Learn How the Commercial
Trucking Insurance Experts at Independence Agency
Can Save your Company Thousands of Dollars!
Get A Quote
The
Importance of
Commercial Truck Insurance in Fort Myers, FL
- Let's face it - truckers in America have always been the backbone of our great country. They still are in modern times. On any given day, thousands of trucks traverse our highways and local roads, delivering goods and products on time so that businesses and consumers have what they need to live life. And while commercial trucking can be an incredibly lucrative way to make a living and put food on the table, it can also be risky and expensive.
- Whether you're the owner of a fleet, an independent trucker, or have a business that uses big rigs to transport goods, you need commercial trucking insurance to protect you and your client's investments, shield you from liability, and more.
- That's where working with a reliable truck insurance agency comes into play. Unfortunately, for many commercial truck insurance providers, serving the needs of truckers is low on the proverbial totem pole. At Independence Insurance Agency, nothing could be further from the truth.
Service Areas
The Commercial Truck
Insurance Agency in Fort Myers, FL You Can Trust
Much like you pride yourself on running a successful trucking business, Independence Insurance Agency prides itself on its years of experience providing truck insurance for hardworking men and women across the country. And in our experience, insurance rates for truckers are just too high - so high, in fact, that they eat away at their bottom line, making it more difficult to run a business and make a profit. Fortunately, at Independence Insurance Agency, we provide truckers the freedom they need from astronomically high insurance rates so they can stay on the road and keep driving America forward.
As one of the most trusted commercial trucking insurance agencies in the U.S., we understand the challenges that you face daily as a trucker. We also know how important it is to protect your business. That's why we go above and beyond to find you the best-priced coverage available, whether you're an operator, own a small fleet, a large fleet, or something in between.
We Put Truckers First Because Others Don't
Truckers across the country choose to work with Independence Insurance Agency because we put their needs first before anything else. As experts in transportation insurance, we proudly offer a range of quality insurance products that are both practical and affordable for them. Our industry-leading carriers provide coverage that caters to the unique challenges faced by the trucking industry, ensuring that your business is protected at all times.
At our core, we are committed to finding the best possible price for your coverage without compromising the quality of service you deserve. The truth is, we understand how essential truckers are to the United States and take pride in making their insurance experience more streamlined and affordable.
One way we do so is by simplifying the insurance process. Our transportation specialists take the time to understand your specific needs and budget to tailor a comprehensive plan that works for you. You won't ever have to worry about cookie-cutter plans or uninterested agents when you work with our commercial trucking insurance agency. We take an educational approach to ensure that the entire big rig insurance process is quick, painless, and easy to understand. If there's something you don't understand, we're happy to take the time to explain. After all, the success and safety of your business are on the line.
Looking to the future, we are committed to providing innovative new products that cater to the ever-changing needs of truck drivers. As your one-stop shop for commercial trucking insurance, we are dedicated to your success, one policy at a time.
If you're a commercial trucker looking to ensure your rig, you can rest easy knowing that Independence Insurance Agency provides:
- Affordable Trucking Insurance Plans for Any Budget
- Exemplary Customer Service
- Seasoned Transportation Specialists Who Customize Plans to Your Needs
- A+ Carriers Across the Country
- Simple, Easy Quote and Bind Process
- Multiple Insurance Carriers Quoted to Find You the Best Rates
- Truck Insurance for New Ventures
Call us or send us a message today to learn more about the best 18-wheeler insurance options for your trucking business.
The Commercial Truck
Common Types of Big Rig Truck Insurance in Fort Myers, FL
At Independence Insurance Agency, we offer several types of insurance coverage for local, intermediate, and long-haul trucking needs. Here are just a few categories of trucking insurance coverage that our agency offers.
As the foundation of your insurance policy, liability coverage is required by law in most states in the U.S. It provides coverage for damage or injuries caused to properties or other people if your 18-wheeler is responsible for the crash. Without liability coverage, it's almost impossible to drive a truck or run a trucking business without major legal consequences.
Having physical damage coverage is an essential component that shouldn't be overlooked. This insurance is responsible for covering the expenses related to repairing or replacing your truck in situations such as accidents, theft, vandalism, and other damaging events. By having this coverage, you can rest assured that your business won't be affected significantly by unexpected incidents, and you can continue running your operations smoothly even in challenging times.
