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Hernando County Personal Injury Lawyers | Whittel & Melton, LLC | Spring Hill, Brooksville

There are few things more devastating than suffering from serious injuries or the death of a loved one as the result of another person’s negligence. Many injury victims are overwhelmed after an accident and feel helpless with nowhere turn. There are many things to do, and often it is impossible to figure out where to start.

We are here to help. The Hernando County Personal Injury Attorneys at Whittel & Melton can guarantee that you receive the personalized attention you and your family need. Our number one priority is to help injured victims throughout Spring Hill and Brooksville receive the representation they deserve. While we cannot take away the pain you feel now, we can do everything in our power to get you full and fair compensation for your losses.

Offering Commitment to Our Clients in Spring Hill and Brooksville

Our Hernando County personal injury practice handles every type of injury case, from serious car or motorcycle accidents to slip and falls. If you are wondering if you have a case, contact us today to discuss the facts of your claim with a free consultation. Our Hernando County Personal Injury Lawyers can share with you your options in seeking financial recovery following a serious accident, catastrophic injury or the wrongful death of a loved one here in Spring Hill or Brooksville.

At Whittel & Melton, you can be confident that we stand behind you and your case. We will never put you or your claim on the back burner. Rather, we will strategically deal with the responsible parties involved and their insurance companies to obtain justice for you and your loved ones. Simply put, we will not be satisfied until you are. Whether through financial settlement or trial, we will prepare your case to achieve maximum compensation.

A free consultation with the Hernando County Personal Injury Lawyers at Whittel & Melton can start you towards gaining the compensation necessary for a complete recovery. You will never be responsible for any attorney’s fees unless and until there is a successful financial recovery for your damages. Our firm’s phone is answered any time, day or night, so contact us today.

We are proud to help accident victims throughout Hernando County - Spring Hill, Brooksville, Ridge Manor, Weeki Wachee, Hernando Beach, Masaryktown.

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The Wall Street Journal has reported that Hurricane Ian will likely result in legal disputes between Florida home insurers and homeowners who are trying to piece back together their lives following the 155 mph winds from Ian that resulted in forceful ocean surges and detrimental downpours.

Industry experts predict that the trend will be for home insurers to avoid payouts by blaming flood damage and not wind and other damage covered by homeowner’s insurance, as flood damage is excluded from standard homeowner’s policies.

Millions of Americans nationwide, not just in Florida, do not have separate flood insurance policies, and the majority of those that have purchased flood insurance policies reside in coastal areas.

Experts also believe that Hurricane Ian will drive Florida-based insurance companies into bankruptcy. This year already, six small Florida-based insurers were pushed into insolvency, and numerous others have stopped writing new policies. This will only make it harder and costlier for Floridians to obtain property insurance.

Untitled-design-8-169x300According to records from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, after Hurricane Irma ran its course through Florida in 2017, insurance companies denied about 30 percent of the nearly 1 million claims filed. After Hurricane Matthew in 2016, the denial rate for Florida property insurance claims was about 40%.

Recovery from Hurricane Ian will likely be very difficult and delayed due to inflation, high interest rates, costs of repairs (labor and materials), and other pending litigation. Storm damage claims from Hurricane Ian are projected to take more than a year to resolve.

Now that Hurricane Ian has passed, you may be wondering how to start the repair and rebuild process in Spring Hill, Brooksville, or elsewhere in Hernando County. While insurance companies are juggling numerous claims right now, the sooner you gather all your necessary documents and submit your claim, the better.

Steps to Take Now that Hurricane Ian Has Passed Continue reading

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If you were stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina for 30 days between August 1953 and December 1987, you may have been exposed to toxic water resulting in decades of harm.

If you lived or worked on MCB Camp Lejeune from 1953-1987 and were affected by the tainted water supply, but you reside in Hernando County and are wondering how to get started with a claim, then it may benefit you to speak with our Hernando County Injury Lawyers at Whittel & Melton as we are currently taking on cases for victims of Camp Lejeune who were exposed to toxic chemicals and water contamination while on the military base.

Biden Signed the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 into Law August 10, 2022

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The Fourth of July weekend is upon us and you will probably be celebrating with friends and family enjoying fireworks, swimming, grilling, or even boating. This summer holiday boasts many fun traditions, but as with all fun, there are also inherent dangers.

