People often underestimate the dangers of yacht and boat accidents. However, boats like cabin cruisers, jet skis, and powerboats are frequently involved in collisions. The accidents are often critical or even fatal. Boating is a favorite hobby among Miami residents.
Miami is a popular beach vacation destination; there are thousands of boats on the ocean every day. If you have been unfortunate enough to be injured in a boat accident, a Miami boating accident lawyer should be the first person you get in touch with.
What Causes Boat Accidents?
Accidents involving boats in Miami are usually caused by the negligence of one or both boat owners or their failure to subscribe to the federal maritime safety rules. If negligence is proved, the victim is entitled to compensation, and the accused will be subject to a penalty. Negligence will be established if the boat operator:
- Does not hold the required licenses;
- Fails to display the appropriate lighting;
- Disobeys the navigational safety rules;
- Failed to keep a lookout or monitor the radar;
- Failed to maintain a safe speed.
The “second-way liability” can be imposed when the operator fails to follow navigational customs at the collision time. The “final situation liability” is imposed when there is no failure to display customs, but the operator fails to display prudent seamanship and reasonable care.
What Damages Are You Entitled To?
In Miami, a boating accident lawyer can help you establish what damages you have the right to receive. If you have been a victim of a boat accident in Miami, you are covered for medical bills, loss of wages, loss of enjoyment of life, and damages for pain and suffering.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s law is also responsible for establishing boating safety laws in Miami. The agency reported close to 737 boating accidents in the year 2015. A boating accident is “reportable” if:
- The accident claimed one or more lives;
- The accident resulted in the disappearance of one or more persons;
- The victim had to undergo medical treatment beyond basic first aid;
- The boat or vessel was permanently damaged beyond repair;
- There is damage worth at least $2000 to the vessel or boat.
Reports show that close to 29% of boating accidents in Miami occur due to collisions between boats.
What to Do if You Have Been in a Boating Accident
The first thing to do would be to get the required medical help. After this, you may want to consider contacting your lawyer at the earliest.
Alert the Authorities
You should report a Miami boating accident should be reported within 48 hours from the time of the accident. You may be asked to fill up forms or give written descriptions about the accident. Your lawyer can help you with the drafting and submission.
Help determine the cause of the accident.
Your attorney will help you collect evidence, organize witnesses and details to establish the boat operator’s negligence. Drunken sailing is a common cause for boating accidents in Miami and is a punishable offense.
Your Attorney Can Help You Navigate the Procedures.
Your boat accident attorney knows what provisions and conditions govern boat accidents in Miami. The attorney will help you with the process from beginning to end. Miami courts deal with several boat accident cases each year. Your lawyer may be able to speed up the process.
