Boating Accident Lawyer in Punta Gorda

Were you involved in a boat-related collision? Like other watercraft incidents, boat accidents can happen in an instant, but no matter how unexpected they might be, the aftermath is often very damaging, especially for people who are physically hurt as a result of the crash.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and confused in the aftermath of the incident, know that you are not alone. At Viles & Beckman, our attorneys have more than 40 years of combined experience representing personal injury victims like you.

Established in 1995, we’ve recovered over $100 million in compensation, and we’re here to represent you as your Punta Gorda personal injury lawyer. You can count on us to advocate for your rights as your boating accident lawyer in Punta Gorda.

Florida’s Boating Accident Laws

Florida is the leader in recreational boating registrations nationwide. This is one reason it consistently reports the highest number of boating accidents every year. The primary law governing boating accidents is Chapter 327 of the Florida Statutes.

According to this statute, an accident must be reported if it involves any of the following:

• Death or disappearance of any person
• Injury requiring medical treatment beyond basic first aid
• Property damage exceeding $2,000
• The complete loss of a vessel

Boaters are legally required to report these accidents within 48 hours of the moment they happened. Failing to comply not only violates state law but it can also complicate the process of determining liability and making insurance claims.

Beyond reporting, Florida law sets clear expectations for safe boating. You must maintain a proper lookout, operate at a reasonable speed, obey channel markers, and avoid engaging in negligent actions, like weaving, creating excessive wake, or ignoring right-of-way rules.

Unique Risks in Punta Gorda Waters

While general boating laws apply statewide, Punta Gorda’s local waterways present distinct challenges. Located at the confluence of the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor, the area is popular for fishing, sailing, kayaking, and powerboating.

Local accidents often stem from the following circumstances:

• Congested traffic around Fishermen’s Village and Laishley Park Marina
• Blind spots created by winding river channels and mangrove shorelines
• Variable currents near the Harbor and Intracoastal Waterway
• Bridges and infrastructure, such as the Barron Collier Bridge, limiting maneuverability

During peak season, visiting boaters who are unfamiliar with the area might misread channel markers or underestimate tidal currents, which increases the risk of crashes. Accident investigations often consider these factors alongside operator behavior.

Comparative Negligence in Florida

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means accident victims can only recover damages if they are less than 50% at fault for the collision. If they share some degree of fault, their recovery will be reduced in proportion to their percentage of responsibility.

Now, since boating accidents often involve conflicting witness accounts and incomplete evidence, small details can drastically alter the outcome when determining who is at fault for the crash.

This is partly why it’s so important to hire a Punta Gorda boating accident lawyer with experience handling cases like yours.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Punta Gorda

The waterways around Punta Gorda see a wide variety of boating accidents. Let’s take a look at examples of incidents that commonly take place in the area:

• Collisions with other vessels, especially in crowded marinas or channels
• Wake-related accidents that capsize smaller boats or cause passengers to fall overboard
• Striking fixed objects such as docks, pilings, or channel markers
• Capsizing from improper weight distribution or sudden turns
• Occupant ejections during high-speed maneuvers
• Accidents caused by alcohol use while operating a boat

Injuries and Damages from Boating Accidents

Since boat passengers lack the protective barriers that people would otherwise benefit from when secured in a vehicle, boating-related incidents often result in a lot of injuries, ranging from minor to major. These are examples of injuries victims might have sustained in the crash:

• Traumatic brain injuries from falls or blunt-force impact
• Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
• Amputations from propeller strikes
• Drowning or near-drowning injuries
• Severe lacerations and broken bones

Contact Us Today to Speak With Punta Gorda Boating Accident Attorneys Who Can Help You With Your Case

Recovering from a boating-related collision can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to take on the challenges alone. At Viles & Beckman, our Punta Gorda boating accident lawyers are dedicated to standing by your side and pursuing the compensation you deserve.

We recognize that every case is unique, and we’re ready to listen to your story. From there, you can lean on us as we explain your options and fight for accountability from those who are responsible for the incident that caused your injuries.

Reach out today to start the process and take legal action. Your first step toward peace of mind and financial recovery begins with a conversation with our boating accident attorneys in Punta Gorda. We get results, and we care for our clients as we would our own families.