Boating Accidents in Florida

Florida leads the nation in the number of registered boats. It is also estimated that up to one million non-registered boats use Florida's waterways. According to statistics published by the state of Florida, in 2010 668 reported boating accidents occurred. In these reported accidents, two thirds of the boat operators had no formal boating education. Falling overboard occurred in 27 percent of those boating accidents which were fatal. Drowning was the leading cause of death in 62 percent of all boating accidents. Drugs and / or alcohol played a part in 22 percent of the state's boating accidents. Close to half of all those accidents occurring to personal watercraft involved a collision with another boat.

In 2009, Florida led the nation in boating accidents, with 620. The next state behind Florida was California with 478 boating accidents. Miami-Dade was second to Monroe County in reported boating accidents and injuries in 2010. Its tally of accidents was 72 as compared to 77 in Monroe County. The primary types of boating accidents were collisions with a fixed object, collisions with another vessel, flooding / swamping, falls overboard, grounding, and fires or explosions. The primary causes of boating accidents as evaluated by local authorities were operator inattention, no proper lookout, mechanical failure, and excessive speed. Other causes included operator inexperience, alcohol and / or drug usage, and carelessness.

Personal Injury Attorney Serving Miami, Florida

Boating and jet ski accidents can lead to serious injuries and death. As the state with the highest number of registered boats and vessels, Florida is a leading state for such accidents. The Miami area welcomes many tourists and boaters to its waterways every year for recreational boating and skiing activities. Where accidents occur due to the negligence of boat operators, victims may be entitled to legal compensation for their damages, including medical expenses, loss of earnings, pain, suffering, and more.

For those harmed in a boating accident in the Miami area or in any other type of negligence-based accident, the Law Office of Maria L. Rubio can help. This personal injury and wrongful death firm provides legal representation from a trial attorney who has been practicing since 1986. Attorney Rubio's successful track record has earned her inclusion in Super Lawyers prestigious list of outstanding attorneys. She and her legal team have helped countless people recover the compensation to which they are entitled following car accidents, boating accidents, medical malpractice, and more. To get a better understanding of your potential claim, contact the firm for a free case consultation. Get the competent legal advice and guidance you need.