Attorney Blog

August is Back to School Safety Month: 5 Tips for Clearwater Parents

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

August is Back to School Safety Month. This is a great opportunity to talk to your children about ways they can stay safe as they go back to school in Clearwater, especially for those who walk or bike. If your child is injured, then you should seek help from a Clearwater child injury lawyer.

5 Tips for Clearwater Parents to Discuss Back to School Safety

never run into a street;
never try to walk across the street from between parked cars (always use a crosswalk);
unless they are old enough (about 10 years old), they should always cross the street with an adult;
follow traffic signals for crossing; and
don't walk in front of a school bus -- the driver may not be able to see them.

Don't take it for granted that children know these rules. Take time out to sit down with your child and discuss each one. You might even present your child with "what if" scenarios to find out how your child would respond or react in a particular situation.

If your child is injured and it was caused by the recklessness or carelessness of another, then you could be entitled to compensation. A Clearwater child injury lawyer can help discuss the details of your case.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after an accident in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

5 Safety Tips to Avoid Trunk Entrapment in Florida

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are many Florida child safety concerns that parents should be aware of. One type is the risk of a child becoming trapped in the trunk of a car. This could lead to serious or even fatal injuries. If your child has become the victim of trunk entrapment in Florida, you should speak with a Clearwater child injury lawyer about filing a claim against those responsible.

5 Safety Tips That Can Help Prevent Trunk Entrapment in Florida

never leave the doors to a vehicle unlocked;
ensure your emergency trunk release is working or install one if you have an older car;
teach children never to play around or inside a vehicle;
if a child is missing, first check the inside of the car and trunk; and
never leave your trunk open and unattended.

With so many Florida child safety concerns, the risk of trunk entrapment may have never crossed your mind. However, the reality is that many children die every year as a result. If your child suffered injuries after being trapped in the trunk of a car, your next step should be to speak with a Clearwater child injury lawyer.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured after being trapped in the trunk of a car in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries resulting from trunk entrapment, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

5 Signs of Bullying in Clearwater

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Parents may be glad that it is time to go back to school in Clearwater. However, some children may not feel the same, especially if they have been the victim of bullying at school in past years. Bullying can easily escalate and turn into acts of violence. If your child is seriously injured by a bully, then you should seek legal counsel with a Clearwater child injury attorney.

5 Signs of Bullying Parents in Clearwater Should Recognize

unexplained injuries;
fear about going to school;
sudden changes in behavior;
reports losing items such as clothing, electronics, etc.; and
performing poorly in school (grades go down, stops turning in work).

There are other signs of bullying that should also be looked for within your child's actions. With it being an increasing problem in many schools, parents should learn all they can about recognizing and preventing it.

Because it is back to school in Clearwater, as a parent you should know what the signs of bullying are. You should also consult with a Clearwater child injury attorney if your child sustained injuries as a result of a bullying incident.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured as a result of bullying in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries resulting from bullying, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Things to Teach Children about Trunk Entrapment in Florida

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

One Florida child safety concern that parents and other adults should be aware of is trunk entrapment. If a child were to get trapped in the trunk of a car, he or she could suffer serious or even fatal injuries. A Clearwater child injury lawyer can explain what you can do to protect your family's legal rights in the event your child is injured.

3 Things Your Child Should Know About Trunk Entrapment in Florida

trunks are designed to carry cargo, not people, and it is unsafe to ever go inside one;
how to use the emergency trunk release if your car is fitted with one; and
not to play around or inside a vehicle.

Additionally, there are things that adults can do to prevent children from being injured. Failure to put in place safety measures that would prevent injuries could lead to the car owner being held liable.

There are Florida child safety concerns when it comes to the issue of trunk entrapment. If your child suffered injuries as a result of being trapped in the trunk of a car, then you should consult with a Clearwater child injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured after being trapped in the trunk of a car in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries resulting from trunk entrapment, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

How Test Scores Can Impact Bullied Students in Florida

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Because it is back to school in Clearwater, as a parent you should be aware of the signs of bullying. This has become an increasing problem in schools and could lead to a child being injured. If your child has been the victim of bullying and suffered injuries, then you may wish to discuss your case with a Clearwater child injury attorney.

According to a report from Health Day, a new study shows that high school test scores are affected when students are bullied. Researchers specifically found that standardized exams for World History, Earth Science and Algebra I were lowered by 3% to 6% when students come from a school climate of bullying.

This study seems to indicate the need for greater awareness to be brought to schools on how bullying can affect children. Not only does it affect school performance, but it also can impact a child's quality of life.

With it being back to school time in Clearwater, you should be able to recognize the signs of bullying. If your child becomes the victim of bullying and is injured, then your next step should be to consult with a Clearwater child injury attorney.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured as a result of bullying in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries resulting from bullying, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Dangers of Inflatable Pools in Florida

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Being aware of Florida child safety includes an awareness of the dangers of inflatable pools. Although they may be convenient and easy to use, there are some serious safety risks. If your child was the victim of a near-drowning or drowning incident, and you believe it was caused by someone else's negligence, then you should seek legal counsel from a Clearwater child injury lawyer.

3 Dangers of Inflatable Pools in Florida

A child injury can occur when:

pools are not drained of water (even a couple of inches can lead to a drowning);
the soft sides of a pool make it easy for small children to fall into the pool; and
most inflatable pools don't have safety tools like other pools do, such as pool covers, locking system, warning alarm or safety fence.

A lack of supervision could increase the dangers of inflatable pools. When there is a failure to protect your child, and it results in injuries, then you may be able to seek compensation through a child injury claim.

An awareness of Florida child safety in regards to the dangers of inflatable pools can be helpful. However, if your child was seriously or fatally injured as a result of an inflatable pool accident, then you should immediately speak with a Clearwater child injury lawyer to discuss your case.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in Clearwater while playing in an inflatable pool, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries in an inflatable pool in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

8 Back to School Tips for Clearwater's Parents and Children

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Back to school tips can help your child not only prepare for the new school year, but also prevent a Clearwater child injury.

5 Back to School Tips on Travel Safety for Your Child

if your child is walking to school, take him or her through the route first until they feel comfortable;
make sure your child doesn't walk to school alone;
if your child is riding a bike to school, make sure he or she wears a helmet;
teach your child how to use hand signals; and
if your child is riding in a car to school, make sure seat belts or the appropriate type of child safety seat are used.

3 Back to School Tips on Bullying in Clearwater

teach your child the appropriate way to respond to a bully;
discuss with your child how bystanders who do nothing when someone else is being bullied are just as guilty; and
inform your child of consequences that will happen should you find out your child has been a bully.

You may do all you can to prevent a Clearwater child injury from happening. However, if someone else is negligent and it leads to your child suffering injuries, then you should seek legal counsel.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after an accident in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways to Prevent Injuries in a Florida Inflatable Pool

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

An awareness of Florida child safety includes understanding the dangers of inflatable pools. While inflatable pools may be inexpensive, easy to care for and convenient to use, they also pose serious risks. If your child was injured as a result of someone else's negligence, then a Clearwater child injury lawyer can help.

3 Ways to Prevent Injuries in a Florida Inflatable Pool

Designate an adult to keep an eye on the pool at all times (never look away even for a moment).
Provide children with swimming lessons.
Put protective measures in place (such as a pool alarm, pool cover, emptying pool when done, etc.).

Despite your best efforts to keep children safe, they may still fall victim to an accident in the care of another. This may lead you to seek compensation through a child injury claim with your Clearwater child injury lawyer.

There is a Florida child safety watch with regard to the dangers of inflatable pools. If your child has suffered serious or fatal injuries as a result of a near-drowning or drowning incident, then your next step should be to consult with a Clearwater child injury lawyer.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in Clearwater while playing in an inflatable pool, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries in an inflatable pool in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Is it safe to have a bounce house at my next family gathering in Clearwater, FL?

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

You should know the risks of a child being injured in Clearwater while playing in an inflatable bounce house. This could influence your decision on whether or not you should have one at your next family gathering. A Clearwater, FL child injury lawyer can help if your child has suffered injuries.

So you are planning your next family gathering, perhaps to celebrate a birthday or graduation, and you need something to entertain the young children.

While a bounce house may seem like a good idea, here are some important safety facts you should consider:

it should be properly weighted down;
it needs to be stretched out tightly;
it must be securely tethered to the ground;
there may be specific requirements in Florida that apply to this type of inflatable device;
if the winds are 15 mph or higher, the inflatable bounce house should not be used;
there may be weight restrictions in using it; and
an attendant must be watching the children at all times.

Compensation may be available when a child is injured in Clearwater while playing in an inflatable bounce house. To fully understand what your legal options are, you should speak with a Clearwater, FL, child injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Contacting a Clearwater, FL Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in Clearwater while playing in a bounce house, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries in a bounce house in Clearwater, Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater, FL, child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Common Injuries Suffered in a Clearwater, FL, Bounce House

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a child is injured in Clearwater while playing in a bounce house, it could lead the family to seek compensation through a child injury claim. You should speak with a Clearwater, FL child injury lawyer to learn what your rights are and how they can be protected.

Inflatable bounce houses can offer hours of fun and entertainment. However, they can also be dangerous, even deadly. Negligence may lead to a child suffering serious injuries as a result of a bounce house.

Here are some of the common types of injuries that are suffered in a Clearwater, FL bounce house:

broken bones;
asphyxiation (strangulation);
skull fractures;
traumatic brain injury;
concussions;
spinal cord injury; and
death.

Injuries from a bounce house that collapses or blows away can be catastrophic. Whether it was due to operator error, lack of supervision or improper setup, it could result in the filing of a claim for your child's injuries.

When a child is injured in Clearwater while playing in an inflatable bounce house, and it was the result of someone else's negligence, you could be entitled to receive compensation. You should consult with a Clearwater, FL, child injury lawyer.

Contacting a Clearwater, FL, Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in Clearwater while playing in a bounce house, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries in a bounce house in Clearwater, Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater, FL, child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

After a Dog Bite Attack an Oldsmar, FL, Child Injury Lawyer Can Help in 3 Ways

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your child has been the victim of a dog bite attack in Florida, you should immediately consult with an Oldsmar, FL, child injury lawyer. A lawyer can determine if your claim is worth pursuing and if you have the proof necessary for a Florida child injury claim.

Trying to fight a claim on your own is usually not a good idea. This is especially true when your child has sustained serious injuries.

A lawyer can help in the following 3 ways after a dog bite attack, by:

assembling your child's medical records to determine the severity of your child's injuries;
calculating the costs your family has accrued as a result of medical bills, lost wages, etc.; and
determining if your child is eligible for additional compensation related to emotional injuries, such as pain and suffering or disfigurement.

There are so many other ways that a lawyer can help your family when your child has suffered a serious injury. You would likely rather spend your time focusing on your child, so this is why securing legal counsel is in your family's best interests.

An Oldsmar, FL child injury lawyer can help after a dog bite attack. You should consult with one as soon as possible to discuss the legal options that you may have available through a Florida child injury claim.

Contacting an Oldsmar, FL Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a dog bite attack in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a dog bite attack in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with an Oldsmar, FL child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

There Are 3 Ways a Pinellas Park Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help after an Animal Attack in Florida

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

An animal attack in Florida could lead to serious or even life-threatening injuries to your child. When it was the result of someone else's negligence, they could be held liable for those injuries through a Florida child injury claim. A Pinellas Park dog bite lawyer can determine if you have a valid claim.

Enlisting the help of a lawyer is beneficial in a number of ways when your child has suffered injuries caused by the carelessness or recklessness of another person.

A lawyer can help after your child has been injured in an animal attack in Florida by:

locating the owner of the dog and retrieving contact information;
collecting statements from witnesses to the animal attack; and
retrieving information on the animal from any previous attacks or complaints filed.

While you focus on your child's recovery, a lawyer can help in a number of other ways. Lawyers can take care of the complex paperwork, collection of evidence and so much more.

You should contact a Pinellas Park dog bite lawyer after an animal attack in Florida. You could be entitled to compensation for your child's injuries through a Florida child injury claim.

Contacting a Pinellas Park Dog Bite Lawyer

If your child has been injured in an animal attack in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after an animal attack in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Pinellas Park dog bite lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

A Largo Car Accident Attorney Can Help in 3 Ways When Your Child Has Been Injured

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your child has been injured because of someone else's negligence, you could be entitled to compensation through a Florida accident claim. You would also benefit from the help of a Largo car accident attorney who can advise you about your claim.

When your child has been seriously injured in a car accident in Largo, FL an attorney can help in 3 ways, by:

explaining the type of evidence you will need in order to prove that someone else's negligence was the cause of your accident;
helping to assemble the evidence (related to the accident and the injuries your child has suffered); and
utilizing resources such as accident reconstruction experts to reconstruct the scene or medical experts to testify on behalf of your child.

These are just some of the ways that an attorney can help. You would benefit from discussing your case with legal counsel before deciding to proceed on your own with your claim.

Your Largo car accident attorney can help if your child was injured in a car accident in Largo, FL. Don't delay seeking legal counsel. Act fast so you can protect the evidence and your Florida accident claim.

Contacting a Largo Car Accident Attorney

If your child has been injured in a car accident in Largo, FL, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file an accident claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a car accident in Largo, FL, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Largo car accident attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways Tarpon Springs Dog Bite Lawyer Helps Florida Dog Bite Claim

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your child has been bitten or attacked by a dog and sustained serious injuries you may have the right to pursue a Florida dog bite claim; however, it is in your best interests to have the help of a Tarpon Springs dog bite lawyer working on your side to fight for your child's justice.

A lawyer can help in the following 3 ways when your child has suffered injuries in a dog bite attack:

determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit;
determine the types of damages you may be entitled to seek, not only for your child's physical injuries but the emotional damage that has been suffered as well; and
evaluate whether the dog involved in the incident is considered under the law to be a "dangerous dog."

Pursuing a Florida dog bite claim can be complicated but with the help of a lawyer, you have a better chance at receiving the compensation that you may be entitled to collect.

You should speak with a Tarpon Springs dog bite lawyer after your child is attacked by a dog and injured. A lawyer can evaluate your case to explain what your family's legal rights are.

Contacting a Tarpon Springs Dog Bite Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida dog bite attack, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida dog bite attack, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Tarpon Springs dog bite lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways a Safety Harbor Car Accident Attorney Can Help When Your Child Is Injured

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child has been injured in a car accident and you plan on filing a Florida child injury claim, you should know that doing it on your own is not a good idea. A Safety Harbor car accident attorney can help your family in a number of ways that will increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

Here are 3 ways a Safety Harbor car accident attorney can help when your child has been injured:

using expert witnesses to help calculate costs that are not easily determined, such as future medical bills, pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement and disability;
explain your rights under the terms of your insurance policy and what things you should and shouldn't say to an insurance adjuster; and
help you understand the specific laws of your state such as Florida's No-Fault Insurance laws.

An attorney has resources that the average person doesn't. Plus, they understand that the insurance company will not be looking out for your child or family's best interest. They will work hard on your behalf to help you fight for what you may be entitled to receive.

You should meet with a Safety Harbor car accident attorney who understands child injury law if you plan on pursuing a Florida child injury claim against a negligent driver.

Contacting a Safety Harbor Car Accident Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida car accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida car accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Safety Harbor car accident attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

A Dunedin Child Injury Attorney Can Help in 3 Ways after an Accident

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your child has suffered serious injuries in an accident in Dunedin, Florida, you may have a lot of questions about the legal options that are available to you. You may also be wondering if you have a case worth pursuing and what types of damages are recoverable. This is where you and your family would benefit from the help of a Dunedin child injury attorney.

3 Ways Dunedin Child Injury Attorney Helps After Accident in Dunedin, FL

determine who the negligent party or parties were and the negligent actions that caused the accident to happen;

request copies of any accident reports, pictures, or sketches taken of the accident from the police department; and
find out if the other driver has additional insurance coverage that may help pay for your child's medical expenses.

There are a number of other ways that a Dunedin child injury attorney can help you and your family, when your child has sustained serious injuries in an accident. That is why it is imperative to call your attorney right away for guidance.

If you need help after an accident in Dunedin, Florida, then you should immediately consult with an experienced Dunedin child injury attorney.

Contacting a Dunedin Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Dunedin child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways a Clearwater Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help after an Animal Attack

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child sustained serious injuries from an animal attack in Florida, you could be eligible to file a Florida child injury claim. If you would like to know the steps you need to take in order to protect your child's legal rights, then you should consult with a Clearwater dog bite lawyer as soon as possible.

3 Ways a Clearwater Dog Bite Lawyer can Help After an Animal Attack

calculate the medical costs and potential future medical costs to treat your child's injuries;

consider the psychological trauma your child has suffered and take that into account when seeking damages; and
evaluate how permanent scarring or disfigurement might affect your child's quality of life.

There are other ways that a lawyer can help when it comes to determining a fair and full settlement for your child's injuries after an animal attack in Florida. While the insurance company will be working against you, you will have someone working in your child's best interests.

You may benefit by contacting a Clearwater dog bite lawyer if your child is the victim of an animal attack. When your child's injuries are severe, you could be entitled to receive compensation through a Florida child injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Dog Bite Lawyer

If your child has been injured in an animal attack in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after an animal attack in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater dog bite lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer Helps Florida Child Injury Claim

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may be entitled to compensation through a Florida child injury claim if your child sustained serious injuries in a car accident in St. Petersburg. To get a better understanding of the options that may be available, you should seek help from an experienced St. Petersburg car accident lawyer.

3 Ways a St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer can Help You File a Claim

By contacting your lawyer, you will benefit from at least 3 ways that he/she can provide help.

explain the different ways that your family can be compensated (whether it is from your own insurance provider or from the driver who was responsible for the accident);
gather information on car accident laws in Florida and determine how this may affect your claim; and
explain how to deal with the insurance company.

Protecting your child's legal rights is the main priority of a lawyer and they can do this a number of ways. This is why you would benefit from the help of a lawyer who has experience with child injury cases.

A St. Petersburg car accident lawyer can help if your child is injured. You should consult immediately with one to discuss the filing of your Florida child injury claim.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a car accident in St. Petersburg, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a car accident in St. Petersburg, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a St. Petersburg car accident lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways a Pinellas Park Car Accident Lawyer Can Help Your Florida Child Injury Claim

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may be considering a Florida child injury claim if your child was seriously injured in an accident. A Pinellas Park car accident lawyer can evaluate your case to determine who was at fault and if you are entitled to receive compensation.

A lawyer can also provide you with an estimate on how much compensation you may be eligible to receive and the types of damages you can seek in your claim.

Here are 3 other ways a lawyer can help with your Florida child injury claim:

provide expert witnesses who can testify in your case (medical, accident reconstruction, therapists);
negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf; and
complete all of the forms and paperwork necessary for your claim.

These are just a handful of ways that a Pinellas Park car accident lawyer can help. Pursuing a claim can be a complicated process but with the right kind of legal guidance, it can be turned into a much easier, smoother process.

A Pinellas Park car accident lawyer can help when your child is injured as a result of someone else's negligence. You should consult with a lawyer as soon as possible in order to preserve your case.

Contacting a Pinellas Park Car Accident Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Pinellas Park car accident lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways an Oldsmar Child Injury Lawyer Can Help

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If the negligence of another driver caused your child to suffer injuries in a Florida car accident, then you may be eligible to receive compensation through a Florida car accident claim. Speaking with an Oldsmar child injury lawyer is the best way to learn what legal options that may be available for your family.

Injuries from an accident can result in expensive medical treatment and even the need for future treatment. You may be concerned about who should be held responsible to pay for your medical bills when your injuries were caused by another person's carelessness or recklessness.

3 Ways an Oldsmar Child Injury Lawyer Can Help Your Florida Car Accident Claim

locate the name of the negligent party's insurance company;
find out if the other party had any additional insurance covering the accident; and
determine how Florida's No Fault Insurance may affect your case.

A Florida car accident claim can be complicated and time-consuming. To ensure that your claim is handled the best way possible, you should enlist the legal help of an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer.

An Oldsmar child injury lawyer can help with your Florida car accident claim if your child was seriously injured as a result of someone else's negligence.

Contacting an Oldsmar Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured because of a car accident in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida car accident claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida car accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with an Oldsmar child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways a Dunedin, FL Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help You

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

The loss of a child is the most traumatic thing a parent can ever face. When it was caused by the negligence of another, you may be able to pursue a Florida wrongful death claim. Consulting with a Dunedin, FL wrongful death lawyer is the best way to learn your legal rights.

You may be entitled to compensation that covers medical bills, funeral and burial costs, and other expenses incurred as a result of your child's wrongful death.

3 Ways a Dunedin, FL Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help

A Dunedin, FL wrongful death lawyer can:

keep track of the medical care your child received prior to death (including who has been paid and work on keeping your bills from getting sent to collections until your case is settled);
collect the evidence that proves negligence was the cause of your child's death; and
determine if Florida's No-Fault Death Benefit applies to your case.

Pursuing a Florida wrongful death claim can be time-consuming and complicated. You are already dealing with enough stress and devastation that you may be wondering how you can ever get through this legal process.

You don't have to go it alone when a Dunedin, FL wrongful death lawyer can help. He or she will guide you throughout the entire process from the initial filing of your paperwork until you receive a settlement on your Florida wrongful death claim.

Contacting a Dunedin, FL Wrongful Death Lawyer

If your child has been fatally injured because of wrongful death in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Dunedin, FL wrongful death lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways a Palm Harbor Medical Malpractice Attorney Can Help Your Child Injury Case

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may be entitled to pursue damages through a Florida medical malpractice claim if your child sustained injuries as a result of medical negligence. A Palm Harbor medical malpractice attorney can help you sort through the details of your case to determine if you have a valid claim that is worth pursuing.

help if your child was injured by a medical professional a Palm Harbor medical malpractice attorney can help in 3 ways:

examining medical charts, records, notations, lab reports, test results, prescriptions and anything else that will help determine if medical negligence was the cause of your child's injuries;
obtaining the help of a medical expert who can testify that a medical error was the cause of your child's injuries; and
explaining Florida's complex medical malpractice laws.

Pursuing a Florida medical malpractice claim can be very time-consuming and complicated. However, you shouldn't let this stop you from receiving compensation that you may be entitled to.

A Palm Harbor medical malpractice attorney can help your injured child when he or she has been the victim of medical negligence. Because time may be running short, you should consult with an attorney as soon as possible.

Contacting a Palm Harbor Medical Malpractice Attorney

If your child has been injured because of medical malpractice in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida medical malpractice claim or wrongful death lawsuit as a result of medical negligence, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Palm Harbor medical malpractice attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways a Clearwater Car Accident Lawyer Can Help When a Florida Crash Leads to Injuries

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child suffered serious injuries in an accident, you may be able to file a Florida crash claim. When someone else's negligence is the cause of the accident, then you should seek help from a Clearwater car accident lawyer.

Here are 3 ways a Clearwater car accident lawyer can help when your child is injured as a result of a Florida crash:

utilize an accident reconstruction expert to demonstrate what led up to the crash and who was at fault;
consult with a medical expert who can testify to the types of injuries your child has suffered and any impact the injuries will have on your child's future; and
advise you on what you should and shouldn't say to the insurance company.

There is so much more that a lawyer can do for you when your child is injured. Securing legal help is the best way to understand the options that are available and the types of compensation that you may able to receive for your child's injury in a Florida crash claim.

A Clearwater car accident lawyer can help when your child is injured in a Florida crash. Consult with one as soon as possible in order to protect your family's rights.

Contacting a Clearwater Car Accident Lawyer

If your child has been injured because in a Florida crash, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida crash claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida crash, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater car accident lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Ways a St. Petersburg Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help after a Dog Bite Attack in Florida

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

The results of a dog bite attack in Florida can be devastating, leading to severe injuries or permanent scarring. A St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer understands the physical and emotional consequences of this type of incident and will work on your family's behalf to help you fight for your rights.

A St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer can help in 3 ways with a dog bite attack in Florida by:

determining if your child is facing additional surgery or other types of medical treatment in the future;
taking into account any psychological injuries that your child has suffered as a result of the dog bite attack; and
explaining Florida's liability laws in regards to a dog bite attack.

Because this type of case can be complicated and you will also have to deal with an insurance company that is not working on your behalf, it is best to secure legal help as soon as possible.

