Boating is a way of life in Miami. If you live in Miami, you may be owning a boat, know someone who owns a boat or will get the opportunity at some point to go on a boat ride. Likewise, tourists love to indulge in boat riding to experience the placid blue waters surrounding the islands.
It is said that the state of Florida leads the nation in registered vessels. Apart from this, numerous non-registered vessels also actively use waterways. From all this, it appears that the boating population is on the rise. Unfortunately, this is the cause of the ever-growing number of boating accident cases in Miami, with many of them involved in serious personal injury.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident in the city, you must contact a Miami Boat Accident Lawyer right away. When boats or other types of water transport crash, the consequences are hazardous. Here’s an in-depth look at what you should do after being involved in a commercial boating accident in Miami:
Steps to Take After a Boating Accident
- Seek Medical Care
According to Florida law 327.30, the driver of a boat involved in an accident is mandated to render medical aid. The boat operator must take the necessary steps to minimize the danger and after-effects of collision or crash. This includes calling emergency services, offering first aid, and securing the property. If you have sustained injuries, get help immediately.
- Report to the Authorities
About 723 boating accidents were reported in 2019, and 66 accidents resulted in fatalities. So, it’s a serious concern for the boat operators, too. They should immediately notify law enforcement authorities regarding the accident, no matter if there are any injuries or property damages. You may call the coastguard, or the sheriff, who is the local police.
- File a Report
Usually, the police will investigate, make a report, and file it. It’s your job to ensure that you stay at the scene until reports are complete or have someone represent you. It’s vital to get a copy of the report for your records and record any pieces of evidence in all circumstances.
- Learn about your legal rights
When you are in a boating accident in Miami, you may deserve compensation in case you have sustained injuries or property damages. Contact a Miami Boat Accident Lawyer as soon as possible to stay informed about your rights and take the right course of action to make a legal claim. There is a time limit to make a claim, and the sooner you do it, the faster you will receive compensation so that you can recover swiftly.
- Provide or Get Information to or from Affected Parties
Just like a car accident, you have to exchange personal information with those involved in the accident, including your name, address, and identification of the vessel.
- Locate the Owner of an Unattended Boat
Suppose the accident involves a collision with an unattended vessel. In that case, the law stipulates that the owner should be duly notified about the accident immediately and contact them to get their information.
- Notify the Insurance Company
You should also inform your insurance company as soon as you can after the boat accident. If the other party in the accident also has insurance, it can help the compensation process if you are the victim.
The last thing we expect to happen while peacefully enjoying Miami’s calm waters is to get involved in an accident. Unfortunately, most boat accidents in Miami happen due to negligence on the other boat operator or if there is no care or caution in some way.
In such cases, you rightfully deserve appropriate compensation to help you deal with the stress, confusion, and personal injuries or property damages. Get the help of an expert Miami Boat Accident Lawyer to help you take all the necessary steps in the right direction.