South Florida’s scenic waters attract countless boaters and thrill-seekers, but the rise in boating accidents, often caused by inexperience, speeding, alcohol, or equipment failure, has made legal support more crucial than ever. The Perazzo Law Firm, led by Jonathan Perazzo, specializes in boating accident cases across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. Whether the incident involved a jet ski, private boat, or cruise, their team navigates complex insurance and maritime law issues to secure compensation for victims, with no upfront costs.

Don’t let your case sink before it starts. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be. Call 888-PERAZZO or fill out our contact form for a FREE consultation available 24/7. Let us help you navigate the legal tide and fight for the recovery you deserve.

Understanding Boating Accident Claims

When paradise turns perilous, boating accidents can leave victims adrift in a sea of medical bills, lost wages, and legal confusion. At the Perazzo Law Firm, our seasoned Miami Boating Accident Lawyer team helps injured victims navigate the stormy waters of insurance claims and maritime law to secure the compensation they deserve.

What Is a Boating Accident?

Boating accidents encompass a wide range of incidents, including:

• Crashes and collisions between vessels or with fixed objects like docks or buoys
• Overboard incidents, where passengers fall into the water due to sudden stops or reckless maneuvers
• Boating Under the Influence (BUI), a leading cause of fatal accidents in Florida waters
• Capsizing, often caused by poor weather, overloading, or operator error
• Mechanical failures due to poor maintenance or defective parts

These accidents can be just as devastating as car crashes, often resulting in traumatic injuries, drowning, or long-term disability. Florida leads the nation in registered vessels, over 1 million boats, and Miami’s waterways are among the busiest in the country.

Types of Vessels Involved

Boating accidents in Miami involve a diverse fleet of watercraft, including:

• Speedboats and jet skis, often used for high-speed recreation
• Yachts, which range from luxury cruisers to chartered party vessels
• Commercial boats, such as fishing vessels, tour boats, and ferries
• Personal watercraft, including kayaks, canoes, and sailboats

Each type of vessel presents unique risks and legal considerations. For example, jet skis are prone to high-impact collisions, while commercial boats may involve employer liability under the Jones Act.

Recreational vs. Commercial Boating

Understanding the distinction between recreational and commercial boating is crucial when filing a claim:

• Recreational vessels are used for personal enjoyment, fishing, cruising, watersports, and typically fall under standard personal injury law.
• Commercial vessels operate as businesses, charter tours, fishing operations, cargo transport, and are subject to stricter regulations, licensing, and maritime law.

In commercial cases, liability may extend to employers, vessel owners, or even manufacturers. Recreational claims often involve disputes with insurance companies over negligence, coverage limits, and medical expenses.

How Boating Accidents Connect to Insurance Claims

Boating accident victims may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (including emergency care, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment)
• Lost income due to inability to work
• Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life
• Property damage, such as destroyed personal belongings or vessel repairs

However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. That’s why having a Miami Boating Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm is essential, we know how to build strong cases, gather evidence, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Boating may feel like smooth sailing, until it isn’t. When the wind picks up and judgment slips, even a day on calm waters can spiral into chaos. At the Perazzo Law Firm, our experienced Miami and Georgia Boating Accident Lawyer team understands the hidden dangers that lurk beneath the surface of recreational and commercial boating. Here’s a breakdown of the most common causes of boating accidents and how they can lead to serious injury and complex insurance claims:

Leading Causes of Boating Accidents

• Operator Inattention or Inexperience: Many boating accidents stem from distracted or novice operators who fail to monitor surroundings, weather, or vessel controls. A momentary lapse can lead to devastating consequences.
• Speeding: High-speed boating reduces reaction time and increases the risk of collisions, especially in crowded waterways. Like driving a car too fast on a winding road, it’s a recipe for disaster.
• Alcohol or Drug Impairment (BUI): Boating under the influence is illegal and deadly. Impaired judgment, slowed reflexes, and poor coordination make BUI one of the top causes of fatal boating accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Sudden storms, high winds, and rough seas can turn a peaceful outing into a survival scenario. Many boaters underestimate how quickly conditions can change.
• Equipment Failure: Faulty engines, broken steering systems, or malfunctioning navigation tools can leave a vessel stranded or uncontrollable. Regular maintenance is key, but even well-kept boats can fail unexpectedly.
• Collisions with Other Boats or Fixed Objects: Whether it’s a dock, buoy, or another vessel, collisions are among the most reported boating accidents. Poor visibility, inattention, or miscommunication often play a role.
• Falling Overboard: One of the most overlooked dangers, falling overboard can lead to drowning, hypothermia, or traumatic injury. Without a life jacket or emergency shut-off switch, the risks multiply.

