Your Trusted Boca Raton Boat Accident Lawyers: Roselli McNelis
At Roselli McNelis, our Boating Accident Attorneys have the knowledge and experience, and have successfully represented the Injured and the Families of Those Killed in Boating and Watercraft Accidents and Claims. Richard J. Roselli attended Tulane Law School, home of the internationally renowned Tulane Maritime Law Institute.
Boating in Florida: A Beloved Pastime with Risks
Florida, the Sunshine State, is essentially surrounded by water and boasts extensive waterways, rivers, canals, lakes, and ports. Boating is a pastime that thousands of Floridians and vacationers enjoy year-round. According to U.S. Coast Guard Statistics, there are over 12.5 million vessels registered in the United States, with Florida ranking number one with approximately 1 million registered vessels.
In 2014, the Coast Guard counted 4,064 accidents that involved 610 deaths, 2,678 injuries, and approximately $39 million in property damage as a result of recreational boating accidents. Operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, excessive speed, and alcohol use rank as the top five primary contributing factors in these accidents. The negligent or careless operation of Boats and Watercraft has led to thousands of serious boating accident injuries or deaths annually in Florida waterways and off the Florida coasts. Statistically, this makes Florida the number one state for Boating and Watercraft-related injuries and fatalities.
Why Choose Roselli McNelis?
At Roselli McNelis, we specialize in providing aggressive legal representation for victims of boating accidents throughout Boca Raton and South Florida. With extensive experience handling maritime law cases, we are dedicated to securing maximum compensation for our clients. Boating accidents can cause significant injuries and financial strain, and our legal team is here to help you navigate through the complexities of your case.
Experience You Can Trust
- Decades of Experience: Our attorneys have successfully recovered millions in compensation for our clients.
- Comprehensive Legal Support: From medical bills to lost wages, we handle every aspect of your case, so you can focus on recovery.
- No Fees Unless We Win: Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis—no legal fees unless we win your case.
Common Causes of Boating Accidents
- Negligent or inexperienced boat operation
- Failure to follow safety protocols
- Alcohol use while operating a boat
- Poorly maintained watercraft
We hold negligent boaters accountable and ensure you receive compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and more.
Understanding Maritime and Boating Accident Laws
Boating accident cases often involve intricate legal principles, including maritime law. Maritime law governs activities on navigable waters, and it is essential to work with a legal team familiar with its complexities. At Roselli McNelis, our attorneys are well-versed in both state and federal regulations that apply to boating and watercraft accidents. This comprehensive knowledge enables us to build strong cases for our clients.
Types of Injuries in Boating Accidents
Boating accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering conditions. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from collisions or falls
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Lacerations from propellers or other sharp objects
- Drowning or near-drowning incidents leading to hypoxia
Steps to Take After a Boating Accident
If you are involved in a boating accident, it is crucial to take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority.
- Report the Accident: Notify the proper authorities, such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or the U.S. Coast Guard.
- Document the Scene: Take photos, gather witness statements, and keep records of all relevant details.
- Contact an Experienced Attorney: Reach out to Roselli McNelis for expert legal advice and representation.
Legal Options After a Boating Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Whether it’s through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit, we’ll gather the evidence needed to prove the negligence of the responsible party. Our goal is to secure maximum compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Punitive damages, where applicable
Preventing Boating Accidents: Safety Tips for Floridians
While legal representation is crucial after an accident, prevention is always better. Here are some essential boating safety tips:
- Always wear a life jacket.
- Take a boating safety course.
- Avoid alcohol while operating a boat.
- Conduct routine maintenance checks on your vessel.
- Pay attention to weather forecasts and water conditions.
Hire an Experienced Boca Raton Boat Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a boating accident in Boca Raton or South Florida, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call Roselli McNelis today for a FREE consultation. You will need an experienced attorney familiar with the intricacies of applicable state and federal laws and maritime regulations to protect your rights and successfully bring your claim.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a boating or watercraft accident, contact us so that we can evaluate your case and recover all of the financial support and compensation required for a lifetime.
Contact Us to Discuss Your Claim
Let Roselli McNelis guide you through this challenging time. Call us at (561) 826-0826 or click the CONTACT US button on our website to schedule your free consultation today.