Boating is, of course, an incredibly popular pastime in Florida, but injuries caused by negligent actions do occur. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a boating accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses. At GOLDLAW, we are here to assist when you need a Port St. Lucie boating accident attorney. We understand boating laws, and our Port St. Lucie personal injury lawyers have years of experience and a record of success in handling challenging injury claims throughout this area. Let us get to work on your claim today. Contact us now.
Choose GOLDLAW for Help After a Boating Accident
- Extensive experience. Our team has years of experience handling boating accident claims in Florida and understands the intricacies of maritime law.
- Thorough investigation. We conduct comprehensive investigations to gather all necessary evidence, including witness statements, accident reports, and expert testimonies.
- Personalized attention. We provide individualized attention to every client we serve, ensuring your unique needs and concerns are addressed.
Boat Accident Liability – Who Will Be Held Responsible?
Your Port St. Lucie boating accident attorney will have to prove liability for the incident and several parties may be held responsible, including:
- Boat operators. Negligence by the operator, such as speeding, operating under the influence, or failing to follow safety regulations, can lead to accidents.
- Boat owners. Owners may be liable if they did not maintain the boat properly or allowed an unqualified person to operate it.
- Manufacturers. If a defect in the boat or its equipment caused the accident, the manufacturer might be held responsible.
- Other passengers. In some cases, passengers who behaved recklessly or distracted the operator may share liability.
Types of Compensation That May Be Available After a Boating Accident
Victims of boating accidents in Port St. Lucie may be entitled to compensation. This includes both economic and non-economic damages:
- Economic damages. These are tangible (calculable with documents, receipts, invoices, etc.) costs that can be quantified, such as:
- Medical expenses. Covers hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost wages. Compensation for the income lost due to inability to work during recovery.
- Out-of-pocket losses. Any losses you incur as a result of the injuries and recovery process.
- Non-economic damages. These cover intangible losses, such as:
- Pain and suffering. Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Emotional distress. Damages for psychological impacts like anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
- Loss of enjoyment of life. Compensation if the injury chances your ability to perform daily activities and hobbies.
Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Your Claim After a Boating Accident
Taking immediate action after a boating accident can significantly impact the success of your claim. Here are steps you can take:
- Seek medical attention. Prioritize your health by getting a thorough medical examination, even if injuries seem minor.
- Document the incident. Take photographs of the accident scene, any visible injuries, and damages to the boat and other property.
- Collect information. Gather contact details from all involved parties and any witnesses.
- Report the accident. Notify local authorities and file an official accident report with the U.S. Coast Guard.
- Avoid discussing the accident. Do not provide statements to insurance companies or post details on social media without consulting your attorney.
- Contact a Port St. Lucie boating lawyer. Reach out to GOLDLAW as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected and to begin building your case.
Boating Accidents in Florida
This state, and this area, are no strangers to boating accidents. Arguably one of the favorite pastimes for FL residents and visitors alike, boats are everywhere. Unfortunately, boating accidents do occur due to a wide variety of reasons, often due to the negligent actions of the person operating the boat, the owner of the boat, or other parties who are responsible for boating maintenance or operation. Some of the main causes of boating accidents include:
Operator Inattention. Many accidents occur because the boat operator is not paying full attention to the waterway, often distracted by passengers, electronic devices, or other activities. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, operator inattention is one of the leading causes of boating accidents nationwide (DOL).
- Improper lookout. Failing to maintain a proper lookout can result in collisions with other boats, objects, or even people in the water. It is crucial for operators to stay vigilant and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
- Operator inexperience. Inexperienced boaters may lack the necessary skills and knowledge to handle their vessels safely, especially in challenging conditions. This can lead to accidents such as capsizing, collisions, and grounding.
- Speeding. Excessive speed is a common factor in boating accidents. High speeds reduce the operator’s reaction time and increase the severity of collisions. It is important to adhere to speed limits and adjust speed according to weather and traffic conditions.
- Alcohol use. Boating under the influence of alcohol is a significant cause of accidents. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, making it dangerous to operate a boat.
- Weather conditions. Severe weather conditions, such as high winds, storms, and fog, can create hazardous situations on the water. Boaters should always check weather forecasts before heading out and be prepared to return to shore if conditions deteriorate.
- Mechanical failure. Equipment failure or malfunction can lead to accidents, especially if the vessel isn’t properly maintained. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to ensure that all parts of the boat are in good working order.
- Navigational rules violations. Ignoring or not understanding navigational rules can lead to collisions and other accidents. Boaters must be familiar with and adhere to all relevant waterway rules and regulations.
Information from the US Coast Guard shows that there were a total of 619 boating accidents recorded in Florida during the most recent reporting year of data available, 2023. Out of these incidents, 54 were fatal.
Paying for a Boating Accident Lawyer
At GOLDLAW, we believe that financial concerns should not prevent you from seeking justice. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you. This allows you to focus on your recovery without the added stress of legal expenses.
Contact a Boating Accident Lawyer in Port St. Lucie Today
If you have sustained an injury in a boating crash or incident caused by the negligence of someone else in the Port St. Lucie area, reach out to the team at the Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb, P.A. (GOLDLAW) for help today. We have no problem standing up to any other party involved in your claim, including insurance carriers or other legal teams. Our goal is to help you recover the money you need to move forward. When you need a boating accident attorney in Port St. Lucie, you can contact us by filling out our contact form or calling us today.
