There’s no better way to enjoy the beach and the sun than on a boat. Unfortunately, sometimes accidents happen while boating and people can get injured. If you or someone you love has suffered a boat injury in North Palm Beach Port St. Lucie, Florida, you may be wondering what to do next and how to get help.

Here, we will cover the common causes of boating accidents, proving liability in a boating accident case, and what to do and who to contact if you or someone you love has been injured in a boating accident in North Palm Beach Port St. Lucie.

Most Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Boating accidents vary in their causes, but there are some accidents that happen more frequently than others. Let’s go through every possible scenario:

Collision Caused by Other Boat

First on our list is a collision caused by another boat. This type of accident is, unfortunately, all too common in North Palm Beach Port St. Lucie Florida. Due to negligence or carelessness, many boat operators will collide with other boats, docks, or objects in the water. From speeding, reckless navigation, or simply not paying attention, there are many ways a boat operator can cause a collision.

Collision Caused by Your Vessel’s Operator

It is the operator’s top priority to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers on board, as well as to avoid any collision with other boats or objects. Unfortunately, many accidents are caused by the operator and they will be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result.

Product Manufacturers

Equipment failure caused by a defective boat or boating accessory is another possible cause of an accident. In these cases, it may be the product manufacturer who is held liable for the accident.

Commercial Companies

Recreational vessels are not the only ones that can be involved in an accident. Commercial vessels, such as charter boats, tour boats, and ferries, are also at risk. If they happen to prove that these vessels’ operators are not properly trained, operating with substandard equipment, or not following safety procedures, the company may be held liable for any accidents that occur.

Proving Liability in a Boating Accident Case

Once the cause of the accident has been determined, the next step is to prove liability. In order for someone to be held liable for a boating accident, negligence must be proven. Once proven, this is where you can file for injury claims. Compensations you are to receive include economic damages and non-economic damages. This include:

  • Property damages

  • Medical bills

  • Lost wages

  • Lost future earnings

  • Pain and suffering

  • Mental anguish

  • Loss of enjoyment of life

It is important to contact an experienced boat accident attorney to help you with the case and navigate you through the process.

Boat Accident Attorney North Palm Beach St. Lucie, Florida

Your boat accident attorney can make or break your case. They will be the ones to help you prove negligence and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Thus, it is critical to hire someone that has a proven track record of success in handling boat accident cases.

Fetterman & Associates has decades of experience handling boat accident cases in Florida. With our attorneys’ deep understanding of the law, we will make sure you are fairly compensated for your injuries. Contact us today for a consultation!