What Boaters Need to Know About the Infamous Stretch of Miami Water
Boating in Miami can often be romanticized as a fun, exciting activity, but the reality is that it can also be dangerous in certain circumstances. For inexperienced, impaired, or reckless boaters, navigating the waters of South Florida can be treacherous. One inlet is known for being particularly hazardous.
Haulover Inlet, or Baker’s Haulover Inlet, is the northernmost one in Miami-Dade County. Since its beginning, the inlet has had a history of being difficult to pass, even for the most experienced boaters.
When Was Haulover Inlet Created?
Haulover Inlet is a man-made channel that was created in 1925 to allow boaters easy access to ocean waters. It is located in Miami-Dade County. It connects Biscayne Bay with the Atlantic Ocean.
The inlet serves as a critical point of transit for boaters and is heavily trafficked. It is the only inlet available between Government Cut and Port Everglades. It was created to help boaters avoid having to travel down to Government Cut to access ocean waters.
More recently, Haulover Inlet has achieved greater notoriety due to its popularity as the bases of social media content. Many influencers flock to the area to capture different boats going through the rough waterway. The confluence of the giant waves and expensive boats passing through the area often make for viral content. However, the reality of the scenes that play out in these videos are not so light-hearted for those involved.
Why Is Haulover Inlet Considered Dangerous?
There are several factors that make Haulover Inlet dangerous to navigate. Nearly every article that mentions the man-made inlet recommends that inexperienced boaters avoid it completely.
Factors that make the inlet dangerous:
- Unpredictable sandbars
- Strong tide currents
- Constant shoaling
- Rock walls
- Narrow channel
- Powerful onshore winds
A boater that is unfamiliar with the inlet could easily be forced up onto the rocks due to the strong outgoing tide. Boaters should not underestimate the inlet and should ensure that they have the proper boat to safely navigate the channel.
How to Avoid Boating Accidents at Haulover Inlet
If you are required to navigate the Haulover Inlet, there are several steps you can take to avoid serious injury.
Ways to Prevent Accidents at Haulover Inlet:
- Learn from an experienced captain.
- Travel during the day.
- Never boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Maintain a safe speed.
- Appoint a proper lookout.
- Wear life jackets.
- Look for calm waters.
- Pay attention to wind and weather conditions.
Following these safety guidelines can help prevent boat accidents at Haulover Inlet. As often the case with boating, doing your research ahead of time can help ensure the safety of yourself and others.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured in a Boating Accident?
Ensuring the safety of yourself and those onboard your vessel is paramount in the event of a boating accident. However, if you are injured in a boating accident, you might be entitled to compensation. If another person was responsible for your harm, you may be able to sue for damages. To ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve, you need to speak with an attorney that understands the nuances of maritime law.
Contact Our Office for More Information
The attorneys at Mase Seitz Briggs have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of injured parties involved in boating accidents. Let us help get you what you deserve.
Contact our office at (844) 627-3529 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We have over a century of combined legal experience and have tried hundreds of cases. Get the superior representation you need now. All case evaluations are confidential.