Boat accident off Orlando, Florida Boating is a part of life for many people in Florida. With so many boats in the canals and surrounding waters, boating accidents are inevitable. Most Americans understand the steps required after an auto accident, but boat accidents and Maritime Law make these claims more complicated. Our attorneys in Orlando understand the nuances of these cases and can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and property damage.

If you or a loved one suffered an injury on the water, contact Colling Gilbert Wright in Orlando, Florida today at (407) 712-7300 for a free case evaluation. Our experienced lawyers serve clients nationwide.

Common Causes of Boat Accidents

There are many potential causes of a boat accident, which are similar to instances that lead to auto accidents, such as:

Careless or reckless driving
Aggressive driving
Inexperienced drivers
Operating watercraft while under the influence
No lookout
Poor weather conditions
Negligence

Boating rules and regulations are not always enforced or respected to the same extent as motor vehicle traffic laws. People who have failed to complete a boating safety or water safety course also cause boat accidents.

Unlike cars, boats do not require any licensure prior to being operated. Unfortunately, this means that some inexperienced and irresponsible individuals are allowed to operate boats. These people often cause boating accidents.

Consequences of Boat Accidents

Boating accidents frequently have much different outcomes than auto accidents. Since they occur on the water, some of the consequences of boat accidents include:

Sinking
Drowning
Exploding
Flooding
Capsizing
Disappearing
Fire

Admiralty and maritime rules and laws govern boat accidents. These can be confusing and may make it difficult to establish the cause and determine who is at fault for the accident.

Boating Accidents Vs. Auto Accidents

Most people have a general understanding of auto accidents and how they impact drivers, passengers, and others. There are approximately one million boats registered in Florida, and we often have boats registered in other places in our waters as well. Likely, someone involved in a boating accident won’t know what to do or understand their rights. That is why our team of personal injury attorneys handle boating accident claims as we understand the unique factors that need to be considered when investigating the boat accident and pursuing compensation.

Boating Laws & Requirements in Florida

Insurance and license regulations are different for boats than motor vehicles. You expect that people driving cars and trucks on the roadways have auto insurance and a valid driver’s license, but that’s not necessarily true for boat drivers. If you own a boat or are a frequent boating passenger, you may have questions about boating laws in Florida, such as:

Does the State Have Requirements for Registering Boats?

There are seven classes of boats under Florida Law. Like motor vehicle requirements, you must have proof of ownership (the title) and registration.

Do Boat Owners or Operators Have to Carry Insurance?

Boating insurance is not a requirement, but boats that exceed 40 miles per hour must be insured. Similar to automobiles, boat insurance coverage offers liability coverage and other options.

Do Boat Operators Have to Be Licensed like Car Drivers?

Florida Law requires boat or watercraft operators (ten horsepower or higher) who are under the age of 22 possess a Boater Safety Education ID Card, which involves completing an authorized boater safety course.

Regardless of the legal requirements for boat insurance in Florida, liability is a concept that affects everyone. Those injured in a boating accident are mostly concerned about holding the responsible party liable for severe injuries and property damage, which is why our attorneys are available to help.

Contact an Orlando Attorney About Your Boating Accident Claim

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident on the water, contact Colling Gilbert Wright in Orlando today at (407) 712-7300 to schedule your initial consultation. Our law firm knows how to make sure you get the compensation you deserve after an accident and serves clients anywhere in the State of Florida and nationwide.