Most people know that while the lying in the sun and the resulting suntan can feel wonderful, too much time on the beach can be dangerous to one’s health. When most people think about the dangers associated with spending time at the beach it has to do with the long-term effects of the sun, not from being hit by a motor vehicle. Being involved in a car accident however is a reality that Miami beachgoers need to be aware of.
There are special rules in place which some vehicles to drive on the sand. Nonetheless, accidents still occur. In the past, beachgoers have been hit by both an ATV and a SUV. Earlier this month, two sunbathers were hit by a Ford-F150 as they soaked up the Miami sun.
At the time the accident occurred, shortly after 4:00 p.m., the man driving the pickup truck was in the process of doing his job. Employed by beach vendor Boucher Brothers, he was closing things down for the day. As he made his way down the beach he gathered umbrellas and chairs and closed cabanas. It was as he drove on the beach at Seventh Street that he hit the man and the woman lying in the sand.
Both were injured in the incident and were taken to Mount Sinai Medical Center for treatment. The extent of their injuries is not known.
The man driving received a citation for careless driving. It is possible however that the episode will not end there. The two Miami Beach residents who were hit by the pickup could sue him in a personal injury lawsuit. Among other things, they may be able to recover compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages and medical bills.
Source: The Miami Herald, “Two sunbathers struck by work truck in Miami Beach,” Julie K. Brown, Nov. 7, 2011