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Tips for Safe Holiday Travel on Busy Roads

Michael Damaso / 12-09-2021 / Car Accident

Many people travel by car to see family and friends, which can sometimes lead to congested roads, frustrated drivers, and sometimes accidents. However, traveling safely is imperative for avoiding injuries that can ruin the holidays for everyone. As a premier Orlando distracted driving lawyer, Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis has helped numerous clients deal with […]

Michael Damaso / 12-02-2021 / Car Accident

Travel during the holidays is common as many head out to see family and friends during some of the most festive times of the year. The extent to which people travel depends on the holiday in question, as some emphasize time spent with loved ones more than others. However, knowing which holidays are most dangerous […]

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Michael Damaso / 11-24-2021 / Car Accident

Florida’s classic sunny weather, picture-perfect beaches, and fun-filled attractions bring thousands of tourists to the state each year. Some even trek to the Sunshine State to take residence for part of the year. As such, it’s not uncommon for visitors to experience car accidents. This can be a confusing situation, especially if you are from […]

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Michael Damaso / 11-17-2021 / Insurance Claim Disputes

One of the biggest reasons you maintain your auto insurance policy is that you might one day have to use it to file a car accident claim. When this happens, you might not expect your insurance company to deny your claim. This happens to people every day, many never realizing their insurance company can do […]

Michael Damaso / 11-10-2021 / Car Accident

A car accident is a stressful enough situation, but there is a new layer of complexity to consider when the incident involves a stolen vehicle. Getting into a car accident with a stolen car calls into question issues of liability and insurance. If you have been in an accident involving a stolen car, consider consulting […]

Michael Damaso / 11-03-2021 / Insurance Claim Disputes

The term “full coverage insurance” is somewhat of a misleading term in Florida. If you went anywhere else and asked for full coverage, it’s safe to think that you were asking for everything possible to be covered. For Florida drivers, however, full coverage is not 100% clear. Every driver in Florida should understand the terms […]

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Michael Damaso / 10-27-2021 / Car Accident

Unfortunately, car accidents occur every day, and they can impact more than just the drivers involved. In Florida, a passenger injured in a car accident can file a claim for damages. If you have been injured as a passenger in a car accident, you might wonder if Florida’s no-fault rules apply to your situation. While […]

Michael Damaso / 10-20-2021 / Car Accident

In Florida, a teenager can begin driving as soon as they are fifteen years old. Teens in Florida can drive by obtaining a Learner’s Permit or a Restricted Driver’s License. If they meet all of the learning requirements and pass the driving test, a teen can have a full Driver’s License, with no restrictions, at […]

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Michael Damaso / 10-13-2021 / Car Accident

In Florida, road construction is dangerous for both drivers and road crews. Between 2015-2019, there were over 50,000 accidents in road construction zones. The bulk of accidents occur in the main activity area, where drivers often rear-end fixed objects, and it is not hard to understand why. Orange barrels, barriers that create road hazards, and […]

Michael Damaso / 10-06-2021 / Car Accident

Automobile accidents continue to be the leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the United States. Whether or not you are responsible for the accident, trauma from the accident can leave you with symptoms of PTSD. It may be difficult to admit that you are suffering from PTSD, but you should know that you […]

Michael Damaso / 09-22-2021 / Car Accident

In the United States alone, someone is hit by a train every four hours. According to the Federal Railroad Administration, there are about 5,800 accidents that involve cars and trains each year. Many drivers fail to recognize the danger that is involved when it comes to railway crossings. Trains weigh up to fifteen million pounds […]

Michael Damaso / 09-15-2021 / Car Accident

There are times where driving is incredibly frustrating. Road rage incidents occur more often than we think, with aggressive driving contributing to two-thirds of all auto accident fatalities. If you or a loved one has been a victim of a car accident due to road rage, an experienced car accident lawyer in Orlando may be […]

Michael Damaso / 09-08-2021 / Car Accident

Seatbelts help protect drivers and passengers in their vehicles in the event of a car accident. Your chance of sustaining an injury if you were not wearing the seatbelt is substantially higher than if you had been wearing a seatbelt. However, if you were in an accident and were not wearing a seatbelt, you can […]

woman multitasking and sitting inside her car

Michael Damaso / 09-01-2021 / Car Accident

Distractions while driving are plentiful. Whether drivers adjust the radio, talk with passengers, are on their cell phones, or the like, these are all considered different forms of distracted driving. Drivers who take part in these distractions can cause severe injuries and property damage to themselves and others on the road. If you have been […]

