Florida offers a multitude of boating opportunities for residents and tourists. Unfortunately, boating is not a risk-free activity. Boating accidents can lead to serious injuries or death. Often, boating accidents are caused by the negligent or reckless actions of another party.
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a boating accident, a Melbourne boating accident lawyer from Bogin, Munns & Munns may be able to help.
Our Melbourne personal injury lawyers can investigate the causes of your boat accident, determine who the negligent parties are, and pursue compensation on your behalf. Call Bogin, Munns & Munns today and begin a free consultation to discuss your case.
A Melbourne Boat Accident Lawyer Can Help
Boat accident claims are often much more complicated than other types of accidents. In many cases, the accident is subject to maritime laws, which means that your case will involve a different set of rules and regulations than other types of Florida accidents.
Obtaining evidence during a boat accident investigation is also challenging. A car accident claim may involve evidence in the form of skid marks and vehicle debris, but being on the water makes obtaining this type of evidence nearly impossible.
A Melbourne boating accident lawyer from Bogin, Munns & Munns can help you:
Understand Your Rights and Legal Options After a Boat Accident
At Bogin, Munns & Munns, we help you navigate the complex legal landscape following a boating accident. Our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys provide clear, comprehensive explanations of your rights and legal options.
We ensure you understand the potential outcomes and the steps required to protect your interests, giving you confidence and clarity during a challenging time.
Determine Who Is Liable for Your Accident
Determining liability is crucial in any boat accident case. Our experienced legal team meticulously examines all aspects of your case, including witness statements, accident reports, and evidence from the scene.
We identify all potentially responsible parties, such as other boat operators, manufacturers, or even maintenance providers, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
Investigate the Cause of Your Accident
A thorough investigation is essential for building a strong case. Our attorneys work with expert investigators to uncover the true cause of your accident.
We analyze every detail, from boat maintenance records to weather conditions, to establish a clear picture of what happened. This rigorous approach ensures no stone is left unturned.
Calculate the Damages You May Be Entitled To
Understanding the full extent of your damages is vital for seeking fair compensation. We carefully assess all your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. By calculating both current and future costs associated with your injuries, we aim to secure a settlement that fully addresses your needs.
Seek Financial Compensation for Your Losses
Once we have determined the extent of your damages, we aggressively pursue financial compensation on your behalf. Our attorneys negotiate with insurance companies and opposing parties to ensure you receive a fair settlement. If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Fight for a Fair Settlement or Award
Our ultimate goal is to secure a fair settlement or award that reflects the true impact of the accident on your life. We are dedicated advocates, leveraging our extensive legal experience and resources to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Whether through negotiation or litigation, Bogin, Munns & Munns is committed to standing by your side and fighting for your rights.
When working with Bogin, Munns & Munns, you benefit from a team that is deeply committed to your case and equipped with the expertise to handle all aspects of your boat accident claim.
To consult with an experienced boating accident lawyer serving Melbourne
855-780-9986
Choosing Bogin, Munns & Munns for a Melbourn Boat Accident
When it comes to seeking legal representation for boating accidents, Bogin, Munns & Munns stands out as a trusted name in central Florida. With over 40 years of dedicated service, we have established a reputation for treating clients like family. Our clients enjoy open, easy, and fast communication with our attorneys, ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.
At Bogin, Munns & Munns, we pride ourselves on serving a diverse clientele with a commitment to our founding principles of respect, dignity, and fairness.
Our most compelling goal is to provide innovative and comprehensive representation at a fair price. This ensures that every client receives top-notch legal services without compromising on affordability.
Our clients can rest assured that their needs are our top priority. We understand the local nuances and preferences that can impact your case. As a multi-specialty law firm, Bogin, Munns & Munns boasts a team of over 40 attorneys, each dedicated to their chosen field of practice. This diverse expertise allows us to handle a wide range of legal matters with the utmost professionalism and skill.
Choosing Bogin, Munns & Munns means choosing a firm that is deeply rooted in the community, committed to treating clients with the utmost care, and equipped with the specialized knowledge to navigate complex boating accident cases. Trust us to provide the comprehensive, client-focused representation you deserve.
Causes of Boating Accidents in Melbourne
Boating accidents can be just as dangerous as car accidents. The
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reported that over 15 reportable accidents occurred in Brevard County in 2013. These accidents resulted in 12 injuries and more than 3 deaths. Over $430,000 in property damage resulted from these accidents as well. Our boating accident attorneys can help with cases caused by:
Boating Under the Influence
For many, spending a day out on the water is synonymous with drinking alcohol. Individuals who would never drink and drive in a car justify drinking and driving in a boat because they may assume that boating under the influence is not as dangerous.
However, alcohol use was a significant contributor to Florida boating deaths in 2023—about 23 percent of fatalities were related to drug and alcohol use.
Drinking alcohol can lead to poor decision making, slower reaction times, and impaired coordination. Boating while under the influence of drugs or certain medications can be just as risky as boating while drunk.
