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Schrier Law Group Boating Accident FAQs

by

Jet Ski in the Water

A boating accident is actually handled quite differently than an accident on the highway or a typical street or avenue. We here at Schrier Law Group want to go over the best procedure for what one should do if they are ever in a boating accident. As a Florida law firm, we see our share of boating accidents.

1. What Do I Do First After a Boating Accident?

If you have had a boating accident, you must first take care of the health and safety of those involved. Ensure everyone is safely on the boat if it is still afloat, or another safe place if it is not, and the boat is out of harm’s way. Then you should signal for help, if necessary, and seek medical attention for any injuries. A medical report will also be important evidence in any legal action.

You are going to need to gather details at the scene of the accident. Obtain registration numbers and insurance details for those involved, and contact details for the boat operators, passengers, and witnesses. If possible, take photos and video of the scene.

Then you have to report the boating accident to the U.S. Coast Guard and the State Fish & Wildlife Police. An accident report will be evidence for any action and is usually required by law.

Contact your insurance provider and an experienced boating accident attorney like Schrier Law Group. Do not accept liability or discuss the accident with the other parties or insurers before speaking to your lawyer.

2. What is Required of the Operator in a Boating Accident?

An operator involved in a boating accident must stop the vessel at the scene of the accident and offer assistance to anyone injured or in danger unless doing so would seriously endanger their own vessel or passengers. The operator is also required to notify the U.S. Coast Guard and the State Fish & Wildlife Police in accordance with state and federal laws.

3. What Types of Boating Accidents Need to Be Reported?

Federal law requires that a boating accident must be reported to the U.S. Coast Guard and State Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police if:

  • A person dies
  • A person is injured and requires medical treatment beyond first-aid
  • A person disappears from the boat under circumstances that indicate death or injury
  • Damage to the boat and other property totals more than $2,000 by federal law or there is a complete loss of the vessel

4. How Soon Should the Accident Be Reported?

A boating accident must be reported to the U.S. Coast Guard within 10 days of the accident or death, or within 48 hours if a person:

  • Dies within 24 hours
  • Is injured requiring medical treatment beyond first aid
  • Disappears from the vessel under circumstances that indicate death or injury

5. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Boating Accidents?

Homeowners’ insurance typically provides minimal coverage for a boating accident. Most policies will cover up to $1,000 damages to a boat, jet skis, or another recreational water vehicle, and generally cover damage by fire, wind or air, explosive hail, and vandalism.

6. How Common are Boating Accident Fatalities?

In 2019, the U.S. Coast Guard counted 4,168 recreational boating accidents in the U.S. that involved 613 deaths and 2,559 injuries. The fatality rate was 5.2 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational vessels. Detailed statistics are available at the U.S. Coast Guard website.

7. What are the Most Common Watercraft in Boating Accidents?

The top three types of watercraft involved in boating accidents in the U.S. according to 2019 statistics compiled by the U.S. Coast Guard, were open motorboats, personal watercraft, and cabin motorboats.

8. What are the Most Common Injuries Suffered in Boating Accidents?

The most common injuries suffered in boating accidents are:

  • Drowning
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Lacerations and amputations
  • Whiplash
  • Electrocution
  • Concussions
  • Burns
  • Broken bones

9. What Safety Measures Prevent Wrongful Death and Injuries Caused By a Boating Accident?

  • Do not drink and boat – Boating while intoxicated is the leading cause of boating accidents in the U.S.
  • Wear a lifejacketAll boat operators and passengers should wear a properly fitting USCG-approved lifejacket. The law requires that they are accessible for all passengers, and worn at all times by children.
  • Know the rules – Boating operators should take a boating safety course before getting out on the water, and follow the rules at all times. Inexperienced and inattentive boat operators cause accidents.
  • Stay within speed limitsSpeeding is a primary contributing factor in boating accidents nationwide.
  • Practice boat propeller safetyBoat propellers can cause catastrophic injuries. Operators and passengers should be safe, and a propeller guard should be used if appropriate for the vessel.
  • Watch the weatherAlways check the weather forecast before getting out on the water. Weather can be unpredictable in all seasons and can create a very dangerous situation for watercraft.

10. What are the Most Common Causes For Boating Accidents?

The top five primary contributing factors in boating accidents in the U.S. in 2019 according to the U.S. Coast Guard were:

  • Operator inattention
  • Improper lookout
  • Operator inexperience
  • Excessive speed
  • Alcohol use

Much of this information is available at the U.S. Coast Guard website.