Real-World Examples

• A group of friends celebrating a birthday on a rented speedboat collided with a dock after the operator, who had never driven a boat before, misjudged the throttle. Several passengers suffered broken bones and required emergency care.
• In another case, a solo jet skier lost control in choppy waters and was thrown overboard. The vessel continued circling until it struck the rider, causing serious head trauma. The investigation revealed the rider wasn’t wearing a kill-switch lanyard.

Boating accidents are more than just unfortunate mishaps, they’re often preventable tragedies with legal consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured, the Miami Boating Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm is ready to help you steer your claim toward justice. Call 888-PERAZZO NOW – FREE CONSULTATION 24/7 and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Injuries and Compensation

When a day on the water turns tragic, the aftermath can be physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelming. Boating accidents often leave victims battered, bruised, and burdened with medical bills and uncertainty. At the Perazzo Law Firm, our expert Miami Boating Accident Lawyer team helps victims recover the compensation they need to heal and rebuild.

Common Boating Accident Injuries

Boats may lack seatbelts, airbags, or the protective structure of cars, making passengers vulnerable to serious harm when things go wrong. Common injuries include:

• Drowning and Near-Drowning:Even strong swimmers can be overcome by panic, injury, or rough waters. Near-drowning can lead to brain damage from oxygen deprivation.
• Head Trauma and Concussions: Sudden impacts or falls can cause traumatic brain injuries, often with long-term cognitive effects.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Collisions or falls can result in shattered limbs, especially when passengers are thrown against hard surfaces.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: A jolt from a crash or a dive into shallow water can cause paralysis or chronic pain.
• Hypothermia: Prolonged exposure to cold water can lower body temperature dangerously, especially in overboard incidents.
• Lacerations and Propeller Injuries: Sharp edges, broken glass, or spinning propellers can cause deep cuts and permanent scarring.
• Wrongful Death: In the most tragic cases, boating accidents result in fatalities—leaving families devastated and searching for justice.

Real-World Example

A family outing turned tragic when a speedboat collided with a submerged object, throwing passengers into the water. One individual suffered a spinal injury, while another was trapped underwater and nearly drowned. Emergency rescue and long-term rehabilitation followed, along with a complex insurance battle.

Types of Compensation Available

Victims of boating accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Costs: Covers emergency rescue, ambulance transport, hospitalization, surgeries, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages:If injuries prevent you from working, you may recover income lost during recovery.
• Long-Term Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices may be necessary for months or years.
• Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress, trauma, and reduced quality of life are compensable damages.
• Funeral Costs: In wrongful death cases, families may recover expenses related to burial and memorial services.

Who Is Liable in a Boating Accident?

When the tide turns and tragedy strikes, determining who’s at the helm of responsibility becomes crucial. Boating accidents often involve a tangled web of liability, where one wrong move, one faulty part, or one overlooked safety measure can lead to devastating consequences. At the Perazzo Law Firm, our expert Miami Boating Accident Lawyer team dives deep into the facts to uncover who’s legally accountable and ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Potentially Liable Parties in Boating Accidents

Boating accident liability isn’t always cut and dry. Like navigating through fog, it requires careful investigation and legal clarity. Here are the most common parties who may be held responsible:

• Boat Operators (Private or Commercial): Whether it’s a weekend boater or a paid captain, operators are expected to follow maritime laws and exercise caution. Speeding, distraction, or boating under the influence (BUI) can make them directly liable for injuries and damages.
• Rental Companies: If a rental company fails to provide proper safety equipment, training, or maintenance, they may be held accountable. Handing over the keys to an untrained or intoxicated customer is a lawsuit waiting to happen.
• Cruise Companies or Tour Operators: Commercial boating entities have a duty of care to passengers. Negligence in staffing, emergency preparedness, or vessel upkeep can result in liability for injuries sustained during excursions.
• Equipment Manufacturers: If a boating accident stems from a mechanical failure, such as a faulty engine, steering system, or safety gear, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws.
• Marina or Dock Owners:Unsafe docking conditions, poor lighting, or lack of signage can contribute to accidents. Property owners may be liable if their negligence creates hazardous conditions.

