Florida’s expansive network of waterways is one of its most stunning natural features. From pristine springs to expansive swamps and a far-reaching coastline, the best way to explore Florida’s wilderness is by boat.
However, with the increase in boats on the water, the potential for accidents also rises. With 1,035,911 registered vessels in 2023, the state also leads in boating-related fatalities. In 2022 alone, there were 735 boating accidents, which resulted in 65 deaths.
The saddest part is that many of these accidents were preventable: many victims weren’t wearing life jackets or lacked swimming skills.
Navigating Florida’s waterways is no simple task—sandbars, shifting currents, and wildlife present unique challenges, especially for inexperienced boaters.
Understanding the risks and causes behind these accidents is essential for promoting safety and preventing further tragedies. With water-based activities being such a central part of life in Florida, safety should always be a priority. Unfortunately, accidents can still happen, and when they do, having the right legal support is vital.
At Madalon Law, our skilled Florida maritime lawyers are dedicated to helping those injured at sea. Whether you’re a worker, cruise passenger, or boater, our Florida maritime lawyers will fight for the compensation you deserve.
Maritime accidents in Florida happen in different settings and involve various causes. Here are some common types:
Boating Accidents
Boating accidents are among the most frequent maritime incidents in Florida. These accidents often involve collisions with other boats or objects.
Causes include reckless driving, alcohol use, poor navigation, and operator inexperience. Hazardous weather and strong currents can also contribute to crashes.
Cruise Ship Accidents
Cruise ship accidents involve passengers or crew members suffering injuries onboard. Slip-and-fall incidents are common, often caused by wet surfaces or poor maintenance.
Outbreaks of illnesses can also affect large groups. In rare cases, cruise ships collide with other vessels or encounter hazardous weather conditions, leading to injuries.
Drowning
Drowning is tragically common in Florida’s waters. This occurs when individuals swim in unsafe areas, lack proper life jackets, or swim without supervision. Many of these accidents involve inexperienced swimmers or rough waters with strong currents.
Jet Ski Accidents
Jet skis provide fun, but they can also be dangerous. Jet ski accidents occur when operators ride recklessly or crash into other vessels.
Lack of experience and failure to follow waterway rules often cause these accidents. High-speed collisions are particularly dangerous and often result in severe injuries.
Commercial Fishing Accidents
Commercial fishing accidents typically occur when crew members face dangerous working conditions. Slippery decks, heavy machinery, and unpredictable weather can all cause injuries.
Fishermen often face long working hours, increasing fatigue and accident risks. Entanglement in nets and gear also poses severe dangers.
Diving Accidents
Diving accidents can involve both recreational and commercial divers. Causes include equipment failure, lack of proper training, and dangerous underwater conditions. In some cases, divers ascend too quickly, leading to decompression sickness, or the “bends.”
Dock and Port Accidents
Workers and visitors at docks and ports face risks of injury. These accidents include being struck by heavy equipment, falling from heights, or being crushed by cargo. Equipment malfunction or operator error is often to blame for such incidents.
It is imperative to follow safety regulations to minimize these risks.
Yacht and Sailboat Accidents
Yachts and sailboats are popular in Florida waters, but accidents happen due to improper operation or navigational errors. Many accidents result from inexperience, mechanical failure, or weather-related issues like high winds.
Capsizing
Capsizing occurs when a vessel overturns, often due to instability, overloading, or rough waters. These accidents can be deadly, especially when passengers or crew aren’t wearing life vests.
Offshore Oil Rig Accidents
Offshore oil rig accidents can involve fires, explosions, or equipment malfunctions. Workers face risks due to hazardous conditions, long shifts, and exposure to toxic substances.
Improper safety protocols or defective equipment are frequent causes of offshore oil rig accidents.
Cargo Ship Accidents
Cargo ship accidents are often due to poor loading practices, causing cargo to shift unexpectedly. These vessels may collide with other ships or run aground due to navigational errors, causing environmental damage and crew injuries.
Ferry Accidents
Ferry accidents occur when ferries collide with other boats, crash into docks, or capsize. Causes often include overloading, poor weather conditions, and mechanical failures.
These accidents can lead to serious injuries or drownings.
Tugboat Accidents
Tugboat accidents often happen due to human error, equipment failure, or dangerous weather conditions. These accidents are particularly risky due to the size and power of tugboats. If something goes wrong, these can cause severe injuries or fatalities.
Parasailing Accidents
Parasailing accidents can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. These incidents often occur due to equipment failure or operator negligence.
High winds and rough waters increase the risks associated with parasailing.
Accidents in International Waters
Accidents in international waters can involve complex legal issues. These incidents may involve ships registered in different countries or different maritime laws. Common causes include collisions, equipment failure, and crew negligence.
It’s essential for maritime vehicle operators and workers to follow safety rules and use proper equipment to reduce risks. If you’ve been involved in a maritime accident, you should seek legal help from experienced maritime claim lawyers in Florida to understand your rights and pursue compensation.
Florida, being a state with an extensive coastline and numerous waterways, is prone to maritime accidents. The most common injuries sustained in these accidents include:
Drowning
Drowning is one of the most tragic outcomes of maritime accidents. It can happen quickly and unexpectedly. Factors such as inexperience or lack of supervision often contribute to this.
Victims may drown while swimming, falling overboard, or being knocked unconscious. Near-drowning incidents can lead to severe medical complications, including brain damage.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic brain injuries often occur from falls or collisions on vessels. A fall can cause a person to hit their head hard. Collisions with other vessels or objects can also result in TBIs.
Head injuries range from concussions to severe brain damage. These injuries typically require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation efforts.
Back and Spinal Cord Injuries
Back injuries can occur from heavy lifting or improper lifting techniques. Maritime workers frequently lift heavy gear or equipment on boats. Spinal cord injuries can happen due to falls or impacts. These injuries can lead to paralysis or long-term disabilities.
Recovering from back or spinal injuries often requires physical therapy and ongoing care.
Lacerations and Cuts
Lacerations are common in maritime environments due to sharp objects. Injuries may occur from equipment, machinery, or broken glass. Even minor cuts can become serious if not treated properly. Deep cuts may require stitches or even surgery and lacerations can lead to infections if not cared for immediately.
Diving accidents can also result in various serious injuries, including lacerations from coral or marine life.
Burns
Burn injuries can occur on boats from various sources. Equipment malfunctions can cause fires or expose skin to hot surfaces. Fuel leaks can also ignite fires, leading to severe burns.
Victims of maritime-related burns may face painful treatments and long recovery periods. Severe burns can result in permanent scarring and emotional trauma.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia can develop when individuals are exposed to cold water for too long. Immersion in cold water lowers body temperature quickly.
Common symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, confusion, and loss of coordination. In severe cases, hypothermia can lead to death. Being aware of water temperatures can help prevent this serious condition.
Decompression Sickness
Decompression sickness occurs when divers ascend too quickly. This is due to barotrauma, which happens if the pressure changes rapidly when you dive or rises too quickly.
That’s why proper training and equipment checks are essential for safe diving.
Electrical Injuries
Boats often have complex electrical systems. Electrical injuries may occur from faulty wiring or improper use of electrical equipment. Equipment failures can also lead to shocks or electrocution.
Injuries range from mild shocks to severe burns or cardiac arrest. Regular maintenance can help prevent these dangerous situations.
Crush Injuries
Crush injuries often occur in maritime workplaces. Workers can become trapped between heavy equipment or structures. These injuries can lead to fractures, amputations, or internal injuries.
Such accidents can be devastating and require immediate medical attention. Workers should always follow safety procedures to minimize risk.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries include strains and sprains. These commonly occur from lifting heavy objects or repetitive motions. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
Recovery from soft tissue injuries often requires rest and physical therapy. If you ignore these injuries, it can lead to chronic issues over time.
Fractures
Fractures can result from falls, collisions, or being struck by objects. Common fractures in maritime accidents include wrist, arm, and leg injuries.
These injuries may require immobilization with casts or surgery. Recovery can take weeks or months, depending on the severity. Victims must get medical follow-up to ensure proper healing.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur on boats with faulty engines. If the vessel has poor ventilation, it can trap harmful gases in enclosed spaces.
Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and confusion. Severe cases can lead to unconsciousness or death. Regular maintenance of engines and proper ventilation can help prevent this risk.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning can happen on vessels due to improper food handling. On the sea, bacteria can grow rapidly in food that is not stored correctly.
Symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to dehydration and hospitalization. Maintaining proper food safety protocols is essential for all food handlers.
Infections
Infections can occur from wounds sustained in maritime accidents. Cuts and lacerations can become infected and lead to severe complications if they are not treated properly.
Common symptoms of infection include redness, swelling, and fever.
Medical Malpractice
Access to medical care on the sea is often limited. Many vessels operate far from land, leading to delays in treatment. Crew members may rely on inadequately trained staff, resulting in misdiagnoses or improper care.
Victims of medical malpractice can face severe consequences. Consulting a maritime lawyer in Florida can help you seek justice for negligence.
Maritime injuries in Florida can be severe and life-altering. If you or someone you know suffers a maritime injury, consulting with an experienced Florida maritime lawyer can help protect your rights and seek just compensation.
Maritime personal injury cases are inherently complex due to their unique legal framework. They involve specialized laws, international treaties, and regulations that differ significantly from traditional personal injury claims. Unlike state laws, which typically govern land-based incidents, maritime law is governed by federal statutes and specific maritime regulations.
Additionally, jurisdiction is a significant factor. Maritime law applies to incidents that occur on navigable waters, and the location of an accident can influence which legal framework governs the case. Understanding whether federal, state, or international laws apply requires experience in admiralty law.
Establishing liability can also be complex. Maritime law has specific procedures and deadlines for filing claims that must be adhered to strictly. Plaintiffs often need to meet higher evidence standards under laws like the Jones Act, which allows injured seamen to sue for negligence.
In maritime cases, it is essential to conduct thorough investigations. This includes reviewing vessel maintenance records, crew training documentation, crew testimonies, vessel inspections, and voyage records. This requires specialized knowledge of maritime operations and regulations.
Below are various maritime laws applicable in Florida:
The Jones Act
The Jones Act or the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 is a federal statute that plays a central role in protecting the rights of maritime workers. It allows injured seamen to sue their employers for negligence while performing their duties on navigable waters.
To qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act, a worker must spend at least 30% of their working time on a vessel that is engaged in navigation.
Under the Jones Act, injured seamen can file claims based on employer negligence. This could include unsafe working conditions, lack of proper safety equipment, or insufficient crew training.
Unlike traditional workers’ compensation laws, which often limit recovery to medical expenses and lost wages, the Jones Act allows for more comprehensive damages.
Seamen can recover various types of damages, including lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and future earning capacity. They must file their claims within three years from the date of the injury. Missing this deadline can result in the loss of the right to compensation, so timely legal action is essential.
Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act is designed to provide benefits to maritime workers working on or near navigable waters who are not classified as seamen. This act covers stevedores, harbor workers, ship repairmen, and those involved in loading and unloading vessels.
These workers are entitled to compensation for work-related injuries, regardless of fault.
The benefits under the LHWCA include medical care, temporary total disability compensation, permanent partial disability compensation, and vocational rehabilitation. These benefits are designed to help injured workers in their recovery and return to work.
Workers must report their injury to their employer within 30 days. They also need to file a claim with the appropriate government agency within one year. This prompt reporting is essential for securing benefits under the LHWCA.
The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA)
OCSLA extends LHWCA protections to workers on offshore platforms, such as oil rigs, involved in extracting natural resources. This law applies to injuries that occur on fixed platforms in areas like the Gulf of Mexico.
Workers injured while working on the outer continental shelf can seek compensation under the OCSLA for medical care and lost wages.
Maintenance and Cure
Maintenance and cure is a doctrine that applies to seamen injured while working. It requires employers to cover an injured seaman’s living expenses (maintenance) and medical costs (cure) until they have reached maximum medical improvement. The compensation is regardless of who is at fault for the injury.
This obligation starts immediately after the injury and lasts as long as the employee is recovering.
The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA)
The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) provides compensation for families of those who die beyond three nautical miles from the U.S. shore. It applies to deaths caused by wrongful acts, negligence, or misconduct in international waters. This includes accidents involving commercial airlines, cruise ships, or oil rigs far from shore.
Under DOHSA, families can seek compensation for financial losses. These include funeral expenses and the lost earnings the deceased would have provided. However, the law doesn’t cover non-economic damages like emotional distress or loss of companionship.
DOHSA is vital for maritime workers and cruise passengers. It ensures that families have legal options after a death occurs far from the land. While compensation is limited, it remains a key part of maritime law to help families manage the financial impact of a tragic loss at sea.
Cruise Ship Passenger Injury Laws
Cruise ships are a popular choice for vacationers. However, they also present unique legal challenges for injured passengers.
Some common causes of injury on cruise ships include slip and fall accidents, food poisoning, or medical malpractice aboard the ship. Passengers injured due to the cruise line’s negligence can file claims for compensation.
Most cruise lines include specific clauses in their ticket contracts regarding where claims must be filed. Passengers must be aware of these provisions, as they often stipulate that lawsuits must be filed in particular jurisdictions.
Passengers typically have a limited time frame to file claims, often as short as one year from the date of the injury. Understanding these timelines is essential for protecting legal rights.
Recreational Boating Regulations
Florida law mandates that all boats meet specific safety requirements, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, and navigational equipment. Operators must ensure their vessels are compliant to minimize risks.
Boat operators must follow safe boating practices, including avoiding excessive speed, maintaining a proper lookout, and adhering to navigation rules. Negligence in these responsibilities can lead to liability for accidents.
If an accident occurs due to a violation of these regulations, injured parties can pursue claims against negligent operators. This can include injuries sustained in collisions, capsizing, or other incidents.
Maritime Liability Laws
Various maritime liability laws apply to commercial vessels, ensuring they maintain safe working conditions and practices for crew and passengers.
Shipowners are responsible for maintaining their vessels in safe working condition. This includes regular inspections, repairs, and adherence to safety standards set forth by federal and state regulations.
Proper training and staffing are essential components of maritime safety. Employers must ensure that crew members are adequately trained to handle emergencies and operate the vessel safely.
If a vessel owner fails to meet these safety requirements, they may be liable for injuries sustained by crew members or passengers. This liability can result in significant financial compensation for the injured party.
Federal Admiralty and Maritime Laws
In addition to state-specific laws, federal maritime laws govern many aspects of maritime activities in Florida.
These laws cover shipping, navigation, and maritime commerce. Agencies such as the United States Coast Guard enforce these regulations to ensure safety on navigable waters.
Federal laws establish safety standards for vessels, including equipment requirements and crew qualifications. Compliance with these regulations is essential to minimize accidents and injuries.
Victims of maritime accidents may pursue claims under federal laws, which can provide additional avenues for recovery. These claims often involve complex legal principles and require skilled legal representation.
Each maritime law serves to protect the rights of maritime workers, passengers, and others impacted by maritime incidents. Given the complexities of these laws, it is essential to consult with experienced maritime claims lawyers who can guide victims through the legal process and help them secure the compensation they deserve.
Maritime law governs incidents that occur on navigable waters, including oceans, rivers, and lakes used for interstate or international commerce. Determining if maritime law applies to your injury case in Florida depends on where the accident happened and the type of activity involved.
The nature of the incident also matters. For maritime law to apply, the injury should be connected to traditional maritime activities, like boating, shipping, or other work at sea. Injuries related to recreational activities, such as cruise ship accidents, jet skiing, or parasailing, can also fall under maritime law.
Sometimes, both state and maritime laws may overlap. If the accident occurs onshore but relates to maritime work, such as dock injuries, both Florida state law and maritime law may be relevant. Maritime law tends to favor the injured party, providing special protections and compensation avenues.
Because determining the correct law is complex, it is vital to consult an experienced Florida maritime lawyer. They can help analyze your case, ensure the right laws are applied, and work to secure fair compensation for your injuries.
After a maritime accident, your actions can greatly impact your injury claim. Knowing what to do and what to avoid is key to protecting your rights and securing compensation.
What You Should Do:
What You Should Not Do:
By taking the right steps and avoiding these common mistakes, you increase your chances of receiving full compensation for your injuries.
Can I sue for maritime negligence even if I was partially at fault?
Yes, you can pursue a lawsuit for maritime negligence even if you were partially at fault for the incident. Under maritime law, the doctrine of comparative negligence is applicable. This doctrine allows injured parties to recover damages even when they share some responsibility for their injuries.
However, your potential recovery will be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% responsible for the accident, your total damages will be reduced by that same percentage. This system aims to fairly distribute liability among all parties involved.
What is the “seaworthiness doctrine,” and how does it apply to maritime accidents?
The seaworthiness doctrine is a fundamental principle in maritime law that mandates shipowners to maintain their vessels in a reasonably safe and fit condition for service. This requirement means that both the ship itself and all of its equipment must be in good working order.