5 Steps to Take if You Get Hurt in a Car Crash ad Don’t Have Your License

Thomas Dennis / 08-30-2021 / Car Accident

Almost 20 percent of all car accidents nationwide involve a driver without a valid license. Unlicensed drivers and drivers whose licenses have been suspended or revoked are significantly more likely to be involved in fatal crashes than are licensed drivers. It isn’t smart to drive without a license because you’ll face criminal charges. Should you […]

How Can Car Accidents Affect a Driver Psychologically_

Thomas Dennis / 08-17-2021 / Car Accident

Physical injuries are not the only consequences car crash victims can face. Many car accident survivors also struggle with psychological stress, anxiety, and mental health conditions after the crash. Studies show that crash-related mental traumas can have symptoms that can be long-lasting, which is why compensation should take into account future expenses and suffering. Psychological […]

Why are Car Accidents so Common in Central Florida_

Jack Adams / 08-11-2021 / Car Accident

Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles records show there were 341,320 or car crashes in 2020. Injuries from all crashes totaled 212,531. In Orange County, 23,266, or 6.8%, of state car crashes occurred in 2020. 18.321, or 8.6%, of the state’s injuries from crashes, happened in Orange County. Car Accidents are a problem in Central Florida, […]

Determining Liability After an Accident Caused by Bad Weather in Florida

Michael Damaso / 08-06-2021 / Car Accident

Florida is one of the rainiest states in the nation, and we are currently in the rain and hurricane season. Florida has more thunderstorms and lightning strikes each year than anywhere else in the country. According to the U.S. DOT, over 1.2 million traffic crashes each year are weather-related. Most weather-related accidents happen on wet […]

How Long Will it Take to Resolve My Car Accident Claim_

Jack Adams / 07-21-2021 / Car Accident

Car accidents can uproot your daily life in an instant and inflict severe damage to your property and health. While some accidents are minor, there are many that may result from another person’s negligent actions. When you’re looking to hold the responsible party accountable and recover compensation for the damage you’ve incurred, filing a claim […]

Steps to Take after a Collision with an Uninsured Driver in Orlando

Thomas Dennis / 07-14-2021 / Insurance Claim Disputes

Getting into a collision with any driver can cause a lot of stress and frustration. However, getting into a car accident with an uninsured driver can only add to the frustration of the situation. Aside from the fact that it is illegal in Florida to drive a vehicle while uninsured, getting into a collision with […]

When Should I Accept the Insurance Company's Settlement Offer_ (2)

Thomas Dennis / 07-06-2021 / Insurance Claim Disputes

After being injured in an accident, the aftermath can leave you feeling anxious and confused. The stress of the situation can leave you wondering what your next step should be following the incident. Following your accident, you will have probably filed a personal injury claim meaning you will be, or already are, dealing with the […]

Why It’s Important to Contact Witnesses after a Motor Vehicle Accident in Orlando

Michael Damaso / 06-21-2021 / Auto Accidents

Auto accidents are traumatic, shocking, and confusing experiences for all people involved. When a driver is in shock, it could be challenging to recall the accident details. Additionally, the other party will not want to believe they were responsible for the crash and possibly blame you. Unfortunately, these cases often come down to your word […]

How to Safely Collect Evidence after an Orlando Car Accident

Jack Adams / 06-14-2021 / Auto Accidents

Immediately following a car crash, you should be focusing on your injuries and moving to a safe location. However, something many accident victims do not think about is collecting evidence at the crash scene. Evidence may help prove responsibility in injury cases, which might be vital to your claim’s success. Remember, your safety is the […]

Are Smartphones to Blame for Distracted Driving_

Michael Damaso / 06-10-2021 / Auto Accidents

Distracted driving is a significant problem on roads across the country. In fact, the CDC reports that eight people die every day because of a distracted driver. However, texting behind the wheel is just one form of distracted driving. The CDC defines distracted driving as any activity that takes a driver’s eyes off the road, […]

