Boat Accident Lawyer in South Florida
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boats are a popular form of recreation. However, accidents on the water are unfortunately also common in Florida. In many boat crashes, it is the operator of the vessel who caused the accident. This person may be held liable in a negligence lawsuit if he or she acted carelessly. Unfortunately, Florida is also the state with the most boat accidents. In 2013, 736 collisions were recorded, with 420 injuries and 62 fatalities. Boat operators, occupants, and swimmers were all among the individuals hurt or killed as a result of these accidents.
We proudly represent clients throughout Florida, including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Orlando, and surrounding communities. Whether you are dealing with a minor crash or a devastating collision, our team has the experience and resources to protect your rights.
Fast Legal Answers for Boat Accidents in Florida
What types of accidents can occur on boats?
Boat accidents can range from vessel collisions (with other boats, docks, or submerged objects) to onboard incidents such as slips, falls, fires, overboard falls, or even exposure to hazardous substances on cargo ships or cruise liners
What are some common causes of boating accidents?
Negligence is a frequent cause this could be due to operator inattention, lack of experience, speeding, intoxication (BUI), or ignoring navigation rules. Equipment failures and environmental conditions like sudden storms or poor visibility also significantly increase risk
What injuries can result from a boat accident?
The list is wide-ranging and can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, burns, lacerations, drowning, hypothermia, and even emotional trauma like PTSD
Who can be held liable in a boat accident case?
Liability may extend to multiple parties:
The operator or captain of the vessel;
The owner or company responsible for vehicle maintenance or commercial operation;
Manufacturers in cases involving defective equipment;
Public or commercial entities if duty of care is breached
Can I still file a claim if I’m working on the boat?
Yes. Crew members injured in the course of their duties may be covered under maritime laws like the Jones Act or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, while passengers may pursue traditional personal injury claims
What steps should I take after a boat accident?
Seek immediate medical attention even minor injuries may worsen. Report the incident to relevant authorities or investigators (e.g., the MAIB in the UK), gather evidence such as photos or witness statements, and consult a lawyer experienced in marine cases early
Why is legal help important in boating accident claims?
Boat accident cases can involve complex liability, multiple defendants, and maritime-specific regulations. Attorneys can help collect evidence, consult with expert witnesses, liaise with insurers, and ensure you receive fair compensation
Can I sue the manufacturer if the accident was caused by a defect in the boat?
Yes. If the accident resulted from a flaw in the design or manufacturing of the boat or one of its components, you may pursue a product liability claim. Manufacturers are held strictly liable when their defective products create an unreasonable risk and cause injuries.
What does “strict liability” mean in boat accident cases?
Strict liability means that an injured person does not need to prove the manufacturer was negligent. If the boat or its parts were defective and the defect caused the accident, the manufacturer is automatically responsible for the resulting injuries.
What must I prove to win a negligence lawsuit against a boat operator?
To succeed in a negligence claim, you must establish four elements:
The operator owed you a duty of care.
The operator breached that duty (for example, by speeding or failing to pay attention).
The breach directly caused the accident and your injuries.
You suffered measurable damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Does Florida law treat boating under the influence the same as drunk driving?
Yes. Florida law makes it illegal to operate a vessel while intoxicated, just as it prohibits drunk driving on the road. If an impaired boater causes an accident, they may face both criminal penalties and civil liability for the damages they cause.
Do I still need to prove damages if the operator violated boating laws?
Yes. Even if negligence per se applies, you must demonstrate that the operator’s unlawful conduct directly caused your injuries and that you incurred actual damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
How do I know if my claim falls under negligence or product liability?
If your injuries were caused by the careless actions of the boat’s operator, your case will likely fall under negligence. If a defect in the boat’s design, parts, or manufacturing contributed to the accident, then a product liability claim may be appropriate. In some cases, both claims can be pursued simultaneously.
What types of damages can I recover in a boating accident case?
Victims may recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage. In cases involving gross negligence, punitive damages may also be available.
Why Hire The Law Offices of Robert Dixon in FL
- Decades of Experience: Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling Florida personal injury cases.
- Client-Focused Advocacy: We are dedicated to protecting accident victims and their families at every step.
- No Win, No Fee: You don’t pay unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
- Proven Results: We have a strong track record of successful settlements and verdicts.
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