A relaxing day on a boat can quickly take a devastating turn when an accident occurs that may have caused injury or damage to the boat. In the aftermath, you may feel overwhelmed by injuries, mounting medical bills, and questions about what to do next. It’s easy to feel lost, but understanding your rights can help you regain a sense of control. Whether you’re seeking medical care, navigating insurance claims, or considering legal action, knowing how to protect yourself is the first step toward finding the support and justice you need.
Florida’s waterways offer countless opportunities for recreation, but accidents can quickly turn a day of fun into a stressful legal situation. Understanding your rights is critical after a boating accident. At Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso, and Dennis, P.A., we have decades of experience helping Floridians navigate complex injury claims. Whether you were injured as a passenger, operator, or swimmer, we may be able to help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
What Are Your Rights After a Boating Accident?
Boating accidents can turn a fun day on the water into a life-altering experience. Whether you were injured as a passenger, operator, or swimmer, it’s important to understand your rights and what steps to take to protect your wellbeing and pursue compensation.
Prioritize Your Health and Safety First
After an accident, the most important thing is to get the medical attention you need. Even if you think your injuries are minor, your health is the most important thing. Your health is the most important concern after a boating accident. Some conditions, like internal injuries or concussions, might not show symptoms right away but can become serious if untreated.
After ensuring everyone’s safety, report the accident to the appropriate authorities. In Florida, boat operators are required to report accidents that involve serious injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) or local law enforcement. These steps ensure that proper documentation is created for any future legal claims.
Understanding Florida Boating Laws
Under Florida law, boat operators must adhere to certain limits and restrictions for their own safety and that of others. These laws include speed limits for certain areas, rules that prevent operating a vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and requirements for proper safety equipment like life jackets and fire extinguishers.
When an accident occurs, the law requires that boat operators provide assistance to anyone injured and exchange contact and vessel registration information. Failing to follow these laws could lead to penalties and may affect liability in an accident. If you suspect someone violated boating laws and caused your injury, this could strengthen your claim.
Determining Fault in a Boating Accident
Liability in a boating accident depends on identifying who was negligent. Negligence occurs when someone fails to act with reasonable care, such as operating a boat recklessly, failing to follow safety regulations, or boating under the influence.
Common parties that may be at fault include:
- Boat operators: Responsible for maintaining safe navigation and following laws.
- Boat owners: If the vessel was poorly maintained, they could share liability.
- Manufacturers: Faulty equipment or mechanical failures might point to product defects.
Understanding who is at fault is critical to filing a successful claim for compensation.
Compensation for Your Injuries
If someone else’s negligence caused the boating accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Potential damages include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
In order to secure the compensation you deserve, it’s important to consult with an experienced boat accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Why Working With an Attorney Is Essential
Boating accident claims can be complex, especially when multiple parties or insurance companies are involved. An attorney can help by:
- Investigating the accident to determine fault
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
- Representing you in court if a fair settlement isn’t reached
With more than 50 years of experience, the attorneys at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso, and Dennis, P.A. have the expertise to handle your boating accident claim.
Why Choose Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso, and Dennis, P.A. for Your Boating Accident Claim?
At Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso, and Dennis, P.A., we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of a boating accident. With over 50 years of experience representing individuals across Florida, we have the skills and resources to guide you through this challenging time. Our team has successfully handled cases involving boating accidents, helping clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
We take pride in our dedication to clients, offering personalized legal strategies and aggressive representation when necessary. If you’re ready to take the first step toward recovering damages, contact us today at (407) 843-7060 or through our contact form.
Legally Written and Reviewed by a Managing Partner
Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis, P.A.
Our content is written and reviewed by our founding attorneys Butch Wooten, Orman Kimbrough, Mike Damaso, and Tom Dennis. Helping the injured since 1966, they’ve successfully handled thousands of personal injury cases across Florida. Whether you’re a Florida resident or an out-of-state visitor injured in Florida, we’re dedicated to providing clear and reliable information to help you navigate your legal options confidently.