Causes of Florida Boat Accidents and Injuries
With beautiful weather here in Florida, it makes sense that people go boating often. A fun activity that can provide relaxation, many enjoy spending their days on the water in Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice, and Port Charlotte, to name a few great spots. There is much proof of this leisure activity happening across other areas of the state, too. The National Marine Manufacturers Association reports that more registered boats reside in Florida than any other U.S. state.
Unfortunately, where there are many boats there is also a higher likelihood of boat accidents. Some of these boating accidents result in physical injuries and fatalities. If you or someone you love was injured in a boating accident, discuss your situation with a Sarasota personal injury attorney.
Why Boating Accidents Happen
Boat operators are legally obligated to follow laws and be aware of safety precautions. If guidelines and rules are not followed, it is possible a boat operator or owner is liable in the event of an accident.
The following are examples of boat accident causes:
- Boat operator inexperience
- Excessive speeds
- Equipment or mechanical failure
- Reckless behavior
- Dangerous waters or bad weather
- Passenger or water skier behavior
- Drug or alcohol impairment
- Obstructed sight lines
- Lack of lights on the boat
- Abrupt, sharp turns
- Waters that are congested
While there are many reasons for maritime accidents, there are a lot of examples of devastating accidents due to alcohol or drug use. Fatal accidents, according to a U.S. Coast Guard report in 2016, are often connected to intoxication. If you are boating, be sure to boat safely.
Seek Medical Care After a Boat Accident
When an accident happens, it is important that everyone’s health is assessed immediately. An injury may need to be treated right away. You can always call the Coast Guard or an ambulance if a passenger, water skier, or boat operator has sustained an injury. A report will need to be filed within 48 hours when an injury happens. If nobody was hurt but property damage occurred, a report can be filed within 10 days as well.
After an injury has been assessed, a treatment plan put in place, and a report filed, victims are better situated to recover compensation for their damages. Insurance companies may be involved in providing that compensation. When talking to an insurance company, you need to be sure your rights are being protected. A Sarasota personal injury attorney will work for you, navigating negotiations and not allowing a settlement amount to be finalized until it is fair.
If you were hurt in a maritime accident, you may experience current and future lost income, healthcare bills, and individual pain and suffering. You need a legal professional on your side to recover for those damages. Be sure as well to keep all documentation, including medical treatments, hospital bills, boat damage photos and estimates, as they are evidence in your case.
After a Boat Accident, Unleash Hale
Are you recovering from an injury sustained in a Florida boating accident? Talk to a personal injury lawyer to understand your options. The experienced Sarasota personal injury attorneys at Hale Law can help you and your family fight for your rights. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no fees or costs if we are unable to recover compensation. For a free consultation, call us anytime at 941-735-4529.
Resource:
nmma.org/press/article/18028#:~:text=The%20report%20again%20ranks%20each,813,976%20registered%20boats%20in%202010.
https://halelaw.com/what-to-expect-when-filing-a-slip-and-fall-case/