For trucking companies, the goods they transport are crucial to their operations. To protect these goods from damage, loss, or theft while in transit, cargo insurance is essential. This coverage provides much-needed peace of mind for both you and your clients, allowing you to reimburse clients for any losses sustained while protecting your reputation and brand identity.
Non-Trucking Liability Insurance is designed to cover property damage or bodily injury that may occur during personal time when the driver/truck is not under dispatch. This coverage can be applied with or without a trailer and is added to a commercial policy as an endorsement.
While Independence Insurance Agency has built a reputation of excellence in serving the needs of truckers, we also offer general liability. Also known as Truckers General Liability, this coverage insures for bodily injuries or property damage that happen due to business activities that are NOT the cause of operating a truck. It covers accidents that occur in parking lots, rest stops, also while loading or unloading. General liability can also cover losses related to theft and vandalism. Most brokers and shippers will require this coverage to work with you.
Bobtail insurance is a type of coverage that is comparable to non-trucking liability, which is designed to offer protection when driving a truck without a trailer attached. This is commonly referred to as "bobtailing." With bobtail insurance, the tractor is covered at all times, even when it is not attached to a trailer, regardless of whether or not the truck is under dispatch.
Trailer interchange insurance is a must-have if you're involved in a trailer interchange agreement. This essential coverage offers protection for trailers owned by other parties that you're using under a contractual agreement. It covers damages caused by collisions, fire, theft, and vandalism, providing assurance to all parties involved.
Curious whether our commercial truck insurance agency in cityname, state offers additional coverage? The following options can be bound in your insurance policy:
- Business Interruption Insurance
- Reefer Breakdown Insurance
- Occupational Accident with Contract Liability Insurance
- Rental Reimbursement Insurance
- Underinsured or Uninsured Motorist Insurance
- Towing Insurance
- Electronics Insurance
- Much More
3 Safe Driving Tips to
Lower the Cost of Truck Insurance in Fort Myers, FL
Keeping your drivers safe on the road is crucial not only for their own well-being but also for the safety of other motorists and the financial stability of your business. The Department of Labor has identified the trucking industry as one of the most hazardous sectors in the U.S. In fact, trucking and logistics fleets are known for their high injury and fatality rates. By improving how safely your truckers drive, you can help reduce expenses related to claim payouts, accidents, and insurance premium hikes.
Whether you own a large fleet or you're the owner and operator of a single rig, keep these safe driving tips in mind to help lower your insurance costs.
Implement Preventative Maintenance Plans
Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
Call Now
Practice Defensive Driving
This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Call Now
Find Ways to Prevent Distracted Driving
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
Call Now
Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
Call Now
This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Call Now
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
Call Now
FAQs About
Independence Insurance Agency
If you're looking for a commercial trucking insurance agency for your business, chances are you have some questions - and we've got answers. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most commonly asked questions we hear from truckers like you.
Why go with a "jack of all trades" when you can work with specialists who focus exclusively on transportation insurance? We have excellent relationships with major trucking insurance carriers and, as such, can provide the best assistance and reasonable rates.
Typically, companies will look at claims that date back three years or less.
We proudly work with more than 20 carriers to provide our clients with the most advantageous options at competitive prices, catering to the needs of owner-operators and big fleets alike.
Permit filings are typically done by insurance companies on the next business day. Federal (FMCSA) filings are completed online and updated immediately, while some states may take up to three weeks to process.
Independence Insurance Agency: Committed to the Trucking Industry
There's no question about it - you've got to protect your staff, your rig, and your trucking business with insurance. But choosing the right insurance partner isn't always easy. Thankfully, with Independence Insurance Agency by your side, you can rest easy knowing you're covered no matter where the road takes you. If you're in need of a commercial truck insurance agency in Fort Myers, FL that caters to truckers like you, pick up the phone and contact one of our transportation specialists today. That way, you can get back on the road with confidence tomorrow.
Latest News in Fort Myers, FL
4 Things to Do in Southwest Florida this Weekend October 31 – November 3
Vanessa Buschhttps://www.fox4now.com/4thingstodo/4-things-to-do-in-southwest-florida-this-weekend-october-31-november-3
FORT MYERS, NAPLES (WFTX) — Looking to amp ???? up your weekend with some exciting events? Fox4 has you covered with "4+" thrilling that are sure to catch your interest. Experience an electrifying night at The Stage Bonita, an impactful Retro Revival Fundraiser taking back in time with CAN, a "Night of Possibilities" for children and young adults, explore a fantastic Craft Fair and don't miss all the action-packed Fox4 Sports weekend, including the thrilling Florida Panthers this Friday, exclusively with Fox4....