Liability Laws Vary by State

Boating accident liability is governed by a mix of state laws, maritime regulations, and federal statutes. What applies in one jurisdiction may not hold water in another. For example, some states impose strict liability on rental companies, while others require proof of negligence. That’s why it’s essential to consult a legal team familiar with your local laws.

For state-specific liability information, visit our Boating Accident Liability by State Guide.

Why You Need a Boating Accident Lawyer

When a day on the water turns into a nightmare, the aftermath can feel like you’re lost at sea, confused, overwhelmed, and unsure where to turn. Boating accident claims are no walk on the beach. They involve a maze of maritime laws, insurance red tape, and liability disputes that can sink your chances of fair compensation if you try to navigate them alone. That’s why the Miami Boating Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm is your lifeline to justice.

Maritime Law Is a World of Its Own: Boating accidents often fall under maritime law, including the Jones Act and Admiralty Law, which govern incidents on navigable waters. These laws differ significantly from standard personal injury statutes and require specialized legal knowledge. Filing deadlines, jurisdiction rules, and liability standards can vary depending on where and how the accident occurred. Without a seasoned attorney, you risk missing critical legal steps or filing in the wrong venue.

Dealing with Insurance and Vessel Owners: Boat owners, whether private individuals or commercial operators, often carry insurance that’s designed to protect them, not you. Insurance adjusters may downplay your injuries, dispute liability, or offer lowball settlements. A boating accident lawyer knows how to negotiate aggressively, reject unfair offers, and hold insurers accountable for the full value of your claim.

Gathering Evidence: The Devil’s in the Details: Building a strong case requires more than just a police report. Your attorney will collect:

• Vessel logs and GPS data to reconstruct the accident
• Maintenance records to identify equipment failures
• Weather reports and witness statements to support your claim

Like piecing together a nautical puzzle, every detail matters, and the Perazzo Law Firm knows how to connect the dots.

Expert Witnesses and Accident Reconstruction: In complex cases, we bring in marine safety experts, engineers, and accident reconstruction specialists to testify on your behalf. Their insights can clarify how the accident occurred, who was at fault, and how your injuries were sustained. These expert voices often make the difference between a denied claim and a successful settlement.

Maximizing Compensation While You Focus on Recovery: While you focus on healing, we focus on winning. Our team fights for compensation that covers:

• Emergency medical care and hospitalization
• Lost wages and future earning potential
• Long-term rehabilitation and therapy
• Pain and suffering, emotional trauma
• Funeral expenses in wrongful death cases

We don’t just aim for a payout, we fight for everything you’re legally entitled to, so you can move forward with peace of mind.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Boating Accident

When disaster strikes on the water, panic can spread faster than waves in a storm. But staying calm and acting quickly can make all the difference. Whether you’re on a jet ski, yacht, or tour boat, here’s your lifesaving checklist to protect your health, your rights, and your future compensation. Boating Accident Response Checklist

• Seek Immediate Medical Help: Your health comes first. Call 911 or use a marine radio to request emergency assistance. Even minor injuries can worsen without treatment, especially head trauma, hypothermia, or internal bleeding.
• Report the Incident to Authorities: Notify the Coast Guard, harbor patrol, or local law enforcement. Reporting is often legally required and creates an official record for your insurance and legal claim.
• Document Injuries and Boat Damage: Take photos or video of the scene, vessel damage, injuries, weather conditions, and any safety equipment (or lack thereof). These visuals are vital for proving negligence and damages.
• Get Witness Contact Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and statements from passengers or nearby boaters. Their accounts can support your version of events and strengthen your case.
• Preserve Rental Agreements or Waiver Documents: If you rented the vessel or signed a waiver, keep those documents safe. They may contain liability clauses or safety obligations that affect your claim.

