Boating in North Port and the surrounding Gulf waters should be enjoyable, but accidents can turn a day on the water into a life-changing event. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence on a vessel, you need a boating accident lawyer in North Port who understands both Florida’s maritime laws and the challenges of personal injury claims.
At Viles & Beckman, our attorneys bring more than 40 years of combined legal experience to help injured clients recover the compensation they deserve.
Whether your accident involved a collision, capsizing, or another dangerous incident, we are here to stand up for your rights and guide you through the legal process. As North Port personal injury lawyers, we fight to hold negligent operators accountable and ensure you have the resources to move forward.
How Our North Port Boating Accident Law Firm Can Help
Our boating accident law firm in North Port is dedicated to representing individuals hurt in water-related accidents caused by reckless operation, mechanical failure, or hazardous conditions. We handle every stage of your claim, including:
- Case investigation: Gathering evidence from the accident scene, witness accounts, and Coast Guard or Florida Fish and Wildlife reports.
- Medical documentation: Working with healthcare providers to understand the full extent of your injuries.
- Negotiations: Dealing directly with insurance companies to pursue fair settlements.
- Litigation: Taking your case to court when necessary to protect your rights.
We also understand how Florida’s modified comparative negligence rules apply to boating accidents. Even if you are found partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50 percent responsible for the incident. This legal detail often makes the difference between a denied claim and a successful recovery.
Expect More, Receive More: Legal Support That Feels Like Family
Common Causes of Boating Accidents in North Port
Florida consistently leads the nation in boating accidents, and the waterways around North Port see heavy traffic year-round. Some of the most common causes include:
- Operator inattention: Failing to watch for other vessels, swimmers, or obstacles.
- Excessive speed: Making it harder to react in emergencies.
- Alcohol use: Impaired judgment and slower reaction times.
- Equipment failure: Poor maintenance or defective parts.
- Weather hazards: Sudden storms or rough seas catching boaters off guard.
Identifying the exact cause of your boating accident is essential because it determines who is liable and how we approach your claim.
Types of Injuries We See in Boating Accident Cases
The force of a boating collision or the dangers of being thrown overboard can lead to severe and sometimes fatal injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries: Caused by impact or lack of oxygen after submersion.
- Spinal cord injuries: Often resulting in long-term mobility issues.
- Broken bones and fractures: Common in high-speed collisions.
- Lacerations and amputations: From propeller strikes or debris.
- Drowning or near-drowning: Leading to hypoxic brain injury or death.
These injuries can require lengthy hospital stays, multiple surgeries, and ongoing rehabilitation. The physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming, which is why fair compensation is critical to recovery.
Florida’s Boating Laws and Statute of Limitations
Florida law requires boaters to operate their vessels in a safe and reasonable manner. Violations such as reckless driving, operating under the influence, or failing to follow navigational rules can be grounds for liability in an accident claim.
As of March 24, 2023, Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including boating accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to file a claim, which is why working with an experienced boating accident lawyer in North Port as soon as possible is so important. We ensure that your claim is filed correctly and supported by strong evidence from the start.
Why Choose Viles & Beckman for Your Boating Accident Case
We know that after a boating accident, you may be dealing with physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty. Our role is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on recovery. Clients choose us because:
- We have more than four decades of combined legal experience in personal injury law.
- We offer personalized service, treating every client like family.
- We are known as The 5-Star Law Firm™, reflecting our commitment to exceptional client care.
- We are experienced in cases involving both inland waterways and coastal boating incidents.
From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we are committed to keeping you informed, answering your questions promptly, and making sure you feel supported throughout the process.
Get the 5-Star Legal Help You Deserve
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident in North Port, our team at Viles & Beckman is ready to help. We offer a 10% discount on attorney’s fees for active and veteran military members and active first responders in personal injury cases. Our attorneys also provide services in Spanish, Russian, and Creole so that every client can communicate comfortably and clearly.
Your case matters to us, no matter the size or complexity. Do not wait until deadlines are approaching. Contact Viles & Beckman today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve after a boating accident in North Port.