FORT MYERS, NAPLES (WFTX) — Looking to amp ???? up your weekend with some exciting events? Fox4 has you covered with "4+" thrilling that are sure to catch your interest. Experience an electrifying night at The Stage Bonita, an impactful Retro Revival Fundraiser taking back in time with CAN, a "Night of Possibilities" for children and young adults, explore a fantastic Craft Fair and don't miss all the action-packed Fox4 Sports weekend, including the thrilling Florida Panthers this Friday, exclusively with Fox4.
Get a jump start on your weekend by signing up for our 4 Things To Do This Weekend newsletter! Click here to start receiving this article in your inbox every week.
THE STAGE ????-Bonita Springs ????Get ready for an incredible night at THE STAGE, where the finest tribute bands are set to perform! Kicking off this evening, Friday, November 1st, is The KINGS OF SWING AND COMPANY, celebrating the legendary sounds of DEAN MARTIN, FRANK SINATRA, and SAMMY DAVIS JR. Then, on Saturday, get ready for THE FABULOUS BIG BAND GIRLS OF MOTOWN and the electrifying LADIES OF THE DISCO, paying tribute to icons like DONNA SUMMER, GLORIA GAYNOR, THE POINTER SISTERS, CHAKA KHAN, SISTER SLEDGE, and EVELYN CHAMPAGNE KING! Don’t let this opportunity slip away! At THE STAGE RESTAURANT AND FULL BAR, where you WILL indulge in mouthwatering cuisine while soaking in a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music, dancing, and refreshing drinks. Experience the perfect blend of dining and entertainment—come for the food, stay for the fun! The Stage Restaurant provides live entertainment with Tribute Bands, Dancing, Dinner & Drinks! Further Details and Show Times Here!
Retro ????????Revival!Step into the time machine with CAN and boogie down to the sounds of the 70s & 80s at our “Retro Revival” fundraiser! Let’s raise funds for Cancer Alliance Network while celebrating the iconic era of disco, funk, rock, and soul. Celebrate the iconic era of disco, funk, rock, and soul while making a difference for our local children and families battling cancer! Travel back in time and groove to the DJ's spinning tunes of the 70s & 80s at CAN's “Retro Revival” fundraiser supporting Cancer Alliance Network this Sunday, at 5pm spinning off your best 70's and 80's outfits at Kalea Bay in Naples! Prizes will be given for best dressed female, male, and couple. Join in and Make a HUGE difference for local families battling cancer! CAN is devoted to helping children and adults affected by cancer by providing financial assistance, resources, and support. CAN relies on the community and local foundations and organizations to provide assistance in supporting our mission.Further details and how you came help make a difference here!
32nd Annual Fall Craft????Fair - Ft MyersA Craft Fair You Won't Forget! TLee Civic Center located at 11831 Bayshore Rd., North Fort Myers, FL 33917 on November 2nd and 3rd, 2024. The event runs Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is $6 for cash and $7 for credit, with free entry for kids aged 12 and under. Bring a canned good to receive a $1 discount on admission, benefiting the Harry Chapin Food Bank. Explore a variety of Pinterest-inspired crafts, custom home and holiday décor, unique gifts, stunning jewelry, baby items, tumblers, homemade fudge, and gourmet treats, along with many more delightful creations including wood carvings, candles, floral arrangements, and personalized items.
**Upcoming Events BelowMark Your Calendars????**
Celebrating a Night of Possibilities????Hope shines bright as we invite you to "A Night of Possibilities" for children and young adults. This meaningful event promises to leave a lasting impression, featuring the HADC's charity dinner at T-Michael’s Steak and Lobster at 5:30 PM on November 4th. Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of those dealing with diabetes; together, we can create change. Don’t miss out— Together, we can make a difference for children and young adults facing the challenges of living with diabetes. Register now! Further details and to register here!
As always, Have a FUN and SAFE Weekend! ????
Copyright 2024 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
How to rid your home of Florida bats in time for the holidays
Chad Gillishttps://www.news-press.com/story/news/environment/2024/10/30/bat-removal-season-begins-in-florida-as-nesting-season-is-over/75915278007/
They creep out during the evening hours and flee the sky by dawn.With faces that conjure vampire movies, long pointy ears and gnarly canine teeth, bats can look like the stuff of nightmares; and now is the time to kick them out of your attic or roof as bat breeding season has ended.The fall, winter and part of spring are the only times bats can be legally excluded from structures like homes, condos and businesses.Warm-blooded mammals, Florida's 13 native bat species are protected by state law, and they may not be removed...
