5 of the Most Common Injuries Sustained by Visitors to Florida

As one of the most popular vacation destinations in the U.S., millions of people from all over the world visit Florida each year. While most have a relaxing time enjoying the state’s stunning beaches, exciting theme parks, and beautiful year-round weather, some visitors inevitably become involved in accidents or incidents that can result in serious injuries. Here are five of the most common injuries sustained by Florida visitors:

1. Broken bones and fractures. While numerous types of incidents can result in broken bones, one of the most common is car accidents. Unfortunately, an estimated 200,000 car accidents occur on Florida’s busy roadways each year, and visitors who are unfamiliar with the area and local traffic patterns may be at a particularly high risk of being involved in an accident.
2. Injuries to internal organs. In addition to the risk of being involved in a car accident while driving, Florida visitors and residents alike are at an above-average risk of being hit by a car while walking or bicycling. The state has consistently ranked as the number-one U.S. state where pedestrians are most likely to be struck and killed by drivers. Those who survive being hit by a car may suffer a range of injuries, including damage to internal organs.
3. Head and neck injuries. There are several different reasons why a person may experience trauma to the head or neck, but one potential cause for Florida visitors is the use of unfamiliar methods of transit, such as golf carts, electric scooters, and bikes or mopeds. While these vehicles can offer a leisurely way to explore, visitors should also be aware of the risks they present.
   Soft tissue injuries. These injuries involve strains and bruises to non-skeletal parts of the body, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Among the leading causes of soft tissue injuries are slip-and-fall incidents, a common occurrence at Florida hotels and resorts—particularly those that have swimming pools or beach access. A hotel’s employees are generally responsible for ensuring that walkways are free of water and debris that could cause these incidents. If the walkways are not properly maintained and no warnings about hazardous conditions are posted, the hotel could potentially be held liable for guests’ injuries.
4. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Typically caused by a blow to the head or a penetrating injury that disrupts brain function, TBIs are life-threatening conditions that can affect survivors and their families for years to come. While there may be many different causes behind these types of injuries, some visitors to Florida have experienced TBIs from recreational activities, such as parasailing, jet skiing, swimming/diving, or boating.

From hotels to theme parks to businesses that provide parasailing and other recreational activities, Florida companies that cater to visitors have often been held liable when their customers sustain injuries due to unsafe conditions. At Leighton Panoff Law, our top practice areas include “resort torts,” or personal injury cases for negligent or criminal acts that occur in a resort, vacation, travel, or recreational setting. If you have suffered an injury while visiting Florida, call our team today at 888.988.1774 to schedule a consultation!