Boating Accident Lawyer in Naples
Dedicated Advocacy for Florida Injury Victims
Being so close to the coast, it is very common for Naples residents and visitors alike to spend a lot of time on the water. Between boating, swimming, and other recreational water activities, the weather is nearly perfect year-round for spending time at the beach. However, when you are out in the water, there may be boaters around you that are not being as cautious as they should.
Even though boating accidents have gradually begun to decrease, in 2019 alone there were 4,168 boating accidents, with 13% of them resulting in death, as recorded by the U.S. Coast Guard’s statistics. If you have been hurt as a result of a negligent boat driver, it is time to speak with a caring Naples boat accident attorney.
Contact The Kuhl Law Firm today for a free consultation.
Common Boating Accident Injuries
Because boats tend to be traveling at high rates of speed when accidents occur, the resulting injuries can be quite severe. While some injuries may be heal on their own with a few weeks of rest and recuperation, other injuries will require major surgeries or extensive physical therapy.
Some of the most common injuries experienced by boating accident victims include:
- Broken bones
- Sprains and strains
- Burns from engine fires
- Concussions
- Hypothermia
- Injury to internal organs
- Lacerations and cuts
- Spinal cord and spinal column injuries
- Brain injuries
- Drowning
Determining Liability in a Boating Accident
It can be a very complicated process when you are trying to figure out exactly who was liable for a boating accident. These accidents tend to happen very fast and, making matters worse, water can obliterate and erase valuable evidence and, in some cases, all traces of the accident. However, it is important to uncover who was at fault if you wish to pursue a personal injury claim. An experienced Naples boating accident attorney can help.
Some examples of when the boat operator/owner may be liable for an accident include instances in which they:
- Did not give protective safety measures or equipment to passengers
- Disregarded boating laws and navigational rules
- Were involved in recklessly operating the boat
- Were intoxicated or under the influence of drugs while operating the watercraft
Your attorney can help make a strong case that demonstrates who was actually liable for the accident. From there, your attorney can begin building your case and working to maximize your recovery.
- Violation of navigation rules
Causes of Boating Accidents
Boat accidents can take place between two or more boats or watercraft, a boat and a swimmer, or a boat and people on the shore. Boating accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bumps and bruises to catastrophic injuries like paralysis, brain injury, and spinal cord injury. Regardless of the severity of the injuries you have suffered, it is important that you retain counsel to effectively file a personal injury lawsuit. An experienced attorney can help determine the cause of your accident and, therefore, who is liable.
A few of the most common causes of boating accidents include:
- Alcohol or drug use
- Poor weather conditions
- Unsafe waters
- Excessive speed
- Inattention/carelessness
- Inexperience
- Failure to recognize hazards in the water
- Violation of navigation rules
For a free consultation, call The Kuhl Law Firm today at (239) 309-7550 to arrange an appointment.
Why Hire a Naples Boating Accident Attorney?
“It was also nice that he talked to me like a human, not a money sign like other attorneys had made me feel. Hopefully, I don't get injured again, but if I did, I'd call Mr. Kuhl in a heartbeat.”
- Vinny C.