They creep out during the evening hours and flee the sky by dawn.
With faces that conjure vampire movies, long pointy ears and gnarly canine teeth, bats can look like the stuff of nightmares; and now is the time to kick them out of your attic or roof as bat breeding season has ended.
The fall, winter and part of spring are the only times bats can be legally excluded from structures like homes, condos and businesses.
Warm-blooded mammals, Florida's 13 native bat species are protected by state law, and they may not be removed by any method between April 16 and Aug. 14, according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission records.
Halloween season, oddly, is the perfect time to install exclusion devices on your home to rid yourself of any bats.
Love or hate them, bats can do severe damage to homes and other structures over time.
"Many bats are highly social and will roost colonially throughout the year," an FWC website reads. "During the summer, some bats will form maternity colonies that range from a few to thousands of individuals. Unfortunately, many of the characteristics of an ideal colony location occur in buildings, including attics, barns, garages or soffits, underneath shutters or roof shingles, in wall voids or behind siding or chimneys."
They also leave behind plenty of poop, or in the case of bats, guano.
But they're also heroes of the sky as they eat a lot of mosquitoes and are a part of Florida's natural ecosystem.
What to do if a bat flies inside your home
Bats can sometimes get into the living areas of your home, and when that happens you should take special precautions to not injure the bat.
"The first step in removing a bat from your home is to stay calm," the Florida Bat Conservancy says. "If the bat is flying around, it is not trying to attack anyone, it is only attempting to find a way out."
Turn on the lights in your home so the bats can see you. Bats are not blind, and they're not afraid of light.
"Next, close the doors to adjoining rooms to confine it to one room," the Florida Bat Conservancy continues. "Open any exterior doors and windows in the room the bat is flying around (more bats will not fly in). More than likely, the bat will just fly out the open door or window within a few minutes. Do not chase the bat out."
How to get bats out of your Florida home
It will take more effort to remove a breeding colony than a single bat that accidentally flew into your home or garage.
One of the first things to do is identify exactly where they're entering and leaving the structure.
More:Congressman Byron Donalds holds closed-door water meeting in Fort Myers, bars press and public
Then you can install escape devices that allow the bats to leave but prohibits them from re-entering.
There are also pest companies in the area that specialize in bat removal.
How to know if you have bats
The easiest way to determine whether or not you have bats is to sit outside your home around dusk and dawn.
If you see creatures of the night emerging from your soffit, you have bats.
More:Reporter remembers many trips to see special Florida mangrove tree at Bunche Beach
Thousands can live in a single home, and the leave evidence near their entry/exit space.
"Piles of black, dry guano are usually found under the main exit hole bats use to get in and out of a building," FWC says. "Guano can also be found lightly scattered throughout an entire structure where bats fly about but is typically concentrated in specific areas where bats spend most of their time such as a wall void or the intersection of beams and rafters."
Backyard bat houses and conservation
Not everyone is grossed out by bats, and some people construct bat houses on their property to help the various species thrive here.
The largest bat house in the world is on the campus of the University of Florida in Gainesville.
"The houses combined are designed to house about 750,000 bats," a university website says. "Occupancy varies from house to house, and depends on the time of year, but there are an estimated 450,000 to 500,000 bats in the colony living in these houses."
All 13 Florida native species are protected by state law.
Please support us by turning off your adblocker.
Get unlimited digital access, along with subscriber-exclusive content, and more.
Fort Myers Beach Council Rejects Controversial High-Rise Condominium Development
Erika Beasleyhttps://espnswfl.com/2024/10/24/fort-myers-beach-council-rejects-controversial-high-rise-condominium-development/
In a decisive move, the Fort Myers Beach Town Council has unanimously voted against a contentious proposal for a 17-story condominium project. The decision came after months of heated debates and strong opposition from local residents and environmental groups. The proposed development, spearheaded by a prominent real estate company, aimed to construct a luxurious high-rise condominium complex on a prime beachfront property. The project promised to bring in significant revenue and create jobs for the local community. However, critics argued t...
