Well, Floridians, we narrowly escaped the potential destruction of Hurricane Dorian. The pictures and videos showing the devastation it caused in the Bahamas are terrifying to say the least. While we missed this storm, we are still securely in hurricane season for the Atlantic. If you’ve been following the news lately, you’re probably aware that there are already several other storms brewing on our side of the country. This is the time of year where safety is of key importance. The damage caused by a bad storm can come in a variety of ways, not just on the roads.
We’ve compiled some useful information for you this season including facts, updates, and tips for dealing with potential natural disasters.
In the past two decades we have seen substantial devastation across the country from these massive storms including fatalities. Now, many people are familiar with the term Wrongful Death but when it comes to Mother Nature there will be no lawsuits. So, the best bet is to look at how these deaths occur and interpret ways to avoid them. The most common risks associated with hurricanes are not the storms themselves but the environment you are in. Here are just a few potential dangers:
- Carbon Monoxide poisoning
- Electrocution
- Tree branches
- Drowning
- Fires
- Car Accidents
The Dangers of Hurricanes and Other Storms
Hurricane Dorian was a massive and slow moving storm. Some of the bigger hurricanes can easily cover the entire state of Florida. Even if you’re not close enough to the storm to feel the worst of its effects, you will still be effected. Large hurricanes cause immense amounts of rain in areas you may think are safe havens for refuge. Unfortunately, some people learn the hard way about leaving their home during a severe storm. Flooding is a major threat. Here are a few examples of what you an expect if flooding reaches you:
- At 6 inches of water, you’ll cause stalling and loss of control in most vehicles
- At 12 inches of water, your vehicle will float
- More than 18 inches of fast moving water can rush your vehicle away
Furthermore, hurricanes and other bad weather bring out the worst in other drivers. When stress levels are high, safe driving practices seem to go out the window. There are many more risks to yourself and your family by leaving during or after a storm. It can also take multiple days after the storm for trees to crack and break. In the middle of storms, trees can be ripped from the ground and thrown across roadways causing major damage to anything in their path. In addition, it’s not uncommon for power lines to be downed during a bad storm. These are incredibly dangerous and people have died from this.
In the case of flooding, people often set out on foot or to swim without knowing what lies beneath them in the water. It can be difficult to determine the strength of flowing water and you run the risk of being at the mercy of quickly running water. Many people drown this way. Other risks are:
- Losing control of your car
- Electrocution
- Flash Floods
- Getting swept away
- Inability to refuel
- High Winds
- No power (down lights)
Be Safe and Be Prepared
Therefore, it’s critical that you have a plan of action before a storm comes. You cannot sue Mother Nature for a Wrongful Death claim so ensure your safety by being aware of your surroundings at all times.
Brooks Law Group is a Personal Injury, Social Security and Wrongful Death firm with a focus on client protection and compensation. Take a look at our website for more information that can save your life. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a storm or have been rejected for a hurricane claim, we’re here for you. We’ve been trusted by our community for over 25 years. If you need legal guidance in the Tampa, Winter Haven or Lakeland areas, you need the Brooks Law Group. Call our offices at 1-800-LAW-3030 or fill out the Contact Us form on our website today. Look to Brooks!
