Extreme weather this past winter – including severe storms and some freezes that have affected the state’s agriculture – are becoming more and more frequent. In addition to causing economic devastation, extreme weather is also a leading cause of Florida personal injuries, such as broken bones, concussions, and other injuries. To keep yourself and your family safe, consider these precautions:
1) Invest in good insurance. While insurance will not prevent emergencies and injuries, it can help your family cope financially in the aftermath. Many insurers, however, are reluctant to offer hurricane coverage for Florida residents. As well, after disaster many residents find that their insurance does not cover as much as they thought. In some cases, insurers are reluctant to help insured parties with coverage for all injuries and damage. If you have problems with insurance, it is best to take the problem to a qualified Florida attorney for help.
2) Prepare an emergency kit. If a waterproof container, store batteries, tarps, a radio, fresh water, food, important emergency paper work, cash, flashlights, medication, and anything else you may need for a few days in an emergency. Store this kit someplace where it is readily accessible and check and replenish it often to ensure that you are ready in an emergency.
3) Have a practice an emergency plan. Your plan should consist of an action plan and a communication plan. Sit your family down and practice what you will do in various types of emergencies. Show children, especially, how to get to safety in the event of a fire or severe weather. This could help your children avoid becoming Florida burn injury patients or emergency room admissions in an emergency. As well, rehearse how and when you will communicate with one another – arrange for a place or time to meet or rehearse who each family member will call for a check-in. At least quarterly, rehearse your plans so that everyone remembers them.
4) Learn how to care for yourself and your family. Buy and learn to use a generator if you live in a part of Florida that is frequently visited by extreme weather. Learn how to travel or drive in inclement weather. Review emergency preparedness procedures – your local municipality likely has resources that can help.
If you have sustained a personal injury, contact the Flaxman Law Group for a free accident consultation to find out whether you have a case. Our law offices in Miami, Homestead, and Hollywood as well as our experienced and compassionate legal team can help you get the answers you need so that you can make the right legal decision for you and your family.