A St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer can help after a dog bite attack in Florida. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, disfigurement and other damages your child has suffered.

Contacting a St. Petersburg Dog Bite Lawyer

If your child has been injured because of a dog bite attack in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida dog bite claim or wrongful death lawsuit as a result of a dog bite attack in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a St. Petersburg dog bite lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

5 Bullying Myths You Should Know before Filing a FL Child Injury Claim

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Bullying may be a common occurrence amongst children and youth, but if it's not addressed, it can quickly escalate into violence. If your child was injured by bullying, then you may be able to seek compensation through a Florida child injury claim. A child injury lawyer in Clearwater will look over the details of your case to determine if you have a valid claim to pursue.

5 Myths of Bullying

schools can't do anything to prevent or stop bullying;
reporting bullying will only make the problem worse;
situations often resolve themselves;
name calling, spreading rumors, and ridiculing others is not a form of bullying; and
bullies will pick on anyone, even those who are capable of defending themselves.

The truth is that schools can do a lot to prevent and stop bullying. Reporting a situation of bullying will usually stop it. Bullying isn't something that will resolve itself. Bullying includes inflicting emotional harm, and bullies usually pick on those who can't defend themselves.

Knowing the 9 misconceptions about bullying that Clearwater, Florida parents have, could be very helpful in preventing or stopping the bullying; however, if your child was injured in a bullying incident, then your next step should be to consult with a child injury lawyer in Clearwater, FL.

Contacting a Child Injury Lawyer in Clearwater

There is a lot that your school can do to stop bullying so if your child was injured then you can pursue a Florida child injury claim against the school with the help of a child injury lawyer in Clearwater. If your child has been injured because of bullying in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a bullying incident in Clearwater, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a child injury lawyer in Clearwater - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Facts about Bullying and a Florida Child Injury Claim

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your child has been injured and it was the result of bullying, then you should seek legal counsel from a child injury lawyer in Clearwater. A lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if negligence of another adult or school contributed to the situation and if you should proceed with a Florida child injury claim.

3 facts you should know about bullying:

bullying can be physical or emotional (name calling, spreading rumors, gossiping, and exclusion of others are examples);
bullies exert their power over those who are smaller, have less social status, or are unable/unwilling to defend themselves; and
children are often afraid to tell an adult they are the victim of bullying (feelings of fear, guilt, or shame often intrude).

Bullying is something that should be taken seriously because it can lead to violence, causing serious injuries. If it is not addressed at a young age then it will continue throughout all the school years. You may be able to file a Florida child injury claim if your child was victimized by bullying.

You can learn about the 9 misconceptions of bullying most Clearwater, Florida parents have. If your child has suffered injuries caused by bullying, then you should speak with a child injury lawyer in Clearwater as soon as possible.

Contacting a Child Injury Lawyer in Clearwater

Once you know more about bullying you can decide if a Florida child injury claim is necessary. If your child has been injured because of bullying in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a bullying incident in Clearwater, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a child injury lawyer in Clearwater - 1-888-340-0840.

Preventing an Open Water Drowning Accident in Clearwater, Florida

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

A drowning accident in Clearwater, Florida in open water is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about summertime in Florida. But if a drowning accident should take place, contact a Clearwater wrongful death attorney.

As parents and caretakers always consider the possibility that children could be at risk, be it in the form of a drowning accident in Clearwater, Florida or another tragic incident.

Steps to Prevent an Open Water Drowning Accident

There are steps you can take to protect your child from harm while swimming in open water, whether at the beach, river or lake.

Always supervise children. If you are with another family, appoint a designated "water watcher" and take turns. A drowning accident is more likely to take place when adults aren't looking, so make sure that a responsible adult always has eyes on children. If your child is injured, contact a Clearwater wrongful death attorney or a team of Clearwater, FLA child injury lawyers.

Ensure children swim only in designated areas. Piers, roped-off sections of lakes, strong currents in an area of a river, or areas far off shore increase the risks associated with a water-related accident. A drowning accident in Clearwater, Florida is more likely to take place in unsafe areas.

Make your children aware of open water's uneven surfaces, undertow and currents. Swimming in open water is different from a pool and carries with it different risks. In the event of a drowning accident in Clearwater, Florida, contact a Clearwater wrongful death attorney or a team of Clearwater, FLA child injury lawyers.

Never let children operate water craft. Jet skis, boats and other personal watercraft are intended for adults and require special training. A child should never be permitted to drive, steer or handle watercraft in any capacity.

Contacting Clearwater, FLA, Child Injury Lawyers

If your child has been injured in a drowning accident in Clearwater, Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida. If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a drowning accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 888-340-0840.

Preventing a Drowning Accident in Clearwater in the Home

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Although we often think that a drowning accident in Clearwater, Florida is likely to happen at a pool, beach or lake, findings have revealed that the majority of drownings occur near home. If your child suffers a drowning or near-drowning accident, contact a Clearwater wrongful death attorney or a team of Clearwater, FLA child injury lawyers.

To prevent a home drowning accident in Clearwater, Florida, adhere to the following safety guidelines and keep them posted:

Keep entryways and doorways to laundry rooms, bathrooms and outdoor patios with pools securely closed and locked. Children are inquisitive and frequently explore. In order to ensure the absolute security of your children against a drowning incident, it is vital that access to potentially dangerous areas where water can collect is limited.

After bath time has concluded, drain the tub immediately. Never leave standing water unattended in your home. Empty buckets and wading pools immediately after use and store them upside down in a location your child cannot reach.

Secure toilet lids with toilet seat locks. A child can climb, slip and fall on an unlocked toilet seat, creating a potential drowning hazard.

Always stay within an arm's length of your child when he or she is in the bath, toilet, wading pool, swimming pool, spa or bucket. In the event of an emergency, you need to be able to get to your child quickly. Whenever your young child (5 or under) is playing in or near water, stay close at hand by practicing touch supervision.

Never leave a child unattended, even in a baby bath seat or ring. Never leave a child unattended in the bath, wading pool or any other body of water even for a moment, no matter the circumstances, nor should you leave them in the care of another child.

Contacting Clearwater, FLA Child Injury Lawyers

If your child has been injured in a Florida drowning accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida. If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a drowning accident in Clearwater, Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney or Clearwater wrongful death attorney. - 1-888-340-0840.

Common Injuries Related to a Fireworks Accident in Clearwater

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Injuries from a fireworks accident in Clearwater can be serious and even life-threatening. If someone else's negligence led to your child's injuries, then you should seek legal counsel from a Clearwater, Florida child injury lawyer.

A Clearwater, Florida child injury lawyer will look into your case's details to determine if you have a valid claim that is worth pursuing and what types of damages to which you may be entitled.

Common Injuries from a Fireworks Accident

Some common injuries related to fireworks use in Clearwater, Florida include:

burn injuries (commonly to fingers, hands and legs);
eye injuries (sparks from fireworks or foreign objects);
bruises; and
lacerations.

These types of injuries can lead to third-degree burns, blindness and disfigurement as a result of scarring. Not only are you facing the expenses of providing medical treatment, but your child also may be psychologically damaged. These types of damages may be recoverable through a claim.

Safety tips can help prevent fireworks injuries. If you need legal representation after your child has been injured in a fireworks accident in Clearwater, then you should consult with a Clearwater, Florida child injury lawyer today.

Contacting a Clearwater, Florida, Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a fireworks accident in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a fireworks accident in Clearwater, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater, Florida child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

5 Ways to Avoid Injuries from a Fireworks Accident in Clearwater

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may do your part to keep your child safe; however, the negligence of another may lead to your child being injured in a fireworks accident in Clearwater. If this happens, then your next step should be to speak with a Clearwater, Florida child injury lawyer.

A lawyer will take the time to evaluate your case and determine if you should proceed with filing a claim.

Tips to Stay Safe around Fireworks in Clearwater

Here are 5 ways to avoid injuries from a fireworks accident in Clearwater:

Don't attempt to use fireworks that are made for professional displays, as there are special instructions for handling them.
Deep everyone a safe distance from lit fireworks.
Don't hold fireworks in your hand while lighting them.
Never relight or try to reuse fireworks.
Never allow children to set off or play with fireworks.

You can prevent child injuries and a fireworks accident in Clearwater. Parents should be aware of the risks involved and the importance of proper supervision.

We provide safety tips for parents to help avoid potential fireworks injuries. For help with your personal injury claim, contact a Clearwater, Florida child injury lawyer today.

Contacting a Clearwater, Florida, Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a fireworks accident in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a fireworks accident in Clearwater, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater, Florida child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

5 Things You Should Never Do If Your Child Is Being Bullied at School in Clearwater, FL

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child is the victim of bullying, you are probably very concerned. Unfortunately, bullying can quickly escalate and become violent. If your child was injured at a school in Clearwater, FL and you plan on filing a personal injury claim, you should first speak with Clearwater, FLA injury lawyers to understand the options you have available.

5 things not to do if your child is being bullied at school in Clearwater, FL

blame your child or make them feel ashamed or guilty for being the victim;
tell your child to ignore it;
encourage your child to retaliate or physically attack the bully;
contact the parents directly of the bully (that should be left up to the school); and
have expectations that the bullying will instantly stop.

The way you handle the situation could significantly affect the outcome of it. So you want to make sure that communication between you and the school is open and clear.

However, if the school has been negligent and your child is injured at a school in Clearwater, FL, then Clearwater, FLA injury lawyers should be contacted.

Not only should you know what not to do but you should also know 5 things you can do to stop your child from being bullied at school in Clearwater, FL.

Contacting Clearwater, FLA Injury Lawyers

If your child has been injured at a school in Clearwater, Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries at a school in Clearwater, Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater, FLA injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Tips for Working with a Clearwater, FL School When Your Child Is Bullied

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child was injured at a school in Clearwater, FL, as a result of bullying, then Clearwater, FLA injury lawyers can help. You may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the perpetrator and possibly the school if they were negligent.

When you suspect or learn that your child is the victim of bullying, then you want to work closely with the school to come up with a solution. The school should always be informed and there should be a willingness to take whatever steps are necessary to protect your child.

3 tips for working with a Clearwater, FL school when your child is being bullied:

know what the school policy on bullying is and if there are steps already in place to handle bullying;
involve and talk to all school staff that could be helpful in finding a solution; and
commit to seeing the bullying stopped by having regular talks with the school and making sure appropriate measures are being taken.

If there's a failure by the school to do its part and your child ends up being injured at a school in Clearwater, FL, then your next step should be to speak with Clearwater, FLA injury lawyers.

You should also know 5 things you can do to stop your child from being bullied at school in Clearwater, FL.

Contacting Clearwater, FLA Injury Lawyers

If your child has been injured at a school in Clearwater, Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries at a school in Clearwater, Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater, FLA injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Liability for Bullying and School Violence in Clearwater, Fl

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

One of the more complicated types of cases involves injuries as a result of school violence in Clearwater, Florida. Liability not only may rest with the perpetrator, but also with the school itself.

Florida child injury lawyers can help you sort through the detailed process and explain how liability works in a situation where your child was injured on school property.

Public School Liability in Clearwater, Florida

Schools are expected to supervise children so that they are safe at all times. When there is a lack of supervision resulting in an injured child, then a school could be held liable through a child injury claim in Florida.

In cases of bullying or other types of school violence in Clearwater, Florida when staff members of a school are aware of a volatile situation and fail to intervene when they could have may also constitute liability.

Clearly, it can be tricky determining liability in a situation that involves the school. However, you should also know that if you do plan to file a child injury claim in Florida, there is a time limit in which you can also file what is known as a notice of claim, which is required and has a 90-day deadline.

Speaking with Florida child injury lawyers should be your next step if your child has been the victim of bullying and school violence in Clearwater, Florida.

Contacting Florida Child Injury Lawyers

If your child has been injured by school violence in Clearwater, Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries from school violence in Clearwater, Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Florida child injury lawyer: 1-888-340-0840.

Liability for Bullying and School Violence in Clearwater, Florida

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

It is a sad reality that an increasing number of children and teens are becoming victims of bullying and school violence. You may be entitled to compensation through a child injury claim in Florida if your child has suffered serious injuries or was killed as a result of school bullying or school violence in Clearwater, Florida.

A child injury case can be complicated, which is where Florida child injury lawyers can help. They will work with you to determine if you have a valid child injury claim in Florida.

Injuries from school violence in Clearwater, Florida can include:

broken bones;
lacerations;
head trauma;
brain injury;
spinal cord injury;
loss of limb; and
death.

Serious injuries of this nature can lead to disability or disfigurement. Treatment can be costly and may entail surgery, rehabilitation, physical therapy, counseling or the need for assistive devices such as a wheelchair.

These expenses, along with other damages, may be recoverable through a child injury claim in Florida. Because injuries that are a result of public school violence in Clearwater, Florida can be complicated, you will need the help of Florida child injury lawyers.

If your child has been the victim of bullying and school violence in Clearwater, Florida, you should call Florida child injury lawyers.

Contacting Florida Child Injury Lawyers

If your child has been injured by school violence in Clearwater, Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after injuries from school violence in Clearwater, Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Florida child injury lawyer: 1-888-340-0840.

Negligence in a Clearwater Fireworks Accident

Tue, 31 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child was injured in a fireworks accident in Clearwater, you should seek legal counsel from a Clearwater accident lawyer. If the accident was caused by someone else's negligence they may be held liable for your child's injuries through a Florida child injury claim.

While an accident may seem like nothing more than that, injuries from fireworks may have been preventable. When someone else is careless, breaks the law or acts in a reckless manner, this could result in a Florida child injury claim.

Liability for a fireworks accident in Clearwater may rest with an individual who sets off fireworks near a child and they are injured. They may have broken the law and shot off fireworks they are prohibited from using or they may have used them in a negligent manner.

A public fireworks display that leads to injuries could result in liability against the owner or operator. There may have been mishandling or mismanagement of the display. The fireworks may have been placed too close to bystanders.

A manufacturer could be liable if there was a defect in the fireworks, such as a faulty wick. To help determine liability for your child's injuries, it is best to obtain help from a child injury lawyer.

When your child has been injured by fireworks in a Clearwater accident you may have the right to pursue damages through a Florida child injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Accident Lawyer

If your child has been injured by fireworks in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being injured by fireworks in Clearwater, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater accident lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Injuries as a Result of a Fireworks Accident in Clearwater

Tue, 31 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may be eligible to file a Florida child injury claim if your child was injured in a fireworks accident in Clearwater. A Clearwater accident lawyer will discuss your case with you to determine who may be held liable for your child's injuries.

Injuries from a fireworks accident can be very serious, with the most common being a burn injury. A burn injury to the face could lead to not only disfiguring injuries but vision problems as well. Third degree burns from fireworks can completely change your child's quality of life.

Eye injuries are another type of injury that your child may sustain in a Clearwater fireworks accident. Debris or sparks can fly into your child's eyes. Long-term damage may be suffered as a result.

Deep lacerations or even amputations can also be injuries that result from a fireworks accident. Some fireworks contain explosives that can cause severe damage.

To fully understand your legal rights when your child has been injured by fireworks in a Clearwater accident, you should immediately consult with a personal injury attorney. Your lawyer will help you with every aspect of your Florida child injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Accident Lawyer

If your child has been injured by fireworks in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being injured by fireworks in Clearwater, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater accident lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Negligence in a Clearwater Playground Accident

Fri, 27 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Negligence could be a cause of playground accidents in Clearwater. This is especially true when owners of a playground fail to properly maintain the equipment and surface area.

Determining and proving negligence in a Florida premises liability claim isn't easy. But with the help of an attorney, you may be able to receive compensation for your child's injuries.

Negligence for playground accidents in Clearwater will depend on the location. Playgrounds are sometimes found inside of restaurants or specialty stores. This means you would be going against a big business.

Public playground accidents in Clearwater will require going against the city and if the accident occurs on school grounds, then the school district. This can seem like an overwhelming task and that the odds are against you. After all, they will certainly have on their side legal representation that will be ready to fight your Florida premises liability claim.

However with the help of a Florida premises liability attorney, you will have the same kind of legal representation that is looking out for your best interests. Your attorney will have a team of professionals and experts that will help you fight for your claim.

What you need to know about playground accidents in Clearwater is best explained by an experienced Florida premises liability attorney.

Contacting a Florida Premises Liability Attorney

If your child has been injured in a playground accident in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida premises liability claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being injured in a playground accident in Clearwater, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Florida premises liability attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Common Types of Playground Injuries in Clearwater

Wed, 25 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

While playground accidents in Clearwater happen all the time, in many cases they are the result of broken or poorly maintained equipment. This could lead you to file a Florida premises liability claim.

A lack of upkeep, improper materials, poor design and broken equipment are just some of the things that lead to playground accidents in Clearwater. When a child is seriously injured in a playground accident that could have been prevented, it could be a case of the owner's negligence.

Some of the more common injuries that result from playground accidents in Clearwater include:

fractures;
concussions;
spine injury;
traumatic brain injury;
internal injuries;
dislocations;
crushes; and
amputations.

Children typically fall off monkey bars, swings, climbers and slides. However, the risk of injury is greatly increased when this equipment is not regularly inspected or maintained.

Treatment for your child's injuries could be expensive and you may even be facing additional medical treatment in the future. This could be recovered, along with injury-related losses, through a Florida premises liability claim.

For everything you need to know about playground accidents in Clearwater, it is best to speak with an experienced Florida premises liability attorney today.

Contacting a Florida Premises Liability Attorney

If your child has been injured from a playground accident in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida premises liability claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being injured in a playground accident in Clearwater, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Florida premises liability attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Liability as a Result of a Fall from a Window in Florida

Sat, 14 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child was seriously injured in a fall from a window, you may be able to file a Florida child injury claim. When a child's injuries are caused by the negligence of another, you may be entitled to receive compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, disability, cost of lifelong care and other damages.

Proving liability in a fall from a window can be complicated. This is why you should seek the help of a Clearwater child injury lawyer who will gather the necessary evidence to help build a solid Florida child injury claim.

Liability in a fall from a window could be with the child's caretaker. If it can be demonstrated that the caretaker failed to properly supervise the child or didn't take safety measures to prevent the terrible accident from happening, then they may be held liable.

Liability can also be found with a property owner, if your child was on someone else's property and they were injured in a fall from a window. This might include a hotel, condominium, office building or someone's house.

Additionally, a manufacturer could potentially be held liable if there was a defect in the window or screen that resulted in a fall from a window.

Pursuing a Florida child injury claim as a result of a fall from a window requires the help of an experienced and knowledgeable Clearwater child injury lawyer.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a fall from a window, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being injured in a fall from a window, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Common Injuries Resulting in a Fall from a Window in Florida

Thu, 12 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

With the arrival of spring, many families are opening their windows to enjoy the fresh air. In Florida, the ability to keep windows open can last for several months; however, with this enjoyment there is also the risk that a child could suffer a fall from a window.

If your child was injured in a fall from a window that was caused by the negligence of someone else, you may be entitled to compensation for your child's injuries through a Florida child injury claim.

Common Injuries in a Fall from a Window

Some of the common injuries that can occur in a fall from a window include:

traumatic brain injury;
skull fracture;
concussion;
spinal cord injury;
broken bones;
collapsed lungs;
internal organ damage; and
death.

If your child was in the hands of a caretaker or on someone's property and there was a lack of supervision or if there was a failure to fix a broken screen in a window, these may be examples of negligence.

You should immediately consult with a Clearwater child injury lawyer. A lawyer will investigate your child's fall from a window and determine if you should proceed with filing a Florida child injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a fall from a window, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being injured in a fall from a window, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Injuries from Forceps/Vacuum Extraction as a Result of a Clearwater Doctor's Negligence

Fri, 06 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a Clearwater doctor's negligence causes your child to be injured during delivery, you may have the right to receive compensation for those injuries through a Florida birth injury claim.

The use of forceps or vacuum extraction can pose a dangerous risk to a child. This is why doctors must use these medical devices only when necessary and use them correctly. A doctor's mistake could result in severe, even life-threatening injuries.

Some of the more common injuries that can result from a Clearwater doctor's negligence with forceps or vacuum extraction include:

Facial nerve damage - which can cause facial asymmetry (more noticeable when the child cries or laughs).
Brain damage - mild, moderate or severe.
Cerebral palsy - results in difficulties with motor skills and movement.
Erb's palsy (brachial plexus injury) - weakness and/or paralysis of the arm.

These types of severe injuries are extremely costly. However, you may be able to receive compensation for your medical expenses through a Florida birth injury claim if it was the result of a Clearwater doctor's negligence.

If your child has sustained traumatic injuries from forceps or vacuum extraction, you should immediately speak with a Florida birth injury attorney. An attorney will carefully evaluate the facts in your case to determine if you have a valid Florida birth injury claim.

Contacting a Florida Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured during delivery, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being injured during delivery, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Florida birth injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

When a Clearwater Doctor's Negligence Leads to Injuries from Forceps/Vacuum Extraction

Wed, 04 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child was injured during delivery as a result of a Clearwater doctor's negligence, you have the right to file a Florida birth injury claim. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your child's injuries and any future treatment that may be required.

Forceps and vacuum extraction is a common device used to assist in difficult deliveries. They can help move a baby down the birth canal when there are complications such as the baby being in distress, a large sized baby that is having difficulty getting down the birth canal, or if the baby is in a breech position.

However, doctors must use these assistive medical devices with extreme care, since babies' heads can be easily injured. When a Clearwater doctor's negligence causes the child to be injured during delivery, you may be able to receive money for medical expenses, future medical treatment, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and disability.

Some of the more common injuries that can occur as a result of a doctor's mistake with forceps or vacuum extraction include:

brain damage;
nerve damage;
fractures;
facial injuries;
cerebral palsy; and
Erb's Palsy.

If a doctor's mistake with forceps or vacuum extraction results in your child suffering trauma, you should consult with a Florida birth injury attorney. An attorney can determine if you are eligible to file a Florida birth injury claim.

Contacting a Florida Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured during delivery, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being injured during delivery, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Florida birth injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Common Child Car Accident Injuries

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Nothing is more devastating than to see your child suffer injuries from a car crash in Clearwater. You may be thinking of pursuing a child injury claim on your son or daughter's behalf if the car accident was the result of another driver's negligence.

However you should also know that since Florida follows the pure comparative negligence system, even if you were partially at fault for the car accident you can still recover damages for your child. Your Clearwater child injury attorney can explain what types of compensation you should seek in your claim based on the specifics of the car accident and your child's immediate and future medical needs.

Common car accident injuries that can happen as a result of a car crash in Clearwater include:

traumatic brain injury (TBI)
neck injury;
TMJ;
disc injury;
spinal cord injury
organ damage;
internal bleeding; and
broken bones.

These types of car accident injuries can be very costly in the treatment and recovery process. You may be able to receive compensation for your child's bodily and emotional injuries which can extend beyond medical expenses to pain and suffering, disability or emotional distress.

If your child has been injured in a car crash in Clearwater, you should immediately speak with a Clearwater child injury attorney. A Clearwater child injury attorney will evaluate your case and advise you on the legal options you have available.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a car accident in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a car accident in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Common Causes of a Back-Up Accident in Florida

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child sustained injuries or was tragically killed by a driver backing up in a parking lot, driveway or other location, you may be able to file a Florida child injury claim or a Florida wrongful death claim.

A Clearwater child injury lawyer can help determine if negligence was the cause of your child's back-up injuries and what types of damages you may be entitled to seek through a claim.

A child struck by a car backing up is almost always a preventable accident. Drivers who are careless or reckless and end up injuring a child could be held legally liable.

Some of the most common causes for a back-up accident include:

failure to check blind spot;
failure to check mirrors;
failure to observe surroundings;
failure to see child nearby or behind the vehicle; and
inadvertently putting the vehicle in reverse rather than drive.

There are safety measures a driver can put in place in order to avoid a tragic accident such as this. Installing a device in the vehicle that alerts of someone being behind the vehicle, or just taking the time to walk around a vehicle before entering are some of the ways.

You should immediately consult with a Clearwater child injury lawyer if your child suffered back-up injuries or was killed as a result of a back-up accident.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a back-up accident in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being struck by a car in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

When a Child Sustains Back-Up Injuries in Florida

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a child sustains back-up injuries, you may be entitled to seek compensation through a Florida child injury claim. A Clearwater child injury lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if negligence led to your child being struck by a car backing up.

