Chartering a sailboat in Fort Myers is a popular way to enjoy Florida’s coastline. Unfortunately, these outings do not always go as planned. Accidents on sailboat charters can result in serious injuries, costly medical bills, and long medical recoveries.
Learning about how Florida law treats these cases can help you take the right steps to protect your health and your legal rights. If you need help, contact a Fort Myers boating accident lawyer for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Sailboat Charter Accidents in Fort Myers, Florida
Sailboat charter accidents may occur for many different reasons. In some cases, weather or natural hazards play a role. However, many incidents stem from human error or poor decision-making. Examples include:
- Operating the vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Failure to maintain sails, rigging, and other equipment in a safe condition
- Overcrowding passengers beyond the vessel’s capacity
- Inexperienced or unlicensed operators taking command of the boat
- Ignoring weather warnings or navigational rules
When negligence is involved, injured passengers may have grounds to pursue a claim for compensation.
Florida Law and Charter Boat Liability
Under Florida personal injury law, charter companies and operators owe passengers a duty to provide reasonably safe conditions. This means taking steps to maintain the vessel, follow safety regulations, and act responsibly while on the water.
If a captain or crew member fails to uphold this duty and an accident occurs, liability may fall on:
- The charter company itself
- The boat owner
- The individual operator
- A third-party maintenance provider
Holding the right party accountable often requires a careful review of contracts and other documentation.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Sailboat Charter Accident
Dealing with the aftermath of a boating accident can be extremely stressful, to say the least. Medical care, insurance claims, and missed time from work can all add up quickly. A Fort Myers sailboat charter accident lawyer can provide guidance at each step.
An attorney can:
- Investigate the circumstances of the accident
- Collect evidence such as maintenance logs, witness statements, and weather data
- Determine which parties may be legally responsible
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Pursue compensation for all of your economic and non-economic damages
Having legal representation allows you to focus on your health and well-being while someone else handles the complex legal process. If the accident was fatal, contact our wrongful death lawyers in Fort Myers to pursue the justice your loved one deserves.
What Should I Do After a Sailboat Charter Accident in Fort Myers?
Your actions immediately after an accident can affect your ability to bring a successful claim. Consider the following steps:
- Report the accident to the charter company and any relevant authorities
- Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor
- Document the scene with photographs or video if possible
- Avoid admitting fault or signing documents without legal advice
- Contact an attorney to learn about your options
It’s best to be careful about corresponding with any insurance companies after the accident prior to getting legal advice. These corporations want to make a profit, not pay you the full value of your claim.
Contact a Fort Myers Charter Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
A day on the water should be enjoyable, not life-altering. If you suffered injuries in a Fort Myers sailboat charter accident, Florida law gives you the right to pursue compensation from the responsible parties. Garvin Injury Law has been helping clients for over 50 years and has recovered millions of dollars in the process.
Contact our Fort Myers charter accident attorneys today for a free case review.