2013 Boating Accident Statistical Report

Today the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission published its 2013 Boating Accident Statistical Report. The 2013 Boating Accident Statistical Report indicates there were sixty-two fatalities caused by a boating related accident in Florida in 2013. Drowning is reported as the leading cause of death. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission also reports there have been eleven fatalities caused by a boating related accident in Florida so far this year. The 2013 Boating Accident Statistical Report stresses the importance of boating safety, including more careful boat operation and the use of life jackets. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulates Florida’s fish and wildlife resources to protect their well-being and ensure...

Florida Senate and House Unanimously Pass Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act

Jeffrey Berman

The Florida Senate and House of Representatives unanimously passed the Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act, which is awaiting the governor’s signature. The Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act would, among other things, increase the mandatory minimum prison sentence for a driver leaving the scene of a car accident involving injury or death of a cyclist or pedestrian. The Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act would remove an incentive under current law for drivers involved in a car accident with a cyclist or pedestrian to leave the scene. Click here to review the Senate bill, and click here to review the House bill. The Aaron Cohen...

Law Allowing Increased Highway Speed Limit on Governor Scott’s Desk

Jeffrey Berman

Last week the Florida House of Representatives adopted and passed Florida Senate Bill 392 (2014). This bill, if signed into law by Governor Scott, would allow the speed limit on certain highways in Florida to be increased to 75 mph. Florida would join a small group of states with speed limits in excess of 70 mph. It is uncertain whether Governor Scott will veto the bill. We previously posted about this proposed new law, emphasizing the increased dangers of driving at higher rates of speed. Please slow down to help prevent and lessen the incidence of personal injury and wrongful death resulting from...

Florida Senate Passes Bill to Allow Increased Highway Speed Limits

Jeffrey Berman

This week the Florida Senate passed Senate Bill 392 (2014). If passed into law, this bill would allow speed limits on certain Florida highways to be increased to 75 mph. Click here to review Senate Bill 392. A similar bill, Florida House Bill 761 (2014), is being considered by the Florida House of Representatives. Click here to review House Bill 761. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, “more than 10,000 deaths — about a third of all crash fatalities — occurred in speed-related crashes in 2012. High speeds make a crash more likely because it takes longer to stop or...

Florida Statute Makes Windshield Repairs Free

Jeffrey Berman

A minor car accident or road debris can chip or crack your windshield. Windshield damage is extremely dangerous and should be repaired as soon as possible. Many drivers are unable or unwilling to pay the expense of windshield repair or replacement. However, you can have your windshield repaired or replaced for free in Florida. There is a statute in Florida that prevents car insurance companies from applying a deductible to windshield repairs or replacements. Click here to view the statute. Driving your car with a damaged windshield can result in personal injury or wrongful death. If your windshield is damaged in...