Boat Accident Numbers Down But Fatal Injuries Increasing
Boating is a popular hobby in our area. However, whether you own your own or rent a vessel or enjoy going out on the water with others, it is important to be aware of the potential risks. The latest statistics show that while the incidence of boat accidents in Florida has decreased in recent years, the number of people fatally injured is steadily increasing. Our Miami boat accident attorney explains common causes and your rights in holding those at fault accountable.
Recent Boat Accident In Miami Results In Fatal Injuries
A recent boat accident in Miami left one person dead and another with serious personal injuries. According to a June 25, 2023 Sun Sentinel News report, it happened in the early morning hours near the PortMiami channel. Two men were reportedly in a 30-foot boat that struck the Fisher Island ferry. Miami Fire Rescue and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are each conducting investigations.
Early reports indicate that the boat capsized and sank immediately after the crash. Investigations and recovery efforts prompted the Coast Guard to temporarily close the port, disrupting plans for nearly 33,000 people scheduled to board three different cruise ships.
This type of major incident involving commercial fleets is not common. However, with the number of boaters living here or visiting the area, other types of boating accidents in Miami do happen on a regular basis.
Common Causes Of Fatal Boat Accidents In Miami
According to a June 2023 Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) report, the overall number of boat accidents in the state has decreased by a modest amount in recent years. Unfortunately, at the same time, the number of fatal crashes has dramatically increased. Of the nearly 750 boat accidents reported in 2021, there were five fatal incidents. In 2022, that number had increased to 65.
Miami-Dade has the second-highest number of boat accidents in the state. If you are a boater in the area, you need to be aware of the risks. Factors that the FWC claims not only make boat accidents more likely to happen but also increase the likelihood of fatal injuries include:
- Lack of boat operator experience;
- Lack of formal boat training;
- Lack of knowledge of navigational rules in the area;
- Reckless operations, such as speeding and driving impaired.
Drowning is one of the biggest hazards with boats, and a lack of required onboard safety gear increases the risks. Over 80 percent of fatal drowning victims were not wearing a life preserver.
Contact Our Miami Boat Accident Lawyers
When boat accidents in Miami cause serious, potentially life-threatening personal injuries, you have the right to hold those at fault accountable. At Pita Weber & Del Prado, we provide the caring support and trusted legal representation you need in filing a claim. To get a sense of justice for victims and the compensation your family needs to recover, call 305-670-2889 or contact our Miami boat accident lawyer online and request a consultation today.
Sources:
sun-sentinel.com/2023/06/25/one-dead-one-injured-when-a-boat-hits-the-fisher-island-ferry-miami-fire-rescue-says/
myfwc.com/
