Florida Boat Accident Lawyers
Expert Maritime Attorneys Serving All Florida Waters
When you've been injured in a boating accident in Florida waters, our experienced Florida boat accident lawyers are here to help you navigate both the legal waters and your recovery. Our expert boat accident attorney Florida team has extensive experience with maritime law and has recovered millions for victims of boating accidents throughout the state.
As leading Florida boating accident lawyers and trusted Florida maritime lawyers, we understand the unique challenges of boating accident cases. From the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic, from the Keys to the Panhandle, we help victims of all types of watercraft accidents get the compensation they deserve.
Florida Boating Accident Statistics
800+
Annual boating accidents in Florida
170+
Boating fatalities per year
1 Million+
Registered boats in Florida
#1
Florida leads nation in boat registrations
Types of Boat Accidents We Handle in Florida
- Boat Collisions & Vessel Crashes
- Jet Ski & Personal Watercraft Accidents
- Drowning & Near-Drowning Incidents
- Marina & Dock Accidents
- Passenger Injury Cases
- Electrical Accidents on Boats
- Fatal Boating Accidents
- Charter Boat & Tour Operator Negligence
Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Florida
Operator Error & Negligence
- • Boating under the influence (BUI) - Alcohol or drug impairment
- • Excessive speed - Too fast for conditions
- • Reckless operation - Dangerous maneuvers
- • Inexperienced operators - Lack of proper training
- • Inattentive operation - Distracted boating
- • Failure to maintain lookout - Not watching for hazards
- • Improper navigation - Wrong-way operation
Environmental & Equipment Factors
- • Weather conditions - Storms, high winds, fog
- • Mechanical failure - Engine or steering problems
- • Improper loading - Overloaded or unbalanced boats
- • Defective equipment - Faulty safety gear
- • Hazardous waters - Shallow water, debris
- • Lack of safety equipment - Missing life jackets
- • Poor visibility - Night operation without lights
Florida Waters Our Boat Accident Lawyers Serve
Gulf Coast Waters
- • Gulf of Mexico
- • Tampa Bay
- • Naples Bay
- • Charlotte Harbor
- • Sarasota Bay
- • Pine Island Sound
- • Apalachicola Bay
- • Pensacola Bay
Atlantic Coast Waters
- • Atlantic Ocean
- • Biscayne Bay
- • Indian River Lagoon
- • Halifax River
- • St. Johns River
- • Mosquito Lagoon
- • Banana River
- • Matanzas Bay
Inland Waters
- • Florida Keys waters
- • Everglades waterways
- • Lake Okeechobee
- • Intracoastal Waterway
- • Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
- • St. Johns River system
- • Peace River
- • Caloosahatchee River
Florida Boating Laws & Liability
Boating Under the Influence
Florida law prohibits operating a vessel with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher. BUI is a serious offense that can result in criminal charges and civil liability.
Penalties include fines, imprisonment, and boating license suspension.
Required Safety Equipment
Florida requires boats to carry:
- • Personal flotation devices (PFDs)
- • Fire extinguishers (certain boats)
- • Sound signaling devices
- • Visual distress signals
- • Navigation lights
Operator Liability
Boat operators can be held liable for accidents caused by negligent operation, including excessive speed, reckless maneuvers, or failure to maintain proper lookout.
Owner Liability
Boat owners may be liable for accidents caused by their vessel, even when someone else is operating it, under certain circumstances including negligent entrustment.
Why Choose Our Florida Boat Accident Lawyers
- ✓ Maritime law expertise - Specialized knowledge of boating regulations
- ✓ Statewide representation - All Florida waters covered
- ✓ Proven track record - Millions recovered for boating accident victims
- ✓ No upfront fees - We don't get paid unless you do
- ✓ Thorough investigation - Marine accident reconstruction experts
- ✓ Insurance expertise - We know boat insurance policies
- ✓ 24/7 availability - Emergency consultation available
- ✓ Local knowledge - Familiar with Florida waterways
"After our jet ski accident in Tampa Bay, Cardinal Law's expertise in Florida maritime law was exactly what we needed. They fought hard for our family."
— Satisfied Boating Accident Client
★★★★★ 5-Star Review
What to Do After a Boat Accident in Florida
Immediate Steps
- Ensure everyone's safety and call for help
- Contact the Coast Guard or Florida Fish and Wildlife
- Provide assistance to injured persons
- Exchange information with other boat operators
- Document the scene with photos and videos
- Get contact information from witnesses
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Report the accident if required by law
Protect Your Rights
- Don't admit fault or discuss details
- Be careful with insurance company statements
- Preserve all evidence and documentation
- Keep detailed records of all expenses
- Follow all medical treatment recommendations
- Contact an experienced Florida boat accident lawyer
- Don't sign anything without legal review
- Report the accident to your insurance company
Wondering What Your Case May Be Worth?
Let's work on your case together
Through 13 years of experience and multi-millions recovered for our clients we offer the most premium legal services.
Visit Our Florida Offices
Cardinal Law has offices throughout Florida to serve you better. Our main office is in Naples, with additional locations by appointment.
Naples Office
Main Office9045 Strada Stell Court
Suite 305
Naples, FL 34109
Orlando Office
200 E Robinson Street
Suite 1120
Orlando, FL 32801
Tampa Office
401 East Jackson Street
Suite 2340
Tampa, FL 33602
Miami Office
848 Brickell Avenue
Suite PH5
Miami, FL 33131
Fort Myers Office
5237 Summerlin Commons Blvd
Suite 511
Fort Myers, FL 33907
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