A day on the water in Fort Myers can quickly turn dangerous when a fishing charter accident occurs. Victims may face serious injuries in addition to mounting financial expenses, and that can make the aftermath feel overwhelming and uncertain. Knowing your rights under Florida law is the first step toward securing compensation for your losses.
A Fort Myers maritime injury lawyer can help you pursue the justice you deserve after an accident.
Call (239) 277-0005 to get started with a free consultation.
Liability for Fishing Charter Accidents in Florida
Fishing charters in Fort Myers operate under strict safety regulations. Owners and operators have a legal duty to keep passengers safe by taking steps like following boating laws and properly maintaining their vessels. When they fail to meet these obligations, they can be held responsible for resulting injuries.
Liability may fall on:
- The charter boat operator, if they acted carelessly, ignored weather warnings, or failed to provide proper safety instructions.
- The charter company, if the vessel was not properly maintained or crew members were not adequately trained.
- Equipment manufacturers, if a defective life jacket or other product contributed to the accident.
Determining who is at fault often requires an investigation into boating records as well as the relevant statutes. An experienced boating accident lawyer in Fort Myers can help gather this evidence and build a winning case on your behalf.
What To Do After a Fishing Charter Accident in Fort Myers
Your actions immediately after an accident can have a major impact on your ability to recover compensation. If you are able, you should:
- Report the incident to the boat captain or crew.
- Seek prompt medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Take photographs of the vessel, safety equipment, and any visible hazards.
- Collect the names and contact information of witnesses.
You should also avoid making statements that could be taken as accepting blame. Instead, focus on documenting what happened and getting medical care. From there, speak with an attorney as soon as possible to understand your legal options.
Potential Compensation for Charter Boat Accident Victims
If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages. These can include things like:
- Medical expenses, including future treatment needs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering (brain injury, spinal cord issues, etc…)
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In some cases, punitive damages may also be available under Florida law if the at-fault party’s conduct was especially reckless.
How a Trusted Fort Myers Boating Accident Lawyer Can Help
Boating accident claims are often more complex than other personal injury cases, as they may involve maritime laws or multiple liable parties. At Garvin Injury Law, we have decades of experience handling accident cases throughout Florida, including those on the water. We know how to deal with charter companies and insurance providers who may try to undervalue your claim.
Our team can investigate the cause of your accident and fight for the full amount of compensation you’re entitled to under the law. We also work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win or settle your case.
Contact us today for a free consultation.