Were you out on the water in Tampa Bay for the 4th of July, and things went wrong?
You’re not alone. Every year, boating accidents spike in Florida during holiday weekends, especially the Fourth. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Boating Accident Statistical Reports list Florida as the state with the highest number of accidents in the US as of 2024. If your day on the water ended in a Florida boat accident, you probably have a lot of questions. Let’s walk through what happened, what your legal rights are, and how to get help.
Why do so many Florida boat accidents happen on the 4th of July?
Good question! There are a few major reasons. The Fourth is one of the busiest boating days of the year in Florida. Crowds, alcohol, fireworks, and nighttime boating all play a role. Add in a few inexperienced or careless operators, and accidents become almost inevitable.
Common causes of holiday boat accidents include:
- boating under the influence (BUI)
- speeding or reckless operation
- poor lighting and low visibility during fireworks
- inexperienced boaters unfamiliar with the rules of the water
- overcrowded waterways like Tampa Bay
What should I do right after a boat accident?
Here’s what our experienced boat accident lawyers recommend if you’ve been in a boat crash:
Get Medical Help
Your health (and the health of your passengers) is priority number one. Even minor injuries can turn serious quickly. This is especially true when in the water. Call 9-1-1 immediately after a crash and request authorities and medical help.
Call Authorities
As mentioned above, a prompt call to the authorities is necessary, regardless of the severity of the crash. Any and all damage should be reported. An official report is a crucial part of your potential case.
Take Photos
Document the scene. Take photos (and videos) of damage to your boat, damage to other boats, any injuries, damage to nearby property, and anything else relevant to the accident.
Exchange Info
Just like a car accident, you should exchange information with all parties after a boat accident. Get names, boat registration numbers, and contact details from those involved in the accident and nearby witnesses.
Don’t Admit Fault!
Keep things factual. You don’t need to explain or speculate with others on the scene. Provide facts only, and keep conversation minimal until you can speak to your attorney.
Call a Florida boat accident attorney
The sooner you can contact an attorney, the better. A lawyer can step in to protect your rights and start gathering evidence on your behalf. We also handle interactions with insurance companies and other attorneys.
Who’s at fault in a Tampa boat accident or one on the Chain of Lakes?
That depends. Boat operators in Florida have a legal responsibility to operate safely. If someone violated that duty (by drinking, speeding, or ignoring safety rules) they may be at fault. As trusted drunk boating accident attorneys in Florida, we have seen many of these types of crashes. However, these collisions aren’t always so straightforward.
Other possible liable parties in boat accidents can include:
- boat rental companies that didn’t provide proper safety equipment
- a boat manufacturer if a mechanical failure was involved
- another boat operator who caused a collision
Florida also follows comparative negligence, meaning more than one person (even you) could share the blame. A skilled boat accident lawyer can investigate and figure out who’s really responsible. We know how to best protect your rights and advocate for you throughout the process.
Can I get compensation after a Florida boat accident?
Yes, if your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible to recover compensation. This can include:
Even paddleboarders can file a personal injury claim if they’re hurt in a boat accident!
- medical bills (current and future)
- lost income or time off work
- pain and suffering
- property damage (like to your boat or personal belongings)
You don’t have to be the boat owner to make a claim! Passengers, kayakers, paddle boarders, and even swimmers who were injured as a result of the accident can have valid cases. That’s why it’s so important to talk with a boat accident attorney who understands Florida law.
Do I really need a boat accident lawyer?
Absolutely. Boat accidents can get legally complicated fast. There may be maritime laws involved, multiple parties pointing fingers, and insurance companies trying to downplay your injuries and avoid payout.
A Florida boat accident attorney can help you by:
- gathering evidence at the scene
- interviewing witnesses
- handling communication with insurance companies
- fighting for full and fair settlement
- taking your case to trial if necessary
When should I contact a boat accident attorney?
As soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it is to gather solid evidence and build a strong case. In Florida, you also have a two-year statute of limitations on your personal injury claim. This means prompt action is imperative. If you were involved in a Tampa boat accident or a crash on The Chain of Lakes, don’t wait to get legal guidance.
Talk to a Florida boat accident attorney today!
At Brooks Law Group, we know how overwhelming it can be to deal with injuries, medical bills, and legal questions after a boat accident, especially one that happened during a busy holiday like the 4th of July.
Do you need a Florida personal injury attorney after your boat accident? We’re here to help. We offer free consultations, and you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case since we work on contingency fees. Call us today or contact Brooks Law Group online to get started. We’re proud to serve clients throughout Tampa Bay, Winter Haven, Lakeland, and beyond.
When tragedy strikes on the water, you’re not alone in the aftermath. Look to Brooks!
