Gainesville Maritime & Boating Accident Lawyer
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Gainesville Maritime and Boating Accident Lawyer
Boating, fishing, and water recreation are part of life in Florida. Gainesville residents regularly enjoy Lake Santa Fe, Newnan’s Lake, and the rivers and coastal waters nearby. Unfortunately,
boating and maritime accidents can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities when operators are careless or vessels are unsafe.
At Mesin & Co., our Gainesville maritime accident lawyers represent people injured on Florida’s lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. We understand the unique laws that apply to boating and maritime cases and fight to recover full compensation for victims and families.
Laws Governing Maritime and Boating Cases
- Florida boating laws for recreational vessels on lakes and inland waterways
- Federal maritime law for accidents on navigable waters and offshore
- The Jones Act and Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) for commercial maritime workers
Who Can Be Held Liable?
- Negligent boat operators
- Boat rental companies or tour operators
- Charter companies
- Manufacturers of defective boats or equipment
- Marina and dock owners for unsafe conditions
Compensation Available
- Medical expenses (immediate and long-term care)
- Lost wages and loss of future earning potential
- Permanent disability or scarring
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages for surviving families
Steps to Take After a Boating or Maritime Accident
Drunk driving accidents can occur anywhere, but we often see them in:
- Get medical help immediately. Contact emergency services or the Coast Guard if needed
- Report the accident. Florida law requires boat crashes with injuries to be reported.
- Document the scene. Take photos, gather witness information, and preserve evidence.
- Avoid giving statements to insurers or boat owners without legal representation.
- Contact a Gainesville maritime accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Types of Maritime and Boating Accidents We Handle
- Jet ski and personal watercraft crashes
- Capsizing and drowning incidents
- Commercial maritime injuries (Jones Act and Longshore claims)
- Marina and dock accidents caused by unsafe conditions
- Charter boat and fishing tour accidents
Common Causes of Maritime Accidents
Most water-related accidents stem from preventable causes, such as:
- Operator inattention or inexperience
- Speeding or reckless operation
- Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Poorly maintained boats and equipment
- Overcrowding or overloading
- Violations of navigational rules
Injuries From Maritime Accidents
Injuries sustained in maritime accidents can be severe, including:
- Head and traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Drowning and near-drowning injuries
- Fractures, amputations, and crush injuries
- Burns from fuel or engine explosions
- Hypothermia and exposure-related conditions
Why Choose a Gainesville Maritime Accident Lawyer?
- Knowledge of Florida waterways and common boating accident factors
- Experience handling Jones Act and maritime claims
- Resources to investigate complex cases, including accident reconstruction experts
Serving Gainesville and Nearby Areas
- Gainesville
- Lake Santa Fe, Newnan’s Lake, Lake Wauburg
- Santa Fe River, Suwannee River
- Trips to Florida’s Gulf and Atlantic coasts
Frequently Asked Questions.
Get answers to common questions about your legal case.
Can I sue if a friend was operating the boat?
Yes. Boating accident claims typically involve the boat owner’s insurance, not personal funds.
What if the boat was rented?
Rental companies can be held responsible for unsafe equipment or renting to unqualified operators
How long do I have to file a claim?
The statute of limitations depends on whether your case falls under state law or federal maritime law, but it’s best to act quickly because evidence on the water can disappear fast.
Call a Gainesville Maritime Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating or maritime accident, don’t wait. Contact Mesin & Co. today for a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win.