Why Legal Help Matters After a Boating Accident

Navigating the aftermath of a boating accident can feel overwhelming, especially when legal complexities and insurance hurdles start to surface. Whether your injuries seem minor or severe, consulting a Miami Boating Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm ensures your rights are protected and your case is handled with precision.

Quick Legal Overview

Boating accidents fall under a mix of state personal injury laws and federal maritime regulations like the Jones Act and Admiralty Law. Jurisdiction depends on where the accident occurred, navigable waters may trigger federal law, while inland incidents typically follow state rules. Understanding which laws apply is critical to building a strong claim.

Common Questions Answered

• Do I need a lawyer for a minor accident? Yes. Even small incidents can lead to hidden injuries or insurance disputes. Legal guidance helps you avoid costly surprises.
• Who covers medical expenses? Depending on the case, costs may be paid by the boat owner’s insurance, your health coverage, or through a legal claim. Insurers often resist paying full value, so having an attorney helps ensure accountability.
• Can I sue a rental company? Absolutely, if the company failed to maintain the vessel, provide safety gear, or allowed an unqualified operator to take control. Waivers don’t protect against negligence.
• What is BUI? Boating Under the Influence is illegal and dangerous. Impaired boating increases the risk of serious accidents and carries both criminal and civil consequences.

How Long Do You Have to File a Boating Accident Claim

In Florida, the deadline to file a boating accident claim depends on where the accident occurred and which laws apply, either state personal injury law or federal maritime (admiralty) law:

Florida State Law

• 4 years from the date of the accident: Applies to incidents on waters entirely within Florida’s boundaries (e.g., inland lakes and rivers)
  Federal Maritime (Admiralty) Law
• 3 years from the date of the accident: Applies to accidents on navigable waters shared between states or offshore (e.g., Biscayne Bay, Intracoastal Waterway, Atlantic Ocean)

Cruise Ship Accidents: Often governed by contractual terms May require:

• Notice of intent within 6 months
• Formal claim within 1 year

Wrongful Death Claims

• Must be filed within 2 years under Florida law
  Because the applicable law hinges on the location and type of vessel, it’s important to consult an attorney familiar with both state and maritime law to avoid missing critical deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions: Boating Accidents in Florida

What laws apply to boating accidents?
Boating accidents in Florida may fall under state personal injury law or federal maritime (admiralty) law, depending on where the incident occurred. The Perazzo Law Firm has specialized expertise in both areas, ensuring victims receive proper representation whether the accident happened on inland waters or navigable coastal routes.

Do I need a lawyer for a minor boating accident?
Even minor boating accidents can involve complex liability issues, insurance disputes, and maritime regulations. The Perazzo Law Firm recommends seeking legal guidance to protect your rights and ensure fair compensation, especially if injuries or property damage are involved.

Who pays medical bills after a boating injury?
Medical expenses after a boating injury may be covered by the at-fault party’s insurance, your own insurance policy, or through a legal claim. The Perazzo Law Firm helps clients navigate these options and negotiate with insurers to recover costs for treatment, rehabilitation, and related damages.

Can I sue a rental company for a boating crash?
Yes, if the rental company failed to maintain the vessel, provided faulty equipment, or allowed an unqualified operator to use the boat, they may be held liable. The Perazzo Law Firm investigates these cases thoroughly to determine negligence and pursue claims against rental operators when appropriate.

What is BUI (Boating Under the Influence)?
BUI stands for Boating Under the Influence, which is operating a watercraft while impaired by alcohol or drugs. It’s a serious offense in Florida and a leading cause of boating accidents. The Perazzo Law Firm handles injury claims resulting from BUI-related crashes and works to hold negligent operators accountable.

Talk to a Boating Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, don’t wait for the tide to turn, take control of your case today. The Perazzo Law Firm offers compassionate, aggressive legal representation to help victims recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

• Free Case Evaluations – No obligation, just answers.
• No Fees Unless You Win – We don’t get paid unless you do.
• Offices in Florida & Georgia – Serving clients across state lines with local expertise.
• Available 24/7 – Because accidents don’t follow business hours.

Don’t go it alone. If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, contact the Miami Boating Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm for expert guidance, evidence gathering, and aggressive representation.

Call 888-PERAZZO NOW – FREE CONSULTATION 24/7.

Offices in Florida and Georgia Serving Boating Accident Victims