Drivers have a duty to ensure no one is injured every time they are behind the wheel. However it is also important that drivers exercise extreme caution when backing up their vehicles.

Small children are difficult to see in mirrors or can suddenly dart behind the vehicle. If a driver fails to watch and ends up striking your child, the driver could be held legally liable for your child's back-up injuries.

While many times injuries from this type of accident can be catastrophic, tragically many children are killed when they are struck by a car backing up.

Whether you are pursuing a Florida child injury claim or a Florida wrongful death claim, you may be able to recover damages related to your child's back-up injuries. This can include medical expenses, therapy (physical and psychological) and if your child suffered injuries prior to passing, you may be entitled to damages such as pain and suffering.

With the help of a Clearwater child injury lawyer you can get a better understanding of the type of claim you are eligible to file if your child was struck by a car backing up.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a back-up accident in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being stuck by a car in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Child Injuries and Clearwater Car Accidents

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

When someone's recklessness or carelessness results in a serious car crash in Clearwater and your child is injured, you may be able to seek compensation for your child's car accident injuries. A Clearwater child injury attorney can help determine if you have a valid injury claim and explain the strengths and challenges of your case.

One of the important components to your personal injury claim is establishing negligence. Each party involved will be assigned a percentage of responsibility for the car crash in Clearwater. If you cannot prove the other party was negligent and those negligent actions led to the car accident and your child's resulting injuries, you will not be able to recover compensation.

Since Florida follows pure comparative negligence rules, you will be eligible to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the car crash in Clearwater. However the percentage of responsibility you are assigned will be deducted from the total amount of damages.

For example, if you were to be found 40% negligent for the car accident, you would only receive 60% of the potential compensation. The types of compensation your child may be eligible to recover will depend on the type and severity of the car accident injuries and how it has affected and will continue to affect his or her life.

You may be able to receive compensation for your child's medical expenses, disability, pain and suffering, emotional distress and other injury-related losses.

Consulting with a Clearwater child injury attorney should be your next step if your child has suffered serious car accident injuries.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a car accident in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a car accident in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Hyperthermia Injuries Can Occur When a Child is Left Unattended in a Vehicle

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Hyperthermia, or heat stroke, occurs when a child is exposed to high temperatures, which can happen if a child is left in a car. In Florida, the risk of severe injuries or death is great, considering the year-round warm weather.

Hyperthermia injuries can include permanent brain, nerve, heart, kidney or liver damage. This can lead to a disabilities and additional medical complications. Sadly, most cases involving a child left in a car end in death.

If your child was the victim of hyperthermia because a babysitter or daycare worker left your child in a car unattended, you may be entitled to file a Florida wrongful death claim.

A Clearwater child injury attorney will thoroughly investigate your case to determine if it was the result of a daycare worker's negligence and if they can be held legally liable for your child's hyperthermia injuries or death.

The aftermath of your child's hyperthermia as a result of being left in a car is devastating enough without having to tend to confusing and tedious legal details. While you focus on you and your family's needs through this difficult time, your Clearwater child injury attorney can give your Florida wrongful death claim the attention it deserves.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured after being left in a car, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after your child was left unattended in a car, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

What is Florida law when a child is left in a car?

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to Florida State Statute FSS 316.6135, there are penalties for when a child is left in a car unattended. Under the age of 6, children are not to be left alone in a vehicle for more than 15 minutes. If the vehicle is running or if there is danger to the child's health, a child should not be left unattended for any amount of time.

Clearly, the health of a child who lives in Florida is at serious risk when left unattended in a vehicle. Temperatures are generally high in Florida and even with relatively mild temperatures; the inside of a car can heat up at an alarming rate.

When a babysitter or daycare worker's negligence causes a child to suffer hyperthermia (heat stroke) after being left alone in a vehicle, the individual may be held liable.

Protecting children should be the most important thing to a babysitter or caregiver, so when a child is left in a car and dies from the resulting injuries, you may be able to pursue a Florida wrongful death claim.

A Clearwater child injury attorney will help determine the legal options you have available and what steps you should take next. If you decide to file a wrongful death claim, your attorney can handle the details while you focus on your family's wellbeing.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured after being left in a car, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after being left unattended in a car, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Britax Chaperon Infant Car Seats Recalled

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), Britax Chaperon infant car seats are being recalled due to a product defect with the chest clip.

Certain Britax Chaperon car seat models have poorly designed chest clips that can easily break. This poses a risk of injury to the child if the chest clip breaks, whether it is the result of a car accident in Florida or the child putting force against the clip.

The sharp edges created by a broken chest clip could result in lacerations to the child. Small pieces that break could also pose the risk of a choking hazard.

The manufacturer, Britax Child Safety Inc. is recalling models:

E9L69N9 Moonstone;
E9L69P2 Red Mill;
E9L69P3 Savannah; and
E9L69P5 Cowmooflage.

Registered owners will receive a free repair kit that replaces the chest clip, along with an instruction sheet. Owners can contact the Britax customer service department at 1-888-427-4829.

When a child is involved in a car accident in Florida and a defective child car seat leads to injuries, the manufacturer may be held legally liable. A Clearwater child injury attorney can determine if you should file a product defect claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a car accident in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a product defect claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a car accident in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

DJG Recalling Some Child Restraint Systems

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports a recall on some DJG restraint systems due to the possibility that the harness locking and release button won't return to the locked position.

If the button is not in the locked position, this can result in the harness adjustment strap slipping back through the adjuster when the child moves around. A loose harness does not adequately protect a child in the event of a car accident in Florida.

The manufacturer, Dorel Juvenile Group (DJG), is recalling several restraint systems in their infant, convertible and booster child seats. Some were sold as stand alone seats and other were sold as part of a travel system with a stroller.

Registered owners will receive a free repair kit and label, which indicates the repair has been done. Non-registered owners should contact DJG via email at harnessadjustment@djgusa.com or via telephone at 1-866-623-3139.

If your child was injured because of a defective child car seat, you may be entitled to file a product defect claim against the manufacturer or any other party that may be liable. Consulting with a Clearwater child injury attorney should be your next step in order to determine your legal options.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a car accident in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a product defect claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a car accident in Florida, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Treatment for Your Baby's Facial Nerve Damage after a Florida Birth Injury

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Facial paralysis in your newborn may be a serious side effect of a difficult birth. While at times it is unpreventable, when doctors inappropriately use forceps or don't account for complications, it can be incredibly upsetting, as facial paralysis isn't just noticeable when your baby cries but can also hinder feeding as well.

Treatment for facial paralysis will depend on the severity of the nerve damage. In some cases, no treatment will be necessary and healing will take place within several days or a few weeks.

When facial paralysis is more severe, facial rehabilitation or surgery may be necessary. Unfortunately, surgery for this type of nerve damage cannot be done until the child is a little older, such as 5 or 6 years old.

One of the types of surgery a child may undergo to correct facial paralysis includes cross-facial nerve grafting, which treats unilateral facial paralysis. In cases of bilateral facial paralysis, a muscle transplant from the leg to the affected side may be needed.

Medical expenses, rehabilitation and pain and suffering may be the types of damages you can recover through a Florida birth injury claim when a doctor's negligence is to blame for your child's nerve damage and facial paralysis. To be sure of whether you can file a claim, you'll want to consult with a Clearwater birth injury attorney.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured during labor, request a FREE copy of our Florida child injury book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

What Florida Parents Need to Know About Facial Paralysis in Their Newborns

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Facial paralysis is a type of birth injury that can occur when the baby suffers nerve damage. While pressure is a normal part of any birth, when the baby suffers from unnecessary force while in the womb or birth canal, nerve damage can result.

Sometimes during birth, complications occur in which doctors must use forceps. While forceps help in the delivery of your baby, when they are used incorrectly, nerve damage and resulting facial paralysis are a serious risk. In other situations, inappropriate responses to a prolonged labor or a larger-than-expected baby can lead to this birth injury.

Depending on the extent of the nerve damage, a baby may recover with little to no medical intervention, or surgery may be required to have the nerves repaired. In some situations, a baby will never recover from facial paralysis.

When a birth injury results in facial paralysis in your newborn, you may struggle with what to do next. It's important to know you may very well be entitled to file a Florida birth injury claim. With the help of a Clearwater birth injury attorney, you may be able to recover compensation related to your child's facial paralysis.

Damages related to medical expenses, pain and suffering and disfigurement may all be recovered through a Florida birth injury claim. When medical negligence leads to your child's facial paralysis, you don't have to sit back and deal with the consequences alone. You have the right to pursue your case. A Clearwater birth injury attorney can help.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has suffered a Florida birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Cephalohematoma vs. Caput Succedaneum: What Florida Parents Need to Know

Sun, 13 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your newborn is suffering with swelling in the scalp, the diagnosis could be either a cephalohematoma or caput succedaneum, birth injuries that could be caused by the improper use of forceps or vacuum extraction. Understanding the effects of each condition can play a role in whether you may need to file a Florida birth injury claim.

Cephalohematoma vs. Caput Succedaneum

These birth injuries differ in the following ways:

Cephalohematoma

blood builds up under the scalp;
a lump forms on your baby's head;
the lump is usually not accompanied by bruising;
the lump will appear within hours or a day of birth;
the lump will last for weeks or months; and
the baby's head may appear misshapen.

Caput succedaneum

swelling on the scalp that is not caused by blood may be accompanied by bruising;
the baby's face may be swollen and bruised;
swelling will go down within a few days; and
the baby's head may appear pointed as swelling goes down.

Although both conditions will usually clear up without treatment, this is not the case when complications are involved. Complications with caput succedaneum are rare, but a cephalohematoma can lead to jaundice, and when a skull fracture has occurred, brain injuries may result.

If your baby has suffered a serious birth injury in Florida, you should speak with a Clearwater birth injury lawyer to discuss filing a claim to seek compensation for medical expenses and pain and suffering.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Lawyer

If your child has suffered a birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

When You Notice Cephalohematoma Symptoms after Your Child's Birth in Florida

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

When too much pressure is used with vacuum extractions or forceps, a newborn will be at risk of suffering a cephalohematoma. This birth injury, in which blood accumulates under the baby's scalp, can lead to serious complications such as brain injuries and severe jaundice. Recognizing the symptoms of a cephalohematoma is the first step in addressing the condition. This will likely become evident while you and your baby are still in the hospital.

Symptoms of a Cephalohematoma

When blood vessels under your baby's scalp break under pressure, a cephalohematoma will form as a soft swollen area that may increase in size after birth. Signs and symptoms of a cephalohematoma include:

a bump or lump on any side of your baby's head (usually toward the back or the side of your baby's head);
the lump will appear within hours of birth or a day later;
the lump will usually not be accompanied by bruising;
the lump will remain for up to a few months;
anemia;
jaundice (can be seen as a yellow tint in skin); and
the formation of calcium deposits.

If there are no complications, the cephalohematoma will go away on its own. If there are complications such as bleeding into the brain or jaundice, treatment will be required based on the severity of the birth injury. If your baby has suffered a cephalohematoma, you might be entitled to compensation in a Florida birth injury claim. It would be in your best interest to consult with a Clearwater birth injury lawyer to get advice on your legal options.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Lawyer

If your child has suffered a birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Florida birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

What Florida Parents Need to Do When Witnessing Baby Seizures

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Although it can be very frightening to witness your baby having a seizure, you need to take action to prevent your child from suffering additional harm. You should do the following:

lie your baby down;
keep all objects out of your baby's reach;
do not attempt to put anything into your baby's mouth (Doing so could injure your baby or yourself.);
if your baby has stopped breathing, call 911. (You should also start CPR if breathing has stopped within one minute of the seizure stopping. Do not attempt CPR during the seizure.);
when the seizure has ended, roll you baby on its side and continually observe for breathing; and
do not try to give your baby anything by mouth during or immediately after a seizure.

If your child has had a seizure, you should immediately seek medical attention from a pediatrician. Your baby might need to undergo exams such as an electroencephalogram, CT scan or MRI. If it is determined that your baby's seizures are the result of a birth injury, you should speak with a Clearwater birth injury attorney.

While many baby seizures are the cause of disorders like epilepsy, when your newborn's condition is associated with medical malpractice, you might be eligible to file a Florida birth injury claim to seek compensation for your child's care.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has suffered a birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Baby Seizures and Cerebral Palsy

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your baby has been experiencing seizures, the cause could be cerebral palsy, which may have resulted from a birth injury. Two kinds of seizures generally seen in people with cerebral palsy are tonic-clonic seizures and partial seizures, as described below.

Tonic-clonic seizure - Also known as a grand mal seizure, this kind of seizure is characterized by violent shaking, twitching and convulsing. Immediately before the seizure, your baby might cry out suddenly. After the seizure, your baby may lose consciousness for a few minutes and then become fatigued.
Partial seizures - These seizures are usually either simple or complex. In simple seizures, your baby will remain conscious. With a complex seizure, your baby may lose consciousness. The severity of symptoms varies and includes twitching, shaking and numbness. Your baby might also become confused.

If you have reason to believe your baby is suffering seizures because of a birth injury, you should visit your pediatrician and then speak with a Clearwater birth injury attorney to discuss whether it would be appropriate to file a Florida birth injury claim.

You might be entitled to compensation for your baby's current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering and altered quality of life associated with seizure disorders.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has suffered a birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

What Florida Parents Should Know About the Treatment of Child Sports Injuries

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Child sports injuries are not uncommon but depending on the type sustained, a sports injury can lead to serious complications. If your child sustained a sports injury that was the direct result of someone else's negligence-say, for instance, a team organizer, coach or facility owner-you may be eligible to file a Florida child injury claim to seek compensation for your child's treatment.

With the help of a Clearwater child injury attorney, you may be able to recover compensation for medical bills and other sports injury-related damages, such as pain and suffering.

Treatment for a sports injury will depend on the nature and extent of the injury. Fractures typically require casting or even the use of a wheelchair. In some sports injuries, such as with the knee, there may be a necessity for surgery.

A head injury or traumatic brain injury (TBI) could require long-term physical therapy and rehabilitation. Heat-related injuries that are severe may lead to a lengthy hospitalization.

Not only could you be facing the stress of dealing with your child's injuries but you may also be facing expensive medical care and treatment. When someone else's carelessness or recklessness causes your child to sustain a serious sports injury, a Clearwater child injury attorney can help you file and fight for your Florida child injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured while participating in Florida sports activities, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida sports injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Top 15 Most Common Types of Florida Child Sports Injuries

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Depending on the type of sport played and various other contributing factors, a sports injury can range from mild to severe. There is plenty of risk involved in sports and recreational activities but if your child sustained a sports injury that was the result of someone else's negligence, you may be able to pursue compensation through a Florida child injury claim.

A Clearwater child injury attorney can evaluate your sports injury case to determine if you have a valid claim. Your Clearwater child injury attorney will also be familiar with some of the most common types of sports injuries and how they are sustained.

Some of the most common types of Florida sports injuries children may sustain include:

fractures;
sprains;
strains;
ankle injuries;
knee injuries;
pulled muscles;
torn ligaments;
dislocation;
back injuries;
head injuries;
traumatic brain injury (TBI);
growth plate injuries;
damaged or bruised internal organs;
concussions; and
heat-related injuries (dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke).

Depending on the type of sports injury sustained, treatment could be costly and may even include the need for expensive medical equipment such as a wheelchair. Expenses related to your child's sport injury may be recoverable through a Florida child injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in while participating in Florida sports, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida sports injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Common Types of Theme or Amusement Park Accidents in Florida

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a family visits a theme or amusement park in Florida, the last thing they expect to happen is for a member of their group to suffer some type of injury or illness. If your child is the victim of an amusement park accident in Florida you should consult with a Clearwater child injury attorney about the nature of your case.

To help you to better understand what constitutes an amusement park accident, we've listed some of the common types of theme or amusement park accidents below:

falls;
slips/trips;
injuries from rides;
illness (food poisoning, exposure to harmful substances);
injuries from dangerous conditions in parks or shops; and
injuries on park-sanctioned modes of transportation (shuttles, trains buses).

Determining and proving liability in an amusement park accident can be very complicated, particularly against a large entity that has a team of lawyers and liability experts. Some injuries are the result of operator error, unsafe conditions, defects or flaws in equipment or a failure to install safety equipment.

A Clearwater child injury attorney will investigate the details surrounding your case to determine if you have a valid Florida child injury claim as a result of your child being injured at a theme park in Florida.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured at a theme park in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida amusement park accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

When a Child Injury Occurs at a Theme Park or Amusement Parks in Florida

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Thousands upon thousands of Florida residents and out-of-state visitors visit the amusement parks and theme parks in Florida each year. Most of them have a safe, successful visit free from any child injuries, illness or any other health complaints.

Some of the most popular amusement park or theme park attractions in Florida include:

Magic Kingdom;
Universal Studios;
Sea World;
Adventure Island;
Epcot;
Busch Gardens;
Wet ‘n Wild;
Islands of Adventure; and
Disney's Animal Kingdom, Typhoon Lagoon and MGM Studios.

Despite the good reputation enjoyed by these family-friendly establishments, accidents can and do still happen. If your child has been injured at a theme park in Florida you may be entitled to pursue compensation for their injuries through a Florida child injury claim.

Because this type of claim can be very complex, especially when it comes to proving liability, it is recommended that you seek the help of a Clearwater child injury attorney who can help you to thoroughly investigate your case. A Clearwater child injury attorney will collect all of the evidence that can help build a substantial Florida child injury claim if your child has been the victim of an amusement park accident.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured at a theme park in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida amusement park accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

St. Petersburg Woman Leaves Child in Car While Tanning

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 16, 2011 - A 19-year-old woman was charged with child abuse last Thursday after she left a 7-month-old child in a car while visiting a tanning salon. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the woman was tanning inside the salon on Fourth St. N when witnesses called police around 1:30 p.m. to report that a child was alone inside an unlocked car in the parking lot.

When St. Petersburg police arrived to the tanning salon, they found the child alone in the car. She was in distress and had thrown up on herself, but police say she was otherwise unharmed. When officers questioned the woman, she said her boyfriend was supervising the child, although the boyfriend was nowhere to be found. She was placed under arrest but slapped and pushed the officers before they could handcuff her, and they eventually deployed a Taser against her.

The woman is now facing charges of child abuse and assault on a police officer, both of which are felony charges. She was taken to the Pinellas County jail, where she was released on bond.

Two Babies Strangled by Summer Infant Monitors, Recall Issued

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 14, 2011 - Rhode Island-based Summer Infant is recalling millions of baby monitors after they have been linked to two strangulation deaths. According to a report at CNN, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Summer Infant announced the recall on Friday. The recall affects 1.7 million video baby monitors that have been sold since January 2003.

The recall doesn't affect one particular type of monitor, but rather applies to 40 different Summer Infant video monitors sold since that date. The monitors were originally priced anywhere from $60 to $300 and were sold in a variety of stores. The video monitors have two pieces -- a camera that is placed near the baby and a receiver that outputs that video signal.

At least two deaths have been linked to Summer Infant monitors, including the death of a 10-month-old girl who was strangled in her crib last March. Shortly later, a 6-month-old boy was also strangled by the cord after the monitor was left on a changing table within his reach. There have also been several cases where babies became entrapped by the monitor's cords but were rescued before they were strangled.

Summer Infant is also recalling 58,000 Slim and Secure babies monitors because the rechargeable batteries can rupture, posing a burn hazard to babies or their parents.

Any parents using Summer Infant monitors are advised to contact the company at (800) 426-8627. The Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that corded objects, including baby monitors, should not be used within 3 feet of a sleeping baby.

Everyday Hazards Can Lead to a Child Shallow-Water Accident in Florida

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Nothing is more tragic than the loss of a child. When your child has been left in the care of a daycare or babysitter you trust that they will be kept safe. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. If there is an act of negligence and it leads to a child drowning you may be entitled to pursue a Florida wrongful death claim.

A Clearwater child injury attorney understands that you are already dealing with enough emotional distress that the thought of pursuing a Florida wrongful death claim can seem too overwhelming. You shouldn't let this stop you from holding liable anyone whose negligence has resulted in your child drowning.

A child shallow-water accident can happen within minutes, or just a few moments of distraction. That's because the hazards are all around us, which shows just how crucial it is that caretakers be vigilant when watching your child.

Some of the common sources of child shallow-water accidents include:

buckets;
bathtubs;
toilets
sinks;
hot tubs;
spas;
kiddie pools;
fish tanks;
sand and water tables; and
landscape ponds.

When a child is left unattended with any type of container that has even a small amount of water, it can lead to devastating consequences.

Negligence of a daycare provider or babysitter that results in a child drowning may entitle you to pursue a Florida wrongful death claim. A Clearwater child injury attorney can help determine your legal rights and guide you through this difficult time.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida child drowning, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child drowning, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Phil&teds Recalls Thousands of Jogging Strollers

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 10, 2011 - Phil&teds, a popular baby-gear company that is known for their three-wheeled jogging strollers, recently announced a large recall of more than 20,000 strollers. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the recall affects 22,000 strollers in the United States and another 7,200 in Canada.

The phil&teds stroller recall involves Sport v2 and Classic v1 jogging strollers, which are outfitted with a cloth seat stretched over a metal frame. The phil&teds Sport v2 comes in a variety of colors, while the Classic v1 stroller is sold in red only. The strollers were sold between May 2008 and July 2010 at baby stores across the country.

According to the CPSC, the strollers have a dangerous hinge that can cut or even amputate a finger when the stroller is folded or unfolded. There are have been at least three reports of injuries involving these strollers, including one finger amputation.

Consumers who own the phil&teds Sport v2 or Classic v1 strollers are urged to contact phil&teds at (877) 432-1642 for a free repair kit. The strollers should not be used until these repairs are completed. The Consumer Product Safety Commission's website has a full list of affected serial numbers.

When Distraction Leads to a Child Shallow-Water Accident in Florida

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

The hazards of a swimming pool are very well established when it comes to talking about child safety. What most people may not know is that children have been the victims of a drowning accident with just a small amount of water.

If your child has been the victim of a child drowning while in the care of a daycare provider or babysitter, you may be eligible to file a Florida wrongful death claim. A Clearwater child injury attorney will work with you to determine if your child's tragic death was the result of negligence.

When caretakers are negligent, they may let distractions such as a ringing phone or knock at the door lead them away from the child. When the child is near any container filled with water-such as a bathtub or a mop bucket-a caretaker's negligence can have disastrous consequences. It can also happen if a caregiver fails to put in place safety measures that protect children from the dangers of a shallow-water accident, such as failing to install a toilet lock.

Since it takes just a couple of inches of water for a child drowning to occur, constant supervision of small children is imperative. Daycare centers and caretakers need to have preventative measures in place to reduce and/or eliminate all potential child contact with water dangers. When there is an act of negligence and it leads to a tragic outcome, you may be able to hold the responsible party liable. Anytime there is water around children, even a small amount, there is a risk for a child drowning accident.

Consulting with a Clearwater child injury attorney should be your next step if your child suffered a shallow-water accident because of the negligence of another.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida child drowning, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child drowning, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Tampa Child Dies of Complications From Shaken Baby Syndrome

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 9, 2011 - A 4-year-old boy who was at the center of a well publicized shaken baby case died in late January as a result of complications from his injuries. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the then 5-month-old child was injured in May 2007 when his caretaker shook him violently.

The caretaker, who ran a licensed daycare facility from her home, was convicted of child abuse and sentenced to 16 months in jail, but the child never fully recovered. He became famous after his mother posted videos on MySpace that documented his fight to survive and recover from his SBS injuries. He required around-the-clock care, was unable to walk, and required supplemental oxygen. His long-term prognosis was not good, but it still came as a shock to the family when the 4-year-old boy passed away on Monday at Tampa General Hospital. The boy died from pneumonia, but it was the injuries from 2007 that ultimately led to his death.

The daycare operator could face additional charges, as has happened in previous cases when a shaken baby died years later. However, the victim's family has indicated that they will not be pursuing charges. Even so, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office will be reopening the case.

Tampa Toddler is Brain Dead After Head Injury

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 4, 2011 - The Tampa Police Department is investigating the case of a 16-month-old boy who suffered serious head injuries and is now brain dead. According to a report from the Associated Press, the child's 23-year-old father has been arrested in connection with this child's brain injury.

