth sports. Because of the prevalence of traumatic brain injuries, it is important for coaches, parents, referees, and league administrators should be educated and aware of the causes and effects of traumtatic brain injuries / concussions. The Center for Disease Control reported that over 248,000 athletes were evaluated in emergency rooms for concussions and related injuries in 2009. The sports most linked to these injuries were playground activities, basketball, soccer, football, and bicycling.

There are various signs and symptoms of a traumatic brain injury include the following:

loss of consciousness (even if it is only briefly);
headaches;
balance problems;
dizziness;
double vision;
blurry vision;
sensitivity to light;
sensitivity to noise; and / or
inattentiveness.

If a parent, coach, teacher, or caregiver believes that a child may have suffered a traumatic brain injury, it is best to have the child examined and evaluated by a local emergency room and / or a specialist. See also Greater Awareness of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Sports Means Better Reporting.

In the Tampa Bay area of Florida, it was recently reported that an baby (9 months old) died while following serious personal injuries that the child received from being repeatedly dropped on a tiled floor. Criminal charges will be pursued for the death of this child against the babysitter - Joseph Kenneth Oliver, Jr. It was reported that Mr. Oliver dropped the baby on the floor out of frustration when the child was crying. Under Florida law, Mr. Oliver will be able to defend himself against the charges through the services of a Florida criminal defense attorney or the services of the Public Defender's Office. If the admissions as reported as admissible in the criminal case, it will be a tough case to defend against the criminal charges. See Baby Dropped On Tile Dies from Injuries - Criminal Prosecution of Babysitter.

It is quite tragic that a child died at such a young age. All caregivers including parents, babysitters, teachers, day care providers, grandparents, and others should realize that infants and children cry. It is a fact of life. The best way to handle a crying child is to remain calm and think through your actions. Never strike an infant or cause bodily harm to an infant for any reason. Whether the child is a perfect angel or cries all night, corporal punishment / physical violence is never ever the answer.

Some adults, caregivers, babysitters, teachers, and so called "mentors" have specific theories and philosophies of child discipline. In order to teach a lesson to a child, many adults go too far and cross the line form moral to immoral and from legal to illegal. Some have firm beliefs of their child rearing, child discipline, and / or corporal punishment of a child. In this modern age, some even posts acts that are criminal or abusive in nature on the Internet and www.youtube.com Many people do not realize that such videos can serve as the prime evidence of a crime that can be prosecuted by the police and State Attorney's office. In Orlando, Florida, one such video caught the attention of many viewers and, yes, law enforcement. See Child Punishmen Video Leads to Arrest.

When dealing with children, it is certainly no accomplishment or feat to humiliate a child. Hazing and corporal punishment amount to abuse and should be prosecuted when a child is harmed. Excessive and abusive behavior is just than no matter the reason, purpose, or the perpetrator.

In Florida and other States, babies / children have died or have suffered serious personal injuries while under the care of a day care center. In some instances, the cause of death was natural in that the condition or cause of death was unknown and unexpected. In other instances, a child was not properly supervised or cared for in the day care center. When a child dies in a day care center, there typically is an investigation and an autopsy to determine the cause of death, manner of death, and whether the death was preventable with more timely intervention or better supervision. A child can be put a risk in a day care center even during nap time if safety measures are not followed as to proper positioning of the infant / child during nap time. There are specific regulations in place in Florida as to nap time and other supervision. You can review these regulations at Florida Day Care Centers - Rules and Regulations - Frequently Asked Questions.

In Jacksonville, Florida, a high school athlete lost his life while playing baseball. The incident took place at a baseball practice for the Ribault High School baseball team. Gregory Green, age 17, was hit in the head by a baseball during batting practice for the high school baseball team. It was reported by the Jacksonville Times Union website / newspaper that Gregory was standing behind a screen during practice. The news report did not mention whether or not Gregory was wearing a helmet while pitching practice that day. Gregory tried to avoid getting hit by the ball but it was difficult in that the ball hit the screen's metal frame and then struck Gregory in the head. It was a most unfortunate and tragic head injury that took place during baseball practice.

Gregory Green was a role model for his peers, school, family, and community. In addition to playing baseball, he was a member of the Marine Corps ROTC Ribault High School program. He also had a 4.0 GPA (Grade Point Average). Gregory certainly had a bright future ahead of him. You can read more about this story at High School Baseball Player Struck in Head by Baseball During Practice - Ribault High School.

