Boat Accident Injury Attorney Near Me in Palm Beach County FL

Boating in Florida is one of the most fun things you can do. Hanging out with friends, leaving the stresses of life back on shore, and enjoying the sun can be a great time. Unfortunately, there are dangers associated with boating. Many times, other boaters do not obey the rules of the waters, and/or drink alcohol while operating their vessel. If you are injured in a boating accident due to somebodies negligence, it is important to contact Simko Law Group in order to explore your options regarding compensation.

Types of Boating Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries: Head injuries are a common result of boating accidents, particularly if the victim is thrown from the boat or strikes their head on a hard surface. Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions to more severe injuries that can cause long-term disability or death.
• Spinal cord injuries: Boating accidents can also cause spinal cord injuries, which can result in paralysis or other serious medical conditions. These injuries can be particularly devastating if they occur in shallow water or near submerged objects.
• Broken bones: The impact of a boating accident can cause fractures or other types of bone injuries. These injuries can be particularly severe if the victim is thrown from the boat or struck by an object.
• Burns: Boating accidents can also cause burns, particularly if the boat catches fire or explodes. Burns can cause severe pain, scarring, and disfigurement.
• Hypothermia: In colder water conditions, boating accidents can cause hypothermia, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, and can cause symptoms such as confusion, shivering, and loss of consciousness.
• Drowning: Boating accidents can also result in drowning, which is a leading cause of death in boating accidents. Drowning can occur if a person falls overboard or if the boat capsizes or sinks.

Causes of Boating Accidents

• Operator inexperience or error: Many boating accidents in Florida are caused by operator error, such as driving too fast, failing to keep a proper lookout, or operating the boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Inexperienced operators may also be more likely to cause accidents due to a lack of knowledge about navigational rules and safe boating practices.
• Equipment failure: Boating accidents can also be caused by equipment failure, such as a malfunctioning engine, steering system, or electrical system. Proper maintenance and regular safety checks can help prevent these types of accidents.
• Environmental factors: Florida’s waterways can be affected by environmental factors such as weather, tides, and currents. Boating accidents may be caused by poor visibility due to fog or rain, high winds or waves, or changing water conditions.
• Collisions with other boats or objects: Collisions with other boats or objects, such as rocks or buoys, can cause serious injuries and damage. These accidents may be caused by operator error, equipment failure, or environmental factors.
• Passenger behavior: The behavior of passengers on a boat can also contribute to accidents. Passengers who are standing, moving around the boat, or not wearing proper safety gear may be at risk of falling overboard or causing a collision.

Boating Safety Tips

Boating can be a fun and exciting activity, but it is important to take safety seriously. Some tips to stay safe include:

• Wearing a life jacket
• Following boating regulations
• Checking weather conditions
• Equipping your boat with safety equipment
• Taking a boating safety course
• Not drinking alcohol

What you should do if you are in a boating accident?

It is important to contact the coast guard immediately after a boating accident, photograph the scene, exchange insurance information, find witnesses and get recorded statements from them.

If you have been in a boating accident call Simko Law Group to discuss whether you may be eligible to receive compensation.