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Do Boating Accidents in Florida Have Specific Reporting Requirements?
The Largo area is a beautiful spot for boating, and while getting out on the water is a great way to enjoy a sunny day, boating accidents are exceptionally dangerous. If you’re injured in a car accident, you likely know what steps you need to take, but if you’re injured in a boating accident, you may not. Better understanding your rights and responsibilities in this context can help you protect your rights, and if you’ve suffered an injury in a boating accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s time to consult with an experienced Largo, Florida, boating accident attorney.
FWC Helps Enforce the Rules on Florida’s Waterways
It’s important to note that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is one of the law enforcement agencies that enforces the rules on waterways throughout the State of Florida. Failure to report a boating accident as required can lead to penalties that – depending on the severity of the accident and the circumstances involved – include fines or can even support criminal charges.
When a Boating Accident Must Be Reported
In Florida, boat operators must report boating accidents to the authorities within a specific timeframe that is based on the severity of the accident. Generally, reports must be filed without delay, but there is a 48-hour maximum when any of the following apply:
- Someone dies
- Someone requires medical treatment that is more involved than simple first aid
- Someone disappears from the vessel
When the boating accident doesn’t cause any injuries but there is at least $2,000 in property damage – including to the boats involved – the accident must be reported within ten days.
Th Coast Guard imposes its own 48-hour requirement for reporting serious boating accidents throughout the nation.
Filing the Boat Accident Report
You can find the accident reporting forms you need online at the local police department or FWC’s website. Carefully filling out these forms with accurate information is critical because the data provided helps to form the regulations and safety standards that help keep waterways throughout the state safer for everyone.
Your Physical, Financial, and Emotional Losses
If you’ve suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence in a boating accident, the losses you experience can be immense, including in each of the following categories:
- Your medical expenses, including your ongoing healthcare needs
- Your lost income, including any lost earning potential
- Your physical and emotional pain and suffering, which can surpass your other damages combined
Your trusted boating accident attorney will fiercely advocate for fair compensation that covers your full range of losses in their entirety.
Turn to an Experienced Largo, FL, Boating Accident Attorney for the Help You Need
The focused boating accident attorneys at Mickey Keenan P.A. – proudly serving Largo, Florida – appreciate how challenging your situation is and will spare no effort in our fierce pursuit of your case’s best possible resolution. Learn more about what we can do to help you by contacting or calling us at 813-669-5471 today.