Florida boating accidents can result in serious and debilitating injuries. Whether you were injured in a boating collision involving an intoxicated boater or an accident resulting from improper maintenance on your vessel, it is critical to seek advice from a Boca Raton boat accident lawyer as soon as possible. In the meantime, the following are some of the most common causes of Florida boat accidents that can cause serious personal injuries and for which you may be eligible to file a claim for financial compensation.
SpeedingÂ
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, speeding is an extremely common cause of serious and deadly boating accidents, particularly when the speeding happens at night. Just as speeding is dangerous when you are behind the wheel of an automobile, speeding is also hazardous on the waterways. It is important to pay attention to speed limits and to operate a boat safely.
Intoxicated BoatingÂ
Intoxicated or drunk boating is one of the most serious and frequent reasons for boat accidents in Florida and across the country. Even having a single drink can impair a boat operator’s ability to respond quickly to changing conditions or to make key judgment calls on the water. If you are going to operate a boat, you should avoid consuming any alcohol prior to or during your time on the boat.
Inclement WeatherÂ
Inclement weather can cause life-threatening boating accidents. Boaters should know how important it is to check detailed weather reports prior to going out on the water and to pay attention to changing weather conditions. If you are unsure about the weather conditions, or it looks as if a storm could be coming, you should head back to shore. You can also download weather apps on your phone to check live radar so that you have more knowledge about hazardous conditions that could change rapidly.
Distracted BoatingÂ
Just as distracted driving is a serious problem on Florida’s roads, distracting boating can also be a serious problem. If a boat operator is distracted, she or he might fail to maintain a proper lookout and could collide with another vessel.
Negligent MaintenanceÂ
Sometimes boats are involved in accidents on Florida waterways as a result of negligent boat maintenance. If your boat was involved in a crash because of defective service on your vessel, it is important to learn more about filing a claim against the negligent mechanic.
Defective Boat ComponentsÂ
Sometimes boat accidents happen because of defectively designed or manufactured boat parts. Similar to defective auto parts that are subject to recalls, it is essential to have any defective components repaired or replaced. In the event a defective element causes a collision, you may be eligible to file a product liability lawsuit against the designer or manufacturer of the defective part.
Seek Advice from Our Boca Raton Boating Accident AttorneysÂ
If you were injured in a boat accident in Florida and another party may be liable, it is essential to begin working on your claim with our Boca Raton boat accident lawyers as soon as possible. You may be able to file a lawsuit against the responsible party or parties. Contact Lesser Lesser Landy & Smith PLLC today for more information about filing a boat accident lawsuit.