The Schrier Law Group handles many boating accident cases, and Schrier Law has the resources necessary to help you and your family score a successful outcome in any boating injury case. It is important that you have your rights defended by someone who knows the law. Contact the Schrier Law Group for a personal injury attorney in Florida today!

Read Our Reviews

Schrier Law Group is rated 5 out of 5.0 stars based on 22 review(s).

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My name is David and I’ve been represented by mr. Schrier law firm twice in my life and I got nothing more then good things to say about them they are very professional and they really Take their clients I really recommend them every time I called them they were always there for me especially the attorney he’s very professional and he got me the money did I deserve by representing me and fighting for me I will use their services again them no questions asked if I ever need them to me they are the best God bless them all

David Cuello

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The firm is super professional and handled my husbands vas amazingly. I should refer them to some in need of an attitude.

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The Schrier Law Group are hands down the best and should be your go to for all your legal troubles. They are such professionals; efficient, persistent and don’t take no for an answer. Thank you so much Chatriece, Geissie, Paul & everyone at Schrier Law Group for your patience and making my win possible!

Marika Ford

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Shrier Law Group extremely thorough. A really caring Law Firm. My previous lawyer sat on my case for 2 years did nothing with it by chance came across Mr Paul schreier firm and explaining my case he noticed I was not hopeful but he was able to encoirage me and was able to resolve my case within a year I'm so grateful for Mr Paul Schrier and Mrs Chatrice. They go above and beyond. 20⭐

West Jean

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I must say that Mr. Schrier was there when we needed immediate advice after my wife got rear-ended by an unlicensed speeding lunatic. We called a handful of attorneys in our area, but after waiting 2- 5 days they would drop her case. We found Mr Schrier online and he explained the pros/cons and he took the case. We waited patiently, and in time he was able to tracked down the actual owners of the car and get their auto insurance info!

Gerard Avalos

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The firm pays close attention to locating every possible insurer liable for my injuries. They return my calls in 24-48 hours. Friendly staff who care.

Mr K

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Attention to detail with the different insurance coverages. Returned my phone calls, which is very important.

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Rowdy Martinez

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Best attorney in South Florida

Fefe Alex

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Was a wonderful experience getting through a tough process!

Edward Pawley

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Both my wife and I feel grateful for the treatment and the professionalism of the staff. Maritza is great doing her job. It is the second time that I request your services and we are pleased and grateful. Many blessings to this Law Firm

Reynier Perez

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Awesome wonderful patient Intelligent thoughtful Paul is the best

Theresa Caprice Caprioli

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Thank you so much for going above and beyond what I had ever anticipated. It was truly a pleasure to work with you all, especially Chatrice. I will most definitely refer The Schrier Law Group to my family and friends.

Cat Breen

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The Schrier LG is an excellent firm! They accepted my case, provided me with all the procedural information, maintained a high level of professionalism while showing kindness and care. The doctor's office that they suggested is another group of kind and considerate individuals, dedicated to my full recovery. I would recommend the Schrier Group to friends, just as they were recommended to me. I am happy with my settlement and very pleased with the attention and diligence of the group as a whole. Thank you again!

Michaela Davis

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Mr. Paul Schrier is by far the best attorney for the job! He is very responsive, knowledgeable, and very efficient. Despite my very busy schedule, he kept me informed throughout the process. I am very please with the outcome of my case. The customer service I received from the entire team has been amazing! Thank you all so much!

Ms. Jean

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Not only did I get a phenomenal attorney to represent me in my case, but I also got a step by step education on how the legal process actually worked. I was encouraged to ask questions and be an informed client. I was never treated like a case. I truly felt like the advice and recommendations he gave to me would have been the same he would have pursued if he were the client. That was important to me. I needed to work with an attorney I could trust with my best interest in mind...and that is what I got with Paul Schrier.

Juan Rodriquez

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I was involved in an auto accident in January 2016. We decided to contact Paul K. Schrier, PLLC for legal advice. He never got annoyed with me calling to ask questions, which was quite often. We have finally reached the final stages of this case, which they handled very well, and have come to a settlement. I highly recommend the Florida personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Paul K. Schrier, PLLC, especially Paul K. Schrier to any one who needs a personal injury attorney. Thank you very much Paul for everything you have done do me.

Martin Tyler

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I called to ask some question about a car accident I was in. I spoke to Paul who was very helpful, honest and professional. It seems that he really care about clients. I appreciate all that Paul did and would certainly recommend to anyone who needs an attorney.

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Braulio Duran

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Thank Paul for everything your personal injury law firm has done for my case as well as my daughter. Thanks for all the hard work and attention. Thanks again!

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Schrier Law Group is the best.

Chatrice Telfort

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Great job! I loved working with Paul.

Paige