While boating can be a fun, relaxing way to spend a warm day, it can turn dangerous quickly. When you’re hurt because someone was careless on the water, contact a Winter Haven boat accident lawyer today.
Many Winter Haven residents take advantage of the beautiful Chain of Lakes. For many, taking the boat or kayak out is the perfect way to relax on a warm day. Unfortunately, when others don’t take care, what should have been a nice afternoon can leave you hurt and needing compensation.
Boat crashes pose unique dangers, and when you’ve been in one because of someone else’s carelessness, you deserve compensation. Fortunately, a Winter Haven boating accident lawyer can step in and help.
At Lopez & Humphries, PA, we understand how painful and serious these accidents can be, and we know how important it is to get the compensation you deserve after your accident. Our lawyers will fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
Cause and Fault in Winter Haven Boating Accidents
When seeking compensation for your boating accident, you’ll need to know what caused the incident in the first place. This will help you identify the person responsible. It may be another boater, or it may be someone who indirectly caused your accident.
Some of the more common types of boating accidents in Winter Haven are listed below:
- Driver Error – In some cases, the boater may be sleepy, inexperienced, or simply not paying attention to speed or direction. You and others may suffer for his or her negligence.
- Boating Under the Influence – Operating a boat while intoxicated is especially dangerous and illegal—and, unfortunately, common. The intoxicated boater may face harsh fines, and this can help prove your civil claim for compensation.
- Malfunctioning Parts – Sometimes, boat parts may malfunction without warning and leave you injured. If a defect caused your boating accident, the manufacturer may be responsible.
Getting Compensation for a Boating Accident in Winter Haven
Once you’ve determined the person responsible for your Winter Haven boat accident, you’ll need to focus on winning your compensation. You’ll likely have two types of damages for which you’ll seek compensation: economic and non-economic.
Economic damages are what they sound like: damages that cost you money. These have a specific value attached, like medical bills and boat repairs, and a lawyer can add them up. Be sure to include future expenses, such as ongoing therapy for head trauma or time off work for your health.
Non-economic damages aren’t so easy to calculate. These cover the mental and emotional trauma you suffered, such as pain or loss of enjoyment of life. For example, if you’re now unable to be in a boat because of your trauma, you can be compensated for that.
Additionally, if a boater’s negligence caused a loved one to drown, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim for the drowning. A qualified lawyer can help you proceed.
Speak with a Winter Haven Boating Accident Attorney
Boating accidents can be painful and difficult, but they don’t have to take over your life. You’ll likely need help recovering fair compensation for your injuries, and the attorneys at Lopez & Humphries, PA can help.
When you’re suffering and unsure of where to turn, it’s important to have someone on your side to get you on the right track to compensation. Luckily, our firm can do that. We offer free consultations, so we can discuss your case and what you’ll need before you sign anything with us. We want you to know we’re on your side and ready to fight for you.
If you’re ready to work with us or if you have some questions, contact a Winter Haven boating accident lawyer. Reach us at (863) 774-3573 or through our online contact form below.