The Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro, P.A. - August 2022

Soak in the Sun With No Worries PROTECT YOUR BELONGINGS

The best part of summer vacation is definitely spending time at the beach. It’s a great place to relax while soaking in the sun and dipping your toes in the water. One thing that can be a hassle, though, is protecting your valuables. With so much traffic on the sand, it’s an easy place for someone to scoop up a bag or snag

can ease your mind. You could even bury your waterproof bag in the sand for extra protection. Disguising Valuables One great way to hide smaller valuables, like keys or cash, is to disguise them in food packages. Items such as Cheez-It boxes or cans of Pringles are a sneaky way to divert attention away from your belongings. If someone just so

a phone that’s sitting on a towel. Here are a few helpful tips to keep your valuables safe while you enjoy the beach. The Pros of the Lifeguard Tower Something as simple as sitting near a lifeguard tower can deter potential thieves. Since lifeguards have a clear view of the area, they’ll be able to spot suspicious-looking people who are creeping too close to your belongings. If there isn’t a tower nearby, consider sitting near a pier. Your items are less likely to be stolen where there are more witnesses.

happens to creep by your spot, it’s unlikely they’ll grab a snack as they look for valuables to steal. Someone to Watch Your Belongings If you don’t have acquaintances nearby, find someone who appears trustworthy to watch over your things — families with children may be a safe option. This isn’t an ideal tactic, since it requires you to have a bit of trust in human kindness from a complete stranger. Or you could possibly leave belongings at a restaurant or bar you frequent.

Waterproof Accessories Who says you can’t be stylish on the beach? Wearing a waterproof waist pouch or carrying a waterproof dry bag can create a greater sense of security. Knowing your valuables are right there floating with you

Spending vacation at the beach doesn’t need to be stressful. The risk will always be there, but these options can reduce the chances of someone stealing your valuables

and can ease your mind while you relax.

What to Do When Police Don’t Show AFTER CALLING 911

What should you do if the police don’t show up? Typically, when an officer shows up at the scene, they will fill out an accident report and document the scene. Fortunately, in Florida, if the police don’t come, you are allowed to self-report your accident in lieu of a law enforcement officer completing the accident report. If you plan to file a personal injury claim, gather as much evidence as you can to help recover the compensation you deserve and prove liability after you file. Consider gathering the following: • Images or video of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, weather/ road conditions, and traffic signals • Witness statements and/or contact information • Contact information, names, driver’s license, insurance information, and any other pertinent information from other parties involved in the accident

As many know, one of the first things to do when you’re in an auto accident is call the police to the scene. But in some cases, they take too long or fail to show up to the accident altogether. This isn’t uncommon, but have you ever wondered what you are supposed to do if this is the case? Here are the next steps to take. When should you report the accident? According to Florida Statute 316.056, a driver should report their accident if it results in injury, death, or property damage of at least $500. In that case, if you fail to report the accident, you will be charged with a nonmoving violation. Why would the police not come? According to the National Emergency Number Agency, roughly 240 million 911 calls are made in the U.S. each year, which is about 658,000 calls a day. With this number of emergencies, it is clear that there are several genuine reasons why the police would fail to show up at an accident scene. It is important to note that the police are less likely to show up at an accident scene when it is minor or involves no injury or damages. Some people do call a separate nonemergency number, but depending on various things like available resources, the police can still fail to show up, even if the accident is major that involves substantial damages or serious injuries.

It is crucial to have a skilled attorney by your side, especially if the police fail to show up at the scene of your accident. Contact us at (239) 649-8050 so that our car accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro can help.

2 • www.AttorneyShapiro.com

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