Continue reading " Baseball Sports Injury in Jacksonville Florida Causes Death of Ribault High School Athlete (Gregory Green) " »

Orange City, Florida and its residents have a concern about child safety. In particular, residents, school officials, and parents are concerned about the safety of children as they walk or ride their bicycles to and from school. Unfortunately, in Orange City, Florida, there are danger zones for children travelling to and from school. This is especially problematic in areas where there is a lack of sidewalks. Orange County Officials have met to discuss this issues. Hopefully, action will be taken to make it safer for children. Drivers in Orange City and elsewhere should do their best to drive safe in and near school zones as well as other areas where children are present as pedestrians and bicyclists. By slowing down and limiting driver distractions, many unfortunate and tragic automobile accidents, bicycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents can be avoided. See Orange City Meeting to Discuss School Safety Isssues for Child Pedestrians.

In Orlando, Florida, a horrible accident took place in the Festival Bay parking lot. It was reported by the Orlando Sentinel that a mother (Amara Khan) was fatally injured by her own vehicle when her 4 year old son put the car in reverse. At the time of the tragic incident, Ms. Khan was walking behind her vehicle while it was operating. Many drivers and parents leave their vehicles on while taking care of other children or putting the groceries in the car. While it does not seem that dangerous, a vehicle can be put into gear by even a small child like a four year old. For more information regarding this incident, see Mother Backed Over by Her Own Vehicle in Mall Parking Lot.

Safety is key when operating a motor vehicle in the State of Florida. It is well known that children have poor safety awareness even when riding in an automobile. A moment of inattention can lead to serious personal injuries and, in some cases, even death.

Halloween is a great holiday full of fun and festivities. Unfortunately, Halloween also brings with it dangers to children walking around neighborhoods. It has been reported that a child's risk of getting hit by a car is four times more than at other times of the year. It is well known that children often times have poor safety awareness. This is especially true when there are distractions like a night full of candy and trick or treat activities. The American College of Emergency Physicians issued a Press Release regarding the dangers to children as pedestrians on Halloween Night. Planning and safety measures are key to help reduce or prevent tragic automobile accidents / pedestrian accidents from taking place on Halloween. See Child's Risk Higher on Halloween Night - Safety Measures for Children and Parents.

It can be quite difficult for a parent to deal with the aftermath of a child injury. There are many issues and problems to deal with. The book titled - The ABCs of Child Injury - Legal Rights of the Injured Child - What Every Parent Should Know - has chapters on automobile accidents, damages / compensation, medical bills / treatment and other topics.

In Florida and other States, it is vital that all drivers exercise due caution and safe driving when driving near a Florida school bus. It is well known that Florida school buses make frequent stops. Furthermore, where there are school buses - there are usually children. Slow down and pay attention to the location of a Florida school bus. The few extra seconds that a driver takes to slow down or stop can make the difference between the life and death of a child. Tragically, in Kissimmee, Florida, a 13 year old was hit by a vehicle in the location near Wellington Woods Circle and Carroll Street. See Child Struck by Vehicle in Kissimmee Florida. It was reported in the Orlando Sentinel that the driver of the vehicle failed to stop for the school bus.

For the safety of school children, it is vital that all drivers obey the various Florida Traffic Rules and Regulations pertaining to driving near school buses. Furthermore, drivers should use their common sense of safety and just slow down. This applies to all areas where children walk, ride their bicycles, and play. You can about the various laws pertaining to school buses and other rules of the road at Florida Traffic Laws and Regulations.

In Florida and other States, millions of children walk to school every day. Unfortunately and quite tragically, many children are hit by vehicles while walking to school. When a child is struck by a vehicle, the injuries can be quite serious, and, in some instances, fatal. In one moment, a child is walking to school anticipating the ring of the bell to learn from the teachers and spend time with friends. In the next moment, the child is hit by a car and struggling for life. Recently, a child was hit by a pick up truck while on the way to her school - Middleton High School. It was reported that Shenika Davis was hit early in the morning while walking to school. The Florida pedestrian / automobile accident took place at East Hillsborough Avenue. Since a death resulted from this incident, local law enforcement and / or the Florida Highway Patrol will conduct an investigation to determine the actions of the pedestrian, the actions of the driving, and any other factors or conditions that may have caused or contributed to this fatal Florida pedestrian / automobile accident.

Shenika Davis was only 15 years old and would have turned 16 the week after the tragic accident. The death of this teen is certainly a shock and loss and for the family, neighborhood, school, and community. See Teen Hit by Pick Up Truck in Tampa, Florida.

In Lake County, Florida and other places, tragedies take place that are never expected or planned for. It was reported by the Orlando Sentinel that a 10 year old boy Nathan Hayes was hit by a vehicle. Nathan was standing off of the side of the road as instructed by his father. The boy and his father had swerved off the road due to a tree being in the road from a storm. Another vehicle veered off the side of the road when the driver saw the tree and the vehicle previously occupied by Nathan. Unfortunately, this driver hit Nathan and the injuries from this impact ended the life of this 10 year old boy. The death of Nathan Hayes was certainly a traffic loss for his family, friends, school, and community. See Fatal Crash Reported in Lake County, Florida.

