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The Most Common Causes of Wrongful Death

June 18, 2020 by Adam Page

A wrongful death happens when a person loses their life due to the carelessness of another. While taking immediate legal action may not be a priority, it is important for family members and loved ones to retain a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. In addition to the emotional trauma of having a family member pass away, people may also face financial difficulties without the help of the deceased. The compensation provided by a lawsuit might ease this financial burden. If you believe this is the case, reach out to David R. Heil, PA in Winter Park, Florida. We can discuss your situation with compassion and provide you with the right next steps.

Medical malpractice

Medical practitioners have a legal and ethical duty to care for the health and wellbeing of their patients. Medical malpractice occurs when a hospital or doctor does not provide the accepted standard of care, thus resulting in injury or death of a patient. When it comes to medical malpractice, however, there is a time limit for taking legal action. Under Florida law, a person must file a lawsuit within a certain time period or the case may not be accepted.

The most frequent cases of medical malpractice lawsuits in Orlando include:

Failure to properly diagnose or treat a patient
Errors in administering medications
Failing to follow proper safety procedures

Car or bike accidents

Motor vehicle accidents or bicycle accidents are major causes of wrongful death in Florida. This is because many collisions are caused by reckless or distracted drivers. Individuals are expected to take a reasonable amount of care and caution to avoid accidents on the road. Instead, their judgment may be impaired by alcohol use or cell phone use. Breaking traffic rules or running a red light are other sources of negligent behavior. When you contact David R. Heil, PA, we can review the case and determine whether any traffic laws were violated during the accident.

Workplace injuries

Construction, transportation, manufacturing, and similar industries experience a higher risk of injury and death compared to other jobs. Some examples of workplace accidents include falling debris or exposure to harmful chemicals. In reality, employers are required to keep the workplace safe and free of any hazards that could result in the death of an individual. Organizations should do everything in their power to train employees about these dangers and provide the right safety equipment to prevent them from occurring in the first place.

Get professional legal help

We understand that wrongful deaths can be a traumatizing event. If your family member was involved in a serious injury or wrongful death due to the above causes, you may be able to file a lawsuit. Professional help is required to assess your damages and review your case. It is important to find an experienced attorney who knows how to navigate the complicated process. To learn more, contact a David R. Heil today. We are sure to handle your wrongful death suit with care.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim for a Sports Concussion

June 16, 2020 by Adam Page

A concussion is one of the most common kinds of sports injuries. Each year, thousands of concussions are sustained by athletes across the United States. Organizations such as the NFL are obliged to inform players of these risks. The failure to uphold this duty can result in a lawsuit. If you or a close relative has suffered from a sports-related concussion, you can file a claim to get the compensation you need.

Unfortunately, a concussion can temporarily or permanently damage the brain and affect functions such as balance, memory, and coordination. David R. Heil, PA understands the consequences of sports-related injuries and can seek compensation for your losses. Contact one of our experienced offices in Orlando, Winter Park or Melbourne, Florida, for the appropriate legal representation today.

About sports concussions

A concussion is a result of the brain shaking back in forth inside the skull. Activities that put people at risk for collisions are more likely to cause concussions, including hockey, soccer, rugby, and football. Although most individuals who have concussions do not experience unconsciousness, there is a risk of long-term physical consequences. Players must be informed of the signs so they can get the medical assistance they require right away. Symptoms include the following:

Dizziness
Headache
Irritability
Difficulty with coordination
Fatigue or drowsiness
Nausea and vomiting
Hypersensitivity to light and sound

Treating concussions

If you suspect that a player has gotten a concussion as the result of a sports injury or collision, they should be taken to a doctor right away. They will be able to perform the right tests and evaluate their condition. A physician in Florida can advise the appropriate treatment based on the severity of the concussion. The consequences of a concussion can last for months, meaning that a return to normal activity should be slow and gradual.

In the meantime, athletes should record their symptoms and the ways their life has been impacted by their injuries. A personal injury attorney can give you information about filing claims for pain and suffering, mental distress, and loss of income during this time of recovery. Because a second concussion will only make the symptoms worse, athletes should avoid sporting activities until they have completely recovered.