Police say the child was under the care of his father when the head injury occurred. The man apparently threw the child on a nearby bed after he found him playing near an electrical socket. After hitting the bed, the child's head hit the wall, which fractured his skull.

The victim was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital with serious personal injuries, and doctors are skeptical that he will survive. The skull fracture and related bleeding left the child brain dead, doctors say. The St. Petersburg Times is also reporting that the father admitted to beating his son before throwing him on the bed.

The child's father is facing serious charges, including aggravated child abuse. He was arrested and is currently in the Hillsborough County Jail awaiting a hearing. Several months ago, the Department of Children and Families apparently awarded sole custody to the father after the child's 18-year-old mother was found unfit to care for him.

Overview of Hypoxia

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Some birth injuries, such as hypoxia, may be preventable. When doctors fail to recognize signs of a potential birth injury, it may be a case of medical negligence. You may be able to hold them liable for the injuries your child has sustained if medical negligence was involved and you can prove it.

Hypoxia occurs when a child is deprived of oxygen. This can be the result of maternal complications such as hypertension or the umbilical cord being wrapped around the baby's neck or head. While a number of complications may result in oxygen deprivation, the doctor has a duty to ensure that they follow a standard duty of care to prevent birth injuries whenever possible.

A doctor must take into consideration the condition of the mother and the baby in order to avoid a potentially fatal birth injury. When certain symptoms are ignored or treated incorrectly, medical negligence may have occurred.

If your child has been diagnosed with hypoxia due to a birth injury, a birth injury lawyer in Clearwater should be consulted in order to determine what your next steps should be. A birth injury lawyer in Clearwater can take the time to carefully consider your case and determine if you may be eligible to receive compensation for your child's birth injuries.

Contacting a Birth Injury Lawyer in Clearwater

If your child has suffered a Clearwater birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

5 Questions to Ask If Your Baby Was Diagnosed with Hypoxia

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

While some birth injuries may be common, many are also preventable. Hypoxia is one type of birth injury that may have been the result of medical negligence. If your child was injured during the delivery process in the Tampa Bay area, you should consult with a birth injury lawyer in Clearwater.

Hypoxia occurs when a child is denied oxygen. While there may be a number of contributing complications to hypoxia, if the doctor supervising the labor and delivery was negligent, he or she may be held liable for your child's birth injuries.

In determining if there was potential medical negligence, there are 5 questions to ask when your baby is diagnosed with hypoxia:

What led to the child's fetal distress and should these complications have been anticipated or recognized?
Were high risk factors identified?
Should the doctor have anticipated that brain damage could occur?
Did the doctor deliver the baby in the appropriate amount of time?
Were medical evaluations done in a proper and timely fashion?

When a doctor fails to provide a standard of care that is reasonable, safe and adequate, it may be a case of medical negligence. If your child has suffered a common birth injury, such as hypoxia, you may be eligible to receive compensation for their medical care and other expenses. A birth injury lawyer in Clearwater can explain the legal options you may have available.

Contacting a Birth Injury Lawyer in Clearwater

If your child has been injured in a Clearwater birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Clearwater birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Tampa Mother Accused of Killing Her Two Children

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

February 1, 2011 - A 50-year-old Tampa woman is under arrest after police say she shot her two children to death on Friday. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the mother shot her 13-year-old son twice in the head on the way home from soccer practice. She then went home and shot her 16-year-old daughter.

Police have not given any motives for the killings, but the woman was cited in a car crash that occurred back in November when investigators believe she was under the influence of drugs. Also in November, police were called to the family's home because the 16-year-old daughter claimed her mother had punched her several times in the face. The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) also conducted an investigation and released a report. The case was closed without any charges because investigators could not find any physical evidence that the abuse took place. However, the daughter was receiving counseling at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

The daughter attended King High School, while the 13-year-old boy was a student at Liberty Middle School. Both schools have counselors available for students. The children's father is currently serving in the Middle East. Back in November, he told DCF investigators that he was not worried about his children's safety after the alleged abuse incident.

Causes of Common Birth Injuries

Sun, 30 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Causes of common birth injuries vary. Sometimes the cause is a difficult delivery, for instance, if the baby is coming down the birth canal face first or if the baby is in a breech position. Overstretching can also result in a birth injury.

Larger babies are at a higher risk for a birth injury. This risk is multiplied when the mother has a narrow birth canal. When doctors use vacuum extraction or forceps to move a delivery along, this can also result in a birth injury.

Other causes of birth injuries can include a lack of oxygen, sudden blood loss, infection and inadequate blood flow. If doctors are negligent and fail to address issues like oxygen deprivation or neglects to provide preventative safety measures, they may be held liable for your child's condition.

While some common birth injuries won't require treatment, many other types may result in disability or permanent damage.

When a baby sustains a serious birth injury, it's likely you'll be facing long-term care and treatment. If your child was injured at birth, consulting with a birth injury lawyer in Tampa will help you to make sense of this difficult time and understand your legal options.

In addition, a birth injury lawyer in Tampa will provide you with an estimate on how much compensation you may be eligible to receive through a birth injury claim. This can provide comfort and financial stability, especially considering medical bills can quickly skyrocket.

A birth injury lawyer in Tampa will take the time to carefully examine your case to determine if you have a valid claim.

Contacting a Birth Injury Lawyer in Tampa

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Tampa birth injury lawyer about your case - 1-888-340-0840.

Types of Birth Injuries

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

While many birth injuries are minor and don't require medical treatment, some can be much more serious. If a doctor's negligence caused your child's birth injury, you may be eligible to receive compensation. A birth injury lawyer in Tampa will work with you to fight for your birth injury claim.

There are precautionary measures that should be taken into consideration, especially if a doctor is facing a difficult delivery. When steps are not taken to protect your baby and serious injuries result, the doctor may be found liable.

Some of the common types of birth injuries that can occur include:

head injury;
cephalohematoma;
skull fracture;
nerve damage;
spinal cord injury;
broken bones;
brain hemorrhage;
perinatal asphyxia; and
Erb's palsy.

Treatment for a birth injury may be costly and result in the need for long-term care. You may be able to recover damages for treatment expenses and additional injury-related expenses to help address such concerns.

If your child has experienced any one of these common birth injuries or another type of birth injury that is a result of medical negligence, a birth injury lawyer in Tampa can guide you in the next steps you should take.

Contacting a Birth Injury Lawyer in Tampa

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Tampa birth injury lawyer about your case - 1-888-340-0840.

Compensation in Florida's NICA Program

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may be eligible for Florida's NICA program (Neurological Injury Compensation Association) if your child sustained a severe and permanent brain or spinal cord injury during labor and delivery. By accepting NICA coverage, you will waive your right to pursue additional compensation in a medical malpractice lawsuit in Florida. To fully understand your rights and which legal options are available to you, it is important to consult with a Clearwater child injury lawyer before making any decisions.

A Clearwater child injury lawyer will evaluate your case and offer guidance on your options for pursuing compensation after your child has suffered a traumatic birth injury.

If you are eligible for Florida's NICA program you may be compensated for actual expenses related to:

hospital care;
medical costs;
family residential or custodial care;
medication;
rehabilitation;
therapy;
training;
professional care;
related travel; and
special facilities and equipment.

This excludes expenses that are compensated through private insurance or state and federal governments. There may also be compensation for reasonable expenses related to attorney's fees. Due to the complication of Florida's NICA program and understanding your rights in potentially pursuing a medical malpractice lawsuit, a Clearwater child injury lawyer should be consulted.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Convicted Sex Offender Volunteered at Clearwater High School

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 21, 2011 - The Pinellas School Board is facing a number of questions after a news investigation revealed that a convicted sex offender had volunteered at Clearwater High School on a regular basis. According to a report at News Channel 8, the board has suspended a teacher for violating school policies in connection with this case.

The investigation shows that the man volunteered on a regular basis at Clearwater High School, including serving as a DJ at a medieval dinner held by the school's chorus. He was also in talks with the drama department at Osceola High School to assist with an upcoming school play. The man was convicted in 1995 of lewd assault for raping an 11-year-old girl. However, he is not on Florida's sex offender registry because his crime predated the establishment of that registration program. The sex offender was dating the chorus teacher at Clearwater High School, and this teacher apparently let him volunteer at these various events.

The school board has suspended the chorus teacher for a week. Specifically, the board said she violated several school policies, including insubordination. The board's policy statement says that child sex offenders cannot volunteer at school events. The teacher maintains that she did not know about the man's past until it was uncovered in this investigation. Fortunately, there have been no reports that any crimes were committed against the children at Clearwater High School.

Family Residential or Custodial Care in Florida's NICA Program

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your child has sustained a severe birth injury you may qualify for Florida's NICA program, which provides compensation under certain criteria. By accepting NICA payments, you are prohibited from seeking further compensation in a medical malpractice claim or lawsuit. If your child's birth injury was due to medical negligence, it is best to first seek legal counsel from a Clearwater child injury lawyer before limiting yourself in terms of compensation.

NICA is a program for families whose child during the process of labor and delivery sustained a severe and permanent brain or spinal cord injury. Under NICA, compensation may be given to family members who undertake care of their child that would typically be done by a trained professional.

This is known as "family residential" or "custodial care" and is given to family members who provide nonprofessional care to the child who was injured during birth.

Some of the criteria for receiving compensation through family residential or custodial care are that it is under the direction of a physician and that the care given must be what is beyond the scope of normal child care duties.

Compensation for family residential or custodial care depends on the circumstances. If the family member isn't employed, they will receive the federal minimum wage payment. If the family member left their employment to care for the child, rates equal what Medicaid would pay for a home health aide.

These are just some of the factors involved in Florida's NICA program, which, like any Florida injury statute is subject to change. To fully understand your most current legal rights and what options are available to you, consulting with a Clearwater child injury lawyer is an important step in the recovery process.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Three Young Children Caught in Seffner Trailer Fire

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 18, 2011 - Three young children were trapped in a burning trailer in Seffner after their father left them unattended. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the father is facing charges of child neglect for leaving the children unsupervised while he went to run errands.

Around 1 p.m. on Friday afternoon, the father was cooking lunch in his trailer on Black Dairy Road when he left to talk to a neighbor and the trailer park's manager. He forgot to turn the stove off before leaving the trailer and left the children inside. Three children were in the trailer at the time, ranging in age from 1 to 3 years old. Their father was gone for at least 20 minutes when neighbors noticed that the trailer was engulfed in flames. Fortunately, witnesses to the fire went into the trailer and rescued the children.

The conditions of the children were not released, but it is likely that they suffered smoke inhalation while in the trailer. Fortunately, it does appear that all of the children will survive. The father has been charged with child neglect and is currently being held on bail at the County Jail.

Birth Trauma Complications and Consequences

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Complications resulting from birth trauma can present permanent injuries in many situations. Quite often, these complications take the form of traumatic brain injury, which presents a reality often filled with life-long disability.

Even a treatable child brain injury may cause the child to face a quality of life less than normal. If the child suffered oxygen loss during the birthing process, there may be irreversible brain damage. This can affect your child socially, as well as academically.

Cerebral palsy is one type of complication that can occur when a child has suffered a traumatic brain injury. This may lead to developmental, cognitive and mental disabilities.

The financial consequences are just one aspect the family must face when a child has suffered a traumatic brain injury because of birth complications. The emotional and physical consequences are just as serious.

When your child has suffered serious injuries as a result of birth trauma, you may be facing a lot of unanswered questions and concerns. But you are not alone. Determining if your child's injuries were preventable can be done with the help of an experienced and knowledgeable Clearwater child injury lawyer.

A Clearwater child injury lawyer will investigate your case and examine all records, notations and charts to help determine if you may be eligible to receive compensation for your child's injuries. Consulting with a Clearwater child injury lawyer should be your next step to help protect your child's legal rights.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer about your case - 1-888-340-0840.

Serious Brain Injury Associated with Birth Trauma

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Birth trauma can often result in serious harm, such as a child brain injury, damage to the organs or nerves and even dangerous fractures. Babies' bones can be extremely fragile at birth and commonly used birth techniques such as vacuum extraction and use of forceps can be detrimental when precautions are not properly taken.

Such injuries may be the result of a doctor's failure to recognize risk factors for a complicated delivery or the result of carelessness during the birthing process itself. When this happens, doctors may be considered medically negligent.

Symptoms of child brain injury specifically may include a skull facture, intracranial hemorrhage or blood accumulation beneath the skull. Treatment for a child brain injury can be costly and result in the need for long-term care.

When doctors, nurses or other healthcare providers are negligent resulting in preventable injuries such as a traumatic brain injury, they may be held liable.You may be able to receive compensation for child brain injury when birth trauma results in serious harm. A Clearwater child injury lawyer can evaluate your case to determine your eligibility in filing a personal injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has suffered a Florida birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer about your case - 1-888-340-0840.

4-Year-Old Boy Drowns in Sarasota Pool

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 13, 2011 - A Sarasota family is mourning the loss of their young son after he drowned in a backyard swimming pool. According to a report at the Sarasota Herald Tribune, the 4-year-old boy drowned shortly before 2 p.m. on Monday afternoon.

Police say the boy was riding a tricycle at the family's home on East Lake Circle in Sarasota when he fell into the pool. The boy's mother was supervising him at the time of the accident, but she was inside vacuuming and didn't hear the commotion until after he had been in the pool for some time. When the child did not respond to her calls, she went outside and found him unresponsive in the swimming pool.

Several people in the area heard the mother screaming and called 9-1-1. The child was airlifted to All Children's Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after the drowning accident. It was not immediately clear how long the child was in the pool before he was found.

Investigators with the Sheriff's department say the pool was gated, but it did not stop the boy from approaching the pool. Deputies are still investigating this fatal drowning. More information will be added if and when it becomes available.
To learn more about residential pool safety in Florida click here.

1-Year-Old Pinellas Park Girl Unresponsive After Swallowing Oxycodone

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 11, 2011 - A young girl was unconscious when she was taken to the hospital on Monday after ingesting oxycodone. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the 12-month-old girl was in the care of a 28-year-old woman who may or may not be related to the child. Police describe the relationship as "custodial," but they will not say if the woman is related to the victim.

The child was left alone for hours at a house on 76^th Avenue in Pinellas Park. When the guardian returned after 12 hours to check on the baby, the girl was unresponsive and lying in her own vomit. A relative of the woman recommended that the woman call 9-1-1, but she did not.

When the relative arrived at the house a short time later, this unidentified woman called 9-1-1 and reported that the baby was unconscious. A blood test at the hospital indicated that the child had ingested oxycodone, but police have not said if the drugs belonged to the child's guardian or how the child obtained the drugs.

The baby remained in the hospital as of Monday afternoon, but doctors believe she will survive. Along with a 3-year-old sibling, the victim will be placed in the care of a relative when she is released. The woman who was supposed to be watching the child, a 28-year-old woman from Pinellas Park, has been charged with child neglect.

Liability for a School Bus Accident in Florida

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's not only the school bus driver who is responsible for your child's safe journey to and from school. There are many parties involved in the safe operation of a school bus, from the mechanics who keep it in operation to the school board members who determine when the weather is too poor to allow safe travel. When your child is injured in a school bus accident there can be many people at fault.

Determining who to hold liable in a Florida child injury lawsuit is a difficult task that a Tampa child injury attorney can help you with. It's not always the bus driver's fault when the school bus is in a serious accident. Negligent drivers, poor weather, or mechanical errors can all result in potentially fatal school bus crashes that put your child at risk for serious injury.

Negligent drivers are one of the major causes of school bus accidents, as they can either strike the actual school bus or they may hit your child as they are boarding or leaving the bus. Failure to stop for a school bus with its stop signals displayed is a crime in Florida, and a hazard to your child.

Poor weather conditions can also result in school bus crashes. When severe storms, such as a tropical system, threaten your area, the school board should put the safety of the students first and close schools when necessary. The school is also responsible for making sure the busses are properly inspected and maintained to avoid malfunction.

Of course, the bus driver is the main link to keeping your child safe by being a responsible driver. If the driver is impaired or intoxicated or otherwise negligent in their duties to safely transport your child, they may be held liable for your child's injuries in a school bus accident. With all the parties potentially liable, you should consult with a Tampa child injury attorney for help.

Contacting a Tampa Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Tampa accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Tampa accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Tampa child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Tampa Child Care Worker Charged with Child Abuse

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 7, 2011 - A Tampa woman who works at a local day care center was arrested on Tuesday for child abuse. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the abuse took place at the woman's home-not the day care center-but her arrest will prevent her from working at the center while her case moves forward due to a newly enacted law.

Deputies with the Tampa Police Department have been investigating this woman since a teacher alerted them that a child in her classroom had visible bruises and marks on his arms. The boy is a relative of the arrested woman, but it was not made immediately clear if the boy is her child. Police say that the woman confessed to beating the child with a wooden stick after he stole money from someone at school. However, the child maintains that he was also beaten with an electrical cord.

The child care worker, a 51-year-old woman who lives on Morgan Street in Tampa, works at New Beginning Early Childhood Learning Center. Under current Florida law, she is prohibited from working with children while her case makes its way through the justice system. The day care center confirmed to reporters that the woman has been suspended.

6-Year-Old Boy Stabbed on New Year's Eve

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

January 6, 2011 - A 6-year-old boy was stabbed more than 20 times at a New Year's Eve party in Tampa on Friday. According to a report at My Fox Tampa Bay, the child's father has been arrested and charged with the crime.

Police say the child was attending a New Year's Eve party with his father in a residence on 58^th Street. During the party, relatives noticed that the child was missing and later discovered him covered in blood on a nearby playground within the apartment complex. The child suffered multiple stab wounds to his neck, chest, arm and back, according to police. Fortunately, the child is expected to survive his injuries and doctors hope he will make a full recovery.

Family members say the child's father suffers from mental health problems and has been treated at a mental hospital numerous times. Some relatives voiced concern that the man was allowed to leave the hospital at all. The child's father was arrested and charged, and a judge denied bail at a hearing on Sunday. It was not immediately clear who now has custody of the child.

Dangers When Getting On or Off the School Bus

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your child rides the bus to school you should feel confident that they are being safely transported to and from their bus stop. Unfortunately, even though the bus driver and school may take every precaution to keep your child safe, they cannot account for the negligence of others.

Florida law requires all drivers on the road with a stopped school bus to stop as it loads or unloads passengers. If the stop signals are displayed, both oncoming and following traffic should come to a complete stop until all the children have made it safely off or on the bus and the safety signals are no longer present.

Your child has the right of way to exit their bus or cross streets to reach their bus when it comes to their stop. If a negligent driver fails to make the stop and strikes your child they can cause serious injury. In a case such as this, you should consult with a Tampa child injury attorney to determine your course of legal action.

No one wants to consider their child may be injured while traveling from school to home, but it is a sad reality that some parents do have to face. The injuries sustained in a school bus accident when your child is struck by a negligent driver can be life-threatening or lead to serious disability. To help deal with the costs of treatment and compensate you for your losses and suffering, a Florida child injury claim may be necessary.

There are many dangers your child potentially faces when they ride a school bus. Almost every child will ride one in their lifetime to events such as field trips and sports games. It's important to know how school bus accidents can result in serious injuries and how to proceed with determining who is liable for your child's injuries.

Contacting a Tampa Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Tampa accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Tampa accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Tampa child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Immediate Signs of Traumatic Brain Injury in Your Child

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

There are a few telltale signs of a child brain injury that you may notice in your son or daughter. The only problem is that these traumatic brain injury symptoms can be quite similar to other, more minor health problems, which may cause some parents to delay seeking medical attention.

Some signs of a child brain injury that may become apparent shortly after impact include:

Vision changes - eyesight may be blurred or doubled.
Behavior changes - irritability, oddly timed laughter and lack of inhibition may become apparent.
Balance changes - a loss of balance as well as walking and sitting problems may result, including vertigo.
Muscle problems - muscles may stiffen or go into spasm.
Speech problems - the ability to talk may be marred by slow or slurred speech.
Other neurological issues - dizzy spells, headache, memory loss and seizures can be common.

Recognizing and addressing one or more of the above child brain injury symptoms is crucial to getting timely medical assistance. Since with a traumatic brain injury, damage cannot be reversed, only stopped, time is of the essence.

After initial concerns have been addressed, if it becomes apparent that someone else's actions led to your child's brain injury, you may be eligible to file a Florida child injury claim. To find out more about your options, you'll want to enlist the help of a Clearwater child injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has sustained a traumatic brain injury after a Florida birth accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file an injury or wrongful death lawsuit after a Clearwater accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

3 Phases of a Severe Child Brain Injury

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

After a child sustains a traumatic brain injury, they're likely to go through 3 main stages. These stages may last seconds or minutes (such as with a minor child brain injury like a concussion, in which a child is unconscious for just a few seconds) to severe, in which a child lapses into a coma for years and shows little to no signs of improvement.

Regardless of the severity of your child's traumatic brain injury, it may help to know what to expect as your child enters each stage:

Coma - typically, the longer the time the patient is unconscious, the more severe the brain injury, and the greater chance for neurological damage.
Post-traumatic amnesia symptoms (PTA) - when the patient awakens, confusion sets in. It mars the body's ability to think, remember, concentrate and more. This is where odd behavior comes in. Repeated questions are common.
Recovery - once the patient can retain information, they have entered into the recovery stage of a traumatic brain injury, which can take anywhere from weeks to years, depending on the level of the injury.

After your child has sustained a traumatic brain injury, you have every right to compensation to help with your child's ongoing care if someone else is responsible for your child's condition. Talk with a Clearwater child injury lawyer to learn more about whether you are able to file a Florida personal injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has sustained a traumatic brain injury after a Florida birth accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file an injury or wrongful death lawsuit after a Clearwater accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

A Closer Look at Cerebral Palsy Symptoms

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Cerebral palsy occurs when the brain has abnormal development. This can have a devastating effect on the part of the brain that affects muscle control and even muscle tone. What this means for any child with cerebral palsy is physical challenges in relation to balance, posture and movement.

This can play out in a variety of cerebral palsy symptoms, such as:

Skeletal deformities - it's not uncommon for a child with cerebral palsy to have limbs on one side of the body that are shorter than limbs on the other side. If not corrected, the spine can become curved and the pelvic bones tilted.
Strabismus - this is when one eyes turns inward or outward, a result of weak eye muscles.
Hearing problem - this can manifest in a child's unresponsive nature toward loud sounds or from a delay in speaking.
Bowel/bladder dysfunction - the muscles in this area are weak.
Uncontrolled movements - since muscle tone and movement are affected, a child with cerebral palsy may have jerky movements that appear haphazard or even slow.
Swallowing difficulties - since the muscles in the mouth and throat are needed to eat and drink, inhalation of food and drink is a risk; drooling is also common.

Treatment for cerebral palsy symptoms can be extremely involved, and may even require a team of medical professionals to adequately monitor your child's condition. If the negligence of a medical staff before, during or after your child's birth led to the onset of the disorder, you may be able to file a Florida birth injury claim.

To discuss your case and find out if filing a claim is an option for your family, consult with a cerebral palsy lawyer in Clearwater as soon as possible.

Contacting a Cerebral Palsy Lawyer in Clearwater

If your child has developed cerebral palsy after a Florida birth accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater cerebral palsy lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

When Medical Negligence is the Cause of Your Child's Cerebral Palsy

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

There are a few things that can lead to cerebral palsy symptoms in your baby and an eventual diagnosis of the disorder. While the majority of causes for the disorder occur during pregnancy, and are classified as prenatal causes, there are a handful of causes that occur during the birthing process. This would be known as a perinatal cause. Some situations even result in a postnatal development of cerebral palsy, such as with jaundice that goes untreated.

It's hard to completely pinpoint one exact cause of cerebral palsy - in all likelihood, it's usually a combination of factors during pregnancy, labor and after birth that lead to the disorder. Most of the time, doctors are diligent to monitor the development of the fetus and any possible conditions that could occur in order to avoid cerebral palsy.

Unfortunately, there are other times in which doctors may fail to notice a potential problem, which can lead to devastating, lifelong ramifications from cerebral palsy.

Some examples of medical negligence that commonly leads to cerebral palsy includes:

failure to diagnose and address problems in the mother, such as a seizure disorder, infection or thyroid disorder;
failure to diagnose and treat an RH factor incompatibility between mother and fetus;
labor complications (when not properly handled, can result in oxygen deprivation); and
failure to diagnose and treat serious cases of jaundice after birth.

