Boating offers one of the most pleasurable activities that Florida residents and visitors can enjoy year round. The region has hundreds of miles of coastline in addition to many waterways.
Operating a boat carries with it the same level of responsibility as operating a motor vehicle. Despite this, a number of boaters fail to exercise due caution on the water and cause severe injuries to others.
Fort Lauderdale Attorney Knowledgeably Helping Injured Individuals
At the Blakeley Law Firm, dedicated personal injury and Wrongful Death lawyer Jarrett Blakeley can capably advise victims of boating accidents in the Fort Lauderdale area and elsewhere in Broward County.
If you have been hurt because of someone else's carelessness, you have a right to seek the compensation that you deserve. We aggressively aim to hold defendants accountable for their negligence. Reach out to a Fort Lauderdale boating accident lawyer.
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Establishing a Negligence Claim Against a Boat Operator
Similar to a car accident case, a boating accident claim requires the victim to show that the defendant boat operator acted negligently and that this negligence was the cause of the harm that he or she suffered. In a major maritime state like Florida, there is a broad range of laws that apply to the operation of boats, including a requirement that boat operators operate their watercrafts safely in light of the current water conditions, weather conditions, and traffic.
In general, a boat operator is required to operate his or her watercraft with the same ordinary care and skill that a reasonably prudent boat operator would use in a similar situation. On beautiful weekend days, the waterways, ports, and local marinas can become quite cluttered with boaters coming in and out of the main thoroughfares. Unsurprisingly, many severe boat accidents happen within only a mile or two of the shore.
After showing that the defendant did not operate his or her boat safely, or violated an applicable law, the plaintiff must provide evidence showing that this failure was a proximate and foreseeable cause of his or her damages.
After showing this causal connection, the plaintiff is allowed to present evidence supporting the amount of monetary compensation that he or she is seeking, including medical bills, physical therapy expenses, medications, and any monetary losses associated with being unable to work. Subjective or non-economic forms of harm also may be compensable, including pain and suffering or emotional distress.
There is a limited period of time within which an accident victim may bring a claim against someone whose carelessness harmed them. This is known as the statute of limitations, and it generally lasts four years in Florida personal injury cases.
While there are a few exceptions that may extend this period, it is wise to take legal action as soon as possible after an accident so that your right to compensation is not barred.
Legal Representation for Accident Victims in the Fort Lauderdale Area
Suffering injuries in a boating accident is a devastating and unexpected ordeal for anyone. Motor vehicle collision attorney Jarrett Blakeley understands that Fort Lauderdale residents and other individuals in Broward County may find the legal process intimidating.
The staff at the Blakeley Law Firm strives to treat every client with the compassion that they deserve while carefully explaining their options and fighting aggressively for their rights.
We also assist accident victims in Oakland Park, Hollywood, Sunrise, and Pompano Beach. Call us at (800) 602-5000 or contact us online to set up a free consultation.
Reach out to a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer.