Every year, tens of thousands of fans flock over the sunshine coast of South Florida only to behold the high stunts and tactics that are showcased during the Fort Lauderdale Air and Sea Show. While such annual event is so much popular, crowded areas, complicated arrangements and changing conditions could lead to severe injuries and mishaps at any time. In the event you or your loved at the Fort Lauderdale Air and Sea Show fall victims of an accident, there is a need to involve the legal system to ensure that you get compensated and the responsible parties are held accountable for their negligence.
COMMON CAUSES OF INJURIES AT LARGE PUBLIC EVENTS
Despite the fact that air and sea shows are usually organized in a very cautious manner, they still have risks. These events have the potential of causing various risks due to the size of the events and the closeness of the spectators to aircrafts, water crafts and large equipment. The causes of injury at the Fort Lauderdale Air and Sea Show include the following:
- Crowd-related incidents: Accidents such as stampedes, some people getting crushed or falling due to congested places or poor control of entry and exit zones.
- Trip and fall accidents: People may trip on uneven ground, loose cables, clutter, or a lack of boundaries, particularly at vendor tents or temporary bleachers.
- Debris or equipment failures: Items used in the setup of events or from aircraft demonstrations are unintentionally likely to hit people who are watching.
- Heat-related illnesses: The hot temperatures in South Florida, the lack of shade, and the availability of water may lead to heat exhaustion or dehydration.
- Boat accidents: Given that many spectators are watching the event from private boats, maritime collisions and slip-and-falls, on wet decks are also frequent.
When any of these accidents happens, victims may sustain various types of injuries – from mild sprains and fractures to head injuries severe enough to lead to death.
WHO MAY BE LIABLE FOR YOUR INJURIES?
The issue of liability of an injury resulting from a public activity such as the Fort Lauderdale Air and Sea Show may prove challenging. Several parties may be partly or wholly to blame for what happened, including:
- Event Organizers and Promoters
Organizers have a duty to manage or organize the event with due care. This involves the control of crowds, emergency management, the maintenance of the site, and engagement with law enforcement. If they fail to provide a safe environment and respond appropriately to foreseeable danger, they run a risk of being prosecuted for injuries.
- City or Municipal Authorities
The government, whether it is Fort Lauderdale or a different government body, engaged in permitting, security, or set up, might also be liable in the event that bad supervision or care for public areas played a role in the injury.
- Vendors or Contractors
Temporary food stalls, merchandise booths, stage setup or rented bleachers can be run by third parties. In the event that unsafe equipment or negligent workers caused an injury, those vendors could be held accountable.
- Private Property Owners
Some of the spectators may watch the show from neighboring businesses, hotels, or condos. In case an individual was injured on private property for unsafe conditions, it may be appropriate to file a premises liability claim.
- Boat Operators
If you sustained your injury while watching such an event from a watercraft (such as the boat), then the owner or operator of the boat can be held liable if he or she was negligent, intoxicated, or did not follow appropriate safety procedures.
LEGAL OPTIONS FOR INJURY VICTIMS
Following an injury in a public event, the capacity to claim compensation will depend on the specific situation and who is to blame. Potential legal claims may include:
- Premises liability: If unsafe conditions or negligence in maintenance resulted in the accident.
- Negligence: If one party did not exercise reasonable care and such carelessness caused your injury.
- Product liability: If faulty machinery or goods caused your injury.
- Maritime law: In the case of your injury occurring on the water or near the water, certain maritime legislation might apply.
A successful claim can help you recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Rehabilitation and long-term care
WHAT TO DO AFTER AN INJURY AT THE AIR AND SEA SHOW
If you or a loved one has been injured at the Fort Lauderdale Air and Sea Show, the following actions can be taken to protect your rights:
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health is the priority. Even if you think your injuries are minor, see a medical doctor. Some injuries such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be apparent at first.
Document the Scene
Take pictures of where the injury was sustained – any hazards, signage (or lack of signs), the surrounding area, etc. Gather contact information of any witnesses that observed the incident.
File a Report
Depending on the location of the injury, you may be able to report to event staff, law enforcement or property manager. This establishes an official record of the incident.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Representation
If you receive a call from an insurance company, be careful. It is their aim to make the payout as low as possible. Never allow recorded statements or accept settlement offers without first consulting an attorney.
Speak with a Personal Injury Lawyer
Confusing liability and overlapping jurisdictions make it necessary to consult with an attorney familiar with both Florida law of personal injury and laws related to liability for an event. A competent lawyer will investigate the incident, determine evidence and fight for you for full and fair compensation.
CONCLUSION
Just because the Fort Lauderdale Air and Sea Show which is supposed to be a celebration of aviation and maritime excellence does not mean that safety must come second. All event organizers, property owners and service providers are under a legal obligation to protect the attendees. If you have been injured because of someone else’s negligence, then you can seek justice.
If you have been injured at Fort Lauderdale Air and Sea Show, time is of the essence, literally. You need to take timely actions in terms of legal redress. Our team is willing to investigate your case, single out all parties who are liable for compensation, and advocate for what is due to you. Contact us today for a free consultation and we will help you take the next steps with confidence.