Preventing future sports-related concussions

Concussions in sports are becoming more common, but how can we prevent them from happening in the first place? Of course, athletes need to be taught about the consequences of concussions. Sports teams should educate players about concussions and related injuries while providing the proper equipment to use during contact sports, such as helmets. In addition to that, coaches and referees should penalize aggressive players who engage in unsafe practices.

Sports organizations should have their practices and policies reviewed to make sure athletes are being taken care of. Whether the players are amateurs or professionals, it is important for them to be protected. When you contact David R. Heil, PA in Orlando or Melbourne, Florida, we may be able to help you prove negligence and file the necessary claims together. Learn more by scheduling a consultation today.

How To Avoid Distracted Driving Accidents in Orlando

May 18, 2020 by Adam Page

Distracted driving is a growing problem all across the United States. As technology becomes a bigger part of our lives, many people who attempt to multitask while driving end up in car accidents that lead to injuries and deaths. Distracted driving involves activities that take the attention of the driver away from the road. This isn’t necessarily limited to cell phone use but also includes eating and drinking or adjusting the radio.

At Heil Law, we educate drivers in Orlando, Florida, about the importance of eliminating distractions to avoid serious injury to yourself and others. If you are the victim of an accident caused by distracted driving, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. Reach out to David R. Heil to learn about the most common types of distractions victims face and how to avoid them while driving.

Types of distractions

When people think of distracted driving, they naturally assume it’s cell phone use. In fact, The National Safety Council has stated that using a cell phone while driving leads to nearly two million crashes each year. For this reason, many states have laws against using cell phones in the car to prevent accidents and keep residents safe. In the state of Florida, the law currently prohibits drivers from texting while driving.

There are other ways to become distracted while driving, however. Manual distractions happen when drivers cannot control their vehicle because their hands are not on the wheel. For example, car accidents in Orlando can be caused by people combing their hair or applying their makeup. Looking at a map or a GPS is considered a visual distraction and could be dangerous when a person’s eyes are not on the road.

How to avoid distracted driving accidents

Residents of Orlando, Florida, and the surrounding areas can avoid distractions and decrease their own likelihood of getting into a car accident. Before starting the car, set up everything you need beforehand. This includes adjusting the GPS, radio, and temperature so you don’t get distracted by them later. Put your cell phone away and think twice before picking it up. Cell phones should only be used in emergency situations if you are behind the wheel.

Don’t be afraid to pull over to the side of the road and put on your emergency signal if a distraction does come into play. This is also helpful if you have children or pets in the car that may need your attention. If you understand these dangers beforehand, you give yourself a better chance of a safe experience on the road. If you are the victim of a car accident in Orlando because of distracted driving, we urge you to get in touch with a personal injury attorney right away.

Contact a personal injury attorney

When distracted driving causes a car accident in Orlando, Florida, they may be liable for your injuries. This includes medical bills, pain, and suffering, or any prescription medications required as a result of the accident. If you were in an accident involving a distracted driver, reach out to the offices of David R. Heil P.A. today. Heil Law can give you more information and guide you through the claims process.

Car Saftey Tips – How to Share the Road With Motorcycles

April 23, 2020 by David R. Heil, PA

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of motorcyclists are seriously injured or killed as a result of an accident. Since motorcycles lack safety devices such as seat belts and airbags, many drivers don’t know how to safely navigate the road with them. Motorcycles are also less visible and stable than traditional four-wheel vehicles.

Drivers of cars, trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles should learn how to share the road with motorcycles and take proactive measures to increase their own safety. David R. Heil, PA is a personal injury attorney with years of experience handling motorcycle and car accidents in Orlando, Florida. If you have been involved in an accident with a motorcycle, reach out to Heil Law right away to learn about your options.

