Negligent boat operators in Orlando, Florida, frequently cause boating accidents by speeding, operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, ignoring navigational rules, or failing to pay attention to their surroundings. Distractions, inexperience, and reckless behavior all increase the risk of collisions, capsizing, or passengers being thrown overboard. Poor boat maintenance and overcrowding can also lead to dangerous situations, putting everyone on the water at risk.
If you suffered injuries in a recent Orlando boating accident, the skilled legal team at Miller and Jacobs, Accident Attorneys, can build a strong case for you. We will investigate the accident, gather important evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether it’s medical expenses, lost income, or pain and suffering, we will work hard to ensure you receive the maximum recovery for your injuries and damages.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Orlando boating accident attorney, please call us at (877) 848-5297 or contact us online today.
Why Select Us?
Boating accidents can lead to debilitating and sometimes permanent injuries. If you or someone you love sustained injuries in a boating collision, the experienced Orlando legal team at Miller and Jacobs, Accident Attorneys, is ready to help. Our lawyers have more than 50 years of combined legal experience handling personal injury cases. We have also recovered more than $90 million in compensation for our injured clients over the years.
You can see our most recent client reviews and case testimonials on this site. Our office is conveniently located at 5401 S. Kirkman Road, Ste. 660, Orlando, FL 32819.
How Much Money Is My Orlando Boating Accident Case Worth?
The value of your Orlando boating accident case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and who was at fault. Every case is different, and no exact number can be determined without reviewing the details. However, you may be entitled to compensation for different types of losses, which can help you recover financially after the accident.
One important factor in determining the worth of your case is the medical expenses you have incurred. If you suffer serious injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, or spinal cord damage, your medical bills can be extensive. These expenses may include hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and any ongoing treatments you need in the future. The more severe your injuries, the higher your potential compensation. Additionally, if you need long-term care or rehabilitation, those costs should also be considered.
Lost earnings are another major factor in calculating the value of your claim. If your injuries have prevented you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you can seek compensation for the income you have lost. This includes not only the income you missed while recovering but also any future earnings you may lose if you are unable to return to the same job. In some cases, people who suffer permanent disabilities may need to switch careers or stop working altogether, which can significantly increase the amount they are owed.
Pain and suffering also play a role in determining how much your case is worth. Physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall effect the accident has had on your life are all taken into account. If the accident caused you to experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress, you might be eligible for additional compensation. Courts recognize that injuries can affect more than just a person’s body; they may also take a toll on mental and emotional well-being.
Property damage is another area where you may be compensated. If your boat or personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you can seek reimbursement for repairs or replacements. Additionally, if another party acted egregiously or maliciously, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Most Common Locations for Orlando Boating Accidents
One of the most common locations for boating accidents in Orlando, Florida, is the Butler Chain of Lakes. This interconnected chain of lakes is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports, attracting both experienced and inexperienced boaters. Due to the high level of activity on these waters, accidents often occur because of operator negligence, excessive speed, or failure to follow safety regulations. Collisions between boats, jet skis, and other watercraft are not uncommon – especially on weekends and holidays when the waterways are crowded.
Lake Tohopekaliga, also known as Lake Toho, is another hotspot for boating accidents in the Orlando area. This large lake, located in Osceola County, is well-known for its bass fishing and recreational boating. However, strong winds, shallow waters, and sudden weather changes can create hazardous conditions. Many accidents on Lake Toho result from boat operators failing to navigate safely, drinking while boating, or not paying attention to their surroundings.
The St. Johns River, which runs through Central Florida, is another area where boating accidents frequently happen. This river is popular for fishing, kayaking, and sightseeing, but its strong currents, hidden sandbars, and narrow passages make it a risky location for careless boaters. Many accidents on the St. Johns River occur when boaters speed through no-wake zones, fail to yield to other vessels, or collide with submerged objects.
Lake Monroe, located near Sanford, is also known for boating accidents. This lake is part of the St. Johns River system and is heavily trafficked by both commercial and recreational boaters. Many accidents here result from boat operators who are inexperienced or distracted. Alcohol use is also a common factor in boating incidents, leading to impaired judgment and dangerous behavior on the water.
How Do Orlando Boating Accidents Occur?
Boating accidents in Orlando frequently result from the negligence of boat operators and others who fail to follow safety rules and regulations. One of the most common causes is operator inattention. Many boaters become distracted while on the water, whether by talking to passengers, using their phones or simply not paying attention to their surroundings. A moment of distraction can lead to collisions with other boats, stationary objects, or even swimmers, causing serious injuries or fatalities.
Speeding is another major factor in boating accidents. Just like on the road, excessive speed on the water reduces a boat operator’s reaction time and makes it harder to avoid obstacles or other vessels. Many lakes and waterways in Orlando have speed limits and designated no-wake zones, but reckless boaters often ignore these rules, increasing the risk of accidents. High speeds can also cause boat operators to lose control, leading to capsizing or passengers being thrown overboard.
