Palm Beach Gardens Boat Accident Lawyer
A day out on the water is supposed to be fun. Unfortunately, when a boating accident occurs, fun quickly gives way to a potential catastrophe. Accidents involving both motorized and non-motorized watercraft often result in fatal or life-altering injuries. And in many cases, the accidents were the direct result of negligence by the boat operator or a third party.
The Palm Beach Gardens boating accident lawyers at Steinberg Law are here to provide assistance following such a tragic event. We represent boating accident victims and their families in seeking compensation from the legally responsible parties. While money cannot undo the damage that has been done, it can provide you with a measure of financial security as you face a long and difficult road to recovery from your boating accident.
The Role of Negligence in Florida Boating Accidents
In a personal injury claim arising from a boating accident, the plaintiff–the person who suffered an injury or loss–must prove that the defendant was negligent. In simple terms, negligence is when you fail to exercise the care that a reasonable person would under similar circumstances. With respect to boating accidents, negligence usually comes down to one of the following issues:
- Speeding — Just as with land-based vehicles, operating a boat at excessive or unsafe speeds makes it harder to control the vehicle and avoid potential collisions. Never assume that the “open water” means a boater does not need to operate at a safe speed.
- Recklessness — In addition to speeding, many negligent boarders engage in risky behaviors that are more likely to cause an accident, such as wake jumping or “racing” other boats.
- Distraction — Boating requires an operator’s full attention. If a boater is distracted by their phone, checking their equipment, or talking with passengers, they can easily miss seeing another boat or navigational hazard they need to avoid.
- Impairment — Boating while intoxicated is just as reckless–and just as illegal–as operating a car under the influence. Indeed, intoxication due to alcohol or drugs is often more problematic while boating as outdoor conditions can intensify the effects of impairment.
- Overloading — Boats have weight limits, and for good reason. Operating a boat that is too heavy, either with too many people or too much gear, increases the risk of capsizing or swamping. Additionally, carrying too many passengers usually means there are not enough life jackets or other safety equipment available in the event of an emergency.
In addition to boat operators, companies that own, charter, and rent boats may also be held strictly liable under Florida law for entrusting their vessels to a negligent operator who causes an accident. There are also cases where negligence on the part of the company that designed, manufactured, or serviced the boat played a critical role in an accident. It is therefore crucial to perform a full investigation of any boating accident to determine all of the potentially liable individuals and businesses.
Contact Steinberg Law Today
Boating accident victims have the right to seek compensation for their out-of-pocket and other losses under Florida law. Our Palm Beach Garden boating accident attorneys are happy to review your case and advise you on the potential value of your claim. Contact Steinberg Law today to schedule a consultation.
