Nothing says “Florida” quite like the state’s miles of beautiful beaches and shorelines. While many tourists and residents alike flock to white sandy beaches in Florida to kick back and relax, a recent list from Forbes.com suggests that personal injury and some dangers may be lurking near Florida’s waters. According to experts, the top risks on Florida sands include:
1) Shark attacks. The International Shark Attack File reported that there were 112 incidents of humans and sharks meeting in the waters in 2007. Only one of the incidents resulted in a human fatality. New Smyrna, Florida, had the most shark attacks. The single Florida inlet reported 17 shark bites.
2) Lightning. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that Florida is one of the most perilous spots when it comes to fatalities and injuries caused by lightning. 71 deaths in Florida were linked to lightning between 1997 and 2006, which makes Florida the leader in lighting-related deaths. Florida beaches, including New Smyrna and Clearwater, are especially dangerous spots when it comes to lightning. In fact, these two beaches are often closed for days on end when the risks related to lighting are especially notable.
3) Boating accidents. The U.S. Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division reports that Florida had 633 boating accidents and 68 fatalities in 2006 alone. This is the highest number of deaths and injuries caused by boating of any state. In addition to boating accident fatalities, Florida also reports serious injuries caused by boating accidents. These include broken limbs, brain injuries, burn injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other serious harm.
4) Drowning. Rip current drowning is an especial concern in Florida. The United States Life Saving Association reports that in 2007 10 people died in Brevard County, Florida from the rip current alone. Many more drowning accidents in the area were caused by other factors.
Staying safe at the beach means following safety precautions and using common sense. However, if you or a loved one have been harmed or injured on a Florida beach as a result of someone’s recklessness or negligence, Florida law can help you by helping you to pay for any medical expenses or lost income. If you or a loved one have been injured, call a qualified Florida lawyer at 1- 800-535-2962 (1 800 5 FLAXMAN).