Personal injury claims and liability in boat accidents can be very difficult to navigate. When you get hurt on a boat it can be challenging to determine who exactly is liable for the accident sometimes. Lawsuits frequently result from boating accidents because of property damage and physical injuries that may occur. Boats are in unexpected accidents every year and people are always looking to be compensated for any of their losses. Whenever you are involved in a boating accident it’s important to write down and document all the incidents that occurred leading up to the boating accident. Pay close attention to police reports and document whether the other people involved in the accident decided to call the police to file anything. You should take pictures of anything. All potential property damage or injuries from the accident should be closely documented. Taking pictures and videos of all damages will be important in court to protect yourself. You should speak with all witnesses of the incident. Talk very respectfully to them and remember to write down their contact information because they definitely can be helpful to you. You want to ensure that you are not held liable for something you are not responsible for. Irwin Law firm which is located in Miami specializes in Maritime law. As a native of South Florida, David E. Irwin, Esq. has been working in the local marine industry for more than two decades. If you are seeking legal counsel in the realm of maritime law, it is essential to seek experienced legal counsel in order to receive your full compensation.
Common Boat Accidents result from :
- Canoeing
- Wind Surfing Accidents
- Kitesurfing
- Accidents By Intoxicated Boaters
- Cruise Ship Accidents
- Accidents Involving Merchant Ships
- Ferry Worker Accidents
- Jet Skiing
- Waverunner Accidents
- Kayaking
- Motorboat Accidents
- Sailboat Accidents
Negligence
Negligence is a failure to exercise appropriate and/or ethical ruled care expected to be exercised amongst specified circumstances. It’s important to under negligence and maritime law if you plan to engage in boating activities. Negligence can offer in boat accidents when you fail to have all the required safety equipment on the boat, or the boaters are not adhering to safety regulations that they should be following. Boating in dangerous weather that leads to injury or death can be considered negligence. Speeding on a boat that results in personal injury is an example of negligence that you would be responsible for.
Alcohol and Drugs
Boating under the influence of drugs and alcohol is illegal. Boaters that are operating under the influence are usually going to be held negligent if anyone is harmed as a result of them being in a boating accident. Boating under the influence is very dangerous and being caught can result in you losing your boating privileges.
Jones Act
Under Maritime Law, the Jones Act lists the rights of seamen who are killed or injured while on the water. It gives them, or any survivors, the right to sue their employer in the event that their fellow workers or shipmasters are negligent (unreasonably careless), and to receive a trial by jury. Workers are able to claim back damages for any lost wages and medical costs from a boating accident.