Miami Maritime & Boat Injury Lawyer

Miami, renowned for its vibrant maritime scene, is a hub for admiralty activities, including boat and cruise ship operations. However, amidst the allure of the sea, accidents can occur, impacting both crew members and guests. The Law Offices of Michael F. Guilford, P.A. focuses on these types of injuries and the Miami maritime industry. Most of our cases occur along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, but our clients — passengers and crew members who suffered serious injuries — hail from every state and every nation. Contact our experienced Miami maritime & boat injury lawyer today, we can help.

Florida Maritime Law

Trust your admiralty and maritime case to the skilled lawyer at the Law Offices of Michael F. Guilford, P.A. Listed below are a few of the types of matters which I confidently handle. To discuss any of these, or other, admiralty- and maritime-related issues with me, contact a lawyer at Law Offices of Michael F. Guilford, P.A., today.

Passenger Claims – I handle a range of claims involving the injuries passengers sustain while aboard a cruise ship. These cases include slip-and-fall accidents, dram shop liability, falling objects, shore excursion accidents, and tender operation accidents.
Seamen/Crew Claims – Injury, death, maintenance and cure, and wage claims made by crew members often fall under the jurisdiction of The Jones Act and General Maritime Law of the United States. I am fully versed in the language of these seaman’s rights and remedies and can effectively communicate their details and effects to our clients.
Cruise Ship Assault/Sexual Assault – I strive to provide thorough representation for individuals that have experienced a physical or sexual assault aboard a cruise ship. It is often possible to seek a claim against both the cruise ship company and/or the individual.
Yacht Crew Accidents – Yacht crews are entitled to the same protections as other seamen. I can help you seek action against the owner of the yacht to ensure that your injuries are compensated and/or your wages are paid according to guidelines set forth by The Jones Act and General Maritime Law of the United States.
Recreational Boating Injuries – Whether you were injured by a boat or Jet Ski, our firm can assist you in pursuing compensation for the injuries you suffered from the owner/operator of the vessel or the rental company.

I also handle specific admiralty and maritime cases that include elements of catastrophic injuries or wrongful death.

Safety Precautions for Crew and Servicepeople

Training and Certification: Crew members and service personnel must undergo comprehensive training and hold relevant certifications to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills to handle emergencies effectively. This includes training in fire safety, first aid, and emergency evacuation procedures.

Regular Safety Drills: Conducting regular safety drills allows crew members to familiarize themselves with emergency procedures and enhances their response capabilities during critical situations. These drills should simulate various scenarios, including fire outbreaks, man overboard situations, and medical emergencies.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Providing crew members with appropriate PPE, such as life jackets, helmets, and safety harnesses, is essential for their safety, particularly during adverse weather conditions or when performing high-risk tasks like maintenance and rescue operations.

Communication and Coordination: Effective communication among crew members and service personnel is paramount for ensuring a coordinated response to emergencies. Clear communication channels should be established, and crew members should be trained to use communication equipment proficiently.

Vigilance and Risk Assessment: Crew members should remain vigilant and conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards on board. Reporting any safety concerns promptly allows for timely intervention and mitigates the risk of accidents.

Guest Safety

Safety Briefings: Cruise lines and boat operators must provide comprehensive safety briefings to guests upon embarkation. These briefings should cover emergency procedures, location of life-saving equipment, and assembly points in case of evacuation.

Safety Features and Equipment: Guests should have access to life jackets and be made aware of their location and proper usage. Additionally, safety barriers, handrails, and non-slip surfaces should be maintained to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

Supervision and Assistance: Crew members should be readily available to assist guests, especially those with mobility issues or special needs, to ensure their safety throughout the journey. Adequate staffing levels and trained personnel are essential for providing assistance when required.

Monitoring Weather Conditions: Cruise operators must monitor weather conditions closely and take necessary precautions to avoid sailing during adverse weather. Guests should be informed about itinerary changes and potential risks associated with inclement weather.

We Don’t Waste Your Time

In Miami’s bustling maritime environment, prioritizing safety is imperative for crew members, service personnel, and guests alike. By implementing robust safety measures, conducting regular training drills, and fostering a culture of vigilance and preparedness, the risk of accidents can be significantly reduced. Whether it’s ensuring crew members are well-trained or providing guests with adequate safety information, a collective effort is essential to maintain a safe and enjoyable maritime experience in Miami.

We are not a high-volume law firm. Michael Guilford selects cases where he can do the most good. We never lead clients on or raise false hopes. The approach is always straightforward and personal, cost-effective and geared toward a single objective — winning for you. Contact our effective Miami boat accident attorney today, we have years of experience helping all types of clients. You can discuss your case in a free initial consultation with a member of our firm. Flexible appointment times are available along with home and hospital visits, in the event that your injuries prevent travel to our office. Call 866-473-2636.

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