Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog
The Fort Lauderdale injury attorneys and staff at the Law Offices of Freeman & Mallard wish each of you a Merry Christmas, a happy holidays and a safe and enjoyable New Year.
It’s this time of year that Florida becomes alive with the spirit of Christmas — whether holiday travel, boat parades, or time around the backyard pool with friends and family. We spend almost every weekend enjoying all South Florida has to offer.
In fact, Fort Lauderdale plays host to one of the largest one day event extravaganza’s in the country with Winterfest Boat Parade each year. The event draws thousands to the city, even if it’s for one day, and our Fort Lauderdale accident attorneys know such large gatherings usually pose a risk of accidents for those who participate or attend.
Holiday boat parades are popular all over the state of Florida during the holiday season so safety is a concern whether you are on the boat or just a spectator driving or walking to the event. Due to the growing popularity from recent years there can be up to a million people who attend these events to take in the lights, music, decorations, and entertainment which often extend over a 14 mile stretch.
According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System used but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, December is one of the worst calendar months for traffic fatalities over the last few years in Florida. In fact, last year March was the only other month that accounted for more traffic fatalities than the 548 recorded in December. There may be no direct correlation to holiday parties and parades in December but the number of people attending them certainly enhances the risk of serious injury or fatality to occur.
If you find yourself headed out to attend a holiday parade or gathering this year, the following safety tips could be helpful as a spectator or participant:
-Enjoy the fantastic views but don’t overindulge with too much drinking as driving a vehicle or boat is never safe after alcohol consumption.
-If you step on a parade boat as a spectator or participant you should always make sure you wear a certified life jacket.
-Allow extra time for travel on the highly populated roadways. It’s better to be late than sorry.
-Be courteous to the spectators or participants around you who are enjoying the same décor, no one likes a holiday scrooge.
If you have been involved in a serious accident in Fort Lauderdale or the surrounding areas, contact the experience attorneys at Freeman & Mallard. For a free consultation call 1-800-LAW CENTERS today.