Orlando Boating Accident Lawyer

Helping Injured Victims of Boat Accidents in Orlando, FL

Boating accidents can be catastrophic, resulting in severe injuries, significant property damage, and even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident, you need an experienced Orlando boating accident lawyer to guide you through the complex legal landscape and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. At Burnetti, P.A., we are dedicated to providing compassionate and aggressive legal representation to boating accident victims in Orlando, FL.

Call (407) 258-1181 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.

What is a Boating Accident?

A boating accident refers to any incident involving a watercraft that results in injury, death, or property damage. This can include a wide range of vessels such as motorboats, sailboats, yachts, jet skis, and even non-motorized boats like canoes and kayaks. Boating accidents can occur on lakes, rivers, coastal waters, and even in marinas. The consequences of these accidents can be severe due to the potential for drowning, traumatic injuries, and the difficulty of rescue operations on the water.

Common Types of Boating Accidents

Boating accidents can occur in various forms, each with its unique challenges and risks. Some of the most common types of boating accidents include:

• Collisions with Other Vessels: These accidents occur when two boats collide, often due to operator negligence, excessive speed, or failure to follow navigation rules.
• Collisions with Fixed Objects: Boats can collide with stationary objects such as docks, piers, buoys, or submerged rocks, leading to significant damage and potential injuries.
• Capsizing: This happens when a boat overturns in the water, which can result from adverse weather conditions, operator error, or overloading.
• Falls Overboard: Passengers or crew members can fall overboard due to sudden movements, slippery surfaces, or lack of proper safety measures.
• Grounding: This occurs when a boat runs aground on sandbars, shoals, or rocky areas, often leading to hull damage and potential injuries to those on board.
• Fires and Explosions: Fuel leaks, engine malfunctions, or improper storage of flammable materials can result in fires or explosions on a boat, causing severe injuries and property damage.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Understanding the common causes of boating accidents can help in preventing them and determining liability when they occur. Some of the frequent causes include:

• Operator Inattention: Distracted boating is a leading cause of accidents. Operators must remain vigilant and attentive to their surroundings at all times.
• Operator Inexperience: Inexperienced boat operators may lack the skills and knowledge required to navigate safely, leading to accidents.
• Excessive Speed: Speeding on the water can reduce reaction time and increase the severity of collisions and other accidents.
• Alcohol or Drug Use: Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and significantly impairs judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Adverse weather, such as high winds, heavy rain, and rough seas, can make boating dangerous and lead to accidents.
• Equipment Failure: Mechanical issues or equipment failures, such as engine problems or steering malfunctions, can cause accidents.
• Violation of Navigation Rules: Failure to adhere to boating laws and regulations, including right-of-way rules and speed limits, can result in collisions and other accidents.

Who is Liable for a Boating Accident?

Determining liability in a boating accident can be complex and may involve multiple parties. The following parties could potentially be held liable:

• Boat Operator: If the accident was caused by the operator’s negligence, such as reckless driving, inattention, or impairment, they could be held responsible.
• Boat Owner: The owner of the boat may be liable if they failed to properly maintain the vessel or allowed an inexperienced or impaired operator to use it.
• Manufacturers: If a defect in the boat or its equipment contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held liable under product liability laws.
• Passengers: In some cases, passengers who act recklessly or interfere with the safe operation of the boat may share liability.
• Other Boaters: If another boat operator’s negligence contributed to the accident, they could be held liable for damages.
• Employers: If the boat operator was on duty and employed by a company, the employer might be held liable under the doctrine of vicarious liability.

Steps to Take After a Boating Accident

If you are involved in a boating accident, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your case:

1. Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Provide assistance to anyone in need and contact emergency services if necessary.
2. Report the Accident: Report the accident to the appropriate authorities, such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) or the U.S. Coast Guard.
3. Gather Information: Collect information from all parties involved, including names, contact details, boat registration numbers, and insurance information.
4. Document the Scene: Take photographs and videos of the accident scene, the boats involved, and any visible injuries or property damage.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it is crucial to seek medical attention to identify any hidden injuries and document your condition.
6. Contact an Orlando Boating Accident Lawyer: Consult with an experienced boating accident attorney at Burnetti, P.A. to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

How Burnetti, P.A. Can Help

At Burnetti, P.A., our Orlando boating accident lawyers have extensive experience handling boating accident cases and a deep understanding of Florida’s maritime laws. We are committed to:

• Investigating Your Case: We conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
• Gathering Evidence: Our team collects and preserves crucial evidence, including witness statements, accident reports, and expert testimonies.
• Negotiating with Insurers: We handle all communications with insurance companies and strive to negotiate fair settlements on your behalf.
• Litigating in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
• Providing Support: We offer compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process, ensuring you are informed and confident every step of the way.

Contact us today at (407) 258-1181 to speak with our Orlando boating accident attorneys and let us help you!