Always Check Your Blind Spots

This is likely the most common reason for accidents involving cars and motorcycles in Orlando. Since motorcycles are smaller in size than other vehicles, they can be difficult to see while changing lanes. Sometimes motorcycles can blend into the background and other scenery, so people should pay extra attention to their blind spots. If you are the driver of a four-wheel car or truck, take several seconds to search your blind spots before proceeding forward. Increase your chances of success by making sure your side-view mirrors are also adjusted properly.

Give Motorcycles the Entire Lane

Many people don’t realize that motorcycles are entitled to their own lane of traffic. This means individuals should never drive their automobile in close proximity to a motorcycle or ride side-by-side in the same lane. Trying to share the same space is not only dangerous but also against the law. Although some states do allow motorcycles to ride next to each other, that doesn’t mean a car can follow the same rules. Drivers should give motorcycles the same amount of room they would as another car.

Watch the Weather

Heavy rain or other changes in weather can be devastating for cars and motorcycles alike. This is because slippery roads cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. Windy conditions also make it hard for motorcycle drivers to have full control. Before setting out of the road in Orlando, Florida, and the surrounding areas, be sure to check your local weather and have a plan in place for what to do if the weather gets worse. Drive carefully and keep an eye out for motorcyclists who need to pull over due to rain.

Hire an Orlando Personal Injury Attorney

If you have been involved in an automobile or motorcycle accident, get the assistance you need and hire a personal injury lawyer. A skilled attorney can handle the legal work and act as your advocate throughout the entire process. David R. Heil, PA is an accomplished lawyer who offers first-class representation in Orlando, Florida. All clients at Heil Law are treated with fairness and integrity while their case is being handled. Learn more about our services or see what others have to say by reaching out and contacting one of our professionals today.

How to Receive Compensation for Bed Bug Bite Injuries in Orlando

February 24, 2020 by Adam Page

Bed bugs are a serious epidemic across the U.S. as they are known to cause physical injuries such as itching, swelling, bite marks, and even permanent scarring. They can even lead to severe and dangerous allergic reactions. At David R. Heil, PA, we know how consumers are at risk of bed bug bites at places such as apartment complexes and hotels that do not follow safe, industry-standard procedures. Even worse, they fail to disclose the history of bed bug infestations in their property and products.

Rates of bed bug infestations have increased in recent years, which may be attributed to ineffective pest control methods or population density. While the bugs themselves can be difficult to spot, the signs are pretty clear. Many victims display visible signs of bites and rashes on the skin that cause great discomfort. Orlando personal injury attorney David R. Heil, PA, has successfully resolved bed bug lawsuits and/or claims involving rented apartments, hotels and other parties responsible for the infestation.

How to file a bed bug claim

In the state of Florida, property owners are required to provide sanitary conditions to a reasonable standard for the people who stay there. When you visit a hotel or resort, for example, you should expect rooms that have been cleaned or inspected for potential issues such as bed bugs. If you or a loved one have suffered as a result of a bed bug infestation, you may be entitled to reimbursement for pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, or any costs associated with buying new or replacement clothing or furniture. A claim can be filed if the property owner:

Caused the original bed bug infestation to occur by introducing the bed bugs to the residence or environment.
Knew about the bed bug infestation and did nothing to alleviate the situation, such as ignoring the complaints of previous tenants.
Did not know about the bed bug infestation; but would have if they had been taking the proper precautions.

Contact our bed bug attorney in Orlando

As soon as you believe you have suffered from a bed bug infestation due to the negligence of another person, it is important to collect enough evidence to file a lawsuit. This may mean taking photographs of bedsheets and other infested areas where visible evidence is present. Dead bed bugs, furniture, skin rashes, and more can be photographed. The evidence you collect may be used to successfully file a suit with a personal injury attorney.

Just like any other lawsuit, there is not a specific amount of time that a bed bug claim will take. You should know that there are many factors that can change the proceedings and settlements, which can ultimately influence the amount of time required. David R. Heil, PA, will work with you to make sure the outcome is in your favor. If you’ve had an unfortunate encounter with bed bugs, we encourage you to contact our skilled personal injury law firm today. We will hold the right party responsible and help get you the recovery that you deserve.