Miami Boat Accident Lawyer

Biscayne Bay and other bodies of water surround the Miami and South Florida areas, making them a major draw for both swimmers and boating enthusiasts. However, with the density of people on the area’s waterways and bays, accidents are bound to occur. When this happens, it is important that you have an experienced Miami boat accident lawyer on your side.

Common Types Of Boating Accidents

Here are the main types of boating accidents you should be aware of:

• Collisions with other vessels: These occur when two boats crash, often due to high speeds or distracted operators. They can result in damage, injury or even death.
• Grounding: It happens when a boat strikes a shallow area, such as sandbars or underwater rocks, which can cause hull damage or leave the boat stranded.
• Capsizing: Boats may flip over due to poor weight distribution, large waves or excessive speed. This is dangerous in rough waters or small boats.
• Falls overboard: Passengers can fall into the water due to boat instability or not wearing proper safety gear, increasing the risk of drowning.

Staying informed and prepared can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable boating experience for everyone.

Causes Of Boating Accidents

Boating accidents are often the result of preventable factors. They may include:

• Alcohol use: Operating a boat under the influence impairs judgment and reaction time, making accidents more likely.
• Inexperience: New boaters can lack the skills to handle emergencies or tricky conditions, leading to accidents.
• Distractions: Anything that diverts the operator’s attention, such as cell phones or conversations, can result in missing hazards or other vessels.
• Weather conditions: Poor weather, including strong winds, fog or storms, increases the chances of accidents due to reduced visibility and challenging waters.
• Equipment failure: Faulty engines, broken safety equipment or navigation system malfunctions can leave boaters vulnerable to accidents.

Recognizing and addressing these causes of boating accidents can reduce your risk on the water.

Steps To Take After A Boating Accident

A boating accident can be overwhelming, but knowing the proper steps to take immediately can help minimize injuries, damage and legal complications.

• Immediately check for injuries and try to ensure everyone’s safety.
• Report the accident to the Coast Guard or local authorities.
• Take photos and gather witness statements to help with insurance claims or legal matters.
• Exchange contact and insurance details for further communication if other boats are involved.
• Seek medical attention.

Following these steps after a boating accident can help protect lives and ease the compensation process.

Recovery For Recreational Boating Accident Injuries

Boating accidents are generally governed by the general maritime law of the United States, as well, and are based upon negligence causes of action.

Michael F. Guilford, P.A., has years of legal experience in handling boating accidents and other admiralty and maritime cases for clients across the area. I strive to see that my clients receive personalized attention that is specially tailored to meet their goals and my realistic assessment of the possible outcomes.

Collisions and inexperienced operators are two of the major factors that contribute to watercraft accidents. In some cases, only the individual operator is liable for the damages. However, in cases where boats and Jet Skis are rented, the rental operator may also be held liable if certain conditions are met.

Rules Of The Road Violations

Just like a street, there are markers on the water indicating which areas of the water are open to boating traffic. As such, a boater must abide by these boundaries in order to ensure the safety of other boaters and swimmers. However, when boaters do not follow the markers or fail to give signals to indicate their direction, serious accidents can occur.

Contact An Experienced Miami Boat Accident Lawyer Today

Contact a Miami recreational boat injury lawyer who can stand up for your rights and pursue compensation for any losses and/or injuries you have suffered. The law offices of Michael F. Guilford, P.A. offers a free initial consultation and flexible appointment times. Call 855-446-4995.