Florida has the most registered watercraft in the country, with millions of residents and tourists enjoying the warm coastal waters each year. Regrettably, the state also has the largest yearly number of jet ski and boating accidents, many of which result in severe or even fatal injuries.
Although they are generally referred to as “accidents,” most recreational boating injuries in Fort Walton Beach could have been avoided—and someone may be held accountable for your pain and suffering.
What is the first thing to do when involved in a boat accident?
If you are in an accident that occurs during an offshore cruise, you should ask yourself if you need medical treatment. If someone falls overboard, you and your crew must take action immediately so they can be brought in safely.
Boating accident legislation mandates boat operators to execute the aforementioned actions quickly after these occurrences, and everyone concerned should prioritize medical care for anybody wounded.
The boat operator should immediately halt their vessel and never leave the site of a boating accident unless the responding authorities allow them to. They should, however, relocate their vessel out of the way of other vessels in the region.
Another necessary measure that a boat operator must take after an accident is to notify the Coast Guard. Before departing the region, all boat operators should have the essential equipment and contact information for the local Coast Guard detachment.
Who do you report boating accidents to in Florida?
Boating accident reports are normally handled by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The Division of Law Enforcement of the FWC may submit a report on your behalf or explain:
- Whether a written watercraft accident report is necessary for Florida for your occurrence
- Where can I find reporting documents?
- Where should the document be kept?
- The actions to take after reporting your accident
It may be necessary to notify other law enforcement authorities.
A lawyer may analyze your case and advise you on how to submit a report.
What amount of property damage is required to report a boating accident in Florida?
Under Florida law, a watercraft accident with property damage of over $2,000 must be reported. When there is the damage of $2,000 or more, the operator must notify it.
Damage to the boats themselves, neighboring buildings, or even personal belongings in or on the boat itself is included in the threshold amount. In addition to property damage, Florida law demands boat accident reports in situations of bodily harm.
Why do I need a boat accident lawyer in Fort Walton Beach?
Unlike automobiles, lorries, and motorcycles, where a rapid and strong application of the brake may bring a vehicle under control, jet skis and boats rely heavily on the operator’s effort to lower the throttle or thrust of the engine and reverse direction.
When boat and jet ski operators are untrained or preoccupied, fatal accidents may occur. Unfortunately, Florida has the highest number of maritime accidents in the nation.
It can be very emotionally and physically difficult for a victim’s family after a jet-ski and boat collision. When a person is trying to overcome an injury, it may cause physical damage, emotional damage, or loss of life-saving benefits.
In fact, it should not be a problem for you to hire a legal firm that will help with your case in court.
What is the meaning of negligence after a boating accident in Florida?
Negligence is the law that holds people financially liable if they fail.
Negligence consists of four main components: The key factor is to prove all the facts. You have to prove that the defendant’s actions are most likely to be responsible for causing you injury or damage.
In some cases, insurance companies can blame you, but you need professional help. Experienced Fort Walton Beach boat accident lawyers should know the complicated nature of such accidents.
What kind of damages is available to accident victims?
In general, a claim will have two different kinds: (1) economic and (2) non-economic.
Economic Damage covers the loss resulting from a person’s death.
Non-economic damage includes anything as these types of damage will not have a specific monetary value, but they are extremely important for your quality of life. Rarely is punitive justice provided?
This is merely damage to punish someone’s wrongful conduct, but rather teaches them something new.
Can you recover compensation after a boat accident in Florida?
Depending on how much compensation the accident is for you and how the injuries are incurred, it will be worth the loss of compensation. Florida law requires that you be compensated according to the percentage of all the faults you’re facing.
It’s here that it’s worth having a reputable Fort Walton Beach boat accidents attorney on your side.
The importance of working with a Fort Walton Beach personal injury lawyer
If you were hurt in a boat accident caused by another party in your life by negligence or reckless actions, you may have the opportunity to recover. Generally, claims processing is simple as long as you agree to a settlement offer.
But once you start demanding a refund for an expense you’ve already incurred, it can be overwhelming and frustrating for you.
What is the value of my Fort Walton Beach boating accident case?
It is entirely dependent on the circumstances of your particular situation. Accidents resulting in serious injury or death often result in greater compensation.
Get in touch with Browning Law Firm immediately to schedule a consultation and evaluation.
The accident type does not affect what you can get, though only by speaking with a knowledgeable accident lawyer can you fully understand your rights in a personal injury case.