Panama City Boating Accident Attorneys

Put 100+ Years of Experience in Your corner

More boating accidents occur in Florida each year than any other state. Despite this, Florida does not require mandatory boating education for the majority of its inhabitants.

The danger of operating a boat without understanding proper safety procedures and nautical law is generally underestimated and can lead to disaster.

Maritime law is complex and takes an extensive list of factors into account when determining responsibility for boating incidents. If you were hurt or lost a loved one in an accident on the water, it is crucial that you seek the experienced counsel of our Panama City boating accident attorneys.

Arrange your free case consultation today by calling a Panama City boating accident lawyer from Syfrett, Dykes & Furr at (850) 795-4979. Se Habla Español.

Who is Liable in a Boating Accident?

If you were involved in a boating accident, you can take legal recourse against the driver of the boat you were on or the driver of another vessel that caused your injury. It is worth taking legal action even if the boat operator responsible for the accident is your friend, as the insurance company is the party liable to compensate your loss and damages.

Whether you were a guest or an employee of the boat owner impacts the claim, as does establishing where liability falls.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Some common examples of negligence in these cases are:

• Boating under the influence
• Faulty or absent of safety equipment aboard vessel
• Failure to follow state or federal boating laws
• Reckless operation of vehicle
• Lack of proper boat maintenance

If you feel the incident was caused by a defective mechanism or malfunctioning part of the boat, it is also possible to take legal action against the boat manufacturer. Our Panama City boat accident attorneys can analyze your case and advise the best avenue to pursue compensation.

Can I file a lawsuit if I was injured as a passenger?
Yes, you can file a lawsuit if you were injured as a passenger in a boating accident. The lawsuit could be against the boat operator, another vessel’s driver, or the manufacturer of a defective boat or part. An experienced Panama City boating accident attorney can help determine the responsible parties in your case.

What should I do if I am involved in a boating accident?
After a boating accident, you should:

• Seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured.
• Contact law enforcement and file an official report.
• Gather contact information from all involved parties and any witnesses.
• Take photos of the scene and damages.
• Contact an attorney to help guide you through the legal process.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a boating accident?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a boating accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure evidence is preserved and deadlines are met.

What kind of compensation can I receive from a boating accident claim?
If you are injured in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (both current and future)
• Lost wages or income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage (e.g., boat damage) The exact amount will depend on the specifics of the case, including the severity of your injuries and the responsible parties.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to you.

Do I need a lawyer to handle my boating accident case?
While it's not legally required, having an experienced boating accident lawyer is highly recommended. They can help you navigate complex maritime laws, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

How a Boat Accident Lawyer Can Help

With boating accidents, the injured party is responsible for proving the extent of their injuries and the negligence of the defendant in order to receive compensation.

Our Panama City boating accident attorneys can gather evidence, build a strong case, and do all they can to support your personal injury claim. We work tirelessly towards securing the financial help you deserve for the physical trauma you have undergone. 

Contact our boating accident lawyers in Panama City at (850) 795-4979. We take care of your case so that you can take care of your recovery.