Boynton Beach Boat Accident Lawyer
South Florida is synonymous with boating. The state’s coastlines and inland waterways are a haven for boaters from all over the world. As with any vehicle, however, handling a boat in an unsafe or reckless manner can lead to an accident that seriously injures or kills an innocent person. The Boynton Beach boating accident lawyers at Steinberg Law are here to help those victims, and their families, obtain just compensation for their losses.
Did a Reckless Boater Cause Your Accident?
There is sometimes a misconception that just because a boat is on the “open water,” the operator need not pay as much attention as someone driving a car. That is not the case. All watercraft must follow strict navigation rules and safety procedures in order to avoid potentially catastrophic accidents.
Indeed, many Boynton Beach boating accidents are the direct result of a failure to abide by the “rules of the water.” Some common examples include:
- operator inattention, e.g., failing to stay alert to their surroundings for people and other vessels in the vicinity;
- operating a boat at excessive speeds, which can make it more difficult to avoid obstacles or individuals in the water;
- reckless operation of a boat, such as weaving between other vessels or making sharp turns, which create a heightened safety risk;
- operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which is just as illegal as driving a car under the influence; and
- failure to properly maintain the boat and its safety equipment.
Under Florida law, the owner of a boat or other watercraft may be strictly liable for an accident caused by an operator they entrusted their vessel to. Of course, the negligent operator can also be held responsible. Additionally, if there is evidence of any defect in the design or manufacture of the boat or any of its safety equipment, a boating accident victim may have a Florida product liability claim against the manufacturer.
Contact Steinberg Law Today
Following any boating accident, your first step should be to move to a secure location and call 911 if anyone appears to need immediate medical attention. The law also requires you to notify the Florida Wildlife and Conservation Commission or local law enforcement of any boating accident that results in death, serious personal injury, or property damage exceeding $2,000.
And if you have suffered any personal injury, you should contact a qualified Boynton Beach boating accident lawyer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, loss of income during your recovery, and your ongoing pain and suffering following the accident.
Keep in mind that unlike auto accidents, Florida boat accidents are not covered by any kind of “no-fault” insurance. Nor does the state mandate owners of private watercraft maintain any minimum level of liability insurance. That said, most boat owners do carry some amount of insurance, especially if the vessel is financed or leased.
So if you would like to speak with a Boynton Beach boating accident lawyer today, contact Steinberg Law to schedule a consultation.
