Boat Accident Lawyers in Brandon, FL

Injured in a Boating Accident?

Boating is a popular pastime in Florida, thanks to its beautiful coastlines, lakes, and rivers. However, the increase in watercraft activity also raises the risk of accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other losses. At Burnetti, P.A., our experienced Brandon boat accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the complexities of Florida’s boating laws and pursue the justice and your entitled compensation.

To request a free consultation, call (888) 444-8508 or contact us online today.

Florida Boating Laws

Florida has some of the most extensive boating laws in the United States due to its high number of watercraft and waterways. Understanding these laws is essential to determining liability and protecting your rights after a boating accident. Key regulations include:

• Boater Safety Education: Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, must complete a state-approved boating safety course to operate a boat with a 10-horsepower engine or greater.
• Registration Requirements: All motorized vessels must be registered with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
• Operating Under the Influence (OUI): Florida law prohibits operating a boat with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. This is equivalent to the limits set for operating motor vehicles.
• Required Safety Equipment: Boats must carry specific safety equipment, such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, and navigational lights.
• Speed and Wake Zones: Florida enforces speed limits in designated areas, especially in zones near shorelines, docks, or areas with heavy boat traffic.

Common Types of Boating Accidents

Boating accidents can occur in various ways, each presenting unique dangers to boaters and passengers. Some of the most common types of boating accidents include:

• Collisions with Other Vessels: Accidents involving two or more boats colliding can cause severe injuries or fatalities, especially at high speeds.
• Collisions with Fixed Objects: Boats may crash into stationary objects like docks, rocks, or buoys, often due to negligence or poor visibility.
• Falls Overboard: Passengers or crew members falling overboard can result in drowning or serious injury if rescue measures are not promptly taken.
• Capsizing: Boats overturning due to bad weather, overcrowding, or improper operation can put everyone on board at risk.
• Grounding: This occurs when a boat runs aground on sandbars or other underwater obstructions, leading to property damage or injury.
• Propeller Accidents: Propellers can cause life-threatening injuries if a person falls into the water or gets too close to an operating motor.

Common Causes of Boat Accidents

Some of the most common causes include:

• Operator Inexperience: Inexperienced boat operators may lack the necessary skills to navigate safely, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Reckless or Negligent Operation: Speeding, failing to follow navigational rules, or operating a boat in dangerous conditions can cause accidents.
• Alcohol or Drug Impairment: As with motor vehicle accidents, operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a leading cause of boating accidents in Florida.
• Weather Conditions: Sudden changes in weather, such as high winds or heavy rain, can create dangerous conditions for boaters.
• Equipment Failure: Faulty or poorly maintained equipment can lead to accidents. This may include engine failures, steering malfunctions, or issues with safety gear.
• Overcrowding or Overloading: Exceeding a boat's capacity limits can cause instability and increase the chances of capsizing or sinking.

Who is Liable?

Determining liability in a boat accident can be complex. Multiple parties may share responsibility depending on the circumstances of the accident. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Boat Operators: If the boat operator was negligent, inexperienced, or impaired at the time of the accident, they could be held liable for injuries or damages.
• Boat Owners: Even if the owner was not operating the boat, they could be held responsible if they allowed someone unqualified or impaired to take control of the vessel.
• Manufacturers: If the accident resulted from a defect in the boat or its equipment, the manufacturer could be held accountable for damages.
• Rental Companies: If the boat was rented, the rental company may be held liable if they failed to provide adequate safety instructions, equipment, or proper maintenance.

Our Brandon boat accident lawyers at Burnetti, P.A. will conduct a thorough investigation to determine who is liable for your accident. We work with expert witnesses, review evidence, and explore all legal avenues to ensure you receive the award or settlement you deserve.

Contact us today at (888) 444-8508 to discuss your case with our team.