Jet Ski & Boating Accident Lawyer
Florida is home to an abundance of beautiful beaches, bays, and lakes, making it the most popular state for recreational boating in the nation. The Sunshine State leads the nation in its number of annual boat registrations and, unfortunately, boating accidents. Boats, jet skis, and other recreational watercraft move at high speeds and offer little protection to passengers. Accidents involving these watercraft often involve severe injuries, such as brain trauma, spinal cord injury, broken bones, and even death.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a jet ski or boating accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your damages. Contact the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. today to schedule a consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney!
Common Causes Of Watercraft Accidents
There are various ways boating and jet ski accidents can occur, from operator error to problems with the watercraft itself. Some of the leading causes of boat and jet ski accidents include the following.
- Operator Inattention
- Driving Under The Influence
- Speeding
- Failure To Maintain A Safe Distance
- Inadequate Safety Equipment
- Failure To Follow State & Federal Regulations
- Equipment Failure
- Failure To Maintain The Vessel
Liability In Boat & Jet Ski Accidents
Before filing a compensation claim, it is essential to determine the party or parties responsible for your damages. For example, claimants may file a claim against a third-party vessel's operator or against the captain of the vessel they were riding, depending upon the circumstances of the case. Remember, even if you're injured aboard a friend's ship, you shouldn't hesitate to file a claim for damage since it will be the insurance company, not your friend, who will be responsible for compensating the losses you've suffered.
Alternatively, if defective parts or maintenance led to your accident, you can sue the vessel's manufacturer or mechanic for negligence. Finally, if the accident occurred on a private body of water, victims may be able to sue the owner in a situation where they felt misled or that conditions were unsafe. It can be challenging to determine which party or parties should be held responsible. Fortunately, an experienced boating accident attorney with our law firm can help you acquire evidence and assemble the proof of liability required to file a claim.
Recoverable Damages In Watercraft Accidents
Jet ski and boating accidents frequently result in severe or life-threatening injuries. Therefore, victims of watercraft accidents have a right to seek compensation for their damages from liable parties. A few of the most common damages claimants may be able to recover include the following.
- Medical Expenses
- Loss Of Present & Future Wages
- Pain & Suffering
- Property Damage
- Punitive Damages
Contact A Personal Injury Lawyer
Florida places a time limit on filing personal injury claims. Per Florida law, injured parties must file personal injury claims within four years of the accident, which is why victims of accidents must reach out to a knowledgeable accident attorney as soon as possible. The experienced personal injury lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. have the legal expertise necessary to help you gather evidence against the liable parties, file a claim, and provide pivotal counsel amidst settlement negotiations. Our team of attorneys can help you build a strong case and pursue maximum compensation for your damages. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!