Speeding
Operating a boat at an excessive speed makes it harder to stop the boat and avoid a collision. It also increases the chances of a passenger being harmed on the boat or falling overboard.
If your boat accident was caused by a driver who was speeding in a “no wake” zone or created an excessive wake by speeding along the Indian River or other body of water, the driver may be liable for your losses.
Operator Inattention
Another common cause of boating accidents is operator inattention or distracted boating. If a boater is distracted by other passengers, electronic devices, or other disruptions, they may miss the opportunity to avoid a collision or another accident.
Whether you were out on the water enjoying the weather or participating in an event like a local boat parade with, we can hold someone liable for your injuries.
Improper Lookout
Boaters must constantly evaluate their surroundings for signs of an impending accident. Improper lookout can lead to collisions with other boats or stationary objects, grounding, and unnoticed falls overboard.
Adverse Weather Conditions
An important part of being a responsible boater is recognizing when weather conditions make boating unsafe. Boating in rough waters or during a storm significantly increases the chances of injury and death.
Machinery Failure
Boat owners must ensure that their vessels are well-maintained. Boats that are not properly maintained or those that contain defective parts can malfunction, leading to catastrophic injuries and devastating boat accidents.
To learn more, call Bogin, Munns & Munns and schedule your free case assessment.
Melbourne Boating Accident Lawyer Near Me
855-780-9986
Determining the Liable Party in a Melbourne Boat Accident
If you or a loved one was harmed in a boat accident, you may be interested in bringing a personal injury insurance claim or suit against the at-fault party. Liability for a boat accident is often difficult to determine.
There may have been several contributing factors to the boat accident. The party or parties liable for a boat accident may include:
- The person operating your boat
- The operator of another boat
- The owner of the boat
- A commercial company such as a rental company or tour company
- The company that manufactured defective boat parts
Understanding who is responsible for your boat accident is the first step in holding that party accountable for your losses.
Evidence in a Melbourne Boat Collision
A Melbourne boating accident lawyer from Bogin, Munns & Munns can investigate your boat accident and determine who the liable parties are. We may use a variety of evidence to investigate and evaluate the accident, including:
- Weather reports
- Damage to the boats and other structures
- Medical records
- Eyewitness reports
- Police reports
- Boat maintenance records
- Boat rental company records
- Tour boat company hiring practices and maintenance records
In some boat accidents, criminal charges are filed against the operator or another individual involved in the accident. However, criminal charges are not a requirement for filing a civil claim for a personal injury case.
We Help Melbourne Victims Seek Losses in a Boat Accident Claim
The FWC’s boating injury report for 2023 reports that some of the top injuries caused in Florida boat accidents include contusions, lacerations, head injuries, back injuries, and internal injuries.
If you were injured in a boat accident, your injuries may have had a profound financial impact on your life. You may be able to recover compensation for the costs resulting from your accident through a personal injury claim.
You could be compensated for:
- Property damage, including damage to your boat and the personal property on the boat
- Medical bills and expenses including fees related to emergency room treatment, hospitalization, prescription medication, crutches or other medical equipment, doctors’ visits, and specialist care
- Future medical expenses including follow-up appointments or mental health care
- Lost income from missed work
- Future lost income related to your injuries
- Impairment to your income-earning ability
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
Click to contact our Melbourne Boating Accident Lawyers today
Melbourne Boat Accident Lawsuits Mist Follow the State Statute of Limitations
In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including boat accidents, is two years from the date of the incident per Florida Statutes § 95.11. This legal deadline is crucial as it limits the time victims have to file a lawsuit and seek compensation for their injuries.
Acting quickly is essential to ensure evidence is preserved, witnesses are available, and your case is as strong as possible. Delays can jeopardize your right to recover damages, making timely action critical. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, contact an experienced attorney promptly to protect your legal rights.
What If I’m Partially At Fault for My Melbourne Boating Accident?
In Florida, the modified comparative negligence rule, as outlined in Florida Statutes § 768.81, can significantly impact boat accident claims. This statute states that any party found to be more than 50 percent at fault for their own harm cannot recover any damages. In the context of a boat accident in Melbourne, this means that if you are deemed primarily responsible for the incident, you may be barred from receiving compensation.
The other insurance company may attempt to shift the blame onto you to reduce their liability and financial responsibility. They might argue that your actions contributed to the accident, even if this claim is unfair or exaggerated.
This is where the help of Bogin, Munns & Munns becomes invaluable. We understand the tactics used to unfairly blame victims and are prepared to counteract these strategies effectively.
By thoroughly investigating the accident and advocating on your behalf, we work to minimize your assigned fault percentage and maximize your potential compensation. Trusting Bogin, Munns & Munns means having a dedicated legal team that prioritizes your best interests and fights for a fair outcome.
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Our Personal Injury Lawyers Are Prepared to Help With Your Boat Accident
If you or a loved one was involved in a boating accident, contact a team member from Bogin, Munns & Munns. We can be with you through every step of your case.
Call our office today and begin your free, no–obligation consultation. Our Melbourne boating accident lawyers are waiting to help you now.
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