Do Boating Accidents Have to Be Reported?
Clearwater is a boating paradise, but boat accidents are not uncommon, and are closely associated with serious injuries. If you’re involved in a boating accident, Florida has careful reporting requirements in place that you are well advised to know. And if you were injured as a result of someone else’s negligence on the water, it’s time to consult with an experienced Clearwater boat accident attorney.
The Agency Responsible for Waterway Regulations
One of the agencies responsible for enforcing reporting regulations on Florida waterways is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). When an accident occurs, those involved must report it without delay, which generally means as soon as you can. Failure to do so can lead to fines or even criminal charges – when supported by the circumstances.
The 48-hour Maximum Wait
When the boating accident causes a minimum of $2,000 in property damage but does not lead to physical injuries, a report must be made within 10 days. Under any of the following circumstances, however, the accident must be reported within 48 hours:
- The boating accident left someone needing significant medical treatment – that goes beyond first-aid practices.
- The boating accident led to a death.
- As a result of the boat accident, someone disappeared.
The Coast Guard has similar reporting requirements that apply at the national level.
To Report an Accident
To report a boating accident to FWC, you can simply call their hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or head to their reporting website. Accident reports supply the governmental agencies responsible for maintaining safe waterways throughout Florida with the information they need to achieve this goal.
The Elements of Your Boat Accident Claim
If someone else’s negligence leaves you injured in a boating accident, bringing a successful claim can make a big difference in your ability to recover as fully as possible, and for that, you will need to establish each of the following elements:
- The at-fault party owed you a duty of care. This is generally true any time that you are invited aboard someone’s vessel, and it also applies to everyone with whom you share the waterway. This is similar to the duty of care – or responsibility to the safety of others – we accept when we drive.
- The at-fault party did not uphold their responsibility to your safety, which is the element of negligence. Common examples include distraction, excess speed, impairment, and recklessness.
- You were injured as a direct result of the other party’s negligence and suffered legal damages – or physical, financial, and emotional losses – in the process.
Discuss Your Claim with an Experienced Clearwater Boat Accident Lawyer Today
The seasoned Clearwater boat accident attorneys at Tragos, Sartes & Tragos appreciate just how dangerous boating accidents tend to be and will spare no effort in their focused pursuit of the compensation to which you are entitled. Your claim is important, so please don’t wait to contact us online or call us at 727-441-9030 for more information about what we can do to help you today.