It's heartbreaking when any of the above situations occur, knowing your child's cerebral palsy could have been prevented. While it doesn't make the birth injury OK, a Florida birth injury claim may entitle you to compensation that accounts for your child's costly medical care and ongoing treatment, as well as your family's emotional strife as a result of the birth injury. To learn more about your options, you'll want to consult with a cerebral palsy lawyer in Clearwater.

Contacting a Cerebral Palsy Lawyer in Clearwater

If your child has developed cerebral palsy after a Florida birth accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater cerebral palsy lawyer - 1-888-340-0840.

Tampa Mother Charged with Murder and Child Abuse

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 22, 2010 - A Tampa mother is facing serious charges after she admitted to strangling her 4-month-old baby girl. According to a report at ABC Action News, the 31-year-old mother was formerly charged with murder and child abuse in a Tampa courtroom on Saturday.

Detectives with the Tampa Police Department claim that the mother admitted to choking the child because she wouldn't stop crying. The child's father returned home from running errands and discovered that the child, who was pronounced dead shortly later, was unresponsive. The baby's mother also admitted to previous episodes of abuse, and police say that an autopsy showed old injuries, including a broken arm and broken ribs.

The victim's mother had previously been arrested and lost custody of the baby and her other 4 children. The father took custody of the children, but he was ordered by the Department of Children and Families that the mother was to have no contact with the children. As a result, both DCF and the Tampa Police Department are investigating the father to determine why the children were allowed to be alone with their mother. The judge denied bail for the mother, who remains in jail at this time.

Toddler Injured in Two-Vehicle Avon Park Crash

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 23, 2010 - A young child was one of 9 people who suffered serious personal injuries in a car crash on Saturday. According to a report at the Highlands Today, the accident is believed to have been caused by wet weather and slick roads in the area.

Troopers with the Florida Highway Patrol believe a wet road caused a 28-year-old man to lose control of his pickup truck and swerve into oncoming traffic on U.S. 27 in Avon Park. The pickup truck was traveling northbound on U.S. 27 and crashed head-on into a minivan traveling in the opposite direction.

A 31-year-old woman was driving the minivan. In total, 9 people were injured, including several who suffered critical injuries. A 3-year-old boy is listed in serious condition at All Children's Hospital, but the extent of his injuries is currently unknown. It is not yet clear if he was a passenger in the minivan or pickup truck. Another 1-year-old child involved in the crash was not injured.

No charges have been filed as of Tuesday, but the Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate this serious accident.

Treating Your Child's Spinal Cord Injury: What to Tell Doctors

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

While it may be hard to stay calm immediately after a child spinal cord injury, you have a crucial role to play so that doctors can begin prompt treatment for your child.

Even though the debilitating effects of a child spinal cord injury cannot be reversed, initial treatment is vital to prevent symptoms from worsening. But before a physician can determine the best treatment plan for your child, they need to know more about your child specifically. This is where you, the parent, come into play.

In order to create the most effective spinal cord injury treatment plan, you'll need to give the doctor the following information about your child, including:

age;
health;
known allergies;
medical history; and
tolerance for specific procedures.

Your child's doctor will take this information into consideration, along with the type of spinal cord injury sustained (neck, upper back or lower back) and the extent of the injury (paralysis of just the legs or paralysis of the arms and legs, etc.)

The most important thing after a Tampa accident in which your child sustained a spinal cord injury is ensuring the best possible care and treatment for your son or daughter. If their spinal cord injury resulted from a Tampa accident in which someone else was careless or negligent, you may very well have the right to file a child injury claim against them.

A Tampa child injury attorney is your best resource in determining the strength of your claim, the potential compensation you may receive and what you'll need to build a strong case on behalf of your child.

Contacting a Tampa Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Tampa accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Tampa accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Tampa child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Bradenton Child Suffers Injuries After Fall

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 17, 2010 - A 7-month-old baby was seriously injured on Wednesday when she fell from an attic onto the floor below. According to reports at My Fox Tampa Bay and the Herald-Tribune, the attic floor collapsed underneath the child and she fell more than 8 feet. The accident occurred shortly before noon on Wednesday.

Police say the child was being supervised by a 14-year-old babysitter at the time of the accident. According to reports, the babysitter took the 7-month-old baby and the baby's 4-year-old sister up into the attic at the home on 66^th Avenue West. The babysitter was apparently scared that police were looking for her after an unknown individual said she stole a laptop. It's not yet clear when that alleged theft took place or if the babysitter did indeed steal the laptop.

The babysitter also fell through the attic but escaped serious injuries. The 4-year-old girl was also uninjured. Unfortunately, the baby was seriously injured, and it is believed that she may have endured severe head injuries. The victim was taken to All Children's Hospital, where her condition is unknown at this time.

CPSC Acts to Ban Drop-Side Baby Cribs in the U.S.

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 16, 2010 - The days of drop-side cribs are numbered, as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted on Wednesday to ban their production and sale. According to a report by the Associated Press, drop-side cribs have been involved in numerous recalls over the years and have contributed to at least 32 deaths and countless other injuries among young babies and toddlers.

The vote was unanimous among the CPSC's advisory board, which says that this new ban will reduce crib-related deaths and injuries. The ban will not take effect until June 2011, and those that use cribs in professional settings -- including daycare centers -- will have 2 years to find suitable crib replacements. After June 2011, all baby cribs sold in the United States must have fixed sides.

Drop-side cribs have long been popular because the sliding sides make it easier to pick up children from their cribs. However, the cribs are vulnerable to assembly errors and manufacturing defects, and many children have suffocated or were strangled when their heads became trapped under the sliding sides. According to the Associated Press, the CPSC has recalled 9 million drop-side cribs since 2005. Industry groups still maintain that current drop-side cribs are safe to use as long as they are properly assembled. The CPSC.gov website has more information on drop-side crib recalls.

Child Spinal Cord Injury: What Happens During the Hospital Stay

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

The experience of a child spinal cord injury can be frightening, to say the least. While you may still be in disbelief over what has happened, frustration may also set in at all the hospital procedures and treatments, which can prevent you from spending much-desired time with your child.

As your family adapts to the idea of life after your child's spinal cord injury, it may help to get a better idea of just what your child's team of medical professionals is doing to aid in your child's recovery during the hospital stay.

Quite often, a team of doctors, nurses and therapists from multiple disciplines will work together to provide the most expedient recovery possible.

While there is no cure for a child spinal cord injury, your child's medical team will work to manage your child's:

pain;
heart function;
blood pressure;
body temperature;
nutrition level; and
bladder and bowel function.

As your child stabilizes, the medical team will conduct tests to determine when different body functions have returned, such as urodynamic studies to assess bladder control. If medications are needed, the medical team will prescribe those in efforts to make your child's adaptation into daily life as seamless as possible.

While nothing can reverse your child's spinal cord injury after a Tampa accident, your first priority at this point is most likely your child's comfort and happiness. If someone is liable for your child's spinal cord injury, whether from negligence behind the wheel or in another capacity, you can seek compensation from them. This will help account for your child's medical expenses and provide the best care and future possible. To learn about your options, talk with a Tampa child injury attorney.

Contacting a Tampa Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Tampa accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Tampa accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Tampa child injury attorney - 1-888-340-0840.

Repair Kit Works Well for Recalled Evenflo Maestro Car Seats

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Child safety seats are a critical safety device trusted by countless parents to prevent injury in the event of a vehicle crash. Unfortunately, defective child safety seats are not an entirely uncommon phenomenon.

In a bit of good news for consumers and concerned parents: according to Consumer Reports, a repair kit works well for the recently recalled Evenflo Maestro Car Seats. More than 18,000 car seats were recalled on Oct. 15 when it was discovered in a crash test that the seat's plastic shell could crack.

The same day the car seats were recalled, Consumer Reports registered for the repair kits. In follow-up tests, they were able to determine that the repair kits, containing a small metal piece, were able to reinforce the area of the child's safety seat that had cracked.

Defective child's safety seats may lead to serious or even fatal injuries in the event of a Florida accident. If your child has been seriously injured in an accident in Florida, a Tampa car accident lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if you may be eligible to pursue compensation for your child's injuries.

If a product was recalled or otherwise defective, your attorney can use that information in building your child injury claim in Florida.

Contacting a Tampa Car Accident Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida car accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida car accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Tampa car accident lawyer - 888-340-0840.

Target Recalling Thousands of Children's Tents

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 10, 2010 - Target is issuing a voluntary recall of children's tents after the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said the tents pose a fire hazard. According to a report at BizJournals.com, the recall affects the Circo Children's Space Camp Combo Pack, a 25-dollar collapsible tent that is sold exclusively at Target. The tent apparently failed a flammability test, which prompted the product recall.

The CPSC says that no injuries have been reported, but they advise that parents should stop using the tents if they still have them. The recall affects thousands of Circo tents that were sold in September and October 2010. The combo pack, which was made in Bangladesh, includes the collapsible tent, a sleeping bag and backpack. If you have one of these tents, you can return it to Target for a refund. You can find more information on this recall at the Consumer Product Safety Commission's website at CPSC.gov. You can also call Target directly at (800) 440-0680.

Target has been involved in a number of child safety recalls this year, including the earlier recall of millions of Graco strollers in October.

Clearwater Child Injury Attorney Explains How to Choose Your Child's Car Seat

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

When it comes to your child's safety you can never be too protective. While you may not be able to prevent an accident in Florida from happening, you can help protect your child with the correct type of child's safety seat.

In the event that your child is injured in an accident in Florida, a Tampa car accident attorney will evaluate your case to determine if it was the result of someone else's negligence. You may then be eligible to receive compensation for your child's injuries.

When it comes to choosing a child's safety seat there are some important safety features that you should look for such as:

Latch Connectors - the best type of latch connector is the "push-on" style, which can be easily attached and removed;
Harnesses - an external harness adjustment style allows you to adjust the height of the harness without removing the child's safety seat. The best types are those that slide or come with a knob, allowing you to easily move them up and down; and
Recline Indicators - comes with an indicator that allows you to see if the child's safety seat is properly reclined.

These are just some of the things to consider when it comes time to choose the correct type of child's safety seat. A child's safety seat offers a certain level of protection in the unfortunate event of an accident in Florida. If your child was injured despite the use of a safety seat, you can speak to a Tampa car accident attorney about your options for legal recourse.

Contacting a Tampa Car Accident Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida car accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida car accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Tampa car accident attorney - 888-340-0840.

Single-Vehicle Accident in Tampa Injures Two Children

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

December 6, 2010 - A car accident in a heavily wooded area in east Tampa left 2 children with serious personal injuries on Friday. According to a report at My Fox Tampa Bay, no one else was injured in this single-vehicle accident other than the two children. The accident occurred on Friday afternoon near Eastlake Mall.

Police are still investigating this serious car crash, but they believe that the car was traveling on Harney Road when the driver lost control and crashed into a tree near the intersection of Walton Way and Harney Road. There were 2 children in the car, including a 5-year-old and a 7-year-old, although their identities have not yet been released.

The 5-year-old was seriously injured and was admitted to a local hospital in critical condition. The other child suffered non-life-threatening injuries and is currently in stable condition. It is not yet known if they were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.

Police have not said who was driving the car when it crashed or how the driver is related to the two children. Harney Road was closed for several hours on Friday afternoon while first responders cleared the scene.

Treatment for Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

When a child is seriously injured in a birth injury in Florida from Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy, it can lead to extensive treatment, which can be very costly. If a doctor's negligence was the cause of your child's injuries, you may be able to receive compensation.

Compensation for your child's birth injury can help to shoulder medical costs and allow you to seek the best care and treatment for your child. A Clearwater birth injury attorney can advise you as to the type of damages you may receive in a birth injury claim. You could be entitled to current medical expenses, future medical expenses and compensation for your child's loss of quality of life.

Treatment of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy

The treatment of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy will depend on the severity of brain damage and the type of medical condition the child needs.

Some treatments that could be administered to a child who has suffered a birth injury in Florida may include:

Mechanical ventilation - this is done so the child can continue to breathe.
Cooling methods - heat can cause brain damage, so methods to reduce the body's temperature may be implemented.
Circulatory system management - this includes treatments to help the heart's functionality and to control blood pressure.
Seizure control - medication may be used to help control seizures.
Life-sustaining treatments - if the brain ceases to function but the damage is not extensive, life-sustaining treatment may be given to the child.

Injuries from Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy can be severe and lead to serious complications. Contact a Clearwater birth injury attorney today if you would like to file a birth injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury attorney about your case - 1-888-340-0840.

Complications of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

If your child was the victim of a birth injury in Florida, such as Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy that resulted from a healthcare provider's negligence, you may be entitled to recover damages for your child's injuries.

While compensation cannot replace the hardship you and your child may now face, it can help ease the burden of medical costs, treatment and ongoing care. A Clearwater birth injury attorney can evaluate your case to determine if you should file a birth injury claim.

Determining negligence in a birth injury in Florida can be complicated. It is not necessarily easy to prove that a healthcare provider was responsible for a child's injuries. This is why you need the experienced help of a Clearwater birth injury attorney. An attorney has knowledge of this area of law and of the type of evidence necessary to build a solid case.

Complications of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy

Some of the complications that can result from Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy include:

seizures;
developmental delays;
neurological problems;
epilepsy;
mental retardation;
learning disabilities; and
cerebral palsy.

Those types of complications can change the course of a child's life and require ongoing, expensive treatment. If your child developed serious complications after sustaining Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy, contact a Clearwater birth injury attorney today. An attorney will determine if you should proceed with a birth injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater birth injury attorney about your case - 1-888-340-0840.

Overview of a Cephalohematoma Birth Injury in Florida

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

While a vacuum extraction or forceps may be necessary to assist in the delivery of a baby, if the instruments are improperly used serious injuries could occur. One of the types of Florida birth injuries that may result from the negligent use of these instruments is a cephalohematoma.

When the baby is being forced through the birth canal, the pressure can cause the scalp to stick to the interior wall of the birth canal. The body may continue to move forward, which can cause the tearing of blood vessels, or a cephalohematoma.

Because of the complications that can arise from a cephalohematoma, further treatment may be required. Jaundice is one type of complication that could lead to the need for a blood transfusion.

If the baby's skull is fractured, depending on the severity, it may require draining fluid or surgery to repair fragments of the skull. Since a skull fracture puts a baby at risk of infections, such as meningitis, additional treatment may be needed for the infection.

The treatment of meningitis could include a breathing tube, catheter, medication and, in serious cases, the child could end up in intensive care.

A Tampa birth injury lawyer can talk to you about your legal options if your child has suffered from a birth injury in Florida, such as cephalohematoma.

Contacting a Tampa Birth Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Tampa birth injury lawyer about your case - 888-340-0840.

Complications of a Cephalohematoma Birth Injury

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

In many cases, a birth injury in Florida may be entirely preventable. If a doctor or other healthcare provider fails to provide safe and adequate care to a patient, it can result in serious injuries.

One of the types of birth injuries that can occur is a cephalohematoma. In many cases this will be a minor injury of bruising and swelling that will go away within a few days. Unfortunately, however, it can also lead to more serious complications.

Among the complications that can arise from a cephalohematoma are anemia, hypotension and jaundice. These are some of the less severe injuries that can lead to the need for additional treatment that in turn could bring about additional complications.

A more severe complication that can occur from a cephalohematoma is a fractured skull. A skull fracture is serious enough in itself; however, it can also expose a child to the risk of developing an infection.

Infections, such as meningitis and osteomyelitis are very dangerous and could potentially become life-threatening to the child.

These complications may lead to further treatment and end up affecting the well-being of your child. If your child has experienced a birth injury in Florida, such as a cephalohematoma, a Tampa birth injury lawyer can help you to evaluate your case to determine if you should file a birth injury claim.

Contacting a Tampa Birth Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Tampa birth injury lawyer about your case - 888-340-0840.

Pasco Infant's Father Convicted of First-Degree Murder

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

November 18, 2010 - The man who prosecutors said beat a Pasco infant to death in 2008 was convicted of first-degree murder on Wednesday. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the jury deliberated for only half an hour before returning a guilty verdict.

The 26-year-old father will spend the rest of his life in prison for the death of his 2-month-old daughter. He had custody of the girl and her twin sister in December 2008 because their mother was serving time in prison. The children were in his care on Dec. 20, 2008 while he was staying with friends in Port Richey. Prosecutors said the house was filthy and infested with roaches. The friends told the jury that the defendant was aggravated with the 2-month-old child because she wouldn't stop crying. He took the child into her room, where she was discovered lifeless several minutes later.

The emergency room doctor who was on call that night said the child's injuries were consistent with what he normally sees in ejection car accidents. The defendant did not speak during the trial. The victim's mother, who is now out of prison, defended the child's father and called the sentence unjust.

Toddler Injured in Drunk Driving Crash in Largo

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

November 17, 2010 - The Largo woman who crashed her car in a rollover accident in October was under the influence of alcohol, police say. According to a report in the St. Petersburg Times, the accident occurred shortly after 10 a.m. on Oct. 21, 2010.

Accident reports show that the woman was driving a Ford SUV on 119^th Street when she crashed into a fence, which caused the SUV to rollover. A 2-year-old girl was also in the car, and she suffered serious personal injuries. The child was treated at All Children's Hospital, although the extent of her injuries was not released. Police have not said if the girl was related to the driver, who was also injured in the car accident.

Based on toxicology reports, the driver was arrested on Sunday for driving under the influence. Her blood alcohol-content of 0.149 was far above the legal limit of 0.08. The driver has been charged with drunk driving and child neglect, although she left prison on Sunday afternoon after posting bail. A court date has not yet been set.

Hudson Triplet Improving From Life-Threatening Injuries

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

November 11, 2010 - The 5-year-old girl who was run over by a neighbor's Jeep emerged from her coma on Wednesday. According to a report at St. Petersburg Times, the victim is awake and has been talking to doctors and her family.

The young victim suffered numerous personal injuries on Friday night when she and her two sisters were run over by a neighbor's car. The children were playing on their front lawn when the Jeep careened out of control, crashed into a mailbox and hit the girls. One of her triplet sisters was killed in the crash, but the family says that the victim has not yet been told of her sister's death. The family hasn't yet decided when to break the news, and they are seeking guidance and advice from a child advocate. The victim is now in fair condition at St. Joseph's Children's Hospital, but doctors have not said when she will be released.

A memorial fund has been set up for the surviving triplets at Fifth Third Bank. There will also be a public memorial for the triplet killed in this crash on Friday.

Toddler Hit and Killed in Thonotosassa

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

November 9, 2010 - A young child was killed on Monday when he was run over by a car driven by a neighbor. According to a report at My Fox Tampa Bay, the child was outside his home on Eastfield Road in Thonotosassa when he was struck. The fatal pedestrian accident occurred around 8 a.m. on Monday morning.

Deputies are still investigating this fatal accident, but they believe that the boy was struck when a neighbor who was backing out of his driveway failed to see the child. The driver has been identified as a 31-year-old man from Thonotosassa who lived next door to the child's family. The victim, a 17-month-old boy, was pronounced dead at University Community Hospital. Deputies have not said why the boy was outside or if he was supervised at the time of the back-over accident.

Deputies have not said if the driver will face any charges in connection with this accident. Tragically, this is the second pedestrian accident to shock the Tampa Bay area in the past few days. On Saturday, a 5-year-old girl was killed and her triplet sister was seriously injured when they were hit by a neighbor's car in Hudson.

Britax Recalls Nearly 18,000 Chaperon Car Seats

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

November 4, 2010 - Britax announced a large recall of infant car seats on Monday, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall affects nearly 18,000 Chaperon Infant Car Seats sold at retailers around the country. Another 2,500 car seats were recalled in Canada.

The Britax car seat recall was prompted after more than 400 consumers complained that the chest clip, which secures the harness around the child, can break easily. Three injuries were reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which deemed that the broken clip "creates a risk of injury" to children and could potentially pose a choking hazard as well.

Britax is providing free replacement chest clips to all affected consumers. Britax will automatically mail the replacement clip to owners who have registered their car seat with the company. The clips are expected to be in the mail by mid-November.

If you have yet to register your car seat, you can contact Britax directly for a replacement clip at (888) 427-4829 or http://www.chaperoneseatrecall.com/. According to the company, the chest clip can be removed from the car seat in the meantime.

Two Children Injured in Accidental Shootings in Pinellas County

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

November 2, 2010 - Two Florida children suffered personal injuries last week when they were involved in accidental shootings. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the shooting accidents both happened on Thursday, Oct. 28 in Pinellas County.

The first incident involved a 20-month-old girl who was shot by her caregiver in Largo. Police say a 22-year-old man was watching the child, although they have not said how he is related to the girl. The man told police that he thought his shotgun was unloaded when he pointed it at the child "in jest" and fired it. The victim, who suffered serious injuries to her head and neck, is being treated at All Children's Hospital. The man responsible for this shooting was charged with child abuse.

The second incident happened only a few hours later in Clearwater when a 6-year-old boy accidentally shot his 8-year-old brother. A 30-year-old man was watching the brothers, and police say he showed them two guns, a revolver and a semiautomatic pistol. The man unloaded the guns before showing them to the boys, but then reloaded them and left them within easy reach on a dresser. The 8-year-old boy was shot in the leg. He was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital, where police say he is expected to survive. The man has not yet been charged, but prosecutors are looking into the incident.

Toddler Injured in Car Crash on MLK Boulevard

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 29, 2010 - A young girl suffered serious personal injuries on Tuesday after the car she was riding in crashed into a utility pole in Tampa. According to a report in the St. Petersburg Times, the accident occurred shortly before noon on Tuesday afternoon.

The car accident came just minutes after the driver of the car got into a fight with his girlfriend and another man outside of the Aliana Meat Market on 22^nd Street in Tampa. The driver, a 38-year-old man from Sulphur Springs, fled from the fight in a silver car, but he lost control of the vehicle and crashed head-on into a light pole on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

Paramedics pronounced the driver dead at the scene. There were two children in the car at the time of the crash, including a 2-year-old girl who suffered serious personal injuries. An older boy escaped injury. The toddler is being treated for her injuries at Tampa General Hospital, where she is expected to survive. The victim has not been identified.

Police have not said what caused the fight in the parking lot, and it was not immediately known how the children were related to the driver.

Halloween Safety Tips: Preventing Child Injury in the Home

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Halloween safety starts in the home. One of the enjoyable activities that children participate in during Halloween is carving a pumpkin. However young children should never be allowed to do the cutting. Instead, invite your child to draw the eyes, nose and mouth.

It's also a good idea to opt for an alternative way to light your pumpkin. Instead of using a candle which can be a fire hazard, use a flameless candle, flashlight or glow stick.

If you do decide to light a candle, it's best to use a smaller sized one such as a votive. Also be sure to place the pumpkin away from anything that can catch fire, like curtains, and make sure it is on a sturdy surface. Most importantly, never leave a lit candle inside a pumpkin unattended.

Halloween Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters

If trick-or-treaters are coming to your home, here are some Halloween safety tips that can prevent other children from being injured:

make sure outdoor lighting is adequate and functioning;
repair any broken steps;
remove debris from the sidewalk, porch or steps; and
keep pets in another location.

By following these Halloween safety tips you may be able to prevent a child injury. To learn more about getting your kids safe during this festive holiday, visit our article library.

Contact a Tampa Child Pedestrian Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida accident during Halloween, or any other time of year, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a no-cost consultation with a Tampa child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Halloween Costume Safety Tips for Florida Parents

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

With Halloween upon us, your child is probably already planning what costume he or she will wear. Halloween costume safety is not always something that is at the forefront of our minds when we purchase that adorable pea-in-a-pod getup, or a superhero costume for our 10-year-old, but some costumes are simply unsafe for any child.

Many child injuries could be prevented by following these Halloween costume safety tips for kids:

Properly Fit -make sure your child's costume is properly fit. Be sure to trim any excess fabric from the costume, especially the pants, to avoid tripping.
Shoes - while plastic high heels or cowboy boots with spurs might look cute, reconsider any shoes that could pose a potential hazard.
Visibility - dark costumes can make children difficult to see. Add reflectors or glow sticks to increase a child's visibility. Also consider adding reflective tape to your child's trick or treat bag.
Masks - avoid masks that limit your child's ability to see. Instead, opt for face makeup or cut the eye holes larger.
Face Makeup - when using face makeup, keep it away from the child's eyes and mouth.
Flame Resistant - make sure the child's costume and all accessories are flame resistant.
Toys - many costumes come with toy swords, wands, etc. Be sure there are no sharp edges and that they don't pose a risk of tripping.

