Boating can be very dangerous, as even experienced owners and operators of watercraft sometimes make mistakes. If you were the victim of a boating accident, your injury or suffering could be due to the negligence or error of a third party. Remember that you have legal options and could even be entitled to seek financial compensation.
If you want to learn more about what you can do next, a Kissimmee boating accident lawyer may be able to help. A team member from Bogin, Munns & Munns is available to answer your questions during a free case review. Pick up the phone today and call (407) 870-1919.
Common Forms of Boating Accidents
There are many ways in which you can be injured in a boating accident. Not all boating accidents occur on the water, for example, as some can take place during launch or docking. If you were injured, it could have happened in one of the following ways:
- Slipping and falling while boarding or onboard a vessel
- Falling overboard due to dangerous conditions or rough waters
- Traumatic injuries while onboard a boat due to sudden movements
- Medical emergencies at sea
- Drowning
- Collisions with other watercraft, rocks, or structures at sea
- Propeller accidents
Because there are so many factors and elements involved with any boating excursion, there are many ways in which your accident might have occurred. Regardless of the exact nature of your injuries, understanding some of the risk factors that may have contributed to your accident can help you determine if a third party caused your suffering. If so, you could have grounds for a legal claim.
Causes of Boating Accidents
Some of the most common causes of boating accidents include:
- Alcohol Use: Alcohol was the leading cause of boating accidents in 2019, according to a report by the United States Coast Guard. If alcohol played a role in your injury, you could have legal options available.
- Speeding: Speeding can be dangerous while boating, and there are laws and regulations regarding boat speed for a reason. Speeding creates the potential for high-impact crashes while reducing the amount of time boat operators have to react to changing conditions. Failure to abide by speeding laws can put you and your loved ones at risk on the water.
- Poor Weather: Poor weather conditions, such as high winds, fog, and choppy water, should be avoided if possible. If your accident was preventable and was caused by the poor decision of a captain to embark during poor conditions, you may be able to pursue a claim.
- Distractions: It is easy to become distracted on a boating excursion. But the truth is that distractions can be dangerous, and those responsible for passengers should keep their focus on the task at hand. Sadly, distractions while operating boats and other watercraft can lead to injuries, deaths, and accidents every year in the United States.
- Improperly Maintained Watercraft: A boat needs to be in proper working order to ensure the safety of passengers. Slippery floors, mechanical failure, broken navigation systems, lack of life vests, and other factors can be a form of negligence that leads to injury.
- Inexperience: Any boat operator can cause an accident, but a lack of experience can increase the likelihood of an accident occurring. If you were the victim of a boating accident involving an inexperienced captain, their lack of knowledge and experience may be to blame.
Regardless of what caused your boating accident, you may not have been at fault. In some cases, you could even be eligible for compensation. To learn more, consider talking to a Kissimmee boating accident lawyer from Bogin, Munns & Munns. You can begin your free consultation with a member of our team today at (407) 870-1919.
To consult with an experienced boating accident lawyer serving Kissimmee, call 855-780-9986
Determining At-Fault Parties
There are many details of Florida Statute § 327.30 pertaining to the responsibilities of boat operators in boating accidents. Generally speaking, the owners and operators of boats or other watercraft are responsible for the safety of those aboard in the event of an accident. If you believe another party was at fault for your injuries, it is possible that you can recover compensation by filing a legal claim.
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How You Could Be Suffering
Boating accidents can leave you in physical pain, financial ruin, and emotional turmoil. You could even be struggling to pay your medical bills. Some victims experience long-term effects, such as loss of employment or physical disability. While this may be a difficult time for you and your loved ones, it is important to remember that there may be compensation available for you.
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Compensation for Victims
Compensation available for victims varies depending on the nature of each case, but if you were the victim of a boating accident caused by a third party, you could possibly recover:
- Compensation for injuries and medical expenses
- Reimbursement for legal fees
- Compensation for emotional suffering
- Reimbursement for property losses
- Lost wages, if you were unable to work following your accident
Every situation is different. Some cases resolve quickly and painlessly if insurers offer a fair settlement for your losses. Others will need to go to court and go through the lawsuit process. No matter how we think the case may go, it is important to contact us as quickly as possible after your boat accident. We only have two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit, and any delays could mean you lose compensation.
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Contact Us Today
Experiencing a boating accident can leave you with many losses. You could be suffering from painful or debilitating injuries, emotional trauma, and financial losses. With so much going on in your life, it might be overwhelming to think about filing a legal claim.
Thankfully, a Kissimmee boating accident lawyer from Bogin, Munns & Munns is available to help. Even if you are just beginning your inquiry about the legal process, a team member can help guide you through your options free of charge. Call (407) 870-1919 today, and you can begin seeking justice for your case.
Call or text 855-780-9986 or submit our Consultation Request form today