In a decisive move, the Fort Myers Beach Town Council has unanimously voted against a contentious proposal for a 17-story condominium project. The decision came after months of heated debates and strong opposition from local residents and environmental groups. The proposed development, spearheaded by a prominent real estate company, aimed to construct a luxurious high-rise condominium complex on a prime beachfront property. The project promised to bring in significant revenue and create jobs for the local community. However, critics argued that the development would have a detrimental impact on the area's fragile ecosystem, obstruct beach views, and strain the town's infrastructure.
During the council meeting, over a hundred concerned citizens voiced their objections to the project. Many expressed fears that the towering structure would irreversibly change the character of the quaint beach town and set a dangerous precedent for future developments. Environmental activists highlighted the potential harm to local wildlife, including endangered sea turtles that nest on the beach. Councilwoman Sarah Johnson, who has been a vocal opponent of the project, stated, "Our responsibility is to protect the unique charm and natural beauty of Fort Myers Beach. This development would have been a step in the wrong direction, prioritizing short-term gains over the long-term well-being of our community and environment."
Supporters of the project, including the real estate company behind the proposal, argued that the condominium complex would have brought much-needed economic growth to the area. They claimed that the development would have created hundreds of construction jobs and generated substantial tax revenue for the town. However, their arguments failed to sway the council members, who remained committed to preserving the town's character and ecological integrity.
Mayor Robert Thompson expressed his satisfaction with the council's decision, saying, "Today, we have sent a clear message that Fort Myers Beach values its natural resources and the quality of life of its residents above all else. We will continue to work towards sustainable development that respects our environment and enhances our community."
The rejection of the 17-story condominium project marks a significant victory for local activists and concerned citizens who have tirelessly campaigned against the development. It also sets a precedent for future proposals, emphasizing the importance of responsible and sustainable growth in the region. As Fort Myers Beach moves forward, the town council has pledged to work closely with the community to create a comprehensive development plan that balances economic growth with environmental conservation and the preservation of the town's unique character.
Flesh-killing bacteria cases double in Lee County following recent hurricanes
Anvar Ruzievhttps://www.fox4now.com/fort-myers-beach/flesh-killing-bacteria-cases-double-in-lee-county-following-recent-hurricanes
FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — After the two recent hurricanes, Helene and Milton, there has been an increase in cases of a dangerous flesh-killing bacteria across Southwest Florida.WATCH THE FULL COVERAGE HERE BY FORT MYERS BEACH COMMUNITY CORRESPONDENT ANVAR RUZIEV:On Fort Myers Beach, dozens of beachgoers were seen enjoying the sand, but only a few ventured into the water.“The water you always worry about that you're gonna step on something, or get scratched or whatever, and that leads to wh...
FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — After the two recent hurricanes, Helene and Milton, there has been an increase in cases of a dangerous flesh-killing bacteria across Southwest Florida.
WATCH THE FULL COVERAGE HERE BY FORT MYERS BEACH COMMUNITY CORRESPONDENT ANVAR RUZIEV:
On Fort Myers Beach, dozens of beachgoers were seen enjoying the sand, but only a few ventured into the water.
“The water you always worry about that you're gonna step on something, or get scratched or whatever, and that leads to who knows what," said one beachgoer.
The bacteria in question is called Vibrio Vulnificus, a flesh-eating disease that can be fatal within 72 hours if left untreated.
The Florida Department of Health has reported an increase in cases following the recent hurricanes, but they have also announced that swimming in Lee County beaches is currently safe. That's because danger of Vibriosis mostly comes from stagnant water, such as tide pools, canals, and retention ponds, as well as swimming pools—whether personal or at resorts.
“I've just been waiting to hear if it's clear or not,” said another beach visitor.
Despite the Department of Health's reassurance, with two confirmed cases of Vibrio in Lee County since Hurricane Helene, many beachgoers remain cautious. People are still wary, and not just of bacteria. Debris from the storms also poses a risk.
"I'm assuming this is somebody's window, we were walking along the shore and this was like in the water," said another beachgoer.
The debris found in the water has been varied and surprising. One visitor said, “I've seen something floating, I thought it was, possible weight, to one of the buoys, I went out and grabbed it, pulled it out and it was actually a 30-gallon water heater.”
Despite these hidden dangers, some people continue to enjoy the beach, unbothered by what might be lurking beneath the waves.
"The water is pretty clear right when you get in, so you can see the bottom, we didn't see anything, we've just seen sand," said one couple who got in the water.
While bacterial levels are within safe limits for swimming, Lee County officials are still urging caution. They remind residents and visitors that debris from the storms could still present hazards in the water.
Copyright 2024 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Disclaimer:
