Florida’s beautiful weather and pristine beaches lend themselves to many as the go-to destination for outdoor activities like jet skiing, boating and tubing. Unfortunately, these outdoor activities also come with their share of risks.
Like any other accident, a boating accident can be just as traumatizing. Depending on the nature of the accident, a victim can sustain devastating injuries. Worse still, a boating accident can be fatal. If you are involved in a boating accident that is not your fault, you deserve justice.
How boating accidents happen
Boating accidents happen due to a number of reasons, including:
- Operating the vessel under the influence of drugs and alcohol
- Speeding
- Driver inexperience
- Driver distraction
- Mechanical faults
So how long do you have to file a boating accident claim in the Sunshine State?
According to Florida statute, you have up to four years to file a claim if you are hurt in a boating accident within the state of Florida. However, if the accident happens on waters in between the states, then the statute of limitation period reduces to 3 years. In this case, federal or Admiralty law takes precedence.
The statute of limitations is even shorter if you sustain an injury on a cruise ship. Usually, this is subject to the victim’s contract with the cruise. Typically, the statute of limitations for injuries sustained on cruise ships varies from six to twelve months.
If the boating accident results in death, the decedent’s family has up to two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the liable party.
A boating trip offers an incredibly memorable experience. However, a boating accident can also result in life-altering injuries. Knowing your legal options can help you safeguard your rights and interests while pursuing your damages.