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Boating

The waters in Florida are like nowhere else, so it comes as no surprise the state is one of the busiest for recreational boating. But with all those boats in the water it means Florida also has one of the highest numbers of boating accidents in the United States.

State, federal and international maritime laws each have their own regulations separate from auto accidents when it comes to boating accidents. As a result, creating a claim to receive compensation can easily become complicated.

Attorney for Boating in Miami, FL

Since building a case to receive compensation for a boating accident is complicated, it is best to go through the process with a knowledgeable boating accident lawyer from Abrams Justice Trial Attorneys. Our attorneys are experienced with boating accident cases in Florida and they will strive to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

Call us today at (305) 709-0880 or submit your information in our online form and one of our attorneys will review your case for free. We proudly serve the greater Miami-Dade area including Miami, Homestead, Hialeah, Pinecrest, Miami Gardens, Miami Beach, North Miami, Doral, Carol Gables and Cutler Bay.


Florida Boating Information Center


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Types of Boating Accident Claims

In 2017, there were 766 boating accidents in Florida. Colliding with another vessel is the most common type of boating accident in Florida, making up 29% of the total number. Colliding with another vessel is also the most common cause of boating fatalities since boaters usually fall over board.

Other types of recreational boating accidents in Florida include:

  • Sinking or flooding
  • Fires
  • Capsizing
  • Explosions
  • Grounding
  • Colliding with a fixed object
  • Falls on the boat

There are circumstances that contribute to the cause of boating accidents. Two of the most common causes of boating accidents in Florida include the following:

  • Boating Under the Influence: It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol in Florida. If an individual operating the boat is suspected of operating a boat while under the influence they must submit to sobriety test. Refusing to submit to a sobriety test can result in the suspension of one’s boating and driving privileges.
  • Reckless and Careless Operation: Under the Florida and Federal Navigation Rules, anyone who operates a boat with a disregard to the safety of those aboard may be charged with reckless operation, which is a first-degree misdemeanor.

There are also circumstances where an operator can be charged with negligence. Some of these circumstances include:

  • Contact with a propeller
  • Overcrowding the boat
  • Hitting a wave or wake at and excessive speed
  • Operating at high speed
  • Navigating in heavy weather that can cause passengers to fall overboard
  • Failing to carry safety equipment on board
  • Failing to know rule required by the FFWCC
  • Colliding with another boat or fixed object

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Jet Ski Accidents

Injuries caused by a Jet Ski accident are often times more severe than those sustained in a larger boating accident. The accident can be caused due to negligence of the driver, and in some cases, defective equipment.

Most Jet Ski accidents occur on rented watercrafts while on vacation. Many of the rental companies give minimal instructions to renters before allowing them to drive away. This prevents riders from being informed of the necessary knowledge of how to act in an emergency situation.

Sometimes rental companies attempt to avoid liability by invoking the Ship Owners’ Limitation of Liability Act. Attorneys with Abrams Justice Trial Attorneys are familiar with this act and will fight to convince the court not to apply it.


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Florida Boating Resources

2017 Boating Accident ReviewFollow this link to view the most recent boating accident review published by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The review offers statistics about the total number of registered vessels in the start and the number of accidents. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission enacts rules and regulations regarding the state’s fish and wildlife resources.

Florida Statue Chapter 327– Visit Online Sunshine to view a list of boat safety regulations in Florida. Some of the regulations include boating under the influence, commercial parasailing and restricted areas. Online Sunshine is the official site for the Florida legislature.


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Lawyer for Boating in Miami, FL

Boating litigation can became complicated real quick, so it is imperative to have an experienced legal team on your side to make sure your case is handled properly. The attorneys of Abrams Justice Trial Attorneys are experienced with boating laws in Florida and they will strive to protect your rights.

Call Abrams Justice Trial Attorneys today at (305) 709-0880 or submit your information in our online form and one of our attorneys will review your case for free. We assist clients in the greater Miami-Dada area including Miami, Homestead, Hialeah, Pinecrest, Miami Gardens, Miami Beach, North Miami, Doral, Coral Gables, and Cutler Bay.


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