Naples Boat Accident Lawyer

Florida is famous for its plethora of beaches and natural waterways, which make it a popular destination for boaters. But like any vehicle, when a boat is operated in a negligent manner, it can lead to an accident. And innocent people are often seriously injured or killed as a result.

If you or a member of your family has been hurt as the result of reckless boating, the Pendas Law Firm can help. Our Naples boat accident lawyer can review your case and represent you in bringing a personal injury claim against a negligent boat operator, boat owner, or other third parties whose acts contributed to your losses. We know how to properly investigate all of the circumstances surrounding a boating accident–and we will make every effort to ensure you receive proper compensation.

What Are the Common Causes of Boating and Watercraft Accidents in Florida?

It should come as no surprise that Florida leads the nation in the number of boats. According to the state Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), there were more than 985,000 seafaring vessels registered in the state in 2020. There were also 836 reported boating accidents that same year. This figure included 77 accidents where at least one person died.

So why do boating accidents happen? Operator negligence is usually a key factor. This can stem from a number of factors, such as:

• Intoxication. Too many people associate recreational boating with drinking. This is not just reckless but illegal. Boating while intoxicated is just as much a crime as driving a car or truck under the influence. And according to FWC figures, nearly one-quarter of fatal boating accidents in Florida involved some form of drug or alcohol use.
• Inexperience. Florida laws are not as strict with respect to who can operate a boat or personal watercraft as they are with who can drive a car or truck. As a result, there are a lot of inexperienced–and frankly unqualified–people operating boats, which increases the likelihood of a collision with another boat or a similar accident.
• Inattention. Even a qualified, experienced boater can fail to keep a proper lookout for other vehicles. If a boat operator is distracted, that means they are not necessarily keeping a watch for other traffic in the water.
• Maintenance. Boats require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are in seaworthy condition. If a boat owner fails to keep a proper maintenance program, that can lead to a mechanical failure while the vessel is in use.
• Entrustment. According to the FWC, about half of all boating accidents involving personal watercraft occur with rented vehicles. Businesses that rent boats and personal watercraft can be held legally liable if they negligently entrust their vehicles to someone who is clearly incompetent, intoxicated, or clearly unqualified to safely operate said watercraft.

Contact The Pendas Law Firm Today

Even when boating accidents are not fatal, they can still leave victims with serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. A negligent boat operator, boat owner, or third party can be held responsible for such medical bills, as well as other losses suffered by the victims. Our experienced Naples boat accident lawyer can review your case and advise you on the potential value of your claim. So if you have been injured in a boat accident, contact the Pendas Law Firm today to schedule a consultation.