Fractured Bones in Boat Accidents

Florida is surrounded on three sides by water, and it is no wonder that many residents and tourists partake in boating activities across the state. However, being a passenger or operator of a boat means running a risk of injuries, including fractured bones in boat accidents. Some of these accidents are unavoidable, but many, unfortunately, are due to someone’s negligence. When a victim suffers a fracture, or broken bone, in a boating incident, their medical bills and other costs of recovery can be vast. If negligence is the cause of such an injury, the proper parties should bear responsibility for these costs. Miami boat accident attorney Robert Dixon helps those who have been injured either while onboard or otherwise in relation to a boat accident pursue the proper legal action. Depending on where the boat accident occurs, differing and specialized maritime law could be involved. It is important to have a knowledgeable and experienced legal advocate on your side to protect your rights in these situations. The Law Offices of Robert Dixon represents clients in Miami, as well as throughout South Florida. If you have questions about your legal options in the aftermath of a boat collision, please contact our office and set up a free, no obligation consultation with a lawyer today.

Whether interacting with a vessel as a passenger, swimmer, or otherwise, when a boat operator is negligent, injuries such as fractured, or broken, bones are likely. Fractured bones in boat accidents commonly involve a victim’s legs or arms, especially if an overboard situation arises. In these instances, victims may suffer displaced fractures, where a bone breaks in more than two places. Displaced fractures often result from a sudden impact that causes the multiple breaks. Serious fractures can also lead to tissue and nerve damage in the areas surrounding the broken bone. Additionally, skull fractures and traumatic brain injury can also affect a boat accident victim.

Fractures can be treated with realignment and immobilization procedures. Immobilization such as casts or braces are used for smaller breaks, while more elaborate measures such as traction are used for more severe cases. Metal rods or screws can also be used in treatment to stabilize a break. Some of these implementations could be permanent depending on the type and location of a fracture. Boat accident victims can face numerous painful procedures and often have to take time off of work to recover. When another’s negligence causes these consequences, they should be held legally accountable.

Boating accidents leading to fractured bone injuries can occur in a variety of manners. Two vessels might collide with each other, or a boat might hit a stationary object such as a dock. Alternately a victim can be injured due to a slip-and-fall accident due to a crewmember’s failure to follow proper protocols to keep passengers safe.

The majority of boat accidents happen because a boat’s owner, operator or crew has acted negligently. Negligence is shown when there is a breach of an owed duty of reasonable care that causes injury and results in damages. Maritime regulations, as well as Florida law, dictate that vessel owners and operators owe anyone on board the duty to act as a reasonable and prudent person would in the same or a similar situation in accordance to industry standards. This duty extends to ensuring the proper inspections of a vessel take place as well as routine maintenance. A duty of reasonable care also means that boat operators cannot be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while driving the vessel. When a victim suffers a fracture as a result of negligence onboard a vessel, they can recover damages for past and future medical expenses, loss of income, as well as diminished income capacity if there is a permanent impact on a victim’s ability to make a living.

Boating is supposed to be a fun leisure activity. However, when someone onboard a vessel acts carelessly, victims can face serious injuries. Attorney Robert Dixon is dedicated helping these victims receive the financial compensation they need. At the Law Offices of Robert Dixon, we can assist in investigating the circumstances leading up to your accident. We are also committed to following through with any necessary litigation so that your rights are fully represented. If you’ve suffered a fracture as a result of a boating accident, please call our Miami office at 877.499.4878 or contact us online to schedule a free, no obligation consultation to learn more about your legal options.