Boating in Florida is not just a pastime, it’s a way of life. Practically all year round, many of us, both residents and tourists, flock to The Sunshine State to immerse ourselves in the joy of being on the water. Florida is a boater’s paradise with its significant bodies of water on three sides and almost 1,700 rivers crisscrossing the state.
Unfortunately, boating accidents are not uncommon. The Florida Boating Accident Statistical Report lists 735 reportable accidents in 2022 and 659 in 2023, underscoring the need for awareness and caution. Boating accidents can involve numerous parties, and determining responsibility can be complex. Further, boating accidents may require special jurisdictional pleadings when filing a lawsuit. Who is liable in a boating accident? Parrish & Goodman, Attorneys at Law, take a closer look.
Causes of Florida Boating Accidents
Florida boating accidents involve all types of watercraft, including motorboats, fishing boats, jet skis, sea doos, sailboats, pontoon boats, yachts, charter boats, tour boats, and more. Common causes of watercraft accidents include:
- High speed
- Intoxication
- Careless operation
- Recklessness
- Hazardous conditions
- Dangerous weather
- Improper safety equipment
- Poor maintenance
- Overloading
- Inexperience
These factors can all contribute to an accident and result in serious injuries. One of the most common boating accidents is a boat colliding with another boat, object, or person.
Who Is Liable In a Boating Accident?
After a boating accident, it’s essential to establish liability to recover compensation for any injuries. You have the option to file a lawsuit against the negligent driver of another boat or the boat you were on if their actions led to the accident. In such cases, the boat owner’s liability insurance typically covers damages resulting from the accident.
Other parties who could be responsible for boating accidents include:
- Boat rental company
- Boat captain or guides
- Boat manufacturer
- Boat passengers
- Boat towing companies
Florida boat accident attorneys play a crucial role in establishing liability for the accident and injuries. Parrish & Goodman, Attorneys at Law, conducts thorough investigations by collecting evidence like police reports, witness accounts, medical records, and photographs or videos of the accident site. Thorough investigations and detailed analysis of the accident and relevant factors are essential to creating a powerful case for compensation.
We can also negotiate with insurance companies to secure rightful settlements; however, we are prepared to pursue your case in the courts if necessary.
What Compensation Is Possible in a Florida Boating Accident?
Once we establish liability in your Florida boating accident, Parrish & Goodman can help you pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. You may recover damages for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Disability
- Disfigurement
- Physical rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of quality of life
- Wrongful death
Florida law places no cap on the amount of measurable economic and non-economic damages you could receive after a boating accident. Victims of boating negligence are subject to statutes of limitations, meaning that they are limited in the amount of time they have to bring a claim for remuneration. Delaying action for too long could result in the courts dismissing your claim. Moreover, calculating non-economic damages is difficult, so you need an experienced personal injury lawyer in your corner.
Partner with a Leading Florida Boating Accident Attorney
If you have been or become injured in a Florida boating accident, contact Parrish & Goodman, Attorneys at Law, at (833) 467-4529. We have convenient offices in Naples and Ft. Myers, and our lawyers offer a free consultation to review your case. You are under absolutely no obligation after your case review. Florida residents and guests are welcome to contact us for more information and a free case review. Contact us by phone or online and schedule your confidential consultation today.
