Handling Accidents on Florida’s Waterways
Water activities such as boating and jet-skiing are some of Florida residents’ favorite pastimes, and many residents even work on boats every day. But boating can also be very hazardous, and a day on the water can turn tragic in an instant because of a careless, intoxicated, or inexperienced driver, resulting in a boating accident. If you or a loved one was injured in a recreational or work-related boating accident, you should reach out to a knowledgeable boat accident attorney today.
Boating accident cases are complex and each case has varying facts and circumstances that change the manner in which a boating accident attorney would handle your case. There are very specific time limitations for reporting different types of boating accidents and for bringing actions against responsible parties for your injuries. If you were injured due to the negligence of your employer while working upon a vessel, your case would then fall under the Jones Act and different times limitations and laws would apply. When you call Ginnis, Krathen, & Zelnick, P.A., you will speak with an experienced boat accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale. We have successfully handled recreational and Jones Act cases and want to assist you in getting the reimbursement you deserve.
Call our office today for a free consultation at (954) 905-4600, or fill out our online form. We offer client-focused service to ensure each of our clients gets the personalized attention their case deserves.
Common Boat Accidents in Florida
Because Florida is the busiest state for recreational boating in the United States, it also is known for having the most boating accidents in the country. Many dangers come with using boats, jet skis, or other watercraft on the water, including the fact that there is no age requirement for boating. Inexperienced drivers rent boats all the time and don’t know how to navigate or follow established laws. This can create a risk for both those onboard and other people on the water. Accidents can happen aboard yachts, sailboats, cabin cruisers, personal watercraft, kayaks, airboats, and more.
Some common types of boat accidents include:
- Falls overboard
- Capsizing
- Collisions with other vessels or objects
- Falls on the boat
- Sinking
- Fuel explosions or fires
- Flooding
Boat accidents can happen on any body of water, from lakes, bays, and rivers to canals and marshes or swamps. Unfortunately, drowning and near-drownings are common injuries that result from boat accidents. Near-drownings can lead to comas and serious brain damage when the brain has been deprived of oxygen. Other common injuries can include broken bones, sprains, and burns that result from falls aboard the boat or fuel explosions.
Who is Liable for Boating Accidents?
After an accident, you may be wondering who can be held responsible for the negligence that caused your injuries. Liability will depend on what kind of accident took place. For example, when two boats collide, typically one or both of the boat operators involved may be partially responsible.
Other parties that are commonly at fault for injuries after boating accidents include:
- Boat operators who cause accidents from inexperience, aggression, distraction, or from being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Boat rental companies or owners that fail to provide safety features like life jackets or fire extinguishers
- Boat manufacturers or designers, if a defective part or motor caused the accident and injuries
- Passengers, if it can be proved that a reckless or negligent passenger pushed someone, caused a fire on the vessel, or prevented a boat operator from doing their job
Call Our Team for Help Today
Why are boating accident attorneys so important? Florida’s beautiful waterways offer abundant opportunities for recreational and commercial boating. From freshwater lakes to saltwater bays, boaters, fishers, and jet skiers alike enjoy what the state of Florida has to offer. Unfortunately, many boaters will face dangers on the water at some point. The number of boating accidents and injuries is on the rise. When a negligent driver gets behind the wheel of a boat, it can be as equally as devastating as an accident occurring on land.
That is why boating accident victims need an experienced boat accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale on their side. A reputable boating accident lawyer in Fort Lauderdale will be able to aid you with navigating the legal complexities of maritime law, will have the resources necessary to investigate the accident, and will be able to efficiently advise you, all while providing you with the time and care you deserve. Additionally, personal injury cases that fall under federal admiralty jurisdiction are complicated and require legal help from an established attorney.
