Boating Accident FAQ's
 Making our home florida, we understand that water sports are a way of life here. We also understand why this makes boats, jet skis and other vessels just about as dangerous as cars.
At Holland and Lamouroux, Tampa Boating Accident Lawyers, we know that the most common causes of boating accidents are the same as those that cause automobile crashes. They include: careless or reckless driving, excessive speed, poor weather conditions, operating under the influence, negligence and an inexperienced operator.
The three most common types of boat accidents are collisions with other vessels, collisions with fixed objects such as a pier or passengers falling overboard.
Under Florida law, boat operators and owners must display a great deal of care in order to insure that swimmers, other boats, boat passengers and others are not injured, or killed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What constitutes a boating accident?
- What do I do after a ship or boating accident?
- When must a boating accident report be filed?
- What are the time limits on filing a boating accident report?
- Should I contact an attorney if I have been injured in a boating accident?
1. What constitutes a boating accident?
A boating accident occurs when one of the following happens:
1. A vessel causes or sustains damage
2. A person is injured as a result of the crash
3. The vessel capsizes
4. A person falls overboard
5. The vessel floods or sinks
6. The vessel explodes or there is a fire onboard
~ Return to top
2. What do I do after a ship or boating accident?
You are required to report the crash to the police or to coastal authorities if you are involved in a ship or boat accident and the monetary damage to the vessel appears to be $500 or more. You can contact the local boating authority to determine the amount of damage.
After reporting the crash, it is advisable that you speak with our Tampa boating accident attorney to learn about your legal entitlements.
~ Return to top
3. When must a boating accident report be filed?
1. A life is lost due to the crash
2. A person disappears under circumstances that indicate death or injury
3. A person is injured and requires medical treatment beyond first aid
4. According to federal regulations, a report must be filed when damage to the vessel and property is greater than $500
5. When there is complete loss of the vessel
~ Return to top
4. What are the time limits on filing a report?
This depends upon where the crash occurred and whether it is subject to Federal Maritime law or state laws. Typically a report must be filed within:
1. 48 hours of the accident if a person dies within 24 hours of the accident
2. 48 hours if a person is injured and requires medical treatment beyond first aid
3. 10 days if there is only damage to the vessel and/or property.
It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible so that any Statute of Limitations does not expire and prevent a recovery. Call our Pinellas Boating Accident Lawyers for assistance with your claim.
~ Return to top
5. Should I contact a lawyer if I have been injured in a boating accident?
Yes. A lawyer can quickly determine the facts and also preserve evidence that may be critical to determining why a watercraft accident occurred. Please call Holland and Lamoureux for assistance in you case.
~ Return to top
See Also...
If you have a question that was not covered in the above Frequently Asked Questions call our Tampa Boating Accident Lawyers at Holland and Lamoureux at 1-866-225-4907 or contact us today for additional information.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
|