4 Steps to Take after a Motorcycle Accident in Orlando

Michael Damaso / 06-04-2021 / Motorcycle accident

Motorcyclists make up only 5% of all drivers, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that fatal motorcycle accidents occur 27 times more often than passenger vehicle accidents. Even the most careful and experienced motorcyclists are at risk of being in a collision. Therefore, all motorcycle drivers must know what to do after […]

Michael Damaso / 05-10-2021 / Car Accident

Car accidents are often confusing and shocking. You are most likely overwhelmed, but it is vital to think clearly. The actions you take and statements you make at the accident scene may impact your case in the coming weeks and months. While sustaining an injury because of a negligent driver does entitle you to pursue […]

8 Most Common Car Accident Injuries in Orlando and Ways to Reduce the Risk of Injuries

Michael Damaso / 05-07-2021 / Car Accident

Things are constantly changing on the road. From traffic lights to other vehicles merging, drivers need to be alert and aware at all times to avoid a dangerous collision. Unfortunately, accidents are sometimes unavoidable and can happen in an instant. Yet, a car crash in Orlando may leave long-lasting injuries. If you were in a […]

Michael Damaso / 05-05-2021 / Car Accident

According to a recent study by Teletrac, Orlando’s Interstate 4 is the deadliest highway in the nation. The study says the stretch between Tampa and Daytona Beach, which is about 130 miles long, averages approximately one death per mile. The interstate had more than 150 traffic fatalities between 2016 and 2019. The study also named […]

4 Key Differences Between Truck and Car Accident Claims

Michael Damaso / 05-04-2021 / Car Accident

There are several variables when it comes to motor vehicle accidents in Florida. Most people already understand the process behind filing a car accident claim. The injured party files a claim against the negligent driver, and they may work with an injury attorney, depending on the case. While truck accident claims mainly follow the same […]

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Michael Damaso / 01-20-2021 / Car Accident

After being involved in a car accident, you expect that your injuries and damages will be compensated by your insurance policy or the at-fault driver’s insurance company. But what happens when your car accident claim exceeds insurance policy limits? In Florida, the “no fault” auto insurance law, provides certain options in the event insurance policy limits […]

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Michael Damaso / 01-14-2021 / Slip And Fall

A slip and fall can result in serious and life-changing injuries, depending on how the fall occurred and the condition of the injured party. Falls are the most common cause of brain injuries and hip fractures. Forty percent of fatal injuries among people ages 65 and older are the result of slip and fall accidents. If you suffer a slip and […]

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Thomas Dennis / 01-09-2021 / Slip And Fall

Slip and falls occur rather frequently in grocery stores and supermarkets across Central Florida. Many of these falls are attributed to something simple like a spilled liquid, dropped food, or a bunched entrance mat. However, a fall—even from a short distance—can result in serious injuries. If you are injured at a Florida supermarket or grocery store, […]

Michael Damaso / 12-31-2020 / Product Recalls

More than 190,000 ceiling fans sold at Home Depot have been recalled due to reports of the fan blades detaching and flying off during use. The defect has resulted in personal injury and property damage, leading to the widespread recall. According to the recall notice, published by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the affected fans are the […]

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Michael Damaso / 12-29-2020 / Auto Accidents

Losing a loved one unexpectedly is always devastating but losing a loved one in an accident that was completely preventable can be even worse. One Florida woman thought her nightmare was over years after her husband was killed by a drunk driver. However, a lawsuit brought by an insurance company quickly reopened those wounds. The […]

Michael Damaso / 12-17-2020 / Theme park accidents

Injuries are a common occurrence at many of Orlando’s major theme parks. Visitors sustain injuries ranging from typical bumps and bruises to more serious injuries, such as broken bones, fractures, and traumatic brain injuries. Unfortunately, the public does not always hear about these incidents when they occur. State regulators are hoping to change that by working directly […]

Michael Damaso / 12-17-2020 / Nursing Home Neglect/Abuse

While multiple reports have been made regarding COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes, the number of deaths caused by nursing home neglect have surpassed those figures. In fact, the number of deaths caused by neglect due to the pandemic has nursing home watchdogs raising the red flag. With COVID-19 numbers continuing to rise, there is a concern that nursing […]

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Michael Damaso / 12-03-2020 / Personal Injury

Hit-and-run accidents occur at an alarming rate in Central Florida. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), approximately 25 percent of all accidents reported in our state involve hit-and-runs. Last year, there were more than 105,000 hit-and-run incidents reported, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. According to FLHSMV, between 2015 and 2019, more than 507,000 hit-and-run accidents were […]