By following these Halloween safety tips for kids, you can make their time of trick or treating safe and enjoyable.

Contact a Tampa Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida accident during Halloween, or anytime of the year, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a no-cost consultation with a Tampa child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Toddler Pulled Unresponsive From Lake Ida

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 25, 2010 - A young child is fighting for his or her life after nearly drowning at a popular lake on Saturday. According to a report at NewsChief.com, the toddler was vacationing with his family at Lake Ida in Winter Haven when the accident occurred.

Police have released few details about this accident, but initial reports indicate that the child was near the lake shortly before 1:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon when he or she somehow got into the water. The child was not breathing after being pulled from the water. First responders with the Winter Haven Fire Department detected a pulse and transported the child to Winter Haven Hospital. The child was then airlifted in critical condition to St. Joseph's Children's Hospital.

The child has only been identified a 3-year-old, but the child's name has not yet been released. Police have also not released any information about the child's current condition, and it's not known if the injuries are considered life-threatening. Police have also not said how the child ended up in the lake or who was watching the child at the time of the accident.

Four Infants Strangled in Graco Strollers Prompting Huge Stroller Recall

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 21, 2010 - The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a huge stroller recall on Wednesday after learning that four infants died in a popular line of strollers. According to the CSPC, more than two million Quattro Tour and MetroLite strollers by Graco are being recalled because of a strangulation risk.

The recall affects two million Graco strollers sold before 2007. Four infants died in the strollers when they slid down off the seat and were trapped and strangled by the tray. In January 2008, the stroller industry implemented new standards that increased the width of the opening between the seat and the tray to ensure a child's head could not become trapped.

The recalled Graco strollers were sold between 2000 and 2007 at numerous stores including Wal-Mart, Target and Sears. The recall includes dozens of model numbers. A full list of model numbers can be found at the Consumer Product Safety Commission website at CPSC.gov.

If you own a Graco MetroLite or Quattro stroller, the CSPC advises that you stop using the stroller immediately. Graco is providing a repair kit free of charge. For more information on the repair kit, contact Graco at (877) 828-4046 or at GracoBaby.com.

Evenflo Recalls Thousands of Child Booster Seats

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 20, 2010 - Thousands of child car seats are being recalled after a popular consumer testing organization found that the seats could fail in a car accident. According to a report at ABC News, Evenflo Co. announced the recall of 14,000 Maestro combination car seats on Friday. The Maestro model can be used as either a car seat for younger children or a booster seat for older kids.

Consumer Reports originally discovered the problem with the car seats in an independent test. The organization placed a dummy child in the car seat and simulated a frontal-impact accident at 30 miles per hour. In the test, the plastic seat cracked and the safety harness did not properly restrain the test child. The recall affects all Maestro combination seats sold before April 9, 2010. The model number begins with 310.

Parents who own an Evenflo Maestro combination seat should contact Evenflo for a free reinforcement bracket that will prevent the plastic frame from cracking. The company says children under 40 pounds should not use the seat until they receive the free bracket.

More information about the recall can be obtained at Evenflo.com or by calling (800) 233-5921.

Common Injuries in a Tampa Child Pedestrian Accident

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

If your child was seriously injured in a pedestrian accident in Tampa, you may be eligible to file a child injury claim. A child injury claim gives you the potential to recover damages for current and future medical costs.

A Tampa child pedestrian injury lawyer can evaluate the facts in your case, determine if negligence was the cause of your child's injuries and who may be held liable. Because the long-term implications of a child injury in a pedestrian accident are often severe, it is important to carefully explore your options for legal recourse.

Common Injuries in a Child Pedestrian Accident

While some children may walk away from a pedestrian accident in Tampa with just a bump or scratch, there is the potential for a child to sustain serious injury.

Some common injuries in a Tampa child pedestrian accident include:

skull fracture;
nerve damage;
disfigurement;
broken bones;
spinal cord injury;
burns;
loss of limb (amputation);
permanent scarring;
back injury;
traumatic brain injury; and
death.

Head injuries tend to be the most common form of injury when a child pedestrian accident has occurred. The long-term effects of this type of injury can be severe, depending on the level of trauma to the brain.

If injuries from a child pedestrian accident in Tampa have left your family in financial straits, you should immediately contact a Tampa child pedestrian injury lawyer. A lawyer can help you fight for damages to which your family may be entitled for your child's pedestrian injuries.

Contacting a Tampa Child Pedestrian Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Tampa pedestrian accident, order a complimentary copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Tampa pedestrian accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a no-cost consultation with a Tampa child pedestrian injury lawyer about your case - 888-340-0840.

Second-Grader Hit While Crossing the Street in Land O' Lakes

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 15, 2010 - A young boy in second grade was seriously injured on Wednesday in a pedestrian accident that killed his mother. According to a report at WTSP.com, the child was crossing the street with his mother inside their housing development when both were hit by a car. Neighbors say the mother was walking her son to the school bus stop.

The pedestrian accident occurred on Night Heron Drive in Land O' Lakes around 8 a.m. on Wednesday morning. Night Heron Drive is within a housing development, but neighbors say that drivers often use the road as a shortcut and several concerned citizens have previously asked the county to install speed bumps. The victim, who has been identified as a young boy in second grade who attends Lake Myrtle Elementary, was airlifted to St. Joseph's Hospital in Tampa with serious personal injuries. The boy, who suffers from autism, is currently in stable condition. Sadly, his mother died at the scene.

The driver has been identified as a 64-year-old man who lives in the same housing development. Police have not said what caused him to hit the boy and his mother, and they will not say if speed was a factor. Charges have not yet been filed.

Tampa Child Pedestrian Safety Tips

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Though you cannot always prevent a Tampa child pedestrian accident from occurring, you can take steps to teach your children pedestrian safety in the effort to protect them from harm.

In the case that your child has been injured in a child pedestrian accident in Tampa, an experienced Tampa child pedestrian injury lawyer can help you to identify the responsible party, locate the name of their insurance company and assemble the evidence you need to build a strong case for your child injury claim.

Tampa Child Pedestrian Safety Tips

Some safety tips that may help prevent a child pedestrian accident in Tampa include:

cross only at a crosswalk and obey the traffic signals;
make eye contact with the driver before crossing in front of their car;
always look left, right and left again before crossing;
never run into the street;
only walk on pathways and sidewalks;
walk as far to the left as possible while facing traffic (if there are no sidewalks available); and
look for cars that may be turning or backing up.

If your child was seriously injured in a child pedestrian accident in Tampa, take steps as soon as possible to seek legal counsel. Contact a Tampa child pedestrian injury lawyer who will examine your case and help you determine if you have a valid child pedestrian accident claim.

Contact a Tampa Child Pedestrian Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida pedestrian accident, order a complimentary copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida pedestrian accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a no-cost consultation with a Tampa child pedestrian injury attorney - 888 340-0840.

8-Year-Old New Tampa Boy Bitten by Rattlesnake

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 11, 2010 - A young boy is recovering after he was bitten by a rattlesnake while playing outside near his home in New Tampa. According to a report at ABC Action News, the victim was bitten on Friday afternoon and has been identified as an 8-year-old boy.

Police say the boy was trying to pick up a rock near his house when he felt a stinging sensation on his index finger. After jerking his hand back, the boy saw a rattlesnake that had been curled up underneath the rock. The victim began bleeding and told his mother, who called 911. First responders transported the boy to University Community Hospital, where doctors examined the bite wound.

Fortunately, the rattlesnake only measured 8 inches long and was not exceptionally large, so the boy did not receive much venom. He was kept in the hospital for 3 - 4 hours for observation.

Police officers killed the rattlesnake to make sure it would never bite another child. The boy has made a complete recovery but says he learned his lesson never to put his hands under rocks or other items where snakes could be hiding.

Clearwater Birth Injury: Forceps vs. Vacuum Extraction

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

When a birth is complicated, doctors and the delivery team are forced to act quickly and with due diligence to protect the health of the mother and the baby. A serious Clearwater birth injury can occur when a difficult vaginal delivery leads a doctor to choose an instrument that can assist in the birthing process.

Although forceps tend to be the most widely used instrument, vacuum extraction has become increasingly popular. Unfortunately, both present risks and benefits when it comes to the potential for a Clearwater birth injury.

You may be eligible to file a child injury claim if your baby was seriously injured in a Clearwater birth injury accident involving vacuum extraction.

Forceps vs. Vacuum Extraction in a Clearwater Birth Injury

A doctor must be extremely cautious about which device they choose to assist in a difficult delivery and only use techniques such as vacuum extraction when necessary to protect the health of the mother and child.

Some of the benefits to using forceps include fewer neonatal injuries, including cephalohematoma and retinal hemorrhage, along with a higher rate of successful vaginal deliveries.

Vacuum extraction tends to have more benefits including:

easier for a doctor to learn;
less anesthesia is required;
delivery is quicker;
fewer neonatal craniofacial injuries;
less trauma to mother's genitals; and
less maternal discomfort.

Although there are pros and cons to using both types of instruments, the reality is that both pose a high risk of birth injury to a baby's head.

If your baby was injured during birth, because of the use of forceps or vacuum extraction, you should contact a Clearwater birth injury lawyer immediately.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Clearwater birth injury accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a no-cost consultation with a Clearwater birth injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

1-Year-Old Boy Dies After Drowning in Country Club Estates

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 6, 2010 - A young boy lost his life last week after he drowned in his family's swimming pool. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the 1-year-old boy fell into a swimming pool at his home last Tuesday evening.

Police say the boy was at his family's home on Country Club Drive in Country Club Estates when he crawled out of a doggy door and fell into the swimming pool, which apparently had fallen into disrepair because it was green and filled with algae. It's not known how long the boy was in the pool before he was discovered, but he was unconscious when family members pulled him from the pool.

Family members performed CPR before first responders arrived and transported the victim to Bayonet Point Regional Medical Center. He was later transferred to a trauma center at All Children's Hospital. The 1-year-old boy died shortly before 6 a.m. the next morning.

The Sheriff's Department is treating this tragic death as an accident, and it does not appear that any charges will be filed.

Clearwater Birth Injury: Complications from Vacuum Extraction

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Birth injuries involving a doctor's use of vacuum extraction during the delivery process are common. While this type of medical device can be helpful during a difficult delivery, it can also cause serious harm to a baby or mother.

If your child was seriously injured because of a birth injury accident in Clearwater involving vacuum extraction, you may be eligible to file a birth injury claim against the doctor or any other party who was medically negligent during your child's delivery.

Common Complications from Vacuum Extraction

There are several complications that can arise during the course of a vacuum extraction. This procedure should be used only when necessary and with extreme caution. If done carelessly, a child could be injured during vacuum extraction.

Here are some of the complications that can happen when vacuum extraction is used to deliver a baby:

skull damage;
nerve/brain damage;
abrasions, lacerations or bruises on the scalp;
jaundice;
bleeding in the eyes;
internal bleeding;
brain swelling;
cerebral palsy; and
Erb's palsy (shoulder dystocia).

Though vacuum extraction is sometimes necessary in a difficult birth, that doesn't excuse a doctor from liability in the event your child suffers a birth injury during vacuum extraction. If your child was injured during a birth injury accident, you should immediately contact a Clearwater birth injury lawyer.

Contacting a Clearwater Birth Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Clearwater birth injury accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Clearwater birth injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a no-cost consultation with a Clearwater birth injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Brandon Man Charged in Murder of 2-Year-Old Boy

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 5, 2010 - A Brandon man is facing serious charges after police say he intentionally murdered his girlfriend's toddler. According to a report at Tampa Bay Online, the 27-year-old suspect is charged with first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse in this tragic case.

Police say the victim, a 2-year-old boy who lives in Tampa, died in early September from blunt force trauma. The boy was in the suspect's care when the two went home from a neighborhood party. The suspect returned to the party and told his girlfriend that the boy, who was unconscious, had fallen down the stairs. Paramedics transported the victim to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he died. An autopsy later showed that the boy suffered trauma to his abdomen, which lead to his death, which was classified as a homicide by the medical examiner.

The suspect was arrested and charged on Thursday. Police say he admitted to hitting the boy in his stomach. He was found to be caring for another young child when the police arrived to take him into custody. His next court date has not been set.

Pinellas County Children Practice Pedestrian Safety on Walk to School Day

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Walk to School Day is Oct. 6th! Thirty Pinellas County schools plan to take part. The purpose of the annual event is to promote child pedestrian safety by reminding students of safe practices as they walk to school (or ride a bicycle.)

Safety tips such as crossing the street at an intersection, making eye contact with motorists and waiting for a car to come to a complete stop before crossing a street are some of the precautions children must take to get to school safely and avoid serious injury.

Pedestrian injury is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 5-14. Each year, 600 children die in pedestrian accidents.

This is the 11th year that local crossing guards, police officers, parents and teachers will accompany students walking and biking to school.

Please, take extra time or drive another route on Walk to School Day. There will be an increase number of children crossing streets along the routes of the schools that are participating.

Fisher-Price Recalls Millions of Defective Kids Toys

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

October 1, 2010 - Fisher-Price announced a toy recall on Thursday that will affect more than 10 million products currently in American homes. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the recall affects toddler tricycles, infant activity centers, high chairs and toy cars.

The defective products affected by the recall include the Fisher-Price Trike and Tough Trike, plastic tricycles designed for toddlers. The tricycles have a plastic ignition key that sticks up in front of the seat. The CPSC has received reports that children have fallen against the key, causing genital injuries to at least 10 children.

Several types of Fisher-Price infant activity centers are also affected. These centers have inflatable balls with a plastic valve that can fall off and pose a choking hazard. The CPSC has received nearly 50 reports of valves falling off from these inflatable balls. The Fisher-Price Little People Wheelies Stand ‘n Play Rampway is also being recalled due to choking dangers with the cars' small pieces.

Nearly 950,000 high chairs are also being recalled due to dangerous pegs that can cause injury to young children. If you own any of these Fisher-Price products, you can visit the CPSC website for more information. Fisher-Price is providing free fixes for all of these defective toys; you can find out more about the recall by calling Fisher-Price at (800) 432-5437.

Tampa Girl Injured in DUI Crash Returns to School

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

September 29, 2010 - The 6-year-old girl who was critically injured in an infamous DUI car crash in 2008 has made great progress in recovering from her injuries. According to a report at ABC Action News, the 6-year-old girl returned to school this week nearly 2 years after the accident left her with serious brain injuries.

The DUI accident, which occurred in Sept. 2008, killed the girl's mother. A drunk driver veered into oncoming traffic on the Crosstown Freeway and slammed head-on into the car. The drunk driver is due to be sentenced for vehicular homicide later this year. The 6-year-old girl barely survived the accident, suffering numerous broken bones and a fractured skull.

The 6-year-old has endured numerous surgeries since the accident. In one case, a plate used to repair her skull fracture became infected, so the plate was removed and replaced with a skin graft. That skin graft, which remains today, must remain covered with bandages.

Her recovery has been hard, but the girl started school at the Lighthouse Center this week. The school specializes in teaching children with brain injuries.

Bruising to the Brain in a Florida Child Head Injury Accident

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Discovering that your child has suffered severe internal damage and bruising to the brain is traumatic. A Clearwater child injury attorney can help determine what led to your child's injuries and who may be liable.

Causes of Internal Damage and Bruising to a Brain

Certain types of child head injuries will lead to internal damage and bruising. The term used for damage to internal tissue and blood vessels is coup-countercoup. A bruise at the site of the impact is called a coup lesion.

A coup-countercoup injury occurs when the brain is jarred against the sides of the skull. It can result in internal bruising, bleeding and swelling of the brain, which could lead to permanent damage. This is a very serious child brain injury.

While there may be several causes that can lead to this type of child brain injury, the most common are whiplash and a direct blow to the head. Whiplash typically occurs during a Florida motor vehicle accident or when a child is violently shaken. A direct blow to the child's head could be the result of abuse.

If your child has received a serious brain injury in a Florida accident, you should immediately contact a Clearwater child injury attorney. They can help determine whether someone else's negligence led to your child's injuries and help you to fight for compensation in a Clearwater child injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida head injury accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida head injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 888-340-0840.

Drunk Driver Crashes in Tampa With Three Kids in Car

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

September 24, 2010 - A Tampa resident is facing serious charges after she caused a car accident while driving under the influence. Not only was she driving drunk, but her three children were also in the minivan with her, police say. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, the driver is currently in the Hillsborough County jail.

Police have identified the driver as a 46-year-old woman from Tampa. She was driving a minivan on Bay to Bay Boulevard when she rear-ended another car near the intersection with Macdill Avenue. The car accident occurred shortly after 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

All 3 of her children were in the minivan at the time of the crash, including two 9-year-olds and a 7-year-old. Fortunately, the children escaped serious injuries. Nonetheless, the driver has been charged with drunk driving and child neglect. She was not injured in the crash and it appears that the occupants of the car she rear-ended were also uninjured.

The driver's blood-alcohol level of 0.122 was well above the legal limit of 0.08. The children have not been identified, and police have not said who is currently taking care of them.

Symptoms of a Child Head Injury

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

If your child has been seriously hurt in a head injury accident, a Clearwater child injury attorney can help determine the type of claim that you may be eligible to file. They can also help collect the necessary evidence to build a comprehensive Clearwater child injury case that may help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Symptoms of a Child Head Injury

Depending on the severity of the head injury, the signs and symptoms will vary. Therefore, any type of child head injury requires immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of a mild head injury include:

headache;
nausea;
fatigue;
noise and/or light sensitivity;
dizziness/lightheadedness;
balancing difficulties; and
confusion.

Symptoms of a moderate to severe head injury include:

severe headache;
slurred speech;
loss of consciousness;
vomiting and nausea;
short-term memory loss;
convulsions/seizures;
one pupil is larger than another; and
drainage from the ears or nose (blood or clear fluid).

Serious injuries to a child, such as a child brain injury after a Florida accident, can be emotionally and financially devastating. If your child has received a head injury or any other severe injury, you should contact a Clearwater child injury attorney who can evaluate your case and determine whether negligence played a role in your child's injuries.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida head injury accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a Clearwater child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida head injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a free consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 888-340-0840.

Sebring Boy Dies in Drowning Accident

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

September 22, 2010 - A young boy from Sebring has died from injuries he suffered in a drowning accident. According to a report at Tampa Bay Online, the child was with his family at Veterans Beach in Sebring when the accident occurred. Police say the boy, who has been identified as a 5-year-old, was unresponsive when he was rescued from the water last Thursday evening.

A witness performed CPR on the victim until first responders arrived. The child was initially treated at Highlands Regional Medical Center before being airlifted to the trauma center at Tampa General Hospital. The victim survived in critical condition for several days before he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries on Saturday morning.

The Sebring Police Department continues to investigate this tragic accident, and they caution all parents about the importance of keeping a close eye on their children whenever they are around a body of water. Tampa Bay Online had previously reported that the ocean was rough at the time of the accident, although police have not said if these conditions contributed to the drowning. The victim's parents have not yet been identified.

Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

While some symptoms of cerebral palsy may be noticed during infancy, they typically become much more pronounced once the nervous system begins to mature.

Early symptoms of cerebral palsy may include a delay in milestones such as:

crawling;
head and neck control;
walking;
rolling over;
reaching with one hand; and
sitting without support.

Other early symptoms may include prolonged infant reflexes, such as sucking/rooting or startling (pulling arms and legs toward the body when a loud noise is heard) which typically disappear between 3 and 6 months of age. If these reflexes are still present after a child is 6 months old, it may be one indication of cerebral palsy.

Other symptoms of cerebral palsy include:

bowel/bladder problems;
stiff or floppy muscle tone;
dental problems;
uncontrolled movements;
vision problems;
skeletal deformities;
hearing/speech problems;
stiffened joints;
difficulty swallowing;
mental retardation; and
seizures.

While there may be several causes of cerebral palsy, many of them are preventable. If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and you believe it is due to someone else's negligence, contact a child injury lawyer in Clearwater. They can help you fight for the compensation to which you may be entitled.

Contacting a Child Injury Lawyer in Clearwater

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury accident, order a complimentary copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a no-cost consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 888-340-0840.

Two-Year-Old Boy Hit by Father's Truck in Punta Gorda

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

September 16, 2010 - Punta Gorda, FL - A 2-year-old boy was run-over by his father's truck in his parents' driveway late Wednesday afternoon.

WZVN reports that the tragic accident happened shortly before 5 p.m. Wednesday evening close to 16150 Wildwood Court in Punta Gorda. The boy's father was moving vehicles around on the property when the boy crawled behind one of the front tires of the father's truck. No one saw the child before he was accidentally run over.

As explained by the family pastor, "[the child] somehow, without being seen, crawled under the front tire and [the father] went right over and didn't feel anything."

The boy's parents had to drive the injured child to a nearby restaurant where they could be met by MEDSTAR, the fastest medical attention available to them in the very rural area in which they live. The boy is said to have suffered broken ribs and a deflated lung. However, the family pastor stated that doctors expect the boy will be fine.

After receiving immediate treatment from MEDSTAR, the boy was transported to a hospital in Tampa. The Tampa hospital will be monitoring the boy and administering any further treatment as necessary.

No further details concerning the accident are available at this time.

Maternal Infections that Cause Cerebral Palsy

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

When a woman is pregnant, she trusts that her doctor and other medical staff will do everything they can to keep her and her unborn baby safe. If a patient does not receive adequate care and attention, it can result in serious injuries to the baby.

A maternal infection that is undetected or untreated can pose a serious threat to a baby. When doctors fail to provide a standard of care that prevents further injury, they may be liable for any resulting injuries.

There are some maternal infections that can easily be treated early, thereby reducing the threat to the baby and mother. These include:

urinary tract infection (UTI);
rubella (German measles); and
Toxoplasmosis.

If a doctor fails to recognize that a patient has a maternal infection and it is left untreated, it can cause brain damage to the baby, which may result in cerebral palsy.

Doctors should make sure that patients have received the necessary vaccinations and are aware of the risks that can lead to maternal infections. Failure to properly treat a maternal infection can injure an unborn baby.

While maternal infections may serve as one of the causes of cerebral palsy, there are other conditions that can lead to the disorder. If you believe that someone's negligence led to your child's injuries, contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer. They will advocate for your child's rights and help you in your fight to seek the damages to which you may be entitled.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury accident, order a complimentary copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a no-cost consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 888-340-0840.

Parent and Child Seriously Injured in Bay County SUV Rollover

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

September 14, 2010 - Bay County, FL - A parent and child have been taken to the hospital following a serious SUV rollover accident on Saturday.

WMBB News13 reports that the car accident occurred at about 1:20 p.m. Saturday afternoon on State Road 77. The parent, 38, was driving their Chevrolet SUV close to Court Martial Ranch Road when the SUV swerved suddenly and hit the median. The out of control SUV then rolled over multiple times before going over a guardrail.

According to witnesses on the scene, the driver was thrown from the SUV as it went off the roadway. The driver was transported to a local area hospital immediately following the crash. A 10-year-old child who was a passenger in the SUV was also injured and taken to the hospital for treatment. Both the parent and child are said to be in serious condition.

No further details concerning the cause of the SUV rollover are available at this time. The accident remains under investigation.

What Makes a Cesarean Section (C-section) Necessary?

Sun, 12 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

A growing number of medical experts have expressed concerns that some doctors are too quick to opt for a Cesarean section (C-section) and that the surgery is unnecessary for many women in the United States. On the other hand, there are certain situations that call for a Cesarean in order to protect the health and well-being of the mother and/or child.

So what situations call for a Cesarean birth?

Listed below are some of the conditions that could lead a doctor to suggest that you undergo a Cesarean section:

labor is not progressing;
baby has a birth defect;
mother has already had a C-section;
mother has had surgery on the uterus;
mother has a medical condition (such as high blood pressure, diabetes);
baby is too large to safely pass through the birth canal;
baby is experiencing fetal distress;
baby is in a breech position;
mother is delivering more than one baby (twins, triplets, etc.);
baby is in a traverse position;
mother has an infection (such as herpes, HIV);
umbilical cord prolapse; and
placenta problems.

In any situation, there are complications that can arise from a Cesarean birth. Contact a Clearwater child injury attorney if your child has suffered injuries because of complications from a Cesarean or any other type of birth injury.