If a crew member suffers an injury due to a defect in the vessel or its equipment, the shipowner may be held liable for the injuries sustained. This remains true even if the owner did not act negligently. The goal of this doctrine is to protect the safety and welfare of maritime workers by ensuring they have a safe working environment.
Can I sue for maritime negligence if I was a passenger on a cruise ship?
Yes, as a passenger on a cruise ship, you have the right to sue the cruise line for negligence if you are injured while onboard. Cruise lines are responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of their passengers.
However, it’s important to note that many cruise lines include terms in their contracts that limit their liability. These terms may dictate how long you have to file a claim and the jurisdiction in which you must file it.
Therefore, it is vital to consult with a maritime lawyer who specializes in cruise ship injury cases to fully understand your rights and the best steps to take.
What is the “Limitation of Liability” Act, and how does it affect maritime accident cases?
The Limitation of Liability Act is an important statute that allows shipowners to limit their financial liability for damages arising from certain maritime accidents. Under this law, shipowners can limit their liability to the value of the vessel at the time of the accident.
However, this limitation does not apply if the accident resulted from the owner’s negligence or willful misconduct. This means that if the owner was responsible for the unsafe conditions leading to the accident, they could be held fully liable for all damages, bypassing the limitations set forth by this Act.
As an injured party, you need to understand the implications of this law to seek fair compensation.
What is the difference between a “collision” and an “allision” in maritime law?
In maritime law, a “collision” occurs when two moving vessels make contact with each other while navigating through the water. This can lead to significant property damage, injuries, or even fatalities.
On the other hand, an “allision” happens when a moving vessel strikes a stationary object, such as a dock, pier, or another fixed structure.
Understanding these distinctions is important in determining liability. The circumstances surrounding each type of incident can lead to different legal considerations and potential claims for damages.
What is the “rule of the road” in maritime navigation, and how does it apply to accident liability?
The “rule of the road” refers to a set of internationally recognized rules and regulations that govern the conduct of vessels at sea. These rules are designed to ensure safe navigation and to help prevent accidents between vessels. Violating these rules can have serious implications for liability in maritime accidents.
For example, if a vessel fails to yield the right of way as mandated by these rules and causes an accident, that vessel may be deemed liable for damages. Understanding these rules can help determine fault in maritime accidents.
What is the “doctrine of res ipsa loquitur,” and how does it apply to maritime accidents?
The doctrine of res ipsa loquitur is a legal principle that translates to “the thing speaks for itself.” This doctrine can be applied in maritime cases where the circumstances of the accident strongly suggest negligence on the part of the defendant. Essentially, it allows the court to infer negligence simply based on the nature of the incident.
For instance, if a passenger is injured on a cruise ship due to a sudden and unexplained malfunction, this doctrine may apply, shifting the burden of proof to the defendant to show that they were not negligent. This principle is a powerful tool for plaintiffs in maritime injury cases.
What is the role of the Coast Guard in investigating maritime accidents?
The Coast Guard plays a vital role in investigating maritime accidents. They are responsible for gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and determining the cause of the incident.
The Coast Guard conducts thorough investigations to assess whether any laws were violated and whether any parties should be held responsible for the accident. Their findings can greatly impact any legal claims that follow.
The reports generated by the Coast Guard are often used as key evidence in court proceedings and can help establish liability in maritime injury cases.
What special timing considerations may apply if my injury was sustained while vacationing on a cruise?
If you were injured while on a cruise, it is important to be aware of the special timing considerations that may affect your claim. Many cruise lines have strict deadlines for notifying them of an injury. Typically, these deadlines are outlined in the terms and conditions of your cruise ticket.
Additionally, your lawsuit may need to be filed in a specific jurisdiction, which can be indicated in the ticket as well. These time constraints can be very limited, making it essential to contact a maritime lawyer promptly to ensure your rights are protected and to meet all necessary deadlines.
Who is responsible for my injury if I was involved in an accident caused by an unworthy vessel?
If you sustained injuries due to an unworthy vessel, several parties may be held responsible. This can include the vessel owner, the operator, or even the maintenance crew responsible for the ship’s condition.
Liability often depends on proving that the vessel was unsafe or not seaworthy at the time of the incident. Investigating the vessel’s maintenance history and operational practices can help determine who may be liable for your injuries.
