Kissimmee Florida Personal Injury Law Blog

As a backhoe operator, it's imperative to follow safety protocol at all times. One mistake, even a small one, can result in serious injury to you and/or others on the job site.

Here are seven backhoe safety tips you never want to forget:

• Locate all underground and overhead utility lines: You don't want to work in close proximity to these, as contact can result in electrocution.
• Watch for slopes: Operating a backhoe on a slope can result in it tipping.
• Inspect the equipment before use: If you neglect to do this, you could end up using a backhoe that is defective or damaged in some way.
• Secure all attachments: If you're using any type of attachment with your backhoe, be sure it's securely attached before starting the job.
• Training is a must: If you have any questions about how to use a backhoe, ask for guidance and training before pushing ahead with the job.
• Don't allow others to ride on the backhoe: This isn't a car, so you shouldn't use it to transport other workers.
• Watch for workers on foot: If you don't, you could accidentally strike someone, thus causing a serious injury or even death.

If you are part of a car crash, you may immediately feel like your life has been turned upside down. This is particularly true if you're dealing with injuries and/or major damage to your vehicle.

Despite all the stress, there are a few key steps you can take after a crash to keep you on track:

• Check yourself and passengers for injuries: This is priority No. 1, as your health is the one thing you can't buy.
• Move to safety: If your vehicle is capable, move as far off the road as possible. Doing so reduces the likelihood of being part of another accident.
• Call 911: Unless police arrive before you have a chance to do so, you'll want to call 911. If there are any injuries, make it clear that you need an ambulance.
• Document the accident: In addition to exchanging information, write down your events of what happened. You can also take photos of your injuries and damage to your vehicle.
• Contact your insurance company: You may not be able to do this right away, especially if you're heading straight to the hospital, but don't wait too long to make the call.

As an outdoor worker in the state of Florida, you know that warm weather is the norm. You also know that rain can move into the area without notice, thus changing the way you approach your job.

There are many steps you can take to work safely in wet weather, with these five among the most important:

• Wear the right gear: From nonslip shoes to gloves, be sure that you always wear gear to protect against an accident.
• Move slowly: You may not want to do it, but slowing down when working in wet weather is a must.
• Use the right equipment: There may be certain types of equipment that you can't use in wet weather. There's never a good time to take a risk.
• Make it easy to see: For example, you may need to wear goggles when working in the rain. If you don't, seeing what you're doing can be difficult.
• Make yourself seen: You want others to be able to see you at all times, even when the rain is coming down in buckets. Wearing bright-colored clothing, for instance, is one of the best ways to make this happen.

If you are unable to work due to a medical condition or injury, you understand how overwhelming this can be for your Florida family. When you cannot work, you cannot support yourself or your loved ones, and it can cause serious financial distress. It can be very important to secure financial support through a Social Security disability claim. 

It is not easy to get the benefits you need through a claim with the SSA. In fact, many initial claims come back denied. This can be disheartening and overwhelming, but in reality, it is rather common. Fortunately, you have several options available to you by which you can fight back. You may still be able to claim the benefits you need and deserve.