Palm Beach Gardens Boating and Jet Ski Accident Attorney

The Law Office of Roger P. Foley, serving Palm Beach Gardens and Palm Beach County, offers legal representation for individuals who have been injured in boating and jet ski accidents, as well as commercial vessel accidents. Our boating and jet ski injury attorneys understand the difficulties that victims face after such accidents and are committed to providing them with the best legal representation possible.

If you've been injured in a boating or jet ski accident in Palm Beach Gardens or West Palm Beach, our compassionate lawyers will take immediate action on your accident claims, allowing you to focus on your recovery. At the Law Office of Roger P. Foley, we are dedicated to assisting you throughout the legal process. Contact us at (561)-746-7076 to schedule a consultation with our Palm Beach Gardens boating and jet ski accident lawyers today.

Due to its vast coastline and numerous waterways, Florida provides a diverse range of boating experiences. Examples of the types of boating available in Florida include:

• Recreational Boating: This includes pleasure boating, fishing, water skiing, and other water-based recreational activities.
• Commercial Boating: This includes transportation of goods and people, as well as commercial fishing and other commercial activities.
• Charter Boating: This includes private or shared trips on boats for fishing, diving, and other recreational activities.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: These are non-motorized forms of boating that allow individuals to explore waterways at a slower pace.
• Jet Skiing: This is a popular activity that involves riding on a small, motorized watercraft.
• Sailing: This involves using the power of the wind to navigate a vessel.
• Paddle boarding: This is a popular activity that involves standing on a large board and using a paddle to navigate the water.

These are just a few examples of the many types of boating that can be enjoyed in Florida.

With its abundance of waterways, Florida attracts not only boaters but also enthusiasts of kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and personal watercraft such as jet skis. However, with so many different activities and varying vessel sizes, accidents on the water can occur. If you are involved in a boating or personal watercraft accident, contact the legal team at the Law Office of Roger P. Foley to discuss your maritime injury case. Our skilled lawyers are available at our main office in West Palm Beach, Florida, and are committed to helping you navigate the legal process.

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Similar to how there are traffic laws for automobiles operating on highways, there are also rules and regulations for waterways. Florida statute chapter 327 outlines the guidelines for vessel safety, which are enforced by the Florida Fish and Wildlife, Conservation Commission, local law enforcement, and the Coast Guard. Given the high volume of people enjoying Florida's waterways, it's crucial that everyone adheres to these regulations to minimize the risk of accidents.

However, despite the regulations, there are still individuals who choose to ignore the laws, putting others at risk. Boating accidents fall under both state and federal laws, as well as maritime law, depending on where the accident occurred. If you have been involved in a boating accident, it is important to consult with a boating accident attorney to determine the jurisdiction for your claim and the compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries. Contact a Palm Beach County boat or jet ski injury lawyer for assistance.

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In Palm Beach Gardens and in Florida, the statute of limitations for bringing legal action related to maritime injury is three (3) years. If you have been injured due to negligence, it's crucial that you seek medical treatment and document your injury. Unlike car accidents, boating accidents may not have as many witnesses available, so it's important to take photos and videos of the incident. Gather as much information as possible about the accident to share with a Palm Beach Gardens boat accident or maritime lawyer.

If you have any questions or concerns about your Florida boat accident case, contact our office for a free, no-obligation consultation at 561-746-7076.

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• Knowledge of maritime laws and regulations
• Dealing with similar cases and understanding of the complexities involved in maritime law
• Ability to conduct an independent investigation into the cause of the accident
• Skilled negotiation with insurance companies and other parties involved
• Assistance with documentation and tracking of important records related to your accident
• Representation in court, advocating for your rights and interests
• Peace of mind knowing that you have a knowledgeable and experienced legal advocate on your side
• Help in securing maximum compensation for your injuries and losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

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Boating or vessel accidents can take on many forms, with some of the most common including:

