Boating Accident Lawyers
One of the best parts of living in South Florida is the easy access to the ocean. Many Florida residents ride boats frequently and enjoy partaking in common boating activities such as fishing, wakeboarding, skiing, and so on.
However, boating always comes with risk. For example, in 2019, the Coast Guard noted 4,168 recreational boating accidents in which 2,559 people were injured and 613 people died. Boating accidents can be caused by many things from bad weather to irresponsible behavior and the use of alcohol.
If you have been injured in a boating accident, you could be entitled to compensation. In order to receive your due, you will need expert legal representation. At The Law Offices of Gillis, Mermell & Pacheco, P.A., we work to make sure you get the maximum compensation you deserve, while you focus on your health and well-being.
Common Boating Accident Injuries
Many boating accident injuries arise from colliding with another boat or a dock. People can also fall overboard and get seriously injured by the propellors or even drown. Slips and falls are also common due to wet, slippery surfaces.
The most common types of injuries include:
- Cuts and bruises
- Broken bones
- Head trauma/brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash
- Drowning
Additionally, electrocution is a serious concern while boating. Combining faulty electrical equipment with water can end in injury for some boaters.
Liable Parties in a Boating Accident
There are various parties that may be held liable in a boating accident. The driver of the boat may be held responsible for driving recklessly, drinking while at the wheel, or not obeying boating laws. A passenger may also be held responsible if their reckless behavior caused the accident, although the driver can also be liable if they knew about, yet did nothing to correct this reckless behavior. The owner may also be held liable for knowingly allowing an inexperienced or unlicensed driver to operate the boat.
Outside of the people on the boat, the manufacturer may be responsible if the accident was caused by a manufacturing defect. Additionally, if the boat was rented, the rental company may be responsible if they failed to properly maintain the boat.
Compensation Available to Boating Accident Victims
Depending on who is found liable for the boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This compensation may help alleviate the physical and financial stress of being a victim of a boating accident.
Boating accident compensation includes:
- Medical expenses
- Physical therapy costs
- Time off work (lost wages)
- Pain and suffering
What to Do if You Have Been Injured in a Boating Accident
Boating accidents can be severe and lead to life-altering injuries. These injuries can impact both the victim and their family. If have been injured in a boating accident, follow the steps below:
- Seek immediate medical attention and keep detailed documentation of your treatment, expenses and diagnosis.
- Contact the experienced boating accident lawyers at The Law Offices of Gillis, Mermell & Pacheco, P.A. to advise you of your rights, file your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Remember, boating accident symptoms may not appear the same say of the accident. That is why it is extremely important to seek medical attention even if you are not experiencing immediate symptoms. This can have a big impact on your case and compensation value.
Why You Need a Miami Boating Accident Lawyer
Determining the rightful blame in a boating accident can get complicated quickly. The insurance companies of all parties will try their best to shift the blame off of their client as much as possible and reduce their monetary burden.
If you have been injured as an innocent party, you deserve compensation for medical bills, rehabilitative care bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, the insurance companies will not hand it over easily. That is why it is important to seek legal representation from a qualified boating accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact a Qualified Miami Boating Accident Lawyer Today
At The Law Offices of Gillis, Mermell & Pacheco, P.A., we know how to beat insurance companies at their own game and get you the maximum compensation amount. If you or a loved one have been the victim of a boating accident, contact us today to file your claim and take the first step toward compensation.