Wrongful Death
At Morgan Law Group, our Florida personal injury attorneys know that when our clients lose a loved one because of another person, party, or entity’s negligence, they may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim against the liable party.
When a wrongful death occurs during a Florida boating accident, there may be multiple parties at fault for the loss of life, which will require a skilled personal injury attorney to assess and pursue the family’s complete damages.
Here is what our Florida residents need to know about these unique circumstances.
What are the Most Common Causes of a Fatal Florida Boat Accident?
Not unlike fatal vehicle collisions, boat accidents that result in death in Florida are often caused by negligence.
That may include:
- Operator alcohol and drug use
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Improper lookout
- Mechanical failures
- Overloading the vessel
- Sharp turns
- Lack of safety equipment
The number one cause of death in boating accidents is drowning, including the loss of life caused by the lack of life jackets onboard and/or the occupants failing to wear them.
Who is Liable for a Fatal Florida Boat Accident?
Depending on the circumstances of the crash, several people may be responsible, including the operator of the boat the person was killed on.
Much like vehicle collisions, if the individual operating the vehicle is speeding, distracted, intoxicated, or otherwise negligent in causing the accident, he or she may be held liable for the death of the occupant who was on board.
If another boat operator was negligent in their operation of a vessel and collided with another boat, killing an occupant, he or she may be liable for the crash.
If the boat suffers a mechanical failure caused by the owner’s negligent maintenance, which leads to the death of an occupant on board, the owner may be liable for the fatality.
Finally, if an occupant loses his or her life while on a charter boat, the captain, crew, boat owner, or management company may be liable for any wrongful death that occurs onboard.
The circumstances of a fatal boat accident are unique to each case and should be discussed with a personal injury lawyer to ensure all your family’s legal rights and options are protected and pursued.
Contact Our Experienced Wrongful Death Lawyers in Florida for a Free Consultation
To learn more about who may be responsible for your loved one’s death during a boat accident, contact our experienced Florida personal injury lawyers at Morgan Law Group to schedule a free consultation today by calling 888-904-2524. We know this is a challenging time for you and your family, and we want to help.
