Each year millions of people head to South Florida to enjoy the sunshine and water activities. Unfortunately, this often results in a large number of water-related injuries and deaths. Common causes of these accidents include: inadequate training, faulty equipment, and negligent crew members. If you have been injured while participating in a water sport or activity in Miami, you need to speak with an attorney.
At Mase Briggs Seitz, we represent individuals who have been seriously injured in water-related activities throughout South Florida. Our experienced legal team knows how to hold negligent companies accountable for their wrongdoing, ensuring our clients receive the maximum compensation they deserve.
If you sustained a water-related injury, contact our office to schedule a free consultation.
What Are the Most Common Water Sports and Activities in Miami, Florida?
Popular water sports in South Florida:
- Boating
- Jet Ski & Water Ski
- Parasailing & Paragliding
- Windsurfing
- Flyboard
- Motorized surfboards
- Hobie Cat
- Banana Boat
- Paddle Sports
- Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
- River Tubing
- Kayaking
- Shark Diving
- And more
Given the risks associated with these various water sports and activities, companies are obligated to provide adequate safety instructions to those renting or using their gear. When a company fails to give adequate training or comply with state and federal regulations, they may be held liable for resulting injuries.
What Kinds of Injuries Occur During Water Sports?
Water-related injuries can range from relatively minor to severe and life-threatening. In some cases, the extent of the harm may prove fatal. From parasailing to scuba diving accidents, a day on the water can turn deadly in a matter of minutes.
Injuries that may occur during water sports or activities include:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord damage
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Cuts and lacerations
- Drowning
- Paralysis
- Amputation
- Sprains and strains
- Dislocations
- Emotional damages (pain and suffering)
It is imperative to act quickly in the event of a water accident causing injury or death. Evidence, such as safety records of the rental company or pictures of the equipment, may be critical in your case. Proving who or what caused your damages, however, can be challenging without the help of an experienced attorney.
What Causes Most Water-Related Injuries?
In the initial aftermath of an accident, the cause may not be clear. Generally, it takes an in-depth investigation to determine who or what was responsible for your harm. For example, the death of two divers during an expedition may have been caused by several factors including malfunctioning equipment, inexperience, or insufficient air.
Many water-related injuries are caused by:
- Poor training
- Lack of supervision
- No lookout
- Lack of proper safety gear
- Malfunctioning equipment
- Drug or alcohol use
- Operator negligence
- Disregard for industry-standard safety regulations
Tragically, most water-related accidents and injuries can be prevented. When individuals and companies fail to follow safety protocols resulting in harm to others, they must be held accountable. Far too many people have lost loved ones in accidents that are avoidable.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Water Sports Injuries?
Liability can be difficult to prove in a water sports accident, particularly if you choose not to retain an attorney. In most instances, an independent investigation will need to be conducted to determine what caused your injuries and whether you have the right to pursue legal action.
Parties that may be held responsible for your water-related injuries:
- Rental company
- Boat operator
- Equipment manufacturer
- Negligent captain or crew member
- Another boater
- A government entity
- Vessel or property owner
- Other passengers
Depending on the situation, one or more parties may be held legally responsible for your injuries. A lawyer can help you understand your rights. They can walk you through the legal process and help you decide all of your legal options for pursuing compensation related to your injuries.
What You Need to Know About Water Sports Accidents
Taking the right steps after an accident is essential to protecting your right to recovery.
If you are involved in a water-related accident you need to:
- Report the accident to the appropriate authorities. It may be required that you report the incident to local law enforcement.
- Seek medical attention immediately. Failure to get treated for your injuries could delay your recovery and may affect your right to compensation.
- Document what happened. Write down everything that happened before, during, and after the accident. Take pictures and video at the scene if you are able.
- Contact a lawyer. One of the most important things you can do after an accident is contact a lawyer. A lawyer can help ensure that you get the financial recovery you need if you are seriously injured.
While water sports and activities can provide hours of fun, they can also be dangerous. If you are injured on the water, you need an attorney that can help you get the money you deserve after a preventable accident.
Contact Our Office for More
Did you suffer a water-related injury in Miami, FL? Contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.
