Working with a Boating Accident Attorney

Boating Accident Lawyer in Pompano Beach, FL

Being involved in a boating accident can be a very stressful and scary situation. South Florida is no stranger to these accidents. With over 3,000 miles of coastline, thousands of waterways, and over 1,000,000 registered vessels as of 2023, South Florida witnessed more than 800 boating accidents in 2023 alone. Our experienced boating accident attorneys of Pompano Beach are here for you.

Unlike car accidents, boating accidents can be extremely complex. At LJW Legal, boating accident claims are one of our many areas of expertise. When you or a loved one falls victim of a boating accident, reach out to the attorneys at LJW Legal to start fighting for the compensation you deserve.

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Pompano Beach Boating Accident Claims

Boating accident claims can help you fight for compensation for your losses after such a traumatic event. Filing a boating accident claim gives you and the victims involved in the accident the opportunity to fight for compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.

Boating accidents can result in severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, concussions, broken bones, and in some cases, death.

Types of Boating Accidents

Boating accidents can be the result of negligence, distractions, reckless vessel operation, inexperience, and more. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of boating accidents in South Florida:

Careless Operation of a Boat: In many cases, boat captains operate the boat in a negligent manner that can lead to an accident. Reckless operation of a vessel includes allowing boat passengers to sit in inappropriate places, splashing other boats, violating low wake rules, failing to maintain a safe distance from other boats, and so on.

Excessive Speed: Like on roadways, boats and all other watercraft must maintain a safe speed. When a boater loses control of the watercraft due to excessive speed, it can lead to a serious accident.

Boating Under the Influence: All boat operators must obey the same laws as a driver behind the wheel of a car. No one should be driving a boat impaired due to alcohol or another controlled substance.

Inexperienced Boat Driver: When the boat driver lacks the skills or experience to operate a boat safely, this can lead to an accident.

Boat Passenger Recklessness: In some cases, the responsibility of a boating accident falls on the passengers. It is important for all passengers to be seated while the boat is moving.

Severe Weather: It is the boaters’ responsibility to check the weather forecast and create a plan that details where and when you’ll be boating. Choosing to operate under bad conditions can lead to a serious accident.

In some cases, a boating accident can also be the result of a boat malfunction, in which you can pursue a claim against a manufacturer or a boat mechanic.

What about Jet Ski Accidents?

Jet Skis are also considered a watercraft, and being involved in a Jet Ski accident can also cause substantial damage. Usually, these cases fall under Jet Ski driver negligence. However, in some cases, other boaters, Jet Ski malfunction, and weather conditions can contribute to events leading up to the accident.

Who’s Liable?

When it comes to Jet Ski accidents, in most cases the rider is responsible. However, boating accidents are different scenarios. And for both of these accidents, multiple parties may be held accountable. Determining who is liable in these situations can be complex, which is why working with a boating accident attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

For example, these are some individuals that may be liable for a boating accident:

The person who operates the boat in a negligent manner
The person operating another boat causing an accident
Reckless passengers on the boat

How does Florida Maritime Law Work?

Build Your Boating Accident Legal Team

If you or someone you know is involved in a boating accident, you can recover compensation for your damages. A thorough understanding of Florida Maritime Law can help shape your case.

For example, the issue with Florida Maritime Law is that operators older than 30 are not required to have boating licenses, which means many boating operators don’t even have to undergo a boating safety course. This allows inexperienced boaters to remain on Florida waterways.

Likewise, one thing many boaters don’t realize is that when a boating accident occurs on a public waterway, the incident falls under federal admiralty jurisdiction. So, having a legal team experienced in both State and Federal law can help to file the proper claims.

Since a separate set of laws applies to boat accidents, seeking help from a Florida personal injury and maritime attorney who understands the right standards and procedures is essential for your case. Not to mention, you need someone that’s qualified to practice in federal court with valid experience to support your claim.