Port Salerno Boating Accident Lawyer

Recreational and commercial boaters in Florida must follow both federal and state laws when operating a vessel on the water. Much like standard traffic laws, which are designed to protect motorists and their passengers, these statutes aim to keep boaters and those in the water around them safe.

The federal laws, which are enforced by the United States Coast Guard, regulate aspects like overall navigation, personal floatation devices, and collision avoidance. State laws, on the other hand, address vessel safety guidelines and marine conduct.

If a boater violates any one of these laws or otherwise engages in reckless operation and people sustain serious injuries as a result, he or she could be held financially liable for the damages. Since proving a violation can be challenging, though, it is wise to turn to a personal injury attorney for guidance.

If you or someone in your family was hurt in an accident on the water, contact Donaldson & Weston. We will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident to help you determine the most strategic way to proceed. Call 772-266-5555 to schedule a free case evaluation with one of the leading boating accident lawyers in Port Salerno.

At the end of the day, boating poses considerable risk regardless of who is operating the vessel. Even the most experienced and safety-conscious boaters can end up in a devastating accident because they have no control over the other vessels in the water around them. Some of the most common causes of boating accidents include:

• Boating while intoxicated;


• Traveling at extreme speeds;


• Failing to review the waterway's rules prior to departure;


• Failing to maintain the vessel to a reasonable standard;


• Failing to pay attention to the vessel's surroundings, especially when operating in busy waterways;


• Operating a vessel that has defective equipment; and


• Operating a vessel with insufficient experience or training.

In order to build a strong boating accident claim, you must determine the underlying cause of the incident and then find a way to prove it. The strongest evidence of fault will depend on the specifics of the situation. Generally speaking, though, the following kinds of evidence, which your legal team can help gather, may contribute to the strength of your case:

• The results of any chemical tests conducted after the accident;


• Testimony from eyewitnesses;


• Transcriptions from the liable party's deposition;


• Photographs of the property damage; and


• Data from the vessel's voyage data recorder.