Miami Boating Accident Attorneys
Experienced Legal Help for Boating Accidents in Miami & Fort Lauderdale
Vehicular safety is not just something that is important on the roads of Florida, it must also be practiced and respected on the water around and throughout the state. If a boater acts negligently while steering or handling their vessel, they can cause a serious boating accident that results in the injury of another.
Types of boats generally involved with noncommercial boating accidents include:
- Yachts
- Speedboats
- Fishing boats
- Houseboats
- Jet Skis
- Cruise ships
Any sort of boat or similar water vessel can become hazardous when it is not controlled properly. If you have been hurt in a boating accident, it could be possible that the person steering, navigating, or maintaining the ship failed to uphold their duty to protect the safety of their passengers and other boaters around them. Our Miami boat accident lawyers at Stabinski Law can look into your case for you, file your claim, and pursue compensation from the liable party.
Set up a free case evaluation with us today to begin.
Seeking Fair Compensation for Boating Accident Victims
The causes of a boating accident can be initially unclear but we have found that there is usually some sort of underlying or unmentioned form of negligence or wrongdoing at hand in most boating accident claims. The person steering the boat may have been intoxicated, increasing their reaction time and making it impossible for you to avoid a collision with them. They may have been pushing their craft beyond the permitted speed limit for that area, perhaps to impress a friend. In some cases, improperly loaded cargo can cause a personal craft to capsize, injuring those aboard and putting everyone at risk of drowning.
Whatever the exact cause may be, we can help you seek compensation that pays for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
No-Win, No-Fee Representation for Your Peace of Mind
Most people may feel hesitant to explore their legal options because they are afraid that they cannot afford an injury lawyer. While this may be true at some law firms, our Miami personal injury law firm is proud to offer contingency fees to our clients. You will not have to give us any payments to retain our services and we only expect to get paid if we win your case. Nothing up front and nothing out-of-pocket means there is no risk to you, just how it should be.
Contact Stabinski Law any hour of any day to start your boating accident case.
Client Testimonials
What Sets Us Apart?
Ready for Trial if Needed
We are fierce trial attorneys who know how to confidently litigate cases in front of a judge and jury.
Can Handle Every Stage of a Legal Matter
We can walk you through each step of your case, from the initial consultation all the way to a trial, if necessary.
Resolve Most Cases Without a Trial
As skilled attorneys, we are often able to help our clients avoid a costly trial while delivering positive results.
Offer Accessibility and Services 24/7
We are never too busy to speak with you or address your concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is liable for a boating accident in Florida — the boat’s owner or the operator?
Often both, and sometimes additional parties may share responsibility. The operator may be liable for unsafe handling, speeding, inattention, or ignoring channel rules. The owner may also be liable for allowing an unfit or inexperienced person to operate the boat. Charter companies, tour operators, and equipment manufacturers can sometimes be involved too. Stabinski Law investigates every responsible party before the insurer tries to narrow the claim.
The boat operator was drinking — does that help my case?
Yes. Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal in Florida, and evidence of an intoxicated operator can strengthen liability and may support a claim for punitive damages in serious cases. Alcohol is a factor in many severe boating accidents, so Stabinski Law works quickly to secure FWC reports, test results, and witness statements before they become harder to obtain.
Do boating accidents have to be reported in Florida?
Yes. Florida law requires certain boating accidents to be reported to the FWC or local authorities, including accidents involving injury, death, disappearance, or significant property damage. That report can become important evidence in an injury claim. If the operator left the scene or no report was filed, tell your attorney right away so the investigation can begin quickly.
Does maritime law apply to my Miami boating accident?
It might. Accidents on navigable waters can fall under federal admiralty or maritime law, alone or alongside Florida law. That can affect where the case is filed, what damages are available, and how long you have to sue. Stabinski Law can review where the accident happened and explain which rules may apply before you make assumptions about the claim.
How long do I have to file a boating accident claim?
The deadline depends on where and how the accident happened. Florida negligence claims generally must be filed within two years for accidents on or after March 24, 2023, while federal maritime claims and cruise-ship injury claims may follow different deadlines. Cruise ticket contracts can shorten the window to one year. Because water cases can involve more than one rulebook, call for a free consultation as soon as possible.
What will it cost to hire a boating accident lawyer?
Stabinski Law handles boating accident cases on a contingency-fee basis. You pay no upfront attorney’s fee, and the firm only receives a fee if compensation is recovered for you. The fee percentage and case costs are explained in writing before you hire the firm, and you can ask questions during your free consultation.