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Michael Damaso / 11-24-2020 / COVID-19 Pandemic

Florida lawmakers are seeking to place limits on business lawsuits related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. However, leaders in the legislature differ in how they view other issues affecting businesses that may be addressed in this upcoming legislative session, including workers’ compensation insurance claims. The Senate President Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby, and Speaker of the House […]

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Michael Damaso / 11-24-2020 / Car Accident

After being involved in an car accident, even if you do not feel you have been seriously injured, it is best to be seen and evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Many clients feel sore, fatigued, and stiff after being involved in a car crash, and while these symptoms may seem minor, some can be indicative of […]

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Michael Damaso / 11-14-2020 / COVID-19

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, discussion has come about as to whether a mask mandate would be a viable option to help stop the spread. The years-long fight over seat belt laws offer perspective into how a universal mask mandate might play out. Seat belt mandates became an issue starting in the 1950s as lawmakers and […]

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Michael Damaso / 11-12-2020 / Product Recalls

A recall notice has been issued for 350,000 Ring video doorbell devices, following reports of them catching fire. The company, a subsidiary of Amazon, received 85 reports from consumers complaining about “incorrect doorbell screws” that led to 23 doorbells igniting, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The fires resulted in minor property damage and burn […]

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Michael Damaso / 11-10-2020 / Bicycle Accident

Since the start of the pandemic, bicycling has increased in popularity across Central Florida. People are buying new ones, fixing up old ones and riding more than ever before. Even though the number of bicyclists on the road has gone up, many drivers do not show proper attention to riders on the road. Riding a […]

Accident Car Crash With Bicycle On Road ,nighttime

Michael Damaso / 11-07-2020 / bicycle Injury

A bicyclist was seriously injured after being struck by a car in the Villages on Tuesday morning. According to Florida Highway Patrol, the victim was a 61-year-old man who was riding his bicycle in the golf cart lane on Hillsborough Trail, just before 7:00 a.m. The vehicle struck the man from behind, and seriously injured […]

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Michael Damaso / 11-02-2020 / Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing home abuse and neglect are a common occurrence in Florida nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Examples of abuse in nursing homes can include physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, confinement, passive neglect, willful deprivation, and financial exploitation. Nursing home abuse is a felony in Florida and there are certain laws in place to protect […]

Michael Damaso / 10-23-2020 / Insurance Claim Disputes

After being involved in a car crash in Florida, the last thing you want is for any claim you make to your insurance company for injuries or property damages to be denied. There are some instances, however, when an insurance company may deny your claim leaving you financially responsible for the accident. It helps to […]

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Michael Damaso / 10-21-2020 / Defective products

The popular at-home fitness company, Peloton, has issued a recall on approximately 27,000 of its clip-in pedals on certain bike models. The recall affects bikes that were sold between July 2013 and May 2016 that have the PR70P Clip-in Pedal. According to the CPSC recall notice, “PR70P Clip-In Pedals can break unexpectedly during use, causing laceration injuries,” and […]

Michael Damaso / 10-20-2020 / Dog bites

An attack by a dog can be an extremely traumatizing event. These incidents are often without warning and can be savage and sudden. Dog bites can result in lacerations, puncture wounds, and broken bones, as well as catastrophic injuries, including facial disfiguration, emotional trauma and even death. If you have been the victim of a […]

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Michael Damaso / 10-06-2020 / Auto Accidents

As a passenger involved in a car accident, you have as much right as the driver to recover compensation for your injuries and losses. It is important to understand these rights so that you are adequately compensated for your medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses. No Fault Insurance Florida is one of a […]

Michael Damaso / 09-30-2020 / Community Involvement

Photo Credit: Angela Gallo Photography Donation of Video Conferencing Devices to West Lakes Partnership Helps More Loved Ones Connect, More Often Video conferencing with families and friends has become a way of life for many during COVID-19, but for those living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, the simple act of seeing loved ones […]

Michael Damaso / 09-26-2020 / Car Accident

Car accidents not only result in serious injuries, they can also exacerbate pre-existing injuries or ailments the victim had prior to the crash. When pursuing a personal injury claim, it is vital to disclose any pre-existing conditions. While an insurance company will try its best to use a pre-existing injury as a way to deny […]