It is quite devastating for a parent to deal with the aftermath of a child injury or death. There are a multitude of issues that arise. Support is needed from family, friends, the church, and the community. Depending on the facts and situation, there may also be legal or insurance issues that arise as well. The book titled - The ABCs of Child Injury - Legal Rights of the Injured Child - What Every Parent Should Know - has chapters on Medical Bills / Medical Treatment, Damages / Compensation, Automobile Accidents, and other topics. You can receive this book for free at The ABCs of Child Injury.

A 16 year old Flagler County student was arrested and charged with battery after he fought with a student inside Matanzas High School. This is a felony charge. The 16 year old is also accused of assaulting a school resource officer who was trying to break up the in school fight.

As a result of this school altercation, the Flagler County Sheriff's Office and the Flagler County School officials are considering allowing school resource officers to carry Tasers. Flagler County Resource Officers do carry guns and pepper spray.

The use of tasers in schools has been a topic for debate for several years. Many professionals believe that there are still too many questions about the effects of taser use on children. Law enforcement officers do not believe that there is any extra risk in using tasers on children. School resource officers believe that tasers can be useful in helping to restrain an unruly student. Officials claim there have been very few incidents where a taser has been used as a result of officer poor judgment. With proper training police and law enforcement agencies believe the use of tasers in schools is a safe and effective method for subduing unruly and out of control students. For more information see, Flagler County Officials Consider Use of Tasers by School Deputies in Schools.

A 44 year old Tampa, Florida day care worker was arrested following the death of a 5 month old infant. The infant was under the care of Tina Toney Lark when he was found dead. According to officials, the 5 month old was found to have ingested large quantities of an anti-histamine. Police officials found over the counter sleeping pills that contained the same anti-histamine in the home of Lark. The drug was found stored in a basket containing an infant's pacifier. Lark could face the charge of aggravated manslaughter of a minor.

When choosing a day care, make sure it is licensed and insured. There are many rules and regulations required in order to be a licensed day care center or day care provider. Parents can check with the state regulating agency to verify a day care license. In the state of Florida, the Department of Children and Family is the agency in charge of regulating day care licenses. The department has strict rules regarding the storage of medications. Parents have the right to question day care centers and providers regarding their method for storing and administering medication to children in their care. For more information see, Tampa Day Care Worker Faces Criminal Charges for Death of 5 Month Old Boy- Aggravated Manslaughter.

A Volusia County teen was hit by a vehicle in a early morning accident. The middle school student was transported to Halifax Regional Medical Center by air ambulance. At the time of this story, the extent of the teen's injuries were unknown. The teen may have been on her way to school when she was hit.

When pedestrians are hit by automobiles, the injuries can be devastating. When driving an automobile in school zones, it is critical that you follow the posted speed limits. Drivers must be extra vigilant in school zones and follow the directions of school crossing guards. As a driver, you should be alert and watch for pedestrians and children riding bicycles. Drivers should come to a full stop when a school bus is loading and unloading children and make sure that the children have cleared the way before proceeding. Keep and eye out for children gathering at bus stops. Remember to always be mindful of children walking in the streets, sometimes they are unaware of automobiles. For more information see, Teen Suffers Serious Personal Injuries After being Hit by car In Volusia County, Florida.

Boca Raton, Florida police officers lift car and save a child trapped underneath the car. Quick thinking and some old fashioned man power saved this child and the family of the child is certainly very thankful for the action. The life saving actions were captured on the dash camera of one of the police vehicles. You can view the video at Boca Police Lift Car to Save a Child.

The incident took place at Verde Elementary School in Boca Raton, Florida. School zones can be dangerous areas for children. Especially during morning drop off and afternoon pick up, there are hundreds of children in any given school walking or riding their bicycles. Drivers should do their best to drive slowly and carefully in or near any school zone. It is well known that children lack good judgment and often times walk too close to vehicles or other dangers. That is why it is so important for drivers to slow down and look out for children in and near school zones.

Many schools and communities are blessed with brave and quick thinking officers like the one who lifted the vehicle at Vedre Elementary School.

The book titled - The ABCs of Child Injury - Legal Rights of the Injured Child - What Every Parent Should Know - has chapters on Automobile Accidents, Day Care Center Injuries, School Injuries, Damages / Compensation, and other topics. You can get a free copy of this book at Free Book Offer for Parents of Injured Children.