Florida is renowned for its stunning beaches, bays, and lakes. However, it also holds the unfortunate distinction of leading the nation in boating accidents. If you have been seriously injured in a boating crash, the boat accident lawyers at FGB Law Firm are here to assist you.

With extensive knowledge and years of legal experience, our seasoned litigators specialize in personal injury cases and are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Don’t hesitate to contact FGB Law Firm to speak with one of our Florida boating accident attorneys today for a consultation regarding your case.

Boating Accidents In Florida

Being a Florida personal injury firm, we have witnessed the inherent dangers of boating. Unfortunately, many boaters fail to recognize the seriousness of this activity, engaging in reckless behavior such as drinking and boating, speeding, and negligence. If you have been injured in a boating accident, our team of experienced boat accident attorneys is here to assist you. Don’t hesitate to contact us for help with your claim

Florida Boating Laws And Regulations

The state of Florida has relatively few restrictions on operating watercraft. The minimum age requirement to operate a boat in Florida is just 14 years old. Most individuals are not obligated to possess a boating license or undergo formal training or water safety courses to operate a watercraft in the state.

The Most Common Types of Boating Accidents In Florida

Frequent instances of boating accidents in Florida waters include:

  • Watercraft collisions
  • Jet ski accidents
  • Colliding into fixed objects, such as docks and piers, buoys, rocks, sandbars, or other submerged objects
  • Flooding and sinkings
  • Capsizing
  • Wake damage
  • Falling overboard
  • Slips and falls
  • Fires or explosions
  • Drownings
  • Propeller accidents

Accidents Involving Jet Skis In Florida

While recreational boats are typically associated with watercraft accidents, it is important to note that jet skis are also frequently involved in boating accidents in Florida. Jet skis are incredibly popular watercraft in the state and can be easily rented by individuals with a driver’s license. However, it is crucial to recognize that negligent operation or maintenance of jet skis can result in significant danger, particularly when collisions with other watercraft occur.

Seeking Accountability For Boating Accidents

If you have been injured in a boating accident, you have the option to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the party you believe to be responsible for the incident. The accident could have been caused by the boat operator, owner, or boat manufacturer. By establishing the defendant’s liability, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries.

In numerous boat accident cases, the responsibility for the accident lies with the boat operator. It is crucial for operators to exercise caution in order to prevent harm to others. A breach of this duty of care occurs when an operator fails to act in a manner that a reasonably prudent operator would under similar circumstances, such as by speeding or neglecting proper lookout. If you can demonstrate that the operator’s failure to exercise caution resulted in your injuries and damages, you have the right to hold the operator accountable for their negligence.

If the boat operator was intoxicated or under the influence of drugs during the accident, you may base your claim on negligence. This means that the defendant violated a statute that imposes a duty of care to protect others around them. In Florida, operating a boat while under the influence is a criminal offense. If the operator was drunk or drugged at the time of the accident, they are considered negligent according to the law. However, you still need to demonstrate that the operator’s negligence caused your injuries in order to seek compensation.

If the boat operator is not the owner, the boat owner may be held responsible for negligent entrustment. This occurs when the owner was aware, or had reason to believe, that the person operating the boat posed an unreasonable risk of harm to others, yet still allowed them to operate it.

If a boating accident occurs due to machinery or mechanical malfunction, you might be able to hold the product manufacturer responsible for your injuries. Strict liability applies if the product had a manufacturing or design defect when it entered the market, making it unreasonably dangerous for users. Contact our boating accident lawyers in Port Charlotte, Florida today if you’ve been injured.

Possible Recoverable Damages

If you’ve been injured in a boat accident, you have the right to seek compensation. Your recoverable damages may include lost wages, medical expenses, and compensation for pain and suffering. It’s important to note that you must initiate your lawsuit within four years from the date of the accident.

In the heartbreaking circumstances resulting in a loved one has passed away due to a boating accident, you have the option to pursue a wrongful death claim. This legal action could potentially provide compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and other damages, including the loss of companionship. It’s important to note that the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years.

Contact FGB Law Firm Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a jet ski or boat accident due to someone else’s negligence contact FGB Law Firm today, we’re here to help. Use our online consultation form or call 941-979-9010.