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Who Do You Report a Boating Accident to in Florida?

by

Police Boat on the Water in Miami

If you’re involved in a boating accident in Florida, it’s essential to know who to report it to, when you are required to report the accident, and what steps to take after a boating collision. 

Generally, boat operators involved in a qualifying crash must report the accident to at least one of the following agencies: 

  • Florida Fish And Wildlife Conservation Commission – Law Enforcement Division 
  • The Local sheriff’s office where the accident occurred
  • The local police department where the accident occurred

Neglecting to file a timely boating accident report to one of the three agencies mentioned above can result in criminal charges and a significantly weaker personal injury case (if applicable). 

At Schrier Law Group, we have intimate knowledge of Florida’s boating and personal injury laws. If you or a loved one has been injured due to the negligence of a boat operator, we can help. Contact us today for a free case evaluation with an experienced boating accident lawyer. 

Continue reading to learn more about what to do after a boat collision in Florida waterways. 

When Should A Boating Accident Be Reported in Florida?

According to Florida Statute § 327.301, boat operators are required to file a written report with an applicable agency if a boat collision results in: 

  • Serious bodily injury to passengers or operators 
  • Death 
  • Missing person 
  • Property damage of $2,000 or more 

It’s important to note that the $2,000 threshold applies to the vessel, other vessels, and property damaged within the boat due to the accident. Generally, you must file a boating accident report within 24 – 48 hours. That’s true regardless of where the boating accident occurs. 

Types of Boating Accidents That Require Reporting 

For the most part, any boating accident that involves property damage above $2,000, death, serious injury, or a missing person must be reported regardless of the type of accident. That includes the following types of boating accidents but is not limited to: 

  • Multi-vessel collisions
  • Single-vessel collisions 
  • Instances where a boat capsizes or sinks 
  • Boating accidents caused by water debris, rough water, or inclement weather 
  • Collisions caused by reckless boating 
  • Accidents resulting from running aground or striking fixed objects in the water 
  • Accidents that happen when entering or exiting the water 

What Is The First Thing To Do When Involved in a Boating Accident? 

If you’re involved in an accident on the water, there are a few steps you are required to take and a few others you should take. They include but are not limited to the following: 

  • Immediately notify applicable law enforcement agencies 
  • Seek medical attention 
  • Provide emergency care if needed 
  • Exchange information with others involved in the collision 
  • Stay at the scene until you’ve met your boating accident obligations 
  • Collect evidence from the scene (i.e., pictures, videos, etc.) 
  • Identify eyewitnesses and obtain their information 
  • Contact your boating insurance company
  • Consult with a Florida boating accident lawyer as soon as possible 

In addition, when filing a boating report, it’s essential to stick to the facts of the case. That means never admitting fault in the report. 

Further, stay away from posting about the accident on social media or speaking about it with others. Anything you say, do, or post about the accident can be used against you when attempting to recover damages for personal injuries. 

What Damages Can You Recover After a Boating Accident?

Every boating accident case is different. However, depending on the circumstances, boating accident victims may be eligible to recover maximum compensation for the following losses, but not limited to: 

  • Property damage to your vessel or personal property 
  • Urgent medical attention 
  • Transportation to the hospital 
  • Hospitalization and rehabilitation 
  • Current and future lost wages
  • Decreased earning power
  • Pain and suffering 

Additionally, suppose the boating collision causes death due to negligence or recklessness. In that case, your family may be able to file a wrongful death claim to recoup damages for loss of companionship, financial support, and more (in addition to the damages listed above). 

Contact A Boating Accident Lawyer in Florida Today

Identifying liability in water vessel collisions typically requires the knowledge and experience of an experienced boating accident lawyer. Boat accidents can be especially tricky in Florida since many don’t have insurance or are severely underinsured. However, regardless of the circumstances, there may be an opportunity to recover damages for your losses. 

Our boat accident attorneys at Schrier Law Group have an in-depth understanding of Florida’s maritime, boating, and personal injury laws. We’ve helped recover millions in personal injury cases, and are confident we can obtain the best possible outcome in your case. 

Contact a boating accident lawyer at Schrier Law Group today to schedule your free case evaluation. 

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.

Isabel Sabrina De Ramirez

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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.

David Kuczenski

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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.

Mark Anderson

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Best attorney around , I went through a lot of different ones before finding his law firm very professional and they make sure you get paid what you deserve, highly recommend.

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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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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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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Schrier Law Group is the best.

Chatrice Telfort

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Great job! I loved working with Paul.

Paige