With more than 11,000 miles of rivers, streams and waterways, and close to 3,500 miles of coastline, Florida is now the number one destination for boat lovers in the country.
Not surprisingly, with close to one million boats registered in Florida -- and just under half that number of boaters from other states using our waterways -- Florida is the number one state for boating injuries and fatalities.
The West Palm Beach, Florida personal injury attorneys of Gordon & Doner, P.A. can offer crucial advice if you've been injured in a boating accident. Contact us online or call us at 800-659-1159 so that we may assess your case, for free. Our lawyers will determine who is at fault for your boating injury. If we find that you have a valid claim, we will work tirelessly to help you obtain the money you deserve for lost wages, medical bills, and your pain and suffering.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the primary boat and watercraft accident types that result in death or injury are:
- Collisions with other boats or fixed objects;
- Water skier mishaps;
- Passengers falling overboard;
- Capsized watercraft.
While some boating accidents are caused by equipment or machinery failure, most occur as a result of the boat operator's negligence or recklessness. Listed in order of occurrence, common causes for boating accidents are:
- Operator inattention or careless and reckless operation;
- Excessive speed;
- Alcohol use;
- No proper lookout and operator inexperience;
- Weather;
- Equipment failure.
When an injury is caused by a defective or dangerous condition of a watercraft, the victim may be able to bring a product liability case against the manufacturer or rental agent of the boat. You may also have a personal injury claim if your injuries were caused by the negligence of the operator of your boat or other boats.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a boating accident in Florida, you may be entitled to money for your medical bills, lost income, and your pain and suffering. Please contact Gordon & Doner, P.A. for our free, no-obligation, confidential consultation. Complete our online contact form or call us toll free at 1-800-659-1159. The attorneys at Gordon & Doner, P.A. represent clients in West Palm Beach, Martin County, Stuart, Pembroke Pines, Miami and throughout Florida.
