Boating Accidents Lawyers
If you or someone near you was injured in a boating incident, you may have the right to file an action against the responsible parties. These claims can help you obtain compensation for the damages you suffered, including medical expenses and other related expenses, lost wages, and suffering and pain.
An experienced lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation into your case. This may include obtaining medical records, witness testimony and other evidence to strengthen your case.
Boating Accidents: Causes and Prevention
Boating accidents can result in serious injuries or even death for victims. These injuries could cause huge loss to the victims and their families. This includes loss of income as well as medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.
There are many reasons for boating accidents that range from environmental factors to operator error. Many of these accidents could have been avoided if the victim had worn a personal flotation device, or PFD, prior to stepping onto the water.
1. Operator Inattention Attention Deficit - This is one of the top causes of boating accidents in the United States. It is common for boat operators to overlook things or conditions on the water because they are too focused on the navigational tasks at the forefront. This can lead to a collision with another vessel or to a rollover that can cause severe injuries and even death.
2. Improper Lookout - This can be the case if the boat operator does not have a designated person to be the person in charge of looking out for any dangerous conditions or objects on the water. This is a frequent issue on weekends and holidays when there are a lot of boats on the water.
3. Hazardous Waters They can be filled with rocks, currents and shallow water and other hazards that are difficult to detect, even by experienced boaters. People who aren't experienced are more vulnerable to the dangers of these waters, as they might not know how to navigate around them or avoid them.
4. Equipment Failure - Just like any vehicle, a boat has to be maintained regularly. It also requires regular inspections to verify that everything is functioning properly. Faulty equipment can lead to major issues, such as a broken steering mechanism or malfunctioning engines that could cause a crash and severe injury.
5. Alcohol & Drug Use – In addition to being extremely dangerous and illegal, operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal. It can result in impairment in decision-making and intoxication, that can result in accidents and deaths.
6. Speeding - While there aren't any speed limit signs posted on the water, speeding is still an issue when it comes to boating. Speeding too fast can lead to a rollover or collision, and it can be difficult to stop a boat quickly when driving at high speeds.
Injuries resulting from boating accidents
Boating is a popular recreational activity however it's not without risk. Despite the fact that the number of deaths and injuries resulting from boating accidents has decreased significantly in recent years, it's vital to take the safety of yourself and your loved ones seriously when you're out on the water.
When accidents do occur and victims suffer severe physical injuries, which could cause significant medical bills as well as lost time at work. It's best to discuss your case with a Miami boating accident lawyer before filing a claim, because obtaining the proper compensation will aid in recovering from your loss and medical expenses.
Boating accidents can also trigger various kinds of back and neck injuries, as well as brain injuries that are traumatic. Based on the severity, these injuries can cause permanent pain and disc herniation, nerve damage and other health issues that last a lifetime.
Burns are another common injury that is triggered by boating accidents. On boats, fires can occur because of fuel leaks or electrical short circuits. The chance of burning passengers on a boat is greater than on a car because a fire can get into the wiring or even the engine.
Lacerations are also a common injury from boating. The propellers of a boat can cause deep cuts to the skin, which can cause damage to muscles and nerves.
These injuries can be painful and debilitating experience for the victims who typically require skin graft surgeries and months of rehabilitation to heal. Additionally, they could result in permanent scarring or disfigurement.
Another concern for those who are victims of boating accidents is spinal cord injuries. The spinal cord can be damaged by blunt trauma, hyperextension or even pinching. This can result in severe neck and vertebral injuries, which can affect mobility.
The resultant nerve damage and impairments can result in chronic pain, reduced mobility and even an amputation. The patient may also suffer from depression and a feeling of being in a state of helplessness.
Drowning is among the most frequently reported fatal boating accident in Florida. While a person may survive drowning if they receive prompt help, it's an incredibly frightening scenario that could have lasting consequences.
Damages resulting from boating accidents
You may be entitled compensation if injured in a boating incident or if you have lost a loved on. The damages you can recover include the costs associated with your medical treatment and any property damage your injuries caused. Additionally, you may claim compensation for the emotional pain and suffering you endured as a result of your injuries.
The most frequent causes of boating accidents are slipping overboard, capsizes and collisions with fixed objects or other vessels. boat accident lawyers can result in severe and fatal injuries to passengers who are not wearing a life jacket or aren't properly trained to swim.
Anyone who is on the water to enjoy themselves regardless of whether they are an experienced navigator or a novice, has the chance of falling off the boat. This is a risk for anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol or isn't sure how to navigate in the water.
Capsizing can be fatal when vessels are tossed or overturned by strong waves. When this happens, all passengers and crew members can suffer injuries ranging from mild to severe.
Collisions with other vessels are another frequent cause of boating accidents, particularly in summer, when people are taking to the water to relax. Operator inattention, faulty maintenance and excessive speed can all be a factor in collisions with vessels, which can result in serious injuries and/or fatalities.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a boating incident, you should immediately seek legal assistance. A lawyer for boating accidents can help you navigate through the claims process and help you get compensation for your injuries and losses.
These types of injuries might be common however the most serious can have a lasting effect on the victim's mental and physical health. For example, spinal cord injuries or disfigurement, brain injury fractured bones, and head traumas can dramatically alter the lives of those affected.
Spinal cord injuries are typically the most severe injuries that victims suffer from in boating accidents. Hyperextension or bruising can cause spinal cord injury and cause nerve damage. This can lead to impairments in mobility, inability to control body functions, or even paralysis.
Lawsuits Against the Government
You might be able to sue a government official or agency if been injured in a boating incident because of their negligence. However, the process of suing the government is often difficult, and you should seek the help of an experienced attorney.
Based on your particular situation You may be able to sue the government. These include the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) as well as state tort claims laws as well as local government immunity acts.
The FTCA is the primary law that governs personal injury lawsuits against the government. The FTCA limits the amount of money that can be paid and does not allow punitive damages. Certain states also have damage caps that limit the amount that you can recover.
You can also file a claim against a government entity under the Suits in Admiralty Act (SIAA) or the Public Vessels Act. The SIAA and PVA permits you to sue the government for maritime claims that do not directly relate to ships or public vessels.
These claims fall under the jurisdiction of the United States, which means that you can sue the government in federal court for an injury to yourself or another person on the high seas or navigable waters. The SIAA and PVA allow you to have two years to file a claim.
When you're bringing a claim against the government, you should be aware that the government will have to respond to your claim within six months. If you don't file your claim by date that this time period ends your claim will likely be dismissed and you'll be denied the chance to seek damages.
A man was left alone on the water after his boat sank for six hours. He won $875,000 from the government as a result of a consent judgement after filing an action for negligence against the Coast Guard.