Boating under the influence (BUI) is one of the most dangerous and preventable causes of accidents. Many people treat boating as a social activity and consume alcohol while on the water. However, alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it much more difficult to operate a boat safely. Florida law prohibits operating a boat while under the influence, yet many accidents still occur due to intoxicated boaters.
Lack of experience and improper training also contribute to many boating accidents. Some operators do not have the knowledge or skills needed to navigate Orlando’s lakes and rivers safely. They may not understand right-of-way rules, how to handle rough water conditions, or how to respond to emergencies. Inexperienced boaters are more likely to make mistakes that lead to collisions or capsizing.
Failing to maintain a boat properly can also lead to accidents. Mechanical failures, such as engine breakdowns or steering malfunctions, can leave a boat stranded or unable to avoid hazards. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to ensure that a boat is safe to operate.
Most Common Orlando Boating Accident Injuries
Victims of boating accidents in Orlando, Florida, can suffer a wide range of injuries due to the negligence of a boat operator or another individual. One of the most common injuries is traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can occur when a person is thrown against a hard surface, such as the boat itself or another object in the water. A head injury from a boating accident can lead to concussions, skull fractures, or even permanent brain damage, affecting a person’s memory, motor skills, and overall cognitive function.
Spinal cord injuries are also common in boating accidents, especially when a victim is forcefully ejected from the boat or if the boat collides with another vessel or stationary object. A severe impact can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or long-term mobility issues. Even less severe spinal injuries can result in chronic pain and limited movement.
Drowning and near-drowning incidents frequently occur in boating accidents, particularly if a victim is knocked unconscious and falls into the water. Even if a person survives a near-drowning event, they may suffer from oxygen deprivation, which can cause long-term brain damage.
Broken bones and fractures are other common injuries in boating accidents. Victims may suffer broken ribs, arms, or legs if they are thrown from the boat or if a collision occurs. These injuries can be extremely painful and may require surgery, physical therapy, and months of recovery.
Lacerations and deep cuts are often caused by sharp objects on a boat, broken glass, or contact with a boat’s propeller. Propeller accidents can be particularly devastating, leading to severe injuries, amputations, or even death. Negligence, such as operating a boat recklessly or failing to turn off the engine when people are in the water, often contributes to these incidents.
Burn injuries can also occur due to fuel leaks, explosions, or fires due to poor boat maintenance or operator error. These injuries can be life-threatening and may result in permanent scarring. Victims of boating accidents often face long recovery periods, high medical costs, and lasting physical and emotional trauma.
Fighting the Insurance Company in an Orlando Boating Accident Case
After a boating accident in Orlando, Florida, dealing with the insurance company can be one of the most frustrating parts of the process. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, delay claims, or even deny valid claims altogether. That’s where the experienced legal team at Miller and Jacobs, Accident Attorneys, comes in. We know the tactics insurance companies use, and we are prepared to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
One of the first things we do is conduct a thorough investigation of your boating accident. Insurance companies will look for any reason to blame you or reduce your claim, so we gather all of the available evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions. If necessary, we work with accident reconstruction specialists to prove exactly how the accident happened.
We also handle all communications with the insurance company, so you don’t have to worry about saying something that could be used against you. Insurance adjusters are trained to get victims to downplay their injuries or accept quick, lowball settlements. We make sure they take your claim seriously and don’t pressure you into accepting less than what you deserve.
If the insurance company refuses to offer you a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. We have the experience and resources necessary to fight aggressively on your behalf. We will present strong evidence showing the extent of your injuries, the financial effects on your life, and the responsible party’s negligence.
Our goal is to make the process as stress-free as possible for you while maximizing your compensation. Whether it’s medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, or other damages, we will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive what you are owed. Let us handle the insurance company while you focus on your recovery.
Most Important Steps to Take after an Orlando Boating Accident
Following a boating accident in Orlando, Florida, taking the right steps is important to protecting your health and your legal rights. First, you should also obtain a copy of the police or accident report. If law enforcement responded to the scene, they would have documented important details about the accident, including statements from witnesses and any citations issued. This report can serve as valuable evidence for your claim.
Gathering documentation is another critical step, including photos of the accident scene, any visible injuries, and damage to your boat or other property. Keep copies of your medical records, medical bills, and any other expenses related to the accident. This documentation helps prove the extent of your damages.
It’s also important to complete all of your medical treatment. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim if you stop treatment early.
Finally, speak with an experienced Orlando boating accident lawyer at Miller and Jacobs, Accident Attorneys, right away. We can navigate the legal process for you, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact an Experienced Orlando Boating Accident Lawyer Today
At Miller and Jacobs, Accident Attorneys, we can aggressively fight for the compensation you deserve – either through a favorable settlement offer from the insurance company or litigation result in court. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Orlando personal injury attorney, please call us at (877) 848-5297 or contact us online right away.