This is why our Hernando County Injury Lawyers at Whittel & Melton encourage you to plan ahead this holiday weekend and celebrate in Spring Hill and Brooksville responsibly.  Here are our top 5 safety tips for ringing in Independence Day 2022:

  1. Red-and-Blue-Banner-Fourth-of-July-Facebook-Post-300x251Leave the fireworks to the pros: Every year thousands of people are harmed in fireworks accidents. Most people think Fourth of July fireworks, like sparklers, are pretty much safe, but even these tiny sparks can reach temperatures of temps of 1,800 degrees. In addition to serious burn injuries, fireworks can result in devastating property damage and fires that can lead to death. If you would like to encourage fireworks this Fourth of July, then we encourage you to go visit a professional show – you can view the awesome displays all while avoiding an unnecessary injury. If you still feel the need for some sparklers, then make sure you peruse what is legal in accordance to the State Fire Marshal.
  2. Grill safely: Grilling accidents can happen to even the most seasoned “grill masters.” In fact, grilling injuries affect about 20,000 Americans every year. If you plan to fire up your grill this holiday weekend to prepare your own Independence Day feast, then please follow these tips:
  • Prevent the spread of germs and wash your hands and all grilling tools before you handle any food.
  • Fat buildup can accumulate with every use and cause a fire, so clean your grill before and after you use it.
  • Gas leaks are common, so check any hoses for cracks that could lead to an unexpected leak. Open your grill lid before you ignite your grill.
  • Grill in an open area that is away from your home and other structures, including trees, as being in enclosed spaces or near trees can easily cause a fire.
  • Grills can cause splatters to your patio and other surfaces, so place a grill pad underneath your grill to catch any spills.
  • All children, pets, and anyone drinking should be kept away from a grill for safety purposes.
  • If you are not using your grill, make sure it is completely shut off and stored appropriately. It is also a good idea to disconnect and store all propane tanks in a cool place that is away from the sun.
  1. Party responsibly: The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, and if you plan to drink, then do so responsibly. If you are hosting a party, do not serve alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. On that same note, make sure you have water and food for guests to help with the metabolism of alcohol. Take any keys away from guests who are inebriated and maybe have a guest room available for them to sleep it off or call a cab or download a rideshare app. If you are out at a bar or restaurant celebrating, then have a designated driver picked out to get you home safe. You can also plan to use a rideshare app or cab to get you home safe.
  2. Boat safely: If you are going to be on Bayport, Jenkins Creek, Hernando Beach Boat Ramp, Weeki Wachee/Rogers Park, Hunters Lake, Lake Lindsey, Lake Townsen Boat Ramp, Mountain Lake, or Withlacoochee/Nobleton over the Fourth of July weekend, then follow these tips:
  • Look at weather conditions before you get out on the water in case there are high winds or a thunderstorm rolling in.
  • Never drink and drive a boat – you can be arrested for doing so and this is just not safe. You should also limit all passenger’s consumption of alcohol to prevent any unnecessary accidents or injuries.
  • You will want to let a friend or family member know what your boating plans are in case something happens someone knows where you are.
  • Make sure everyone on the boat is wearing a lifejacket that fits.
  1. Be safe when swimming: It is very common for people to beat the heat of the Fourth of July by swimming at lakes, beaches, and swimming pools. Drowning accidents are a top cause of death in children under the age of 15. If you are going to be swimming this holiday weekend, then remember the following tips:
  • Never leave children unattended around water. Drowning and near drowning accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Never assume that a lifeguard or someone else is watching your child. Be alert and ready when children are in or near water.
  • No one should run around a swimming pool – slip and fall accidents can happen very easily.
  • If your children are using flotation devices, then make sure you are purchasing ones that are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. While these may be pricier than other floaties, cheaper ones tend to not perform well and could malfunction.
  • Do not dive into shallow waters – this can result in traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord trauma.

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There is a problem spot at the intersection of Linden and Coronado that Spring Hill residents claim is the culprit of more than two dozen accidents.

Speeding drivers running the stop sign has caused multiple cars to crash into yards and property of neighboring homes. A few weeks ago, a driver took out a nearby fence and smashed into a tree.

Residents believe that part of the problem is that the sun blocks the stop sign in the late afternoon hours. Speed is believed to be an issue at night.

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A cancer diagnosis can be very difficult news and something that is life changing. Perhaps the only thing harder to fathom than being diagnosed with cancer is finding out that your cancer was not properly diagnosed and you have had a delay in treatment. A cancer diagnosis is very serious and when your doctor is able to find it and accurately diagnose it, they can get you proper treatment with the hopes of fighting the cancer and extending the longevity of your life. Sadly, cancer misdiagnoses happen all the time.

Why Are Cancer Misdiagnosis’ So Common?

Many things can result in a misdiagnosis. The most common cause usually starts with a misread tissue sample from the pathology department. Other common causes of misdiagnosis are symptom confusions that are linked to other ailments when they are actually signs of cancer. This is why it can be very important to get a second opinion if you are experiencing any health concerns. Whether your initial diagnosis is positive or negative, you have the right to get more than one doctor’s opinion.

