Lake Worth Boat Accident Lawyers
The coastal waters and inland lakes throughout Florida make the state a haven for boating enthusiasts, but your favorite outdoor activity is not without risks. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC), there are more than 720 reportable boat accidents every year. Dozens of people are killed and over 450 more suffer injuries in these incidents, many of which are preventable. Beyond the physical pain, victims and their families suffer life-changing financial and emotional losses.
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a boat accident, it may come as some comfort to know that you have options for recovering compensation. Our team at Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather can help with your legal remedies, so please contact our office to learn about our legal services.
We can set up a free consultation with a Lake Worth boat accident lawyer who can explain the specifics. Some background information may also be helpful. Call us at 561-500-HELP or fill out our online form.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Florida
Drowning is the biggest risk for victims of watercraft collisions, and FWCC statistics show it to be the cause of death in 66 percent of fatal boating accidents.
Many other types of serious injuries result from:
- Falls on decks and overboard;
- Collisions with other water-based vessels;
- Crashes into stationary objects;
- Accidents involving towed watersports;
- Collisions with personal watercraft; and,
- Defective equipment that makes the vessel unseaworthy.
Based upon these factors, you can see that operator error and carelessness are behind boat accidents. For purposes of liability, you need to prove that you were hurt because the at-fault boater did not exercise reasonable care. In a successful claim, you can recover compensation for such losses as medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Seeking Compensation for Boating Accident Losses
The first step in the legal process is filing a claim with the responsible operators insurance company, which is more than just filling out a few forms. You must have solid, credible evidence showing how the insurers policyholder was at fault, along with meticulous medical records regarding your injuries. Even with this essential proof, you could receive a denial or lowball offer to resolve your claim. Under these circumstances, you will need to go to court to obtain fair monetary damages. Our lawyers at Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather Injury Lawyers will support your rights throughout the legal process.
Depending on your unique situation, we can help you with:
- Investigation and evidence gathering;
- Submitting required forms and documentation to the insurer;
- Negotiating a settlement agreement with the insurance company;
- Filing forms to initiate litigation in court; and,
- Representing you during civil court proceedings.
Discuss Your Remedies with a Lake Worth Boat Accident Lawyer
This overview of your rights and remedies may be useful, but there are many additional laws and concepts involved with the legal process. Our attorneys at Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather Injury Lawyers will handle all essential tasks, so please contact our office to schedule a no-cost case evaluation with a boat accident lawyer.
We can advise you on your options after reviewing your unique circumstances. Call us at 561-500-HELP to begin your case.
