What to Do if You are Injured in a Miami Boating Accident?
Updated On September 3, 2021 | by Benjamin Garfield
Miami, Florida, is home to world-famous beaches. Hence, water sports and boating are the major attractions for a Miami vacation.
Although spending time on the beach is relaxing and fun, boating is prone to accidents. Hence, it is important to be prepared for the dangers of boating in Florida. A Miami boating accident lawyer is the best person to contact in an unfortunate situation.
Steps to Take After a Boating Accident in Miami
Safe boating techniques are essential to avoid untoward accidents. Here are a few steps to follow if you face a boating accident in Miami.
Seek Medical Help
A boat accident can cause serious levels of physical damage. Some common types of boating injuries are:
- Fractures
- Injury to the spinal cord
- Brain injury
- Minor cuts and sprains
It is advisable to access the injury levels of the people involved in the accident and reach out for medical aid as soon as possible. It is crucial to immediately call an ambulance to the location.
Sometimes, accident-related injuries do not show up immediately. Hence, it is recommended to get a thorough medical assessment to find hidden wounds.
Inform the Legal Authorities
A boat operator should follow the boating laws of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
A coast guard is a security organization deployed by the government. They work to protect marine life and ensure the security of people on water bodies. The boat operator or the owner should call the coast guard or the state agency for security in Miami for help after a boat accident.
It is illegal for a person operating the vessel involved in a boating accident to escape the scene without reporting to the proper authorities.
Gather Evidence and Information on the Accident
Once you have been treated medically, the next step is to collect information about the accident scene. It will include:
- The contact number and details of the boat owner
- The registration number of the watercraft
- Personal information of the passengers onboard
- Check the insurance details of the water vehicle
Get Legal Help
The medical bills can be unreasonably high for boat accident injuries. Also, the cost of repairing the boat is not cheap either. The boat operator can claim money from you for their irresponsibleness. Hence, every proof of the accident is essential to prove your case in an injury claim or a lawsuit.
Save all the treatment records to get the full compensation amount for your loss. You can take the help of an expert Miami boating accident lawyer to file a case on the boat owner. An experienced attorney can deal with the case and ensure that justice prevails.
Deal with Insurance Companies
Sometimes, a boat accident can occur due to erratic weather conditions. It is neither the owner’s nor the passenger’s fault. In such cases, you may claim fair compensation from insurance companies.
Insurance companies are liable to pay the entire medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage in a boating accident. But remember, insurance firms are not your friends. They might try to deny the entire claim money or persuade you to settle for a lesser amount.
If you have the best Miami boating accident lawyer by your side, they can help you negotiate with the insurance company. An expert attorney has the skill set to deal with complicated legal paperwork and represent your case in court when needed.
Final Note
Any accident can have a stressful and shocking effect on your mental wellbeing. It is necessary to reach out for help as soon as possible. The right legal and medical assistance can help in a speedy recovery and ensure financial security.
Also Read- Tips to Save Money on Cruise Ride