Common Misdiagnosed Cancersdoctor-g52196958c_1920-300x200

When it comes to beating/treating cancer, early detection is crucial. The most common misdiagnosed cancers are lymphoma, breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, and skin cancers.

When a doctor has misdiagnosed your cancer, they have kept you from getting the treatment that you desperately need to survive. Sadly, a misdiagnosis can mean a treatable early-stage cancer has now moved on to a more late-stage or possible terminal cancer.

No matter what stage your cancer has been diagnosed, it is vital to get treatment as soon as you learn about your diagnosis. Speak to your doctor about your options, and as we mentioned previously, get a second opinion. Even if you like your doctor and feel they are competent, a second opinion is still a good idea as diagnostic mistakes are very common among medical professionals.

What Steps to Take Following a Cancer Misdiagnosis

If you or a loved one has experienced a cancer misdiagnosis, it is likely that you do not know what you need to do. If you think that your healthcare provider was negligent and breached their duty of care, then you should contact our Hernando County Medical Malpractice Lawyers at Whittel & Melton right away so that we can evaluate your case. Depending on specifics of your case, you may be entitled to financial compensation for medical bills, all expenses related to the misdiagnosis, funeral costs and burial expenses, lost income and more. Continue reading

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When you make the decision to place a loved one in the care of a nursing home, you want to be sure that the facility you have selected is providing quality care to their residents. The sad truth is that many nursing homes have staff that will neglect or abuse vulnerable residents left in their care. Our Hernando County Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers at Whittel & Melton want you to keep your eyes open to any of the red flags explained below when you are visiting nursing homes and making your selection. We can help you and your family when a loved one in a nursing home Spring Hill or Brooksville is being mistreated.

  1. wrist-watch-ga9fedbe05_1920-300x125Staff Cannot Answer Your Questions: When you are shopping around for a nursing home, it is an excellent idea to have a list of questions ready for the staff. If they cannot answer your questions, or seem reluctant to answer, then this is a definite red flag. On that some note, if you have a loved one in a nursing home already and have concerns about bedsores, weight loss, or sudden behavioral changes, then this could be a warning sign that your loved one is being mistreated.
  2. Staff is Overwhelmed: If staff members appear to be rushing around and overwhelmed, then this is another red flag. This can mean a facility is understaffed or that their staff is not properly trained to care for their residents. Staff that is chaotic and frenzied can also mean that they lack proper leadership, and that administration is not touching base with staff about patient care.
  3. Turnover Rates are High: This often means that the nursing home does not have adequate staff or perhaps untrained staff. If when you visit your loved one you notice new faces, then this could mean the facility has high staff turnover, which is a big red flag that something is amiss.
  4. Staff Interactions with Residents are Concerning: If you notice a staff member yelling at or treating a resident unkindly, then this is a huge red flag that something bad is happening. If they are treating a resident badly, then this means that they could do the same to your loved one. Similarly, if you notice call lights on for lengthy periods of time or if your loved one says that they do not want to be cared for by a specific staff member, then this is definitely a warning sign for abuse or neglect.

Contact Our Hernando County Nursing Home Abuse and Negligence Attorneys at Whittel & Melton Continue reading

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In June 2021, Philips CPAP, BiPAP and ventilator machines were recalled for potentially toxic foam called PE-PUR that could degrade and be inhaled or ingested by users resulting in serious damage to the nervous system and other organs and even cause cancer.

Philips began replacing their nearly 15 million devices that were recalled in September 2021. But now the FDA has flagged another issue with the replacement foam.

Philips started replacing the PE-PUR foam with a silicone-based foam, and the FDA has now said that the silicone foam used in a device outside of the United States has failed a safety test for what is called volatile organic compounds or VOCs.

pillows-g979174480_1280-300x200The FDA did say that they have yet to conclude whether the silicone foam poses any risks to users in the U.S.

The agency has ordered Philips to conduct independent testing on their new silicone-based foam and will inform the public of the results when they become available.

The FDA has also said that people who have already received their replacement devices should not stop using them.

What Devices Have Been Recalled?

