Boat Accidents Off the Fort Lauderdale Coast: What You Need to Know About Liability

Fort Lauderdale’s stunning Intracoastal Waterway, oceanfront marinas, and nickname as the “Venice of America” make it one of the most popular boating destinations in the country. But with popularity comes risk—especially during weekends, holidays, and special events like the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, understanding how liability works is essential. Whether you were a passenger, swimmer, or operator, a Fort Lauderdale accident lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

With thousands of recreational vessels, yachts, and jet skis navigating the waters every day, accidents are bound to happen. The most common causes of boating accidents include:

• Operator inattention or inexperience: Many boaters lack formal training or coast through crowded areas without proper awareness.
• Speeding: Just like on the road, excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the risk of severe injury.
• Alcohol use: Impaired boating is one of the leading contributors to accidents and fatalities on Florida waterways.
• Mechanical failure: Poor maintenance, fuel leaks, or steering issues can cause sudden and catastrophic failures.
• Congested waterways: Busy channels like New River or Port Everglades create tight spaces where even minor errors can lead to collisions.

In addition to recreational vessels, boat rental businesses and tour companies also play a role in these accidents—sometimes due to unsafe practices or failure to provide adequate safety instructions.

Off the Fort Lauderdale coast and in its inland waterways, these types of incidents are frequently reported:

• Collisions between boats: Two or more vessels may crash due to operator error, poor visibility, or reckless behavior.
• Jet ski accidents: Often rented to tourists, these small watercraft are prone to crashes, especially in crowded zones.
• Passenger ejections: High speeds or sharp turns may throw riders into the water, especially if no life jackets are worn.
• Capsizing or sinking: Small vessels are vulnerable to bad weather, waves, or overload.
• Accidents with fixed objects: Docks, bridges, and channel markers are common impact points, especially at night or under the influence.

Boating accidents differ from car crashes in one major way—multiple parties can be liable depending on how and where the incident occurred. Potentially responsible parties include:

• The boat operator: If the driver was negligent, distracted, or under the influence.
• The boat owner: If the vessel was loaned to an unqualified or intoxicated person.
• Tour or charter companies: For failing to provide safe vessels, working safety equipment, or adequate staff supervision.
• Rental companies: When boats or jet skis are provided to underage, unlicensed, or intoxicated individuals.
• Manufacturers: If a design or equipment defect contributed to the accident.

A Fort Lauderdale accident lawyer can investigate your case, determine fault, and pursue compensation from the appropriate insurance carriers or corporate entities.

If you were injured in a boating accident in or around Fort Lauderdale, follow these steps to protect your safety and your potential claim:

1. Get to safety: Move to a secure location away from the water if possible.
2. Call for help: Contact the U.S. Coast Guard or local marine patrol immediately.
3. Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, always get evaluated—drowning-related complications and head injuries may not show symptoms right away.
4. Document the scene: Take photos or videos of the vessel, surroundings, and any visible injuries.
5. Gather witness statements: Passengers, nearby boaters, or bystanders can help support your version of events.
6. Avoid making statements to insurers or operators without legal guidance: What you say could be used to minimize your claim.

A successful boating injury claim in Fort Lauderdale may allow you to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses: Emergency treatment, surgery, follow-up care, and physical therapy.
• Lost income: If your injuries prevent you from working or affect future earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: Emotional trauma, physical pain, or psychological distress from the accident.
• Permanent disability: If the accident causes long-term impairment or limits mobility.
• Wrongful death: Families of fatal boating accident victims may pursue compensation for funeral costs, emotional loss, and lost financial support.

Yes—some boat accidents, especially those that happen offshore or involve commercial vessels, may fall under federal maritime or admiralty law. These laws differ from typical Florida personal injury statutes and may involve:

• The Jones Act: For injured crew members or workers aboard ships.
• General Maritime Law: For passenger claims on commercial tours or transport vessels.
• Limitation of Liability Act: Which allows boat owners to attempt to cap damages.

A Fort Lauderdale boat accident lawyer can determine whether state or federal law applies and ensure your case is handled correctly from the start.

For most boating accidents in Florida, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the incident. However, if your case involves a government-operated vessel, cruise ship, or public marina, deadlines may be shorter or require prior notice of claim. Don’t wait—your right to compensation depends on timely legal action.

Navigating the aftermath of a boating accident can be overwhelming, especially when injuries, medical bills, and lost wages begin to add up. Whether your accident occurred on the Intracoastal, off the beach, or in a marina, a Fort Lauderdale accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Since 1963, Jerome Wolfson, Esq. and the team at Wolfson & Leon have proudly served accident victims across Florida:

• Miami
• Orlando
• Tampa
• Jacksonville
• Fort Lauderdale
• West Palm Beach
• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Sarasota
• Clearwater
• Tallahassee

Let us help you get back on the road to recovery. Call (305) 285-1115 today, and our team will handle your case with the personal care and attention you deserve.