Boating is one of the most adored recreation activities in Florida, thanks to the state’s beautiful lakes and coastlines. Spending time on the lake offers the most exciting experience you can ever get throughout Florida. However, this adventure is not without risks, as there have been several cases of boat accidents recorded from time to time. Some boating accidents can lead to severe accidents or even fatalities, so it’s important to exercise caution when riding on a boat.
Unfortunately, suppose you happen to be involved in a boating accident due to the negligence of another party. In that case, you will need the aid of a seasoned attorney in order to stand a better chance of securing a reasonable settlement.
Since not all injury lawyers can handle boating accident cases, it is prudent to hire one that specializes in boating accidents. Regardless of what led to the accident, be it a drunk boat operator or a novice operator or some other reason, a quality boat accident lawyer should be able to help. That said, below are the key reasons to hire a boat accident attorney.
- You’ve Sustained Severe Injuries
Sustaining injuries in a maritime collision can be a source of severe pain and suffering. These accidents can lead to burns, raptured bones, displaced limbs, and even death, all of which have far-reaching effects. This may result in job loss, long spells away from work, or costly medical bills. With the intervention of a competent boat accident lawyer in Florida, they can precisely value the worth of your injury claim. The attorney puts into consideration multiple factors, including the physical and emotional pain that you endure as well as the expenses you incur due to someone’s else fault. All this information helps the attorney demonstrate that the other party is at fault, which in turn proves effective in securing you worthwhile compensation.
- The Owner of the Boat Has No Insurance Cover
Despite boating being one of the most popular recreational activities in Florida, it might be surprising to discover that insurance isn’t a requirement for one to operate a boat. While boaters are highly encouraged to have insurance coverage, those without the coverage aren’t breaching any state law.
If you’re injured in an accident involving an uninsured boater, you’ll have difficulty securing reasonable compensation. This is one of the several reasons you’ll need a competent and seasoned attorney. Boat accident attorneys know how to navigate through such complications to ensure your rights are protected and that you are compensated for the injuries and damages inflicted.
- The Insurance Company is Hell-bent on Undervalue Your Case
Suppose you or your loved one is seriously injured in a boat accident. In that case, there may be a lot of expenses to cater for, namely periodic medical treatments, hospital stays, x-rays, prescribed drugs, and even damage to your property.
In an ideal world, the insurance company with which the boat is insured should be at the forefront to pay for any injuries and damages sustained. Unfortunately, in some instances, insurance companies might try to dispute whether it was their insured’s fault or offer compensation much lower than what you’re owed. In such a case, engaging a boat accident attorney remains the most viable option to secure a favorable settlement.
- The Accident was a Result of Negligence
Boating accidents can occur at any given time in spite of all rules and regulations being observed. However, there are instances when the cause of the accident can be linked to the recklessness of the boat owner or operator.
Suppose you strongly believe that you were injured due to the failure of either of the operators to pay attention to the wheel or driving while intoxicated. In that case, it is best to enlist a personal injury attorney to represent your interests by launching a negligence claim against the driver (s) to help you obtain compensation for the injuries and damages caused.
Boat owners are mandated to guarantee the safety of their passengers by equipping the boat with Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs), undertaking preventative maintenance checks, and ensuring all the electrical systems are fully functional before stepping on the water. Suppose the boat owner missed any of the above maintenance checks leading to an accident. In that case, a boat accident lawyer will be well-positioned to help you launch a negligence claim implicating the boat owner in the accident.
- Representation in Court
A boat accident attorney can help you collect evidence, file a claim and represent you in court proceedings. This often happens when the insurance company declines to pay the compensation sought or offers to pay much lower than you are owed. In that scenario, filing a claim in a court of law remains the best option to secure compensation equivalent to the injuries and damages caused. A personal injury lawyer in Florida can help you deal with rogue insurance companies and obtain the rightful compensation for the damages caused. This will help you focus on recovery while the attorney follows up with the claim.