• Collisions with other boats or stationary objects: This can occur when boats fail to follow boating regulations or when operators are negligent or reckless.
• Capsizing or sinking: This can happen due to various factors, such as high waves, overloading of passengers or cargo, or operator error.
• Falls overboard: This can occur due to slippery or unstable conditions on board, operator error, or equipment malfunctions.
• Fires or explosions: These accidents can be caused by fuel or electrical system malfunctions, improper fueling, or failure to follow safety procedures.
• Accidents involving water skiers or tubers: These accidents can occur when the boat operator is inexperienced or reckless, or when the equipment used for towing is faulty.
• Malfunctioning equipment: Equipment malfunctions can lead to accidents, such as engine failure or steering malfunctions.
• Navigation errors: Navigation errors can cause accidents, such as running aground or colliding with shallow rocks or reefs.

It's important to follow boating safety rules and regulations to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, it's advisable to have proper safety equipment on board, such as life jackets and fire extinguishers, and to ensure that all equipment is in good working order. In the event of a boating accident, it's important to consult with a knowledgeable boating accident attorney to ensure that your rights and interests are protected.

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Not following maritime rules and laws can result in serious consequences. Maritime rules and laws are designed to protect the safety of individuals and the environment. Failure to adhere to these regulations can lead to accidents, injuries, and damage to property or the marine environment. It's important to educate yourself on the applicable rules and laws for your particular situation, and to follow them to minimize the risk of accidents and avoid legal penalties.

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An inexperienced operator at the helm can pose a significant risk to the safety of passengers and other boats in the area. Boating operators must have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a vessel safely and to make sound decisions in varying weather and water conditions. Inexperienced operators may not be familiar with basic boating safety practices, navigation rules, and the potential hazards of operating a vessel, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. It's important to ensure that anyone operating a vessel has the proper training and experience to do so safely.

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Exceeding the speed limit while operating a personal watercraft or any other vessel can have catastrophic consequences. Unlike automobiles, watercraft do not have brakes, making it challenging to regain control of the vessel when speeding. High speeds can lead to collisions with other objects or boats, increasing the risk of serious accidents and injuries. It's crucial to obey speed limits while boating to avoid losing control and causing harm to yourself or others.

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When a passenger falls overboard from a boat or ship, the consequences can be severe, including fatal injuries. Passengers may fall overboard due to various reasons, such as slippery or unstable conditions on board, sudden changes in weather or water conditions, or operator error. Falling overboard can also result from passengers engaging in reckless or dangerous behavior, such as standing on the edge of the vessel. It's crucial to ensure that passengers are properly seated and secured while on board to prevent accidents and injuries, including falling overboard.

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Boating under the influence (BUI) can have severe consequences, including causing serious bodily injury to passengers or other boats in the area. Operating a boat or jet ski while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is considered a criminal offense, and the driver can face criminal charges. In Florida, if a boat driver is found to be under the influence, they are automatically considered Per Se negligent in a boating accident, meaning that the court deems them negligent because of their intoxication. It's essential to avoid boating under the influence to ensure the safety of everyone on board and to avoid legal penalties.

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Accidents at marinas and docks can be caused by slip and fall incidents, as well as boat collisions or other negligence by boat or personal watercraft (PWC) drivers. For instance, when passengers are deboarding and encounter slippery or hazardous obstacles, it can result in slip and fall accidents, or even passengers falling overboard. Additionally, boat collisions with the dock or other structures can cause accidents. It's important to be cautious and aware of potential hazards while at the marina or dock, and to take appropriate safety measures to prevent accidents and injuries.

Boat owners have a responsibility to keep the deck clear of any debris or hazards that may cause passengers to slip, fall, and suffer injuries. In addition to removing potential hazards, boat decks should have anti-slip decking to prevent slips and falls, especially since water commonly accumulates on the surface of the deck. Slip and fall accidents can cause serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord injuries. It's crucial to take appropriate safety measures and regularly maintain the boat to prevent slip and fall accidents and protect the safety of all passengers on board.

Commercial boats or ships that carry passengers have a duty to ensure their safety. If injuries occur due to the negligence of the commercial boat owner or corporation that owns the vessel, they may be held liable.

