Boat Accident Lawyers2025-07-18T05:46:03-04:00

Boat Accident Lawyers in Palm Beach, Martin & St. Lucie County, FL

Slinkman, Slinkman & Wynne, PA.

Boating Accident in Florida? Let Us Navigate Your Claim.

Florida’s waterways are as beautiful as they are unpredictable. Whether you’re enjoying a day on a boat, jet ski, or cruise, one act of negligence can turn a peaceful outing into a traumatic experience. At Slinkman, Slinkman & Wynne, P.A., our experienced boat accident lawyers understand the unique challenges these cases bring. With deep knowledge of Florida maritime law and over 40 years of experience handling personal injury claims, we’re committed to helping victims seek justice and full compensation for their injuries.

Types of Boat Accidents

Boating accidents vary widely in cause and severity. Our attorneys have handled a broad range of cases, including:

  • Jet Ski Collisions

  • Charter Boat Incidents

  • Yacht and Cruise Mishaps

  • Marina Accidents

  • Drunk Boating Crashes

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Common Causes

Understanding what led to your accident is essential to building a strong claim. Common causes include:

  • Inexperienced or Unlicensed Operators: Lack of proper training is a frequent contributor to boating accidents.

  • Speeding or Reckless Boating: Excessive speed in crowded waters presents preventable dangers.

  • Poor Weather Navigation: Weather can change swiftly, requiring skilled navigation to avoid mishaps.

  • Lack of Safety Gear: Missing life jackets or other essential equipment can exacerbate a simple accident.

  • Defective Boat Parts: Equipment failure can happen, often due to poor maintenance or faulty manufacturing.

Who May Be Liable

Determining liability in boating accidents can be complex. Our team at Slinkman, Slinkman & Wynne, P.A. thoroughly investigates every case to identify responsible parties, which may include:

  • Boat Owner/Operator: Often liable if negligent or inexperienced conduct led to the accident.

  • Rental Company: May be accountable for a lack of maintenance or renting to unsuitable individuals.

  • Tour Provider: Could be liable for not following safety procedures or overloading the boat.

  • Manufacturer: Responsible if defective parts led to the incident.

  • Marina Staff or Management: Could contribute if their facilities pose dangers to users.

Boat Accident Service

Common Injuries in Boat Accidents

Boat accidents can result in serious, sometimes life-altering injuries, including:

  • Drowning or Near-Drowning

  • Amputations

  • Broken Bones

  • Concussions or TBIs

  • Burns and Spinal Injuries

How Can a Boat Accident Lawyer in Florida Help?

A boat accident lawyer is essential in protecting your rights and helping you recover the compensation you deserve after a serious incident. Here’s how experienced legal counsel can assist:

  • Thoroughly Investigate the Accident: Your attorney will gather key evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, photographs, and expert analysis to determine who was at fault.

  • Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurers often attempt to minimize payouts. Your attorney will fight to ensure you receive full and fair compensation.

  • Pursue Legal Action When Necessary: If a settlement isn’t possible, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you in court, holding the responsible parties accountable.

  • Protect Your Rights Throughout the Process: From start to finish, your lawyer ensures your rights are protected, guiding you through every step with clear, compassionate support.

Areas We Serve

We proudly represent boat accident victims throughout:

  • Martin County
    Stuart
    Palm City
    Jensen Beach

  • St. Lucie County
    Port St. Lucie
    Fort Pierce
    Tradition

Florida Boat Accident Lawyer FAQs

What types of damages can I potentially recover in a boat accident case?2025-07-18T05:43:01-04:00
  • Medical expenses, both past and future
  • Lost wages, past and future
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage
  • Wrongful death damages, in cases of fatality
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a boating accident in Florida?2025-07-18T05:42:46-04:00

In Florida, you generally have four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, and two years if the incident resulted in a wrongful death.

What information should I gather after a boating accident?2025-07-18T05:42:29-04:00
  • Names and contact information of all parties involved
  • Vessel registration and identification numbers
  • Insurance information for all vessels
  • Photos of the scene, damage, and injuries
  • Witness names and contact details
  • Weather and water conditions at the time of the incident
What should I do immediately after a boating accident?2025-07-18T05:42:11-04:00
  1. Prioritize medical attention: Make sure everyone gets the medical care they need.
  2. Secure the scene: Take photos of the accident, damages, and any injuries.
  3. Exchange information: Gather contact and insurance details from all involved, including witnesses.
  4. Report the accident: Reach out to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission if the situation meets reporting criteria.
  5. Contact a lawyer: Consult a boat accident lawyer promptly to explore your rights and options.
Do boating injuries count as personal injury claims?2025-07-18T05:41:45-04:00

Absolutely. If negligence played a role, your case falls under personal injury or maritime injury law.

What if I am partially at fault for the boat accident?2025-07-18T05:41:26-04:00

Even if you are partially at fault for a boat accident, you may still be entitled to recover compensation under Florida law. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that your compensation can be reduced based on your percentage of fault, as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident.

Is the driver always at fault in a boating crash?2025-07-18T05:41:09-04:00

Not always. Liability may also rest with other boaters, manufacturers, rental agencies, or even weather conditions, depending on the facts.

Can I sue a boat rental company?2025-07-18T05:40:51-04:00

Yes. If the company was negligent in maintaining the vessel or allowed unqualified individuals to rent it, they can be held liable.

What laws apply to boat accidents in Florida?2025-07-18T05:40:05-04:00

Both Florida state law and federal maritime law may apply. At Slinkman, Slinkman & Wynne, P.A., we are well-versed in both legal frameworks, ensuring comprehensive support tailored to your specific situation.

Let a Florida Boat Injury Lawyer Review Your Case – Free & Confidential

At Slinkman, Slinkman & Wynne, P.A., our boat accident lawyers understand how overwhelming a boating accident can be. We provide compassionate, client-focused representation while aggressively pursuing the compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win or settle your case.

Contact us today for your free, confidential case evaluation.

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