Tampa Boating Accident Attorney

Water sports and other recreational activities can be a wonderful opportunity to get outdoors and have some fun. Boating has been proven to reduce stress levels, help people focus, and even facilitate bonding between family and friends.

However, there are hundreds of boating accidents, reaching into the high triple digits each year. Of these reported incidents, too many people have lost their lives. Many of these fatalities are due to drowning, with approximately 81% of these victims not wearing a life jacket.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a boating accident, our Tampa boating accident lawyers are here to help you recover the compensation you deserve. We have experience in defending personal injury survivors and know what evidence is needed to prove your case.

Watercraft Injuries

Boating and other watercraft sports can result in any of the following injuries:

Broken Bones

This type of injury is often the result of slipping from a wet surface, often fracturing ankles, elbows, and arms.

Lacerations And Amputations

There are many sharp surfaces on a boat, which can lead to lacerations. A run-in with a boat propeller can even result in a traumatic amputation.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

If you are thrown off balance and hit your head, you could suffer a concussion or other traumatic brain injury (TBI). A TBI is a brain dysfunction caused by a sudden blow to the head, which can have long-term effects.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Any traumatic accident has the potential to cause a spinal cord injury. A spinal cord injury can be the result of any injury to the nerves of the spinal cord, which can cause a loss of strength, lack of sensation, and paralysis.

Oxygen Deprivation

While drowning is the leading cause of death in boating accidents, there are situations in which a person may breathe water into their lungs and experience a lack of oxygen to the brain. This is known as “near-drowning,” and victims may suffer permanent damage to their brain, lungs, and heart after such an incident.

Proving Liability And Florida Negligence Laws

If you were involved in a boating accident that was caused by a lack of maintenance on the part of the boat owner, you will likely be entitled to collect compensation for your losses, known as damages.

Most personal injury accidents are the result of negligence or a person’s lack of care in a given situation. To prove negligence, you must demonstrate the following:

• Duty: The responsible party (defendant) had an obligation to use reasonable care
• Breach: The defendant breached his or her duty
• Causation: There is a direct link between the defendant’s breach of duty and your injuries
• Damages: As a result of the defendant’s violation of their duty, you suffered measurable losses

Current Florida law only allows an injury victim to recover compensation for injuries and other losses if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. If an investigation reveals that you were more than 50% at fault, you will be barred from recovering damages.

Speak With Our Tampa Boating Accident Lawyers Today

What may have started out as a relaxing outing can quickly turn into a nightmare. If the proper precautions are not taken, boating can be a dangerous sport. If you or a family member have been the victim of a boating accident, the negligent party should be held accountable for their actions.

To learn more and to schedule your free case evaluation, call 813-534-6913 or contact us online.

Types Of Boating Accident Cases We Handle

Our Tampa boating accident lawyer has extensive experience working with individuals and families who need help after a harmful maritime incident. Boating cases often involve unique circumstances that differ from other types of personal injury matters, which is why having the right support matters. At our firm, we take a careful look at how the accident occurred, what damages were involved, and how to best pursue compensation on your behalf.

Injuries Caused By Boat Collisions

Collisions are one of the most common causes of boating injuries. These accidents can happen between two boats or between a boat and a stationary object. We handle cases where injuries range from broken bones to more severe harm requiring long-term care. When investigating these cases, we look at operator behavior, speed, alcohol use, and adherence to waterway rules.

Cases Involving Reckless Operation

Some boating incidents occur because a boat operator acted without proper regard for others’ safety. Reckless operation might include speeding, weaving through traffic, or ignoring posted signs. We pursue claims for individuals harmed in these situations, focusing on holding the responsible party accountable for the damage caused.

Accidents Related To Poor Maintenance

A boat that has not been properly maintained can present serious risks. Engine failures, steering problems, and faulty equipment can all contribute to accidents. In these cases, responsibility may fall on the owner, a rental company, or even a manufacturer. We assess each factor to identify where liability rests and pursue compensation accordingly.

Incidents With Passengers Overboard

Falling overboard is another common type of boating accident. Whether due to overcrowding, sharp turns, or lack of safety equipment, these situations can lead to injuries such as hypothermia, head trauma, or drowning. We represent clients who have been impacted by these events, working to recover damages for medical care and related expenses.

Cases Involving Alcohol Or Substance Use

Operating a boat under the influence is both dangerous and unlawful. When alcohol or drugs play a role in a boating crash, the injuries are often severe. We take these cases seriously and work to demonstrate how impairment directly contributed to the accident. Our Tampa boat accident attorney is familiar with the challenges these cases present and provides the support you need to move forward.

Property Damage And Financial Losses

Boating accidents do not only cause physical harm. They also result in costly property damage and lost income from missed work. We assist clients in pursuing recovery for these losses so they can focus on getting their lives back on track.

Fatal Boating Accidents

Some boating accidents tragically result in the loss of life. Families facing this kind of loss may have a wrongful death claim if negligence played a role in the accident. These cases can involve collisions, falls overboard, or accidents caused by impaired or reckless operation. We work closely with families to pursue compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional impact of losing a loved one. Our firm handles these cases with the care and attention they deserve.

Here To Make A Difference

At Mickey Keenan P.A., we understand how disruptive a boating accident can be. Whether you are dealing with injuries, financial setbacks, or both, our team is here to stand by you. If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident and want to discuss your options, contact our Tampa boating accident lawyers today to get the help you need.