West Palm Beach Boat Accident Lawyer

West Palm Beach Boat Accident Attorney

For many living in West Palm Beach, boating is a way of life, but a day out on the water can quickly turn into a tragedy if you experience an accident. If someone else’s negligence causes your accident, you deserve compensation. Boating accidents can lead to life-changing injuries and financial loss. A West Palm Beach boat accident lawyer can help you pursue damages, taking on your case and representing you while you focus on healing.

Why Choose The Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A.

If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, the last thing you want to worry about is fighting insurance companies in settlement negotiations or court battles. That’s where The Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A. comes in. Our attorneys have over 30 years of combined experience in personal injury cases.

What’s more, two of our lawyers have worked for insurance companies, so we know the tricks they use to avoid accountability. We have the experience and knowledge to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Whether you’re taking a trip out to Peanut Island or docking in Palm Harbor Marina, there’s always a risk of an accident. Palm Beach County reported 36,969 registered boats for pleasure in 2023. With so many recreational craft on the water, it’s no surprise the county ranks high in the state for the total number of boating accidents. These crashes can happen for numerous reasons, including:

• Speeding
• Boating under the influence
• Inexperienced operators
• Reckless operation

Boating Rules and Regulations in Florida

Boats have laws governing their operation on the water, just like cars do when they’re on the road. Florida Statutes Chapter 327 includes specific rules and regulations for vessel safety, covering everything from legal operation requirements, reckless and careless operation, and boating under the influence to speeding, damaging property, and location restrictions.

Keep in mind, you aren’t bound by just state laws while boating. There are also federal and maritime laws that you must follow. If you violate any of these rules and end up causing an accident, you could be liable for any resulting damages.

Florida’s Statute of Limitations for Boat Accidents

How long you have to file a boat accident can vary. Florida has a two-year statute of limitations for boating accidents, though there may be exceptions to that rule that can shorten or extend the deadline.

However, if your accident falls under maritime law, you only have three years. For example, a crash on the Intracoastal Waterway falls under maritime law. It’s wise to discuss your case with a West Palm Beach boat accident attorney to understand how long you have to file a claim.

Damages You Can Recover After a Boating Accident in West Palm Beach

There were 685 reportable boating accidents in Florida in 2024. If you’ve been in a boating accident, you’ve likely experienced injuries, property damage, and other losses. Luckily, you may be able to receive compensation for those damages. After a boat crash, you can recover the following economic losses:

• Hospital and emergency care costs: This includes hospital stays, initial doctor’s appointments, and related care, such as treatments and check-ups you require throughout your recovery.
• The cost of ongoing medical care: If your injuries are severe and you need long-term care, you can pursue damages for future costs.
• Repair or replacement costs for damaged property: If your boat or other personal property was damaged or destroyed, you can receive compensation for those losses.
• Lost wages: Accident victims often miss work as a result of their injuries, and you can get compensated for the pay you lose during that time away.

You can also pursue non-economic damages for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and disfigurement. Discuss your boat accident case with our attorney to learn more about the damages you may be entitled to.

FAQS

What Is the Law on Boat Accidents in Florida?

Florida’s boat accident laws can be found in Florida Statutes Chapter 327. These laws cover boating operation, safety requirements, accident reporting requirements, and penalties for violations, among other rules. Other laws that pertain to boating accidents can include maritime and federal law, as well as the state’s statute of limitations for filing legal claims.

Do Bigger Boats Have the Right of Way in West Palm Beach?

Bigger boats do not automatically have the right of way in West Palm Beach. The size of the boat does not factor into the right-of-way. Instead, the type of boat, its maneuverability, and the location of the boaters determine right of way. For example, sailboats operating under the power of the wind generally have the right of way over power boats. Similarly, ships with reduced maneuverability have the right of way over more agile crafts.

Which Side of a Boat Do You Pass On?

Typically, you should steer starboard (your right) to pass the other boat on your port side (left). Be sure you properly signal the other vessel with your horn and wait for them to signal back that they acknowledge your intention to pass. This is important when liability and fault are brought into question during a personal injury case.

What Damages Can I Recover Following a Boating Accident in West Palm Beach?

If you’ve been in a boating accident in West Palm Beach, you have the right to recover economic and non-economic damages. Economic losses are your tangible damages that can be valued.

These include the cost to treat your injuries, the damage to your property, and the income you lose from missing work. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering and emotional distress. You could also be awarded punitive damages if the other party’s actions were particularly egregious.

Hire a West Palm Beach Boat Accident Lawyer

Navigating the legal process after a boat accident can be challenging, especially if you’re still recovering from your injuries. Insurance companies will do whatever they can to reduce their liability, and you could end up with less compensation than you deserve if you aren’t familiar with the laws in West Palm Beach.

If you’ve been injured in a maritime collision, hire a boat accident lawyer from The Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and understand your rights.