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Key Largo Boat Accident
Here in Florida, one of the most exhilarating activities to participate in is recreational boating. Did you know our state has more than 30,000 lakes, ranging from very small to more than 400,000 square feet? Florida also has many navigable rivers and coastal waterways. With so many beautiful waterways to explore, it’s no wonder that our waters are consistently filled with boaters. Unfortunately, with so many boaters, accidents are bound to happen. Legal action is needed to provide victims of boating accidents with compensation. If you or one of your loved ones have sustained injuries due to a boating accident, contact a Key Largo boat accident attorney for consultation regarding compensation for your injuries or loss.
The United States Coast Guard reports hundreds of people dying from boat-related accidents every year. In fact, in 2013, the Coast Guard recorded 4,062 accidents nationwide that involved 560 deaths, 2,620 injuries and about $39 million in property damage as a result of recreational boating accidents.
Much like car accidents, you can’t always avoid someone else hitting you--an unfortunate but unavoidable truth. However, you can take certain precautions to help prevent boating accidents and to become better prepared if you are involved in an accident. Here are some tips every boating enthusiast should take into consideration:
- Take a course in boating safety
- Keep up with weather reports and avoid going out when dangerous weather is forecast
- Avoid consumption of alcohol while boating
- If you’re inexperienced, always go out with an experienced boater
- All passengers should wear life jackets at all times
- Routinely schedule a free vessel safety check from the U.S. Coast Guard
Boating is a great outdoor hobby that can be a good bonding activity for the whole family. However, it’s important to be prepared and to protect yourself and your passengers at all times. As the operator of a boat, you’re in charge of the safety of your passengers. Be sure to practice safety routines and develop a plan in case of emergency.
It’s also important to be aware of the causes of boating accidents, so you can do what’s necessary to avoid them. Avoid these common causes of boating accidents:
- Boating under the influence
- Inexperience
- Inclement weather
- Disobeying signs
- Failure to follow boating regulations
- Speeding
- Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on cell phones
Most boating accidents involve collisions with other boats or personal watercraft, hitting a dock or pier, boat malfunctions, falling overboard, and contact with a propeller. Many boating accidents result in brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, back and neck issues, and in worse cases, even death. It only takes one person to cause an accident that can affect many lives. Boating accidents can be complex. Our legal team will closely evaluate the evidence available after the incident. Because of this, it’s important that you call an experienced Key Largo boat accident attorney who can help you if you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident.
The attorneys at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A. have experience representing clients involved in boating accidents. Our friendly, approachable lawyers will take on the burden of worrying about the legal complexities and will always work hard to keep your best interest in mind. You can trust that we will help you try to overcome the emotional and physical challenges that may arise after experiencing a boating accident. Contact our office online or call us today at 305-247-7887 or toll free at 877-448-8585 to schedule a free consultation with our Key Largo boat accident attorneys. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All consultations are free and confidential.