Charter boats are considered full-service boats that provide a captain and crew for passengers. The owner and crew have a duty to ensure the safety of the passengers and operate the vessel correctly.

Private vessels for hire or bareboat refer to renting a boat without a crew, making the renter responsible for the operation of the vessel as the captain and crew. Unless the boat is defective or improperly maintained, a civil suit is unlikely.

It's important to understand the different types of commercial boats and their responsibilities to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent accidents and injuries. In the event of an accident, it's crucial to consult with a knowledgeable boating accident attorney to protect your rights and interests.

Cruise ship operators have a duty to ensure the safety of their passengers and prevent accidents and injuries on board the vessel. Some of the largest cruise lines operating in Florida, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Disney Cruises, owe each passenger a duty of care.

Injuries on cruise ships can occur due to various reasons, including slip and falls caused by worn-down non-slip surfaces, inadequate lighting on stairways, or spilled food and beverages in dining areas. Neglect of food services to properly adhere to allergy information provided by passengers can also cause severe food reactions. Other common injury claims include swimming pool accidents, passenger overboard incidents, and recreation activities caused by negligence or product malfunction.

Sexual assault and battery by crew members or other passengers is another issue that can lead to injuries on cruise ships. It's crucial for cruise ship operators to take appropriate safety measures and to address any potential hazards or issues to prevent accidents and injuries. In the event of an injury, it's essential to consult with a knowledgeable maritime attorney to protect your rights and interests.

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Boating accidents can cause serious injuries and damages, resulting in significant financial losses. If you are involved in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses.

The types of compensation you may receive from a boating accident depend on the circumstances of the accident and the extent of your injuries. Generally, compensation for boating accidents includes:

• Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for current and future medical expenses related to your injuries, such as hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost wages, both past and future.
• Property Damage: If your boat or other property is damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repair or replacement.
• Pain and Suffering: This refers to compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you previously enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life.
• Punitive Damages: In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the negligent party for egregious conduct.

It's important to consult with an Palm beach Gardens boating accident attorney to evaluate your case and determine the types of compensation you may be entitled to receive.

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Boating accidents can cause a range of injuries, some of which are similar to those sustained in car accidents, while others are specific to water-related incidents. It's important to understand the types of injuries that can occur in boating accidents, which include:

• Drowning: This is a serious risk in boating accidents and can occur when passengers fall overboard or when the boat capsizes.
• Head and Neck Injuries: These can occur when passengers are thrown from the boat, hit their head on a hard surface, or suffer whiplash.
• Shoulder Injuries: These can occur when passengers fall or are thrown from the boat, or when they try to brace themselves during impact.
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: These can occur due to the force of impact or when passengers fall or are thrown from the boat.
• Sprains and Torn Ligaments: These injuries can occur due to the sudden movements and forces of impact during a boating accident.
• Lacerations: These injuries can be caused by sharp edges or broken glass on the boat or from contact with other objects in the water.
• Amputations: These injuries can occur due to the force of impact or when passengers get caught in the boat's propeller or other machinery.
• Wrongful Death: Unfortunately, some boating accidents can be fatal, resulting in the loss of a loved one.
• Bone Fractures: These can occur due to the force of impact or when passengers fall or are thrown from the boat.
• Electrocution: This is a risk when electrical wiring or other equipment on the boat is faulty.

It's essential to seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know has been involved in a boating accident to prevent further injury and to document any injuries sustained. It's also important to consult with an experienced boating accident attorney to protect your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.

Suffering injuries from a boating or Jet ski accident can be a traumatic experience both physically and emotionally. At the Law Office of Roger P Foley, we understand the overwhelming nature of such incidents, and we are here to help you through this difficult time.

Our personal injury attorneys represent victims in boating accidents and are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and will work tirelessly to ensure that your legal rights are protected.

If you've been a victim of boating negligence in Palm Beach County, Florida, we encourage you to consider our law firm. We are conveniently located at 1555 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., Suite 1555, West Palm Beach, Florida, 33401, and are ready to help you through this challenging experience.

Call us today at (561)746-7076 to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards getting the justice you deserve.

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