Contacting a Birth Injury Lawyer in Clearwater

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a no cost consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 888-340-0840.

Two More, Including Child, Injured in Clearwater Parasailing Crash

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

September 10, 2010 - Clearwater, FL - New reports reveal that a parasailing crash that sent one woman to the hospital in critical condition this weekend has also injured 2 other people, including a child.

Fox 13 News reports that the 2 people who were injured were members of a family that was visiting from Jackson, Mississippi. The parasailing accident happened at around 3:30 p.m. Sunday afternoon, when a high wind ripped a parasailing couple from the boat to which they were moored. A woman was then dragged across the beach until she crashed into a metal volleyball poll.

The woman was not the only one injured as she was dragged across the beach. The line from her parasail caught another woman behind the ankles and tossed her into the air. The line then entrapped the second woman's 4-year-old son and dragged him along with the parasailing woman until she collided with the pole.

The boy and his mother were not seriously injured in the crash, though both required medical attention. The woman who was parasailing remains hospitalized and in critical condition.

Common Types of Birth Injuries

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Nothing is more devastating for a mother than to endure the stress and difficulties of labor and delivery, only to learn that her baby has suffered a birth injury. Unfortunately, despite all of the medical advancements in place, birth injuries persist, and many times, they are the result of a doctor or hospital's error or negligence.

Some of the more common types of birth injuries include:

nerve damage;
brain damage;
fractures;
facial paralysis;
cerebral palsy;
brachial plexus injury (Erb's Palsy); and
swelling and bruising (from forceps or vacuum extraction).

The majority of these birth injuries are preventable. When doctors fail to exercise an expected standard of care and it leads to injuries to your child, they may be held liable for damages in a Florida birth injury claim.

Damages may be recovered for your child's pain and suffering, cost of continued care, therapy and medical expenses. This may include past, present and future medical costs.

Birth injuries can be the result of a number of situations, including complications with Cesarean sections or performing a delivery using unsafe techniques. If your child has been injured due to a birth injury, contact a birth injury lawyer in Clearwater to learn about your options for legal recourse.

Contacting a Birth Injury Lawyer in Clearwater

If your child has been injured in a Florida birth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida birth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a no cost consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 888-340-0840.

Four Children Hospitalized in Early Morning ATV Crash in Hudson

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

September 8, 2010 - Hudson - Four children have been taken to the hospital after a collision between a pickup truck and an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) early Saturday morning.

The Ledger reports that the crash occurred at around 2 a.m. Saturday at the intersection of Mornay Drive and Bolton Road in Hudson. Four children were riding on a single ATV when they crashed into a Ford pick-up truck in the intersection.

All 4 children were ejected from the vehicle on impact. None of the children were wearing helmets. Three incurred serious injuries in the crash and were flown to Tampa General Hospital, where 1 child is said to be in critical condition. The fourth child was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital. The fourth child's medical condition has not been released.

The owner of the Ford pickup truck fled the scene of the accident. Authorities are still on the search for the missing driver.

The ages and genders of the children have not been released, though it has been confirmed that all were less than 18-years-old. No further information concerning the crash has been released. The accident remains under investigation.

How to Prevent Child Burn Injuries

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Since the majority of child burn injuries can be prevented, caregivers and parents should implement safety measures to protect children from these potentially fatal injuries.

The following are some ways that a caregiver can prevent child burn injuries:

Always supervise small children, especially in the bathroom and kitchen.
Set the hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Install anti-scald devices on showerheads and all faucets.
Install a smoke alarm on every level of the house.
Test smoke alarm batteries monthly.
Replace smoke alarm batteries annually.
Keep cords to appliances out of a child's reach.
Use the backburners and make sure pot handles are turned in when cooking.
Put safety covers over electrical outlets.
Keep all flammable materials (such as lighters, matches, gasoline) locked up and out of a child's reach.
Don't let children handle fireworks.
Keep hot liquids and foods away from the edge of counters or tables.

Caregivers should also get on a child's eye level and look for hazards in the home. These safety measures could help prevent serious child burn injuries.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child received serious or fatal burn injuries in a Clearwater accident while in the care of another adult, you need to know your rights. Order a complimentary copy of our child injury book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

Next, it would be in your best interest to schedule a no-cost consultation with Clearwater child injury lawyer, James. W. Dodson. During your consultation you will learn more about your child's rights and what options you may have to pursue compensation - 888 340-0840.

Scald Burns in Children

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

The most common type of burn injury in young children is a scald burn. Scald burns occur from steam or hot liquids and can lead to serious injuries or even death.

In fact, more hospitalizations and deaths occur from hot tap water scald burns than any other type of hot liquid burn. This indicates a clear need for caregivers to pay close attention to their water heater settings.

Most of the hot tap water scald burns could be prevented if the thermostats on water heaters were set to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below. In addition, caregivers can further protect children by installing anti-scald devices on shower heads, sink and bathtub faucets.

Scald burns in children can also occur from hot liquids outside of faucets. For example, children between the ages of 6 months and 2-years-old are at a higher risk than other age groups of being burned by hot liquids or foods that are being prepared in the kitchen.

It is believed that more than 75% of scald burns in children could be prevented by making changes to the child's environment. Adults who care for young children need to take responsibility and ensure children are not exposed to situations which could result in serious burn injuries.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child received serious or fatal burn injuries in a Clearwater accident while in the care of another adult, you need to know your rights. Order a complimentary copy of our child injury book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

Next, it would be in your best interest to schedule a no-cost consultation with Clearwater child injury lawyer, James. W. Dodson. During your consultation you will learn more about your child's rights and what options you may have to pursue compensation - 888 340-0840.

Safety Tips to Prevent a Child Dog Bite Injury

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

You do your best to teach your children important safety tips about crossing the street or dealing with strangers. Why is it any different with dogs? While many dogs are friendly, it's important to remember they are animals, and different stimuli may cause an unexpected reaction.

The following are some safety tips to share with your children that may help prevent a dog bite injury:

Do not approach an unfamiliar dog.
If a strange dog approaches, stand as still as you can and avoid eye contact with the dog.
Never run from a dog.
Don't make loud noises around dogs.
If a dog knocks you to the ground, curl up into a ball and cover your face and head with your arms.
Never play alone with a dog.
Ask the owner's permission before petting or playing with their dog.
Do not stare into a dog's eyes.
Never bother a dog that is eating, sleeping, or taking care of its puppies.
Let a dog sniff you before you reach out to pet it.

Despite your best efforts to teach your child safety tips to prevent them from being injured by a dog bite, dog attacks can and do still happen.

Visit our article library to learn more about how to help your child after a dog bite injury.

How a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer Can Help

If your child has been seriously or fatally injured by someone else's dog, you need to know your rights. Order a complimentary copy of our child injury book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

Next, it would be in your best interest to schedule a no-cost consultation with Clearwater child injury lawyer, James. W. Dodson. During your consultation you will learn more about your child's rights and what options you may have to pursue compensation - 888 340-0840.

Two Teenagers Injured in Clearwater Floor Collapse

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

September 2, 2010 - Two teenagers and an adult suffered personal injuries on Monday when the floor collapsed in their apartment building. According to a report at My Fox Tampa Bay, the victims were in an apartment on the second story of the Clairmont on the Green Apartments in Clearwater. The apartment building is located on Starkey Road.

Police say the floor of the second-story apartment gave way and all 3 victims fell into the apartment beneath them. The first floor apartment was unoccupied, so no additional injuries were reported. The identities and ages of the victims have not yet been released, but police say that 2 of the victims are in their teens. All 3 of the victims were transported to Bayfront Medical Center, where their conditions are currently unknown. Photos from the scene show one of the victims being transported on a stretcher while wearing a neck brace.

The apartment is being evaluated by building inspectors to determine how the floor collapsed. Initial reports indicate that the floor may have had extensive water damage, which caused the wood to rot and eventually collapse. The building management did not have any immediate comment on the incident.

Toddler Hospitalized in Tampa After Serious Car Accident

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

September 1, 2010 - A Florida toddler suffered serious personal injuries on Monday in a collision between a car and a semi-truck. According to a report at the Cape Coral Daily Breeze, the 2-year-old boy was riding in a car on Winkler Avenue Extension in Fort Myers when the vehicle was rear-ended by the semi-truck. The car accident occurred shortly before 4 p.m. on Monday.

In addition to the toddler, 3 adults in the car were also injured, although their injuries are described as non-life-threatening. The adults were taken to Lee Memorial Hospital for treatment. Police say the car had a flat tire, so it was traveling much slower than the flow of traffic. The driver, a 25-year-old woman, was utilizing her hazard lights but had not pulled over to the shoulder. The 35-year-old driver of the semi-truck was not injured.

First responders airlifted the 2-year-old to a Tampa hospital with serious injuries. He was admitted in critical condition, but his current condition is unknown. The Fort Myers Police Department is still investigating this serious accident and they have not said if any charges will be filed.

Common Dog Bite Injuries for Children

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

If your child has been injured in a dog bite incident, you need to know the steps to take after your child has experienced a dog bite injury. Not only is it important to know what to do but you should know the common dog bite injuries in children.

Keep in mind that most injuries for children occur to the face. This can result in scarring, stitches, and plastic surgery. Facial fractures and nerve damage are also a possibility.

Some other common dog bite injuries in children include:

Puncture wounds;
Lacerations;
Abrasions/Bruises;
Avulsion fracture (where the ligament or tendon pulls of a piece of the bone);
Fractures to other parts of the body;
Head trauma;
Strain injuries;
Sprain; and
Infections (such as rabies).

Injuries to children are not only physical but they are also emotional.

Some of the emotional injuries for children could include:

Anxiety;
Fear;
Nightmares;
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD);
Depression;
Flashbacks; and
Other behavioral changes

Any type of injury, whether physical or emotional, can have devastating effects on a child. If your child has been injured in a dog bite incident, you may want to seek damages on their behalf by contacting a child injury lawyer in Clearwater.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida dog bite incident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida dog bite incident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a no-cost consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney- 888-340-0840.

One Child, Two Adults Injured in School Bus Crash in Brevard County

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

August 27, 2010 - Brevard County - A 4-vehicle crash involving a Brevard County school bus has left 3 people injured, including 1 child.

The Ledger reports that the school bus crash occurred early Tuesday morning. For reasons unknown, the driver of the school bus became distracted and collided with the rear of a passenger car. Police stated that it remains unclear whether the bus caused the car to crash into the 2 vehicles in front of it or whether those vehicles had already collided before the school bus became involved.

At the time of the school bus accident, there were 39 students on board the bus. Only 1 child was injured. Two adults also sustained injuries in the crash. Both adults and the child were transported to a local hospital for treatment. All were reported to have incurred only minor injuries.

The school bus accident remains under investigation.

Infant and Two Adults Killed in Fiery Crash in Poinciana

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

August 24, 2010 - Poinciana - Three people are dead following a violent and fiery car crash Tuesday afternoon.

Central Florida News 13 reports that the accident happened when two vehicles collided in Kissimmee. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, one passenger vehicle was carrying an infant at the time of the crash. The car caught fire on impact.

Both the infant and the one adult in the car were pronounced dead on the scene. One passenger in the other vehicle involved in the accident was also killed. The driver of the second vehicle incurred some injuries.

Sgt. Kim Montes of the Florida Highway Patrol stated that Poinciana Boulevard had to be blocked off in both directions north of Old Tampa Highway. The Boulevard had to be blocked while the accident site was cleaned up and initial investigations were conducted.

This fatal car accident remains under investigation.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents with Children

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

There are some common causes of bicycle accidents with children that can be reduced by proper safety equipment and education. Teaching children about circumstances that could lead to an accident may prevent one from happening.

Listed below are some of the factors that can lead to a child having a bicycle accident:

Impaired visibility (weather or driver is unable to see a small child on a bicycle);
Poor road conditions (cracks, potholes, debris);
Negligent drivers (opening car doors into the path of a bicyclist or failing to yield to a bicyclist);
Motorist driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
Reckless drivers;
Motorist making a turn into a bicyclist;
Backing up into a bicyclist;
Attempts to pass a bicyclist; and
Defective equipment/parts on a bicycle.

Preparing ahead of time for circumstances that could lead to a bicycle accident is important. Teach your child about the potential dangers that are out there when sharing the road with motor vehicles.

If your child was injured in a Clearwater bicycle accident, a child injury attorney in Clearwater can talk to you about the types of compensation that might be available to you in a Florida child injury claim.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a bicycle accident in Clearwater, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida bicycle accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - 888-340-0840.

Thousands of Zooper Tango Strollers Recalled

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

August 20, 2010 - The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced yet another stroller recall on Thursday. According to a report at CNN Money, Zooper is recalling nearly 4,000 of its Tango double strollers because of problems with the stroller's frame latch.

According to the CPSC, the foldable double stroller is latched via a mechanism near the front wheels. If the wheels bump into a stationary object -- a curb, for example -- the force can cause the frame latch to fail, which can cause the stroller to collapse with a child inside. Nearly 200 parents have reported latch failures while using the Zooper Tango double stroller. Several injuries have also been reported, including a 13-month-old boy and a 3-year-old boy who suffered personal injuries when their Zooper stroller collapsed.

The recall affects Zooper Tango double strollers sold in 2007 and 2008 with the model numbers SL808B and SL808F. These strollers were sold at a variety of child retailers, including Babies "R" Us. If you own one of these recalled strollers, the CPSC recommends contacting Zooper for a latch repair kit at no charge. Zooper is owned by Lan Enterprises LLC.

Clearwater Father Charged in Son's Accidental Shooting

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

August 19, 2010 - A Clearwater father is facing charges after his 6-year-old son accidentally shot his 3-year-old brother. According to a report at Tampa Bay Online, the 35-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday in connection with the accidental shooting, which occurred back in February.

Police say the father left a loaded semi-automatic gun without a safety in his bedroom, where it was easily found by his 6-year-old son on Feb. 20, 2010. The boy picked up the gun and accidentally fired it, shooting his 3-year-old brother in the chest. The boy suffered a major chest injury and pierced lung, but he survived the ordeal. The father has been charged with culpable negligence.

An investigation later determined that the father had seven loaded guns in the house, including a .45-caliber handgun that was left in the living room. The father told investigators that he told his children about the guns, saying they were his "toys" and "not to touch his toys."

According to the National Safety Council, more than 200 children are killed in unintentional shootings each year.

Florida Child Safety Alert: Understanding the Importance of Bicycle Helmets

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

The importance of bicycle helmets can never be overstated, especially when it comes to children and bicycle accidents. When comparing child and adult bike accident victims, more children are killed in bicycle accidents when not wearing a helmet.

In the state of Florida it is the law that children who are 15 years old and younger wear a bicycle helmet. Even if the law does not require youths 16 or older to wear one, it is important that this safety measure is taken.

Risks of serious injuries to the face, head and brain can be drastically reduced by wearing a helmet. SafeKids USA reports the following:

75% of bicycle fatalities in children could be prevented by wearing a bicycle helmet;
Head injuries are reduced by 85% when a child wears a bicycle helmet; and
Brain injuries are reduced by 88% when a child wears a bicycle helmet.

Listed below are additional statistics about the average yearly number of injuries and fatalities reported for children between the ages of 4 and 15 years old who were not wearing a bicycle helmet at the time of their bike accidents:

Between 135 and 155 fatalities;
Between 39,000 and 45,000 head injuries; and
Between 18,000 and 55,000 face and scalp injuries.

If despite taking these safety precautions, your child was seriously injured in a bicycle accident in Clearwater, contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer who will fight for the rights of your child and help you recover damages that you may be entitled to because of your child's injuries.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida bicycle accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida bicycle accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - 888-340-0840.

Dog Bite Laws in Florida

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

If your child has sustained a serious dog bite injury, you may be wondering what the dog bite laws in Florida are.

If your child has been injured by a dog bite or dog attack, these are some of the Florida laws that may apply to your case:

Dog bite statute
Negligence per se
Landlord liability

The dog bite statute in Florida imposes strict liability upon the owners of dogs that cause injury to a person. However, if there is some cause for the victim being negligent in a dog bite incident, liability of the owner is reduced by a percentage.

However in the state of Florida, if the victim of a dog bite is under the age of 6 they cannot be held negligent in any way. Over the age of 6, a jury would decide if the child was negligent.

Florida also follows the law of negligence per se, which means the violation of any statute that establishes protection for a group of people from a particular type of injury is a form of negligence. That means if your city or county has specific negligence laws around dog bites or attacks, the owner may have violated local laws in addition to state laws.

Landlord liability comes into play if a landlord fails to protect its tenants in regards to a vicious dog that the landlord has knowledge of. This could apply to the landlord's dog or other tenants who own a vicious dog.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida dog bite incident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida dog bite incident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Lakeland Girl Dies in Head-On Car Crash

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

August 13, 2010 - A 5-year-old girl died Wednesday night from injuries she sustained in a car crash on Saturday. Her mother was also killed in the accident and her two siblings, a 1-year-old girl and 7-year-old boy suffered serious personal injuries. The car accident occurred shortly after 1 p.m. on Saturday afternoon.

Police are still trying to determine what caused the fatal car crash. Initial reports indicate that the 37-year-old mother from Lakeland was a passenger in an SUV on State Road 60 in Mulberry when the driver crossed into oncoming traffic and crashed head-on into a pickup truck.

The victim's family believes the car accident was caused by slick roads, as it had recently rained in the area. The 5-year-old girl was taken to a local hospital where she unfortunately died from her injuries several days after the crash. Her 1-year-old sister has been released from the hospital, but her 7-year-old brother remains in critical condition. Police say the 7-year-old boy was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected during the crash.

The driver of the SUV, a 43-year-old man, remains in serious condition. Another passenger, a 36-year-old woman, is also still in the hospital recovering from serious personal injuries. The occupants of the pickup truck, including a 71-year-old woman and a 72-year-old man, were also injured. The man is in serious condition as of Wednesday afternoon.

What to Do If Your Child Is Bitten by a Dog

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

After a child has been bitten or attacked by a dog, you will need to get them immediate medical attention in addition to ensuring that the proper authorities have been alerted about the dog's actions.

The first thing you want to do is attend to your child's injuries. Even if the wound appears minor you should still seek immediate medical attention to prevent infection and as a precaution in case the dog has rabies.

It is also important to report the dog bite to the following agencies:

Local health department or animal services
Animal control shelter
Police department

You also need to find out if the dog is up to date on its vaccinations. If you are in contact with the owner of the dog, do not assume that the information they provide you is accurate.

Additionally, you'll need to make sure that you get the contact information of the dog's owner, including their name, telephone number and address. Do not try to work things out with the dog owner yourself. Speaking to a qualified Clearwater child injury attorney who specializes in dog bites and attacks is the best way to understand your legal options in this situation.

You can learn more about children and dog bite injuries by visiting our article library.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been bitten by a dog in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida dog bite incident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Two Tampa Children Suffer Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

August 10, 2010 - Two young children suffered carbon monoxide poisoning on Friday when their father left them in an idling SUV. According to a report at the Tampa Tribune, the 31-year-old Tampa man left his children in the Chevrolet Blazer while he shopped at the CVS drugstore on Gandy Boulevard.

A passerby noticed that there was a strong odor coming from the SUV. After walking closer to the vehicle, he noticed a small boy sitting in a child safety seat and an older girl sitting next to him. Both of the children were unconscious or unresponsive, and the young boy's lips were blue. The man broke out the SUV's window while another passerby called 911. Paramedics determined that the 5-year-old boy and 8-year-old girl suffered carbon monoxide poisoning while in the vehicle. Fortunately, it appears that neither of the children will suffer permanent injury from the incident.

Police estimate that the father was in the drugstore for less than 10 minutes. Even so, he has been charged with child neglect. The SUV apparently had an exhaust leak, which contributed to excess carbon monoxide coming into the vehicle. Both children are now in the custody of their grandparents, according to WTSP.com.

Miami Boy Dies from Overdose of Medication

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Denis Maltez, 12, of Miami, died in an overdose of medication that was prescribed by his psychiatrist, Dr. Steven L. Kaplan, of South Florida.

The young boy had autism and was being treated with 2 anti-psychotic drugs. However, Dr. Kaplan failed to prescribe the correct dose of medicine. Instead, he prescribed the highest adult dose possible.

Because of the threat that Kaplan poses to the public, his license has been suspended. This comes after years of repeated warnings from state regulators that Kaplan was excessively prescribing psychiatric drugs to children.

Intentional or negligent care of a child in dispensing medication can lead to serious injuries or even death. If a medical professional is involved, this could lead to a medical malpractice lawsuit.

Kaplan failed in many respects to the proper care and treatment of his young patient. The doctor apparently failed to:

Perform a physical examination
Develop a treatment plan
Document the mental health history
Perform blood tests to monitor effects of the prescribed drugs
Perform a psychiatric assessment

The misuse of medication can lead to a serious injury or even death If your child has been injured due to an overdose of medication or any other type of Florida accident, you should contact a Clearwater child injury attorney.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida overdose accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child overdose accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Shaken Baby Syndrome and Brain Injuries

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Shaken Baby Syndrome is a form of child abuse where a baby or small child is violently shaken. This is a serious condition as it can cause a traumatic brain injury.

Adults who become angry or frustrated with a baby can end up shaking the child. If your child was in the hands of a caregiver and you believe they were the victim of Shaken Baby Syndrome, you should immediately contact a child injury lawyer in Clearwater.

Shaken Baby Syndrome can lead to irreversible brain damage. Some children die from their injuries. The shaking of a child can cause nerve tissue throughout the brain to tear.

If there is a suspicion of Shaken Baby Syndrome, doctors will look for these signs:

Brain swelling
Skull fracture(s)
Hemorrhaging in the eye's retinas
Subdural hematomas
Fractures to ribs, arms and legs
Bruising around the neck, head or chest

Shaken Baby Syndrome can also result in other serious injuries such as:

Blindness (partial or complete)
Loss of hearing
Seizures
Delays in development
Learning disabilities
Mental retardation

If your child was injured and you believe it is the result of Shaken Baby Syndrome, you should contact a Clearwater child injury attorney. A child injury attorney can determine if your child's injuries were the result of someone else's actions.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured due to Shaken Baby Syndrome, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Preventing Medication Overdose in Children

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Children are at risk of serious injury or even death if there is a misuse of over-the-counter medications. However, there are ways that caregivers can prevent medication overdose in children.

It is important to understand that mixing medication can be dangerous. Many multi-symptom medicines already contain fever reducers or pain relievers. So giving a child an additional medicine for certain symptoms could lead to an overdose.

Medication overdose can also be prevented by keeping medication out of sight of children. It should be locked up in a high space where it is unreachable.

It is also important to write down what medication has been given, how much and at what time. This is especially important in a setting where there is more than one caregiver, such as in many daycare settings.

A lack of miscommunication can result in 2 people giving a child medicine. This can lead to a serious medication overdose.

Finally, preventing medication overdose in children can also be done by using the right measuring tool when dispensing medication. Guessing at how much or using a tablespoon is not advised. It is important to use a dosing tool that accurately measures how much medicine is being given.

If your child has been injured due to an overdose of medication or any other type of accident, you should contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida overdose accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child overdose accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Young Child Scalded in Tampa; Mother Charged

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

August 5, 2010 - A young mother is facing serious charges after her young child was scalded while in her care. According to a report at Tampa Bay Online, the 20-year-old Tampa mother poured boiling water on her child sometime last Friday morning. She later told police that she had accidentally dropped the water on the child.

Police say the problem is that she did not seek immediate medical attention for the child, who suffered burns in the accident. The mother didn't call 911 for medical assistance until shortly before 7 p.m. Friday night. She told the 911 operator that the child had been scalded approximately an hour prior. However, after questioning, she later admitted that the accident had happened earlier that morning.

Police have not identified the age or sex of the child, and his or her condition is currently unknown. The 20-year-old mother was arrested on Saturday and charged with child neglect and abuse. Scalding, a type of thermal burn, is a common child injury. In fact, thermal burns are the most common type of burn injury for children under the age of 5.

Sports-Related Head Injuries

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Sports-related head injuries in children are more common than some may think. Head injuries should be taken seriously as they can lead to any number of different types of traumatic brain injuries.

