If you’ve been involved in a boating accident in Miami, whether on a personal boat, jet ski, or commercial vessel, you may be wondering if maritime law applies to your case. Understanding maritime law is crucial, as it differs from state laws and can significantly impact your rights and compensation.
What is Maritime Law?
General maritime law is drawn from federal and state law, and is a combination of traditional common-law rules, modifications of those rules, and newly created rules. Also known as admiralty law, it governs activities on navigable waters, including oceans, rivers, and large lakes. This legal framework is designed to ensure safety, fairness, and accountability on the water, covering issues such as:
- Boating accidents and injuries
- Ship navigation and safety regulations
- Liability and compensation for victims
- Pollution and environmental protection
Does Maritime Law Apply to My Boating Accident?
Whether maritime law applies depends on two key factors:
1. Location of the Accident (Navigable Waters)
Maritime law generally applies to boating accidents on navigable waters, which include:
- Oceans and coastal waters
- Major rivers and bays, such as Biscayne Bay
- Lakes and waterways used for commerce
If the accident occurred on private property or a small inland waterway, state or local laws may apply instead.
2. Type of Vessel Involved
Maritime law covers a variety of vessels, including:
- Recreational boats (motorboats, sailboats, pontoon boats)
- Personal watercraft (Jet Ski, Sea-Doo, WaveRunner)
- Commercial vessels (cargo ships, cruise ships, tankers)
For commercial vessel workers, laws like the Jones Act provide additional protections, allowing injured maritime workers to sue their employers for negligence.
Who is Liable in a Boating Accident?
If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, maritime law may allow you to seek compensation from:
- Negligent, reckless or intoxicated boat operators
- Boat owners who allowed an unqualified operator to use their boat or otherwise failed to maintain safe conditions
- Boat rental companies (liveries) that did not provide proper instruction, training or equipment
Why You Need a Maritime Lawyer for Your Boating Accident Case
Maritime law is complex, and successfully navigating a boating injury claim requires legal expertise. A Miami maritime lawyer can:
- Determine if maritime law applies to your case
- Investigate the accident and prove negligence
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies
- Pursue maximum compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Get Help for Your Boating Accident Today
At Mase Seitz Briggs, our Miami maritime lawyers have decades of experience helping boating accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, don’t wait—contact us today for a free consultation.
Call now to speak with an experienced maritime attorney. Protect your rights and get the justice you deserve.