It’s important to engage a maritime lawyer who can help guide you through this complex process and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
How much does a maritime injury lawyer cost?
Most maritime injury lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that you do not pay any legal fees upfront. Instead, the lawyer takes a percentage of the settlement or award if they win your case. Typically, fees range from 25% to 40% of the total recovery.
This arrangement allows injured parties to pursue legal action without the burden of upfront costs, making legal representation more accessible. It’s essential to discuss fee structures with your attorney before signing any agreements to ensure you understand how costs will be handled.
Where does my lawsuit have to be filed?
The jurisdiction for your lawsuit depends on various factors, including where the accident occurred and the nature of your claim. Maritime cases can often be filed in either state or federal courts, depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the incident.
Federal jurisdiction may apply if the case involves navigable waters or maritime employment. A maritime lawyer can help you determine the proper venue for your lawsuit, ensuring you comply with all legal requirements and deadlines.
When should I contact a maritime accident lawyer for a cruise ship injury?
It is advisable to contact a maritime accident lawyer as soon as possible after sustaining an injury on a cruise ship. The sooner you seek legal assistance, the better your chances of preserving key evidence and complying with any notification requirements.
Maritime laws often have strict deadlines for filing claims, and delays can jeopardize your ability to recover damages. An experienced Florida maritime lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.
Can I contact a maritime lawyer from overseas after an offshore accident?
Yes, you can certainly contact a maritime lawyer from overseas after an offshore accident. Many maritime lawyers handle cases for clients regardless of their location. They can provide guidance and support remotely, helping you understand your legal rights and options.
This is particularly important if you need assistance understanding complex maritime laws or if your case involves multiple jurisdictions. A maritime lawyer can help you through the legal process, ensuring you are informed and prepared to pursue your claim.
Do I have a claim if I was injured while working on a fishing boat?
Yes, if you were injured while working on a fishing boat, you may have a valid claim under the Jones Act or other applicable maritime laws. The Jones Act provides seamen with the right to seek compensation for injuries sustained while on the job.
To explore your options and determine the best course of action, it is essential to consult a maritime lawyer who specializes in these types of cases. They can help assess the specifics of your situation and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What should I know about jurisdiction if I’m injured in international waters?
Different jurisdictions may apply depending on various factors, including the nationality of the vessel, where the vessel is registered, and the nature of your employment. International maritime law, along with treaties and conventions, can also come into play.
It is vital to consult with a maritime lawyer who has experience with international cases, as they can guide you through the specific legal frameworks applicable to your situation and protect your rights effectively.
When you’re injured in a maritime accident, you need to have the right legal support. Madalon Law’s experienced maritime lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you get just compensation. Here’s how they can help:
Navigating Complex Maritime Laws: Maritime law is different from state law and can be challenging to understand. Madalon Law’s personal injury attorneys have extensive knowledge of maritime law, including the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), and the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA). We’ll guide you through these complexities and ensure the right laws apply to your case.
Thorough Investigation: Madalon Law conducts a detailed investigation of your accident. Our maritime attorneys gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a strong case. This thorough approach helps identify the responsible party and strengthens your claim for compensation.
Maximizing Compensation: Our law firm fights to get you the maximum compensation for your injuries. This includes damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future losses. If your injury prevents you from returning to work, we will ensure you’re compensated for reduced earning capacity.
Handling Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when recovering from an injury. Our maritime claims attorneys handle all communication with insurers. We negotiate on your behalf to ensure you aren’t pressured into accepting a low settlement.
No Fees Unless You Win: At Madalon Law, we work on a contingency basis. This means you don’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. This ensures that you can focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal costs.
Providing Ongoing Support: Our expert lawyers offer continuous support throughout the legal process. They keep you updated and provide guidance at every step. Their goal is to ensure you understand your options and feel confident in the decisions being made.
By working with a Florida maritime lawyer from Madalon Law, you gain an experienced advocate who will fight for your rights.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a maritime accident, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call our Florida maritime lawyers at Madalon Law for a free consultation today.
Let us help you in your injury case and secure the justice you deserve!
Most people are not aware of how the law works, the rights they have and the amount of compensation they can be entitled to after they have been injured in an accident that was the result of another party’s negligence. The obstacles and confusion that follow an accident and an injury can seem overwhelming.