  • E30 (Emergency Use Authorization)
  • DreamStation ASV
  • DreamStation (ST, AVAPS)
  • SystemOne (ASV4)
  • C Series (ASV, S/T, AVAPS)
  • OmniLab Advanced Plus (In-Lab Titration Device)
  • SystemOne (Q Series)
  • DreamStation (CPAP, Auto CPAP, BiPAP)
  • DreamStation GO (CPAP, APAP)
  • Dorma 400,500 (CPAP)
  • REMStar SE Auto (CPAP)
  • Trilogy100
  • Trilogy 200
  • A-Series BiPAP Hybrid (A30) – not marketed in the United States
  • A-Series BiPAP V30 (Auto)
  • Garbin Plus, Aeris, LifeVent
  • A-Series BiPAP A40
  • A-Series BiPAP A30

If you have used any of the above recalled devices and suffered from asthma and asthma attacks, upper respiratory infections, migraines, nausea and vomiting, whooping cough, or lung and kidney cancer, then there could be a connection. You may very well be entitled to file a lawsuit against Philips for financial compensation through a personal injury claim or by joining a class action lawsuit. Let our Hernando County Phillips CPAP, BiPAP and Ventilator Machines Device Recall Lawyers at Whittel & Melton help you understand your rights.

Contact Our Hernando County Phillips CPAP Device Recall Lawyers at Whittel & Melton Today

Lawsuits are starting to flood in seeking compensation for injuries and illnesses linked to Philips manufactured defective devices. Our Philips CPAP Machine Recall Lawyers at Whittel & Melton are here to help you recover just compensation from using a dangerous breathing machine developed by Philips. You may be eligible to recover money for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We can manage your case on your behalf and make sure that you get what you are fairly entitled to under the law. Continue reading

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Hurricane Ida has left Louisiana and the Gulf Coast without power, roads blocked, and no running water or sewage for what could be days to weeks. Many are still unable to return to their homes and wondering what could be next for them. Hurricane Larry is next in line and the East Coast is expected to see severe swells. Our Hernando County Hurricane Lawyers at Whittel & Melton encourage everyone to keep up with weather alerts and have plan ready in case of an emergency.

At the start of every hurricane season in June the National Weather Service names the hurricanes for the season alphabetically. The letter “I,” is the ninth letter of the alphabet so that means Ida was the ninth storm of the season, and “L” is up next with Hurricane Larry. Just like Hurricane Ida, Hurricane Larry is anticipated to bring major damage. Hurricane Larry will be the third major hurricane that is a Category 3 or higher, following Hurricane Grace and of course, Hurricane Ida. Just like Ida, Larry is growing more intense rather quickly, gaining 35 mph in wind speed in 24 hours or less. It is expected that Larry will brush Canada by the weekend and bring disturbances later in the week to

northern Florida and southern Georgia. Hurricane Ida quickly went from a Category 1 Hurricane to a Category 4 Hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which does not leave people with enough time to properly protect themselves from a storm that increased from 85 mph to 150 mph in less than 24 hours.

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A recent motorcycle vs. SUV collision in Spring Hill resulted in the tragic death of a 27-year-old man. 

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the 27-year-old Spring Hill man was riding a motorcycle when he collided with another man driving an SUV. The FHP alleges the motorcyclist was speeding and weaving in and out of traffic. 

The biker was taken to a local hospital to be treated for his injuries, but passed away. The driver of the SUV was not harmed. 

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Elder abuse happens more often than you may think, and often goes unreported. Sadly, at least 5 million senior citizens suffer from elder abuse every year in the United States, according to the National Council on Aging (NCOA). 1 in 10 senior citizens over the age of 60 suffer from abuse, and only 1 in 14 cases are reported to police. The elderly that have suffered abuse are at a 300% higher risk of death compared to those 60+ that have not been harmed or mistreated. 

What Constitutes Elderly Abuse? 

Elder abuse can be many things, including: 

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Contact Information
Main Office
And Mailing Address 11020 Northcliffe Blvd
Spring Hill, FL 34608
Phone: 352-666-2121
Alt: 866-608-5LAW (5529)
Fax: 352-556-4839
Toll Free in Florida:
866-608-5LAW (5529)
Consultations
Available
Pinellas
5107 Central Ave
St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Phone: 727-823-0000
Fax: 727-898-2001
Citrus County - Inverness
111 W Main St, #303
Inverness, FL 34450
Phone: 352-726-0078
Citrus County - Crystal River
600 SE US Hwy 19
Crystal River, FL 34429
Phone: 352-726-0078
Hillsborough
4401 W Kennedy Blvd #250
Tampa, FL 33609
Phone: 813-221-3200
Lake - Sumter
123 N Florida St
Bushnell, FL 33513
Phone: 352-793-9330
Marion - The Villages
510 Co Rd 466 #201W
The Villages, FL 32159
Phone: 352-369-5334
Fax: 352-556-4839
Alachua - Levy
5215 SW 91st Terrace
Gainesville, FL 32608
Phone: 352-264-7800
Palm Beach
3700 Airport Rd, #401
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Phone: 561-367-8777
Pasco
5318 Balsam St #A
New Port Richey, FL 34652
Phone: 727-847-2299
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