How to Build a Strong Legal Case After a Boating Accident with Injuries
Nobody expects a fun day on the water to turn dangerous or deadly, but the reality is that boating accidents happen frequently. Hundreds of reportable boating accidents occur each year on Florida waterways. If you are involved in a boat crash, it is essential to know what to do and what steps to take to protect your right to compensation.
At Mase Mebane Seitz, our legal team is well-versed in representing individuals who have been injured or lost a loved one in boating accidents throughout South Florida. We have handled thousands of cases, securing millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. If you have suffered harm in a boating accident, contact our office at (844) 627-3529 for a free case evaluation.
Steps to Take After a Boating Accident
Few things are more overwhelming than being injured in an unexpected accident. Boating accidents are no exception. Florida leads the nation in boating accidents making it imperative to know your rights.
If you are involved in a boating accident, you need to:
- Check for injuries and seek emergency medical attention if necessary;
- Contact local law enforcement;
- If able, move your vessel to safety;
- Once everyone is safe, obtain witness contact information;
- Exchange information with other boaters involved, including vessel registration numbers and insurance details;
- Collect and document evidence at the scene; and
- Contact a boating accident lawyer.
Be careful what you say and make sure that you document everything. The more evidence you collect in the immediate aftermath of the crash, the stronger case you can potentially build. Before making any statements to an insurance adjuster or filing a claim, you should always consult with a boating accident attorney.
Evidence to Collect for Your Case
In the event that you are involved in a boating accident, collecting evidence may play a key role in strengthening your claim and proving liability.
After a boating accident with injury or death, you need to collect photos of:
- Vessels involved in the accident
- Accident scene
- Caution signs or other posted notices
- Debris in the water
- Shallow areas
Additionally, you should obtain copies of the following:
- Medical Records
- Witness contact information
- Safety records (commercial)
- Owner logs and operator instructions
- Registration/identification information of other vessels
All boating accidents with injuries or death should be reported to authorities. It is vital to obtain a copy of the law enforcement’s report or other information to provide to your attorney.
Protecting Your Right to Compensation
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, there were 751 reportable boating accidents in Florida last year, causing over 460 injuries. Injuries ranged from lacerations and broken bones to head injuries and amputation. Tragically, 60 people were killed as a result of boating accidents across the state.
Many of these accidents were preventable, caused by negligence, recklessness, or inexperience. If you or a loved one are injured because of another person’s wrongdoing, you might be entitled to compensation. The best way to protect your right to compensation is by collecting evidence and retaining an attorney as early as possible.
Hiring a Boating Accident Attorney
Were you injured in a Miami boating accident? Contact our office at (844) 627-3529 for a free case evaluation. All initial consultations are at no cost and without obligation to retain our services. Call the trial lawyers at Mase Mebane Seitz and determine how much your claim is worth.