According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), in 2009 the top 10 sports-related head injuries in children 14 years old and younger occurred from:

Bicycling - 40,272
Football - 21,878
Baseball/Softball - 18,246
Basketball - 14,952
Skateboarding/Scooter Riding - 14,783
Water Sports - 12,843
Soccer - 8,392
ATVs - 6,818
Winter Sports - 5,025
Trampolines - 5,025

Some of the other sports that put children at risk of receiving a head injury include:

Hockey
Horseback Riding
Wrestling
Martial Arts
Pole Vaulting
Cheerleading

Some sports-related head injuries can usually be avoided if children wear properly fitted, protective gear. This can include helmets, mouth guards, and other safety apparel. Coaches and other adults who are in charge of children playing sports need to make sure that safety measures are taken in order to protect children who are participating.

If someone was negligent in a sports-related accident that led to your child receiving a head injury, you should contact a Clearwater child injury attorney. A child injury attorney can determine if someone else is at fault for your child's injuries.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida child sports-related accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child sports-related accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Pregnant Woman Killed, Six Children Injured in Ellenton Crash

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

August 3, 2010 - A serious rollover accident on Interstate 75 claimed two lives and injured many more on Saturday. According to a report at TBO.com, the victims were traveling southbound on Interstate 75 in a Ford Expedition SUV when their vehicle rolled over near Ellenton. The rollover was caused by a blown tire, police say.

The car accident occurred around 7:30 a.m. on Saturday morning. There were 9 people traveling in the SUV when it crashed, including the driver, a 45-year-old man from Tampa. A 35-year-old woman, who was approximately 36 weeks pregnant, was pronounced dead at the scene. The other 7 occupants were all children, 3 of whom were ejected from the SUV as it rolled over. Only 1 of the 7 children was wearing a seatbelt when the car crash occurred.

A 14-year-old boy was transported to Bayfront Medical Center, where he died shortly after the accident. The other 6 children suffered personal injuries ranging from serious to minor. One victim, a 12-year-old girl, is in critical condition at Bayfront. Four other children are in serious condition at Manatee Memorial Hospital, while a 16-year-old girl has already been treated and released.

Most Poisonous Products for Children

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

The National Safety Council reports that in about 50% of the cases involving a child under 6 years old being poisoned, these occur from substances that are found within the home.

Children can be exposed to a variety of poisonous products in a home. Caregivers should exercise care in keeping children safe, such as making sure that there are no lead-based toys or furniture in the home.

However, there are other products that expose children to harm. These are some of the most poisonous products for children:

Medicines
Iron pills
Cleaning products (can also lead to chemical burns)
Nail products (such as removers and primers)
Gasoline/Kerosene/Lamp Oil
Paint thinner
Lighter fluid
Pesticides
Antifreeze
Windshield washer solution
Alcohol
Mouthwash

Parents do their best to ensure that their child is kept safe from poisonous products; however, if your child is in the care of another you have to trust that they are doing the same. If your child was injured in a Clearwater poisoning accident, you should contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a poisoning accident in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child poisoning accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Port Charlotte Child Drowns in Swimming Pool

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 30, 2010 - A toddler from Port Charlotte is clinging to life after he nearly drowned in a swimming pool. According to a report at the Herald Tribune, paramedics with the Charlotte County Fire/EMS department were called to a house on Marlow Street around 10:30 a.m., where a child had just been pulled unconscious from the family's swimming pool. The victim has been identified as a two-year-old boy.

Police say the child was being supervised by his mother, an 18-year-old woman. The mother left the back door open while she was napping on the couch, and the toddler found his way outside and fell into the pool. After she woke up, the mother found the child in the pool; he was not breathing.

The toddler was initially treated at Peace River Regional Medical Center, but doctors believed his condition was very serious, so the victim was airlifted to All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg. He was in critical condition as of Wednesday afternoon. Police are still investigating this tragic accident, and they have not said how long the child was in the pool before he was found.

Drownings are one of the leading causes of accidental death for children under the age of 14. In Florida, where swimming pools are found in many backyards, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for young children under the age of five.

Complications of Lead Poisoning

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been told that your child has lead poisoning, you should know what the complications of lead poisoning can be. Child lead poisoning accidents do happen, particularly when children are exposed to lead in older homes or buildings.

Caregivers are expected to put in place safety measures that will protect your child while in their care. This includes making sure that the home or facility is free from lead paint.

The less serious, but still devastating complications of lead poisoning include behavioral and learning difficulties. Some of these behaviors may include:

Irritability
Hyperactivity
Inability to focus or pay attention
Aggressiveness/violence

Some of the learning difficulties that can result from lead poisoning include:

Lower IQ
Reading delay
Speech delay

Lead poisoning can also lead to more serious complications. Some of them include:

Kidney damage
Damage to nervous system
Brain damage
Coma

In the very worst case, a child can die as a result of lead poisoning. If your child has been injured or killed due to a lead poisoning accident, you should contact a Clearwater child injury attorney . They will work on your behalf to determine if someone's negligence led to your child's injuries.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida child lead poisoning accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child lead poisoning accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Premature Birth and Cerebral Palsy

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

The March of Dimes reports that premature births account for more than half a million births. Since the early 1980s there has been a 36% increase in the number of premature births.

Premature babies don't have fully functioning, developed lungs which can decrease the oxygen needed for the brain. In addition, if oxygen was cut off at any point in the labor and delivery, there is the risk of brain damage.

Premature birth can lead to numerous serious medical problems, including cerebral palsy, which is caused by brain damage. In fact, premature babies are 8 times more likely to develop cerebral palsy.

In addition to a lack of oxygen there are other factors that can play a role in a child developing cerebral palsy. These include:

The brain bleeding;
Use of vacuum extractor or forceps;
A small birth canal on the mother, making it difficult for the baby to pass;
Prolapsed umbilical cord; and
Woman has high blood pressure, diabetes or a clotting disorder.

Despite the risk factors that can lead to cerebral palsy in a premature birth, good medical care and attention can alleviate problems. If a doctor is attentive to the risk factors and acts quickly, brain damage can be avoided.

If your child was born prematurely and suffered brain damage that led to cerebral palsy, you should contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer. They can help you determine if negligence contributed to your child's injuries and fight for the compensation that you may be entitled to. To learn more about the symptoms and causes of cerebral palsy, visit our article library.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida childbirth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida childbirth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 888-340-0840.

St. Petersburg Boy Burned in Kitchen Accident

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 28, 2010 - A young boy is recovering after he was injured in a kitchen accident in St. Petersburg last week. According to a report at 10 News WTSP, the boy knocked a hot pot of oil off the stove in his family's kitchen. The hot grease covered the boy's lower body, resulting in burns on both of his legs.

Police have not released many details about this accident and they have not released the name of the family. The victim has been identified only as a 9-year-old boy. The child was treated for his burns at All Children's Hospital. Paramedics with the St. Petersburg Fire and Rescue Department, who were first to arrive at the home in the Whispering Woods neighborhood on 16^th Street South, say the boy's injuries are not life threatening. Police have not said if the boy was left unattended when the accident occurred.

According to BurnSurvivor.com, a resource for those who have injured in a burn accident, more than 10,000 children visit emergency rooms for burn injuries each year. In fact, burn injuries and fires are one of the most common causes of accidental death for children under the age of 14.

Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act in Florida

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children between the ages of 1 and 14. As a way to prevent drowning accidents, Florida has implemented the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act. According to state law, at least 1 of the following safety measure outlined in the Residential Swimming Pool Safety act must be followed, including:

Pool must be enclosed with a barrier that is at least 4 feet high and encloses the entire pool
Pool must be covered with an approved safety pool cover
Windows and doors that allow access to a pool must be equipped with an exit alarm
Doors that provide access to a pool must have a self-latching, self-closing device
Gates to swimming pools must open outward away from the pool
Release mechanism to a gate must not be reachable to a young child

Failure to follow at least 1 of these requirements can result in a misdemeanor charge of the 2^nd degree. In addition, a person who has failed to meet these requirements may also be required to attend a drowning prevention education program.

In addition to these safety measures, you can learn more water safety tips by visiting our article library.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida water accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child water accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Two Children Injured in Fatal I-75 Crash

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 27, 2010 - Two children suffered personal injuries on Sunday in a serious rollover accident on Interstate 75 in Dade City. According to a report at the St. Petersburg Times, 2 cars collided on the southbound side of the freeway shortly after 4 p.m. on Sunday afternoon.

Police are still investigating this fatal car accident, but initial reports indicate that a Toyota car driven by a 51-year-old man rear-ended a Lincoln SUV. The force of the crash caused both cars to roll over. The driver of the SUV suffered serious personal injuries, and one of his passengers, a 63-year-old man, was killed. Four people riding in the Toyota were also injured, including a 7-year-old boy and 8-year-old girl from Tennessee. Police have not said where they are being treated, and their conditions are currently unknown.

The car accident caused a traffic jam on I-75 as first responders attempted to clear the scene. The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate this serious accident, and deputies will attempt to determine what led the Toyota to crash into the back of the Lincoln SUV. More information will be added if and when it becomes available.

Types of Cerebral Palsy

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Brain damage can cause cerebral palsy, a neurological disorder that will affect each patient differently. The different levels of impairment are related to the type of cerebral palsy your child has.

The most common category of cerebral palsy is spastic cerebral palsy and can consist of these 3 types:

Spastic Diplegia - Muscles are tight and legs cross at the knees, making walking difficult. This is also known as "scissoring."
Spastic Hemiplegia - One side of the body is affected, with stiffness or abnormal development.
Spastic Quadriplegia - This is the most severe type, wherein the child is quadriplegic, may have seizures and most times has mental retardation.

Other categories of cerebral palsy include:

Athetoid Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy - Second most common type of cerebral palsy where the child has normal cognitive functioning, but muscle problems exist.
Ataxic Cerebral Palsy - Least common type of cerebral palsy where motor skills are hampered, along with coordination and balance. Tremors are also a symptom.
Hypotonic Cerebral Palsy - Usually caused by brain damage or other brain abnormalities and most times presents itself in early infancy.
Mixed Cerebral Palsy - For those who don't fall under any other category
Congenital Cerebral Palsy - Caused by birth defect.

If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and you suspect it is a result of a birth injury, contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer. They can help you determine if negligence contributed to your child's injuries and fight for the compensation that you may be entitled to. To learn more about the symptoms and causes of cerebral palsy, visit our article library.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida childbirth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida childbirth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney - 888-340-0840.

Facts About Children and Drowning

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Every year there are more than 830 children under the age of 14 who die in a drowning accident. Many of these deaths could be avoided if proper water safety tips were followed

Here are some important facts about children and drowning:

Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children between the ages of 1 and 14
Drowning is the third leading cause of death for babies under the age of 1
Every year there are about 3,600 drowning-related injuries
9 out of 10 drowning-related deaths occurred when an adult claimed to be supervising the child
There is an 89% increase in drowning deaths during the months between May and August
75% of drowning deaths occur in a house pool
60% of drowning injuries occur in a house pool
For children under the age of 5 who die in a drowning accident, 16% of them occur at a family or friend's pool and 17% of them occur at a neighbor's pool or public pool
Most deaths of children under the age of 1 occur in a bathtub, toilet or bucket
80% of children who drown at home are 4 years and under

If your child was injured or killed in a Clearwater water accident due to negligence, contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida water accident, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child water accident, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Birth Injuries that Result from Shoulder Dystocia

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

There are a number of birth injuries that can result from shoulder dystocia. Shoulder dystocia occurs during birth when a baby's head is able to safely emerge from the birth canal but the shoulder becomes stuck.

This oftentimes occurs in larger-than-average babies; however, there are other risk factors for shoulder dystocia. One of the birth injuries that can result is Erb's Palsy, an often preventable birth injury. Another birth injury that can occur is Klumpke paralysis wherein the upper and lower arm loses movement. In addition, the injured side can experience drooping of the eyelid.

Shoulder dystocia can lead to 4 different types of brachial plexus injuries. Brachial plexus injuries are injuries to the nerves that affect the shoulder, arm and hand. The 4 types of brachial plexus injuries are:

Avulsion - The most severe injury where the nerve is completely torn from the spine;
Rupture - The nerve is torn, however, it doesn't occur at the spinal attachment;
Neuroma - The nerve has torn and healed. However, scar tissue develops which puts pressure on the injured nerve. This affects signaling to the muscles; and
Neuropraxia or Stretch - Nerve is damaged in some form but not torn.

If your child received a birth injury that you believe was preventable, contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer who can help determine if negligence played a part in your child's birth injury. They will fight for your rights and advocate that you get the compensation to which you may be entitled.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida childbirth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida childbirth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840

Two Toddlers Nearly Drown in Osceola

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 23, 2010 - Two boys who were pulled unresponsive from a swimming pool in Osceola are now in critical condition. According to reports at the Orlando Sentinel, the two 2-year-old boys were left unattended near a pool for 5 minutes. When the mother of one of the boys returned to the pool area, both boys were found floating face down in the water.

The near-drowning occurred shortly before noon on Thursday at a house on Guaymas Drive in Bueanaventura Lakes. First responders immediately began performing CPR on the boys, who were then transported to local hospitals. Both boys were then airlifted to separate trauma hospitals, Arnold Palmer Hospital and Florida Hospital South.

Both boys were listed in critical condition in the hours after the accident, but no update on their condition has been released at this time. Deputies with the Osceola Sheriff's Department continue to investigate this tragic accident and will be interviewing all those who were in the house at the time of the drowning. The Orlando Sentinel notes that 14 children in Central Florida have died in drowning accidents since the year began.

What Is Considered Harm to a Child?

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Florida statutes define child abuse as a willful or threatened act which results in injury or harm to a child

You may be wondering what is considered harm to a child. Harm concerns either a child's welfare or health. It is also considered harm to a child when someone:

Inflicts or allows physical, emotional or mental injury upon a child
Commits or allows lewd or lascivious acts upon a child
Participates in or allows exploitation (including sexual) of a child
Abandons a child
Neglects a child
Exposes a child to alcohol or a controlled substance
Isolates a child for an unreasonable amount of time and using unreasonable methods of restraining/isolating
Acts violently in such a way that it could result in serious injury to a child
Negligently fails to protect a child from others sexually, mentally or physically injuring a child
Allows the sibling of a child to die because of abandonment, neglect or abuse
Flees with a child to avoid prosecution or a protective investigation

If your child has been a victim of child abuse and suffered harm, you should consult a Florida child injury lawyer who can explain your legal options during this difficult time.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured due to child abuse in Florida, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child abuse case, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - (888) 340-0840.

Complications of Erb's Palsy

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Erb's Palsy is most times a preventable birth injury that affects the nerves in a baby's shoulder. The degree of injury varies in each case. The most common symptoms are weakness or paralysis of the arm.

The good news is that in most instances, the injuries are minor. The nerves may have been stretched but typically within 6 to 12 months the baby may regain normal movement of the arm. However, in about 20% of the cases the injury is much more severe and can lead to additional complications.

One of the most devastating complications that can result from this type of birth injury is that the nerves may be completely torn from the spine or ruptured. This is known as avulsion. In either situation, it will result in permanent paralysis of the arm and shoulder.

Even if paralysis doesn't occur, because of the stretching, scar tissue may form around healthy nerves. In this scenario, there may not be permanent paralysis, but full recovery is very unlikely.

Because Erb's Palsy is considered to be a largely preventable birth injury, a doctor or hospital's negligence may have played a role in your child's injury. Contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer who can help determine any liability associated with your child's birth injury. To learn more about Erb's Palsy, visit our article library.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured in a Florida childbirth injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida childbirth injury, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to schedule a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury lawyer - 1-888-340-0840

Swimming Pool Chemicals are Common Cause of Accidents

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Swimming pools can be fun places for the whole family - but they can also be dangerous. Much of the focus on accident prevention at pools is on drowning or slip and fall mishaps. However, pool chemicals can cause a wide variety of injuries during Florida swimming pool accidents.

Thousands of Pool Chemical Accidents Occur Annually

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pool chemical injuries are responsible for almost 100 emergency room visits every week in the U.S. and almost half of these types of injuries occur at a private residence.

Swimmers can experience redness, itching, burning eyes, or rashes if the amount of chemicals in a swimming pool is too high. It is important to constantly monitor how much of each type of chemical is being released into a pool.

But pool chemicals can cause accidents out of the water as well. Persons are sometimes injured when they inhale fumes after they open a pool chemical container. A few people try to pre-dissolve pool chemicals before putting them into the water; this can result in adverse reactions or even explosions.

How to Prevent Pool Chemical Accidents

Pool chemical accidents can prevented largely by:

reading labels on containers;
following instructions for use;
wearing proper protective gear (like safety goggles or gloves) while handling pool chemicals; and
refraining from mixing chlorine products with acid, each other, or any other compound or substance.

If you think that improper use of pool chemicals, either by a homeowner or a pool facility operator, has caused an injury to your child you should consider calling a Clearwater child injury attorney.

For more information on child swimming pool accidents, read our article on Child Swimming Pool Accidents.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

Helping your child to recover from his or her injuries after a Florida pool chemical accident should be your main priority, not dealing with insurance adjusters and complicated legal paperwork. If your child has sustained a serious child injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida. Before accepting a settlement offer, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - 888-340-0840.

Charges Filed After Lakeland Boy Injured By Grenade

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 21, 2010 - A 10-year-old boy suffered serious personal injuries back in February when a grenade exploded in his face, and now his parents are facing charges in connection with the accident. According to reports at The Ledger, the child's 43-year-old father was charged on Friday with child neglect and possession of a deadly device. The child's mother, a 40-year-old woman, is also facing charges of child neglect.

The charges stem from a February accident when the 10-year-old boy, who was 9 at the time, exploded a grenade that his father had left in the kitchen. The boy suffered serious injuries in the blast, which tore off his nose and several teeth. He also lost two fingers in the explosion. The child victim spent several months at Tampa General Hospital and he faces the prospect of additional reconstructive surgeries in the future.

Bail for the child's father was set at $45,000, while the mother is due in court in mid-August. For her part, the child's mother tells The Ledger that she is a "good parent" and will fight all charges brought against her.

Signs of Daycare Abuse

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Working parents sometimes entrust the care of their children to daycare workers. However there have been some instances of daycare abuse in recent years that have many parents concerned. Florida child abuse laws serve to protect your child from this type of injustice.

You may be wondering about the signs of daycare abuse and how you can know if your child is being properly and safely taken care of. Most important is to listen to your child if they share something that raises a warning flag. Never dismiss what a child says. Take time to investigate the matter.

Unfortunately, many children are afraid to share when something abusive is happening or they may be too young and unable to communicate that to you. In that case, here are some signs to look for in determining if your child has been a victim of daycare abuse:

Drastic mood swings;
Drastic changes in behavior;
Begins wetting the bed;
Experiences nightmares;
Has difficulty sleeping;
Shows an unusual interest in genitals or other sexual matters;
Becomes clingy; and/or
Shows fear of going to daycare.

If you believe that your child has been a victim of daycare abuse, contact a Florida child injury lawyer who will work on your behalf to fight for the rights of your child.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured in a Florida child abuse case, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida.

If you wish to file a child injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a Florida child abuse case, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - 888-340-0840.

How to Help Prevent Child Drowning Accidents

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

The accidental drowning of a child is a terrible, yet often preventable. While drowning accidents can and will happen as long as we enjoy the fun qualities of being in the water, we need to do our best to protect little ones and each other from the serious damage that can occur in a near-drowning or fatal drowning accident.

Here are some ways to help prevent child drowning accidents:

Closely supervise any child who is in the water. Designate an adult to observe children in a swimming pool or a bathtub. Make sure the person isn't doing anything else (like mowing the lawn or listening to an mp3 player) while supervising the kids.
Teach your children to swim. They don't have to be champion swimmers, but they should have enough ability to propel themselves out of danger if necessary.
Implement the buddy system. This is especially important in lakes or at beaches. Tell your kids to stay within sight of each other at all times.
Use proper flotation devices. On boats, don't substitute air-filled toys or "water wings" for personal flotation devices. In pools, make sure that small children are wearing "water wings" or lifejackets whenever they're in the water.
Learn CPR. Don't count on paramedics to revive a drowning victim. The precious minutes waiting for medical assistance to arrive can be spent trying to resuscitate your child.

If you feel that someone else's negligence led to the drowning injury or death of your child, you should contact a Clearwater child injury lawyer who can advise you on your legal rights.

For more information on child drowning accidents, visit our article library.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has sustained a serious water-related child injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida. Before accepting a settlement offer, contact the law office of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - 888 - 340 - 0840.

Florida Parents Charged In Drownings of Kids

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

When a child drowns in a backyard swimming pool, it is a tragedy for the family and the neighborhood. There is almost always an investigation to determine who was responsible for such a heartbreaking death. Unfortunately, the answer to that question all-too-often is: the parents.

Such was the case in Jacksonville, Florida in July of 2010. A man and his wife were charged with child neglect and aggravated manslaughter in connection of the deaths of their two young children, who wandered into a neighbor's swimming pool and drowned.

Markanthony and Jovita Ibeagwa were not at home when Gerrard, 6, and Blessing, 3, left their home and went to their neighbor's house. It appears that the children took a wooden stepladder from their house and leaned it up against the neighbor's gate in order to enter the backyard.

Police say that Jovita called her husband that evening before leaving for work. Markanthony told her that he would come home and watch the two kids, but then admitted that he stayed late to work some extra hours. Authorities say this was not the first time that the Ibeagwas left their children unattended.

When Someone Else's Negligence Leads to Your Child's Injuries

In cases where unsupervised children drown in swimming pools, if the child had been under the care of another person, such as a baby-sitter or daycare employee, the parents of the child would have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. The same can be said if the neighbors had not used proper fencing.

For more information on child swimming pool accidents, read our article on Child Swimming Pool Accidents.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

After a Florida child drowning accident, your main priority should not be dealing with insurance adjusters and complicated legal paperwork. If your child has sustained a serious child injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida. Before accepting a settlement offer, contact the Law Offices of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - 888-340-0840.

Young Boy Hit and Killed by Pickup Truck in New Smyrna Beach

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 20, 2010 - A 4-year-old boy died tragically on Sunday afternoon after he was hit by a pickup truck while playing on the beach. According to a report at The Daytona Beach News-Journal, the victim was playing on a beach off South Atlantic Avenue in New Smyrna Beach when the pickup truck, which was driving on the sand, hit him. Driving on the beach is allowed in Volusia County. The accident occurred around 3 p.m. on Sunday afternoon.

The four-year-old boy was run over by the truck's front tire, and first responders tried to resuscitate him before he was transported to Bert Fish Medical Center. Police have identified the driver of the pickup truck as a 33-year-old man from New Smyrna Beach. Police say speed was not a factor in the accident.

This accident comes just months after another child, a 4-year-old girl, was hit and killed on another beach in Florida. Some wonder if this accident may spark a change to the beach-driving policy. Police have not filed any charges against the driver of the pickup truck as of this time.

Orlando Toddler Drowns In Family Swimming Pool

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

On July 11, 2010, 11-month old Ayden Glover wandered into the swimming pool in the backyard of his home and drowned. Teddy Jaeger, the 22-year-old father, was reportedly home at the time along with a friend. Ayden was discovered at the bottom of the pool.

Paramedics arrived on the scene and administered CPR as the boy was rushed to the hospital. But Ayden never regained consciousness.

The Florida Department of Children and Families says that it is investigating the child drowning accident. A spokeswoman notes that such probes are common in drowning accidents, and that DCF has not visited Ayden's home in the past.

Florida Drowning Statistics

A total of 23 children drowned in Central Florida in 2009. Ayden's death was the 11^th child drowning accident of 2010. According to statistics from the Florida Department of Health for the years 2002 through 2004, 64% of toddler drowning deaths happened in swimming pools.

If you believe that your child drowned because of someone else's negligence, you should contact a Clearwater child injury attorney who can help you determine liability and advise you of your legal rights.

For more information on child drowning accidents, visit our article library.

Contacting a Clearwater Child Injury Attorney

If your child has sustained a serious water-related child injury, order a FREE copy of our book, When Kids Suffer BIG Injuries: A Parent's Guide to Child Injury in Florida. Before accepting a settlement offer, contact the law office of James. W. Dodson to set up a FREE consultation with a Clearwater child injury attorney about your